English Master's Degree (M.A.), Professional

Students develop knowledge of English language studies and expand their abilities to think analytically and write effectively through advanced study and research in courses spanning literary, cultural, writing, pedagogical, and rhetorical studies. 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. 

• 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.

*This requirement may be waived in the event students fulfill undergraduate prerequisites as determined by the Graduate Advisor.

1. Student will demonstrate advanced understanding of American, British, and diverse literatures.
2. Student will demonstrate mastery of the concepts of literary theory.
3. Student will demonstrate the ability to write sophisticated and persuasive literary and rhetorical analysis.
4. Student will demonstrate the ability to carry out independent research and contribute to an ongoing scholarly conversation in a field of English studies.
5. Student will demonstrate the ability to present a well-planned, effective, and engaging oral argument.

• Initial licensure as a teacher of English in Massachusetts or approval of program director
• B.A. in English or Bachelor's degree with a minimum of eighteen (18) credits in literature courses (students may be required to complete undergraduate prerequisites as determined by the graduate advisor)
• 3.0 (B) average in all English courses is require, as is a 2.8 overall GPA
• One (1) course in Adolescent Development
• EDUC 0631 - Sheltered English Immersion (consult with advisor prior to enrolling). This course is field based.

• ENGL 0539 - Critical Lenses for Literature Instruction
• Twenty-one (21) credits of coursework in English at the 0500- or 0600-level that may include the courses fulfilling the fifteen (15) credit Graduate Certificate in the Teaching of Writing, offered through the WMWP Course selection to be determined in consultation with graduate advisor, tailored based on professional goals and reflective of prior coursework Coursework should encompass a range of English language studies, including the teaching of writing and literature, diverse traditions, and literary theory

Note:

Up to six credits may be taken in a related discipline (such as Education). Written permission from the English Graduate Advisor, Director of the program or English Department Chair must be obtained before taking these credits.

In cross-listed courses, graduate students will learn alongside upper-level undergraduate students but will complete additional readings and engage in more rigorous research-based projects.

• ENGL 0626 - Seminar in English Education Capstone Experience
• ENGL 0646 - Pre-Capstone Course