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Arts and Sciences
English
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Master of Arts (M.A.)

English

The versatile M.A. in English at Seton Hall helps you write your success story, whether you want advanced professional writing skills for a career in copywriting, grants, development, marketing or PR; whether you aspire to get into a prestigious M.F.A., Ph.D. or J.D. program; whether you want to add to your teaching credentials; or whether you just love literature and want to continue to grow as a writer and thinker.

Our curriculum enables you to personalize your degree through specialized tracks in Literature, Writing, Creative Writing or our NEW! Professional Writing concentration. 

Designed for working professionals, classes are held in the evening and in a hybrid format – which means you can choose to study either in-person or synchronously online. Plus, with a wide range of electives tailored to your track specialization, you can perfect your writing skills in a niche area or gain versatility across related fields for transferable skills within any industry.

In addition to foundational courses that teach advanced research, other course options include British and American literature (including innovative approaches to all the major fields of Anglophone literature and culture); literary and critical theory; literary editing and publishing; creative writing; professional writing; digital humanities; and more. 

For creative writers, we offer a bridge to the New York City literary scene just miles from campus. And, we consistently place students in prestigious internships at venues such as One Story, and our alumni go on to enter top Ph.D. and M.F.A programs, pursue law school and take on leadership positions in marketing, grant, finance and publishing roles.
 
Seton Hall offers competitively funded TA positions (including annual stipends and tuition remission) that incorporate unparalleled mentorship and training with independent experience teaching at the university level.

What Can I Do with a Master's in English?

With a Master's in English from Seton Hall, graduates not only gain advanced analytical, writing, and communication skills but also benefit from the University's proximity to New York City. Students have opportunities to network, intern, and work with leading professionals in journalism, publishing, and the broader entertainment industry. Graduates can leverage their strong foundation in English and the experiences gained in the NYC area to gain admission into prestigious M.F.A., Ph.D. or J.D. programs. The curriculum at Seton Hall combined with the rich literary and cultural exposure of New York equips students for careers in academia, law, and the creative arts.

Is an M.A. in English Worth It?

An M.A. in English is incredibly valuable, offering in-depth exploration of general English literature within one of the best English programs. This advanced English degree enhances critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills, opening doors to careers in education, writing, and beyond. The English program focuses on developing a deep understanding of literary texts, cultural contexts, and theoretical approaches, making graduates highly versatile and adaptable professionals.

By the Numbers

  • 4 Degree Track Options
  • 10 Average Class Size
  • 36 Papers Students Presented at Conferences 
  • 30 Publications by Faculty
ArtSci By the Numbers

Master of Arts in English

Focus on literature, writing or creative writing. Prepare for further doctoral study or a career in teaching or boundless other fields.

Spring

"The faculty in creative writing are proven writers; they provide an unprecedented level of experience and knowledge. They helped me master a unique blend of techniques that have been essential in the development of my skills as a creative writer, and this has better prepared me for getting published. I think that's what every writer wants."

Christopher Pollin, Alumnus

Curriculum

The Department of English takes a holistic approach to literary studies, emphasizing both reading and advanced writing skills. Students first complete a foundational course, Introduction to Literary Research, and then select a concentration in one of four tracks, depnding on their interests and career goals:

  • Literature – Ideal for students planning to pursue a doctoral program or those interested in further literary study.
  • Writing – Designed for current or future English teachers at the secondary level, or for those interested in graduate studies in rhetoric and composition.
  •  Creative Writing – Perfect for aspiring writers, those interested in teaching creative writing or aiming to pursue an M.F.A. or a Ph.D. in creative writing.
  • Professional Writing – Develop mastery of technical writing genres, styles and context for an immediate transition into careers in public relations, publishing, journalism, science and medical writing – or a graduate Ph.D. in English.

Courses cover topics British literature, American literature and critical theory, among others.

In all formats, students find engaging class discussions, connect with faculty mentors and receive one-on-one guidance to meet their goals.

View more information about the curriculum »

Faculty Listing

The Department of English faculty are equally committed to pursuing research scholarship and providing a vital component of a liberal arts education. Our faculty have expertise in rhetoric, literary study, writing and composition. Our faculty also have a distinguished record of funded research and specialization in multiple areas, including 19th-century English fiction, postwar American poetry, and dramatic literature and critical theory.

View all Department faculty »

Megan Kane posing
Megan Kane
Visiting Assistant Professor of English
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Our Graduate Programs

The College of Arts and Sciences is dedicated to providing graduate programs to educate the professionals, scientists, educators and leaders of the future. Our goal is to impart the skills and knowledge that graduate students need to develop and follow successful career paths and to prepare them to contribute meaningfully to society through service and/or the advancement of knowledge. We believe that an education grounded in the principles of liberal arts and dedicated to societal advancement through research and interdisciplinary studies is the best instrument for producing well-rounded citizens with intentions that are both personally fulfilling and noble.

Contact Us

  • Michael Dooney, Ph.D.
  • Associate Dean for Graduate Academic Affairs
  • (973) 275-2155
  • [email protected]

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