Master of Arts in English

Explore traditional and innovative areas of literary criticism with the Master of Arts in English in the College of Liberal Arts at Temple University. Hone the skills needed to conduct thorough research, formulate nuanced arguments, and approach writing with a creative and critical eye. Lay the groundwork for doctoral study in English, or become a more competitive candidate for professional work in editing, publishing, journalism, teaching or any field that values writing and critical thinking.

In the English MA program, you will focus on a foundational area of literary scholarship—such as British and American literature, modernism, or contemporary literature—or choose one of several areas of intensive study. Areas of study include

  • critical theory,
  • cultural theory,
  • film theory,
  • interdisciplinary methods,
  • minority literature and
  • women’s studies.

Advanced seminars are also offered in the following specialized areas.

  • Critical and cultural theories
  • Ethnic and African American literature
  • Gender and sexuality
  • Literature and visual studies
  • Poetry and poetics
  • Postcolonial and global literatures
  • Theory of genres

You can also explore information about the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

A bespectacled student, her face resting in her left hand, smiles during a class lecture.

Our Community

The College of Liberal Arts at Temple comprises many academic disciplines and research areas. Now more than ever, an interdisciplinary liberal arts education is invaluable for your future pursuits. It offers the opportunity to further push your drive to create real change in the world, here at Temple and beyond. In this graduate program, you’ll work closely with diverse faculty members who are highly esteemed in their field and with a curious, passionate community of peers.  

Program Format & Curriculum

The 30-credit Master of Arts in English can be completed within two years of full-time study. Classes are offered on Temple’s Main Campus.

Courses offered in this program include the following.

  • Composition Research Methods
  • Early American Literature
  • Early British Literature
  • History of Critical Theory
  • Special Topics in Creative Writing
  • Translation Study

Students must also demonstrate a reading knowledge of at least one foreign language. The culminating event for all English students is a master’s essay of 4,000–6,000 words, which demonstrates a student's ability to write perceptively, lucidly and at length. 

Learn more about English MA requirements.

Related Graduate Degrees

*Klein College of Media and Communication

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Arts offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2023–2024 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,053.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,449.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

LA-ENG-MA

Additional Program Information