Program Description

Students develop knowledge of literature and its history and expand their abilities to think analytically and write effectively through advanced study and research in British, American, and other literatures. The M.A. program in English thus prepares students for advanced graduate studies in English (Ph.D.), for pre-professional studies (law, business, and administration), for teaching careers, and for work in related fields (e.g., communications, public relations, publishing, and human resources).

The M.A. in English Licensure Programs prepares students for careers as teachers at the 5-12 level. Students may earn Initial Licensure through an NCTE (National Council of Teachers of English) accredited program or earn Professional Licensure. Candidates may elect the M.A. with Professional Licensure Option, a graduate program designed to allow teachers of English who hold initial licensure to become fully certified according to the educational reforms mandated for Massachusetts by the Board of Education. Candidates for certification complete a program that includes four required courses: ENGL 0539 - Advanced Methods of Teaching English, ENGL 0609 - Contemporary Tensions in English Teaching, ENGL 0646 - Pre-Capstone Course, and ENGL 0626 - Seminar in English Education Capstone Experience.

Admission Requirements

• Official transcripts indicating a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Three professional or academic recommendations.
• Narrrative statement
• Minimum of 18 hours in English above Composition at the undergraduate level.*
• A 3.0 (B) average in all English courses is required, as is a 2.8 overall G.P.A.
• A writing sample, preferably a literary essay, is required.

*Students may be required to fulfill undergraduate prerequisites as determined by the Graduate Advisor.

M.A. in English with Initial Licensure 5-12 - 43 Credits

All requirements for the M.A. in English in addition to the practicum must be completed before the candidate can receive an initial license to teach English.