Master the written word
Ready to deepen your understanding of literature and hone your analytical voice? The Master of Arts in English empowers you to explore complex texts and refine your research skills. Whether you aim to advance your career in education, publishing or communications, this program provides the intellectual foundation you need to excel.
Elevate your expertise
Engage with core coursework that introduces you to advanced literary criticism, bibliography and research methods. Our program prepares you to think critically and communicate effectively. You will work alongside dedicated faculty members who support your scholarly growth and professional development.
Proficiency in a foreign language
As a candidate for the English, MA, you must complete 12 undergraduate credit hours in a foreign language or pass a reading examination in an ancient, classical or modern foreign language. Your graduate studies coordinator can help you plan for this requirement early.
Build the foundation
Your first year of graduate study will include a course on bibliography and research methods. From there, you'll develop a plan of study with the English graduate studies coordinator. In pursuing the English, MA, your coursework will focus on either literature or creative writing. The graduate studies coordinator will help you determine which option best suits your goals.
Customize your degree
Literature focus
The literature course sequence starts with a balanced foundation of courses in American, British and world literature. You'll also choose English electives that further your interests or career goals. The capstone for this degree focus can be a thesis or comprehensive exam.
- Thesis: Coursework focuses on research and writing. You'll publicly defend your thesis to graduate, and no outside electives are permitted.
- Non-thesis: Coursework offers a broad understanding of traditional literature. A comprehensive exam will be taken during your last semester.
Creative writing focus
This course sequence is designed for writers ready to hone their craft. You'll take three hours of literature and 21 hours of creative writing workshops. You'll spend your final six hours writing a creative thesis, which requires a public defense.
Apply to the English master's program
To be eligible for consideration into the program, you must:
- meet SFA's graduate school requirements
- achieve a 3.0 GPA or higher during the last 60-credit hours in advanced-undergraduate English courses
- have completed two years of undergraduate credit in a foreign language
- or pass a reading exam in an ancient, classical or modern foreign language
- and hold a completed bachelor's degree in English from an accredited higher institution
- or be prepared to complete additional coursework to establish a foundational knowledge.
Ready? Complete the graduate school application.
Priority deadlines
For priority consideration with assistantship openings, submit your completed application by the following dates:
- March 31 for Fall semester enrollment.
- Nov. 15 for Spring semester enrollment.
See curriculum
Curriculum requirementsCan I participate remotely?
Yes.
In-person and remote options are available.
How long will it take to complete?
Two years.
Master of Arts in English career paths
Graduates of the MA in English go on to teach at the secondary and post-secondary level, pursue doctoral programs in literature or creative writing, and build careers in publishing, editing, writing and communications. The analytical and writing skills you develop here are valued across a wide range of fields.
Questions?
Get in touch! We're here to help.
Department of English and Creative Writing
Dugas Liberal Arts North, Suite 203