Master of Arts

English

Central to Activating the Power of the Written Word. 

The MA in English at CCSU offers a variety of courses on a broad range of topics reflecting the diverse interests of the English Department’s faculty. Typical approaches include in-depth examinations of individual authors, comparative analyses of a particular theme or issue, explorations of established or emergent literary forms, historical treatments of particular periods, and investigations of important critical or theoretical methods. Independent studies and guided readings are also available to allow students to pursue interests not addressed in scheduled courses. With its diverse, engaged faculty and structured but flexible programs, the two tracks offer students a thorough, rigorous training in British and American literature and literary studies that allows students to tailor their experiences to meet their professional and intellectual needs and interests. 

Program Features

  • Starts every January and August
  • 30-credit program
  • Attend full- or part-time
  • Class times optimized for working students
  • Work closely with faculty to develop research and presentation skills
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Financial aid is available
  • No GMAT/GRE required

Program Options

Literary Studies

Introduces students to the theory and practice of literary criticism and research. Gives students the tools needed to pursue careers in education at the K-12 level (or enhances the skills and qualifications of those already teaching) and for other careers involving the reading, writing, and analysis of texts. It also prepares students for advanced study in doctoral programs.

Teaching

Accelerated hybrid courses are offered 50% in-person and 50% online. Designed for current teachers who plan to seek a teaching certification or anyone seeking engagement with literary works that are regarded as “canonical” or otherwise influential in American culture. Deepens knowledge of texts frequently taught in secondary schools and explores the literary-historical and cultural issues involved in canon formation.

- Mariah R. Maresh MA ‘21

Within one semester of CCSU’s English program, I knew I was in the right place. I have been able to help with research, tutoring, copy editing, and submitting work for publication. The faculty is diverse, inviting, and truly committed to the needs and dreams of their students.

- Mariah R. Maresh MA ‘21

Student studying on laptop

Capstones

The capstone project is designed to provide all students in the MA in English with the opportunity to apply and demonstrate their mastery of new skills and knowledge.

Student studying at desk

English Graduate Student Association

The EGSA creates opportunities for networking, professional and academic development, as well as peer mentoring and academic support for English graduate students.

books on a shelf

Student Opportunities

The English Department provides graduate students with a variety of resources and professional opportunities, from graduate assistantships to student organizations.

Student reading in library

Student Stories

Our students and alumni talk about their experience in the MA in English program at CCSU.

Did You Know?

CCSU’s graduate English program received curriculum development grants from the American Association of University Professors in 2018 and 2021 because of our commitment to curricular reforms. 

Learning Outcomes

  1. Construct a sound argument, supporting effectively and appropriately a valid claim about the material addressed. 
  2. Discuss effectively the literary aspects of a prose work or works, such as tone, point of view, characterization, imagery, etc. 
  3. Employ technical language and appropriate literary terminology in service of a clear, effective treatment of material discussed. 
  4. Analyze a work or works effectively from the perspective of genre. 
  5. Offer persuasive and technically accurate close readings of poetry, including analysis of prosody and other formal features. 
  6. Construct an effective analysis of a work or works informed by the tenets of a literary theory. 
  7. Analyze a work or works effectively from the perspective of the cultural issues it addresses (gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, class, etc.). 
  8. Analyze a work or works considering accurately their engagement with relevant historical periods. 
  9. Read effectively and incorporate successfully into their own arguments secondary material treating the works they address. 

©