Academics

English

MA • Master's

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Whether you’re on track for a PhD, rounding out your teacher education, or refurbishing writing and reading skills for new professional endeavors, our 33-credit Master of Arts in English program has the rich, dynamic, and rigorous curriculum of reading, writing and teaching literature you seek.

Taught by a highly qualified, internationally renowned faculty, recent courses in the program have included Shakespeare’s Tragedies, Science Fiction, Charles Dickens, Modern American Fiction, the Irish Literary Revival, and Creative Writing Pedagogy.

All of our classes are small seminars and are offered in the evening, ideal for working professionals. The curriculum provides excellent preparation for doctoral work , and many graduates have gone on to leading PhD programs. Our graduates are teachers, writers, editors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, journalists, volunteers, financial analysts, and public servants. They advance in publishing, media, journalism, library science, nonprofit, and business careers. They become informed citizens, independent researchers, careful readers, and artful writers.

What advantages will I gain with this degree?

In obtaining the MA in English, you develop as a reader, a writer and a thinker. You gain skills that matter in the workforce, in our democracy and in private life. You learn to express yourself to others – not only in your own field but also in the world at large – thoughtfully, meaningfully, resonantly, and with deepened cultural awareness. In studying English, you study all of human experience. See the curriculum.

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Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • Candidates for matriculation in the Master of Arts program in English must show a B average or better in their undergraduate work. Most applicants will have majored in literature (English, comparative, or foreign) at the undergraduate level. However, students with strong academic credentials may apply even if they do not have the recommended background in literature.

Application Checklist

Application Deadline: Rolling admission.

  1. Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  2. Transcript: One from each college attended.
  3. Essays/Personal Statement: Two. Please submit the following:
    • Standard Statement of Objectives including your goals for graduate study and your future career, the ways your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career. Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience. Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
    • Writing Sample: Please provide a writing sample of at least 7 pages. The essay should make an argument about a literary text or film; include at least some close analysis; and include at least a few research citations.
  4. Letters of Recommendation: Two.

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Real Student Voices

What’s it like to study English at Montclair State University? Our alumni say it best. Read how their time in the program impacted their time at Montclair and paved the way for their future.

“It’s not easy—at least not if you care. English teaches you to understand the messages behind what you read. And in today’s world, that’s more important than ever.”

Faith Monesteri

Program: English Combined BA/MA

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Wendy Nielsen

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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Montclair Online offers the same nationally recognized faculty, engaging coursework and supportive community as our on-campus classes - designed to fit your life. With multiple start dates each year, you can begin when the time is right for you.

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