A method and apparatus for programming a memory array are disclosed. In one embodiment, after each word line is programmed, an attempt is made to detect a defect on that word line. If a defect is detected, the word line is repaired with a redundant word line. The word lines are then reprogrammed and rechecked for defects. In another embodiment, after each word line is programmed, an attempt is made to detect a defect on that word line. If a defect is detected, that word line is repaired along with a previously-programmed adjacent word line. In yet another embodiment, after each word line is programmed, an attempt is made to detect a defect on that word line and a previously-programmed adjacent word line. If a defect is detected on that word line, that word line and the previously-programmed adjacent word line are repaired with redundant word lines.