The M.A. program offers students the opportunity to work closely with internationally-recognized faculty, to pursue independent research, and to attend small seminars covering topics in literary, writing, and media studies. In consultation with a faculty adviser, students tailor their coursework to meet their academic needs and complete a capstone project that directly relates to their professional goals. Our graduates have gone on to study at the doctoral level, to teach at secondary schools or community colleges, and to pursue careers in publishing, academic administration, library science, and non-profit management among others.

Faculty research interests cover all historical period of Anglophone literature in addition to film, new media, writing studies, linguistics, and rhetoric. Just in the past few years, our faculty have won prestigious awards and fellowships, such as the Pulitzer and Guggenheim, published books with leading academic presses, and seen their creative work on The New York Times best-sellers list.

Admission Requirements

  • Transcript(s) from degree-granting institutions
  • A minimum of three letters of reference from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities
  • A personal statement describing your career goals and reasons for pursuing a master’s degree
  • A critical writing sample of approximately 15-20 pages
  • GRE not required

Application Deadlines

Fall Priority Deadline: March 1st

*We are still reviewing and accepting applications for the Fall 2023 term. Apply by April 17th.

Degree Requirements

30 total credits

  • 1 Professional Seminar in English & Media Studies (3)
  • 1 Seminar in Theory and Criticism (3)
  • 7 electives (21)
  • 1 Independent Study: Capstone Project (3)
  • Submission of a Capstone Project

Concentrations

  • Literature and Social Justice

Graduate Faculty

Visit the English Graduate Faculty Listing.

Contact the Department

Dr. Shanyn Fiske
(856) 225-2937
Armitage Hall, Rm 422
shanyn.fiske@rutgers.edu 

Program Website

Visit the Department of English website.