English Literature

Program Overview

Mercy University's Master of Arts in English Literature program equips students with critical thinking, interpretive, and research skills in British and American literature. The program offers a flexible structure with core courses, electives, and a thesis option, preparing graduates for careers in academia, writing, editing, and other fields requiring strong communication and analytical abilities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: Mercy University’s Master of Arts (M.A.)
in English Literature program provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing careers in literature and related fields. Graduates have pursued opportunities in academia, teaching, writing, publishing, editing, advertising, technical writing, journalism, and other media.
• Objectives: The program aims to:
• Enhance critical thinking and interpretive skills in British and American literary texts
• Foster knowledge of theoretical trends and criticism
• Develop an understanding of various literary traditions, cultural situations, and historical eras
• Cultivate research and writing abilities through original research and thesis writing

Outline:

• Program Structure: The M.A.
degree requires the completion of 30 credits, distributed among the following categories:
• Core Theory (1 course)
• Final Thesis Tutorial (1 course)
• Literary Forms (1 course, chosen from specific options)
• British/American Literature (2 courses, chosen from specific options)
• World Literature (1 course, chosen from specific options)

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, workshops, and research projects.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced doctoral faculty who are experts in their fields.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes personalized learning, with students able to select courses that align with their interests and career aspirations.
Students also benefit from the guidance of a personal faculty advisor.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates with an M.A.
in English Literature qualify for positions in teaching, writing, editing, and other fields that require strong writing, critical thinking, and research skills.
• Opportunities and Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to pursue careers in:
• College teaching
• Writing and editing
• Publishing
• Advertising
• Technical writing
• Journalism
• Media
• Salary Information:
• Post-secondary English language and literature teachers in New York earn an average salary of $92,000.
• Writers and authors earn an average salary of $86,380.