M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.A. in English Language and Literature
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in English Language and Literature at The Catholic University of America is a graduate program designed to provide an intensive exploration of literature, rhetoric, culture, and criticism. The program emphasizes building a broad and diverse understanding of the English language and various literary genres, offering students directed and personal attention for their research and scholarship. It prepares graduates for a range of professional opportunities, including further academic study at the Ph.D. level.
Curriculum: The M.A. in English requires the completion of 30 credit hours of coursework, typically spanning ten courses, with up to six credits potentially transferable. A core requirement is ENG 711: History and Theory of Literary Criticism (3 credits), to be taken early in the program. Students must also complete at least one research seminar (800-level, 3 credits) and 24 additional credits in English courses. A reading knowledge of a foreign language is required, which can be demonstrated through coursework, a proficiency exam, or a passing grade in a graduate-level Old English course (e.g., ENG 501, 502, 503) or History of the English Language (ENG 621). The program culminates in a capstone, which can be either an M.A. thesis (6 credits, under faculty guidance) or a comprehensive examination in two parts: English literature to 1800, and English literature since 1800.
Research Focus: The Department of English at Catholic University offers training in all major historical periods of British and American literature. Faculty research interests include Medieval literature, theory and history of rhetoric, Renaissance literature, religion and literature, and English and American drama. The M.A. program encourages students to conduct research focusing on literary and cultural texts across different historical periods, cultural contexts, and genres. It aims to develop advanced written skills, analytical abilities, and a deep understanding of literary history, theory, and rhetoric. Students are expected to engage with primary literary texts and their cultural, genre, and historical contexts, and to critically engage with major theoretical schools and modes of discourse in the field.
Industry Engagement: While primarily an academic program, the M.A. in English Language and Literature at Catholic University equips graduates with highly transferable skills valued across various industries. The program does not have direct "industry engagement" in the traditional sense, but it prepares students for careers as teachers, writing center administrators, grant writers, technical writers, editors, corporate communication managers, and communication specialists or consultants for government agencies and businesses. The university's location in Washington, D.C., provides students with access to significant cultural institutions, libraries (like the Library of Congress and Folger Shakespeare Library), and a vibrant literary and arts scene, offering indirect engagement with relevant professional environments.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in English Language and Literature at Catholic University, through its curriculum, naturally incorporates a global perspective by examining literature and critical texts from a variety of genres, periods, and different cultural contexts. While focusing on British and American literature, the study of language and literature inherently involves understanding diverse cultural expressions, historical influences, and the global flow of ideas. The program's emphasis on critical and cultural theory further encourages students to analyze global themes and perspectives within literary works. Although not explicitly stated as a core focus, the general approach to literary studies fosters an understanding of the interconnectedness of global literary traditions and cultural narratives.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 16575
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates of The Catholic University of America's M.A. in English Language and Literature develop a highly refined set of skills that are immensely valuable across various professional sectors. These include advanced critical thinking, sophisticated analytical capabilities, exceptional written and oral communication, nuanced textual interpretation, and the ability to conduct in-depth research. While many graduates pursue academic careers, the versatility of an English M.A. opens doors to numerous other fields.
University Lecturer/Professor (typically requires a Ph.D.): Teaching literature, composition, or rhetoric courses at the college or university level, and contributing to scholarly research and publication. The M.A. serves as a strong foundation for doctoral studies.
Editor/Copy Editor: Working for publishing houses, newspapers, magazines, or online platforms, reviewing and revising content for grammar, style, clarity, and adherence to editorial guidelines.
Content Writer/Strategist: Creating engaging and informative written content for websites, blogs, marketing materials, social media, and other digital platforms for businesses, non-profits, or agencies.
Technical Writer: Translating complex technical information into clear, concise, and user-friendly documentation, such as manuals, guides, and online help files, for software companies, manufacturers, or other technical industries.
Journalist/Reporter: Researching, writing, and reporting news or feature stories for print, broadcast, or digital media, utilizing strong interviewing, investigative, and storytelling skills.
Public Relations Specialist: Managing an organization's public image and communications, drafting press releases, media kits, and corporate statements, and handling media relations.
Grant Writer: Researching funding opportunities and composing compelling proposals and reports for non-profit organizations, educational institutions, or research entities to secure financial support.
Communications Manager: Developing and implementing internal and external communication strategies for corporations, government agencies, or non-profits, ensuring consistent messaging and effective information flow.
Librarian/Archivist (Special Collections): Curating and managing literary collections, rare books, or historical documents in academic, public, or specialized libraries, often requiring an additional Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS).
Curriculum Developer/Educational Program Designer: Creating and refining educational materials, courses, and learning programs for schools, universities, corporate training departments, or educational technology companies.
