Career Center

M.A. in English

The Saint Rose master's program in English features small, seminar-style classes that provide a place for informed discussions about writers and texts, and foster collaboration among students and teachers. Students complete 36 credits with a concentration in either literature or writing. Depending on which concentration they choose, students complete independent advanced projects in literary research, theory, and analysis or in writing theory and practice under the mentorship of individual faculty members. In addition to the required advanced project, students who wish to may also complete a thesis. Completing an M.A. in English at Saint Rose prepares students for a wide range of careers or often results in advancement in their current careers. Secondary school teachers can also complete their professional certification through our M.A. in English.


What makes the Saint Rose graduate program unique?

English Gradute Students who Presented Papers at Conferences in spring 2009Our M.A. in English is unique in its combination of the best elements of literary study within the liberal arts tradition, with additional emphases on the process of writing (including creative writing), the study of criticism and theory, and the exploration of an expanding literary canon. Students who choose to concentrate on literary study will have the opportunity to expand their expertise in professional and creative writing. Students who wish to develop as creative writers will benefit from our conviction that the study of a wide range of literary texts and theories enhances their writing.

Research and writing are at the forefront of the Saint Rose English master's curriculum. Students progress toward the professional level in their research and writing in a challenging, but supportive atmosphere. All English classes include a research component and many students have presented at conferences or published papers they produced in class. Recently, students have made presentations at conferences sponsored by the Popular Culture Association, American Association of Australian Literary Studies, Southern Humanities Conference, New York College English Association, the American Conference for Irish Studies, and the New York Asian American Conference In addition, students have published poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction in a number of literary journals.

The College's location in New York state's capital city offers a wealth of cultural and literary opportunities for students. The New York State Writer's Institute offers many opportunities to attend readings and lectures by professional writers and critics.
 


Choice of Concentration

When students are accepted to the English master's program, they select (for the duration of their study) a concentration in literature or writing. Our literary offerings encourage a wide variety of critical approaches to literature, and explore the interconnectedness among literatures and social, cultural, and political histories. Theory courses explore current topics in literary and cultural theory, as well as ground students in the conceptual understandings that theory brings to the study of literature. Writing courses emphasize the theory and practice of writing in a wide range of genres, including fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, playscript writing, and composition theory. Apprentice writers benefit from being in a group of other interested writers who give them feedback and from having as teachers professional writers who can introduce them to the publishing arena.

Questions?

Contact Dr. Hollis Seamon, English Graduate Program Coordinator, with any questions.