English
The Master of Arts in English at Boston College University offers a rich and intellectually expansive curriculum for students seeking to deepen their understanding of literature, language, and cultural analysis. This two-year program emphasizes close reading, critical theory, and historical context as essential tools for interpreting texts across genres, periods, and global traditions. Students engage with canonical and contemporary works, exploring how literature shapes and reflects social values, identity, and human experience. Through sustained writing, discussion, and research, learners develop analytical precision and refined communication skills that prepare them for academic and professional success.
The program also encourages interdisciplinary connections by incorporating perspectives from philosophy, history, gender studies, postcolonial theory, and digital humanities. With opportunities to specialize in areas such as literary theory, rhetoric, or global literatures, students are empowered to pursue questions that matter to them intellectually and ethically. Faculty mentorship, research seminars, and access to scholarly resources support independent inquiry and original contributions to the field. This balance of tradition and innovation fosters critical engagement with language and meaning, helping students explore literature’s role in shaping cultural narratives and public discourse.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: English
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: Boston College, United States
- Field of Study: Language Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Literary Foundations and Interpretation
- Introduction to Literary Theory and Criticism
- Survey of British Literature: Origins to Enlightenment
- Research Methods in English Studies
- Graduate Seminar in Textual Analysis
Semester 2 – Contexts and Traditions
- American Literature and Cultural History
- Global Literatures in English
- Rhetoric and Composition Theory
- Elective in Gender, Race, or Postcolonial Studies
Semester 3 – Specialization and Scholarly Practice
- Contemporary Literary Criticism
- Seminar in Genre Studies (Poetry, Drama, or Fiction)
- Elective in Digital Humanities or Linguistic Approaches
- Thesis Proposal and Independent Research
Semester 4 – Thesis and Professional Preparation
- Master’s Thesis in English Studies
- Teaching and Pedagogy in Literary Education
- Academic Writing and Publication Workshop
- Portfolio Development and Oral Defense
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well prepared for diverse roles in education, publishing, media, nonprofit leadership, and public communication, where strong writing, research, and critical thinking skills are highly valued. Many pursue careers as secondary or postsecondary educators, editors, content strategists, or communications specialists, using their training to shape discourse and engage public audiences. The program also prepares students for doctoral study in English, comparative literature, or cultural studies, offering a strong foundation in scholarly writing and interdisciplinary inquiry. Graduates can work in libraries, archives, arts administration, and advocacy organizations, or pursue roles in corporate and digital sectors where narrative literacy and cultural analysis inform strategy, messaging, and brand identity. The program’s flexibility and intellectual depth ensure that graduates can apply their skills in both academic and applied professional contexts.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who are passionate about literature, culture, and the power of language to influence thought and society. By engaging with texts both old and new, students develop a deep appreciation for literary form, historical context, and critical theory. The curriculum encourages original thinking, scholarly rigor, and interdisciplinary exploration, supported by faculty who are active researchers and dedicated mentors. Through seminars, electives, and thesis research, learners chart their own intellectual paths while building the analytical and expressive tools needed to succeed in a variety of careers. With its focus on advanced literary scholarship and creative inquiry, the program offers a rich and transformative academic experience for those ready to explore the complexities of human expression through the written word.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 617 552 8000
Email: admissions@bostoncollege.edu
Address: University of Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States
