CLAREMONT GRADUATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in English
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€72k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 40 unitsRequired units
- 2 years (full-time)Estimated completion time
- Interdisciplinary inquiryTailor studies in Cultural/Gender Studies, Religion/Literature, graphic novels, etc.
- Cross-campus electivesTake courses in other CGU departments and across The Claremont Colleges
- Dual degree optionsPursue MA in English alongside another CGU degree program
The Master of Arts in English program at Claremont Graduate University (CGU) offers a deep dive into classic and contemporary literature, exploring evolving voices and perspectives. You will join a vibrant literary community, strengthening your understanding of English and American literature with a foundation in critical theory. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary and transnational analyses of literature and culture. Small, seminar-style classes and personalized faculty advising foster an intimate, student-centered environment for engaging with complex ideas. You'll collaborate with doctoral students, gain exposure to scholarly research, and utilize the extensive resources of The Claremont Colleges. You can customize your academic path by focusing on a single discipline or literature, or by forging connections across different fields. The skills and expertise you develop will prepare you for diverse career paths, including teaching, professional writing, publishing, and corporate communications.
Curriculum
The MA in English requires 40 units, including core courses, electives, and research tools. You can also pursue specific concentrations.
- Core Requirements
- British literature before 1750
- British literature after 1750
- American literature before 1900
- American literature after 1900
- British or American literature of any period
- Introduction to Literary Theory
- Electives & Research Tools
- Four elective courses
- Research Tools: Foreign language exam
- Research Tools: Field Exam in English and American Literature
Careers
Graduates from the MA in English program are prepared for a variety of career paths.
- Professor of English
- Vice President for Academic Affairs
- Dean of the College
- Associate Professor of English and Film Studies
- Director of the Film Studies Program
- Director of the Multicultural Theatre Project
- Professor of English
- Visiting Assistant Professor of Literature
- Professor Of English and Environmental Studies
- Visiting Scholar in the Department of English
- Assistant Professor of English
- Director of the Writing Center
- Assistant Professor of Writing
- Literature Instructor
- Managing Editor of Red Hen Press
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition and fees for the Master of Arts in English program?
- The MA in English requires 40 units at a rate of $2,070 per unit, totaling $82,800 for the program in 2025-2026. In addition to tuition, students pay semester fees of $245 (Student Fee) and $150 (Technology Fee). International students also pay an International Student Services Fee ($802 in Fall, $898 in Spring) for health insurance and administrative costs.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MA in English program?
- Applicants must submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Three letters of recommendation, a writing sample (up to 30 pages), and a 2-3 page statement of purpose are also required.
- When are the application deadlines for the MA in English program?
- For Spring 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is November 15, 2025. For Fall 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is July 5, 2026.
- How long does it take to complete the MA in English program?
- The Master of Arts in English program requires 40 units and has an estimated completion time of 2 years for full-time students.
- What career paths can I pursue with an MA in English from CGU?
- Graduates are prepared for diverse careers including teaching, professional writing, and publishing. Common roles include Professor of English, Literature Instructor, Managing Editor, and Director of a Writing Center.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate/Graduate TranscriptsOfficial transcripts required.
GRE scores are optional. A writing sample of previous work (up to 30 pages, typically 10-15 pages of scholarly work) is required, in addition to a 2-3 page statement of purpose. Three letters of recommendation are also required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is charged per unit. The MA program requires 40 units. The 2025-2026 rate is $2,070 per unit, totaling $82,800 for the program.
Tuition (home)Tuition is charged per unit. The MA program requires 40 units. The 2025-2026 rate is $2,070 per unit, totaling $82,800 for the program.
LivingPlease download CGU’s Cost of Attendance 2025-2026 for estimates of room & board, books, etc.
In addition to tuition, students pay semester fees: $245 Student Fee and $150 Technology Fee. International students also pay an International Student Services Fee ($802 in Fall, $898 in Spring) for health insurance and administrative costs.
How to apply
1. Submit Application FormComplete the online application form.
2. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee of $80 is required.
3. Provide TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
4. Demonstrate English ProficiencyInternational applicants must submit proof of English proficiency (specific test and score not listed).
5. Submit ResumeInclude an up-to-date resume detailing your academic and professional achievements.
6. Write Statement of PurposeSubmit a 2-3 page statement of purpose outlining your academic/professional achievements, research interests, suitability for graduate study at CGU, and career goals.
7. Obtain Letters of RecommendationRequest three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic abilities.
8. Submit Writing SampleProvide a writing sample (up to 30 pages) that showcases your writing abilities. This can be scholarly papers or excerpts. Books are not accepted.
9. Optional: Submit GRE ScoresGRE scores are not required but can be submitted if available.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition and fees for the Master of Arts in English program?
+
The MA in English requires 40 units at a rate of $2,070 per unit, totaling $82,800 for the program in 2025-2026. In addition to tuition, students pay semester fees of $245 (Student Fee) and $150 (Technology Fee). International students also pay an International Student Services Fee ($802 in Fall, $898 in Spring) for health insurance and administrative costs.
What are the academic entry requirements for the MA in English program?
+
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Three letters of recommendation, a writing sample (up to 30 pages), and a 2-3 page statement of purpose are also required.
When are the application deadlines for the MA in English program?
+
For Spring 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is November 15, 2025. For Fall 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is July 5, 2026.
How long does it take to complete the MA in English program?
+
The Master of Arts in English program requires 40 units and has an estimated completion time of 2 years for full-time students.
What career paths can I pursue with an MA in English from CGU?
+
Graduates are prepared for diverse careers including teaching, professional writing, and publishing. Common roles include Professor of English, Literature Instructor, Managing Editor, and Director of a Writing Center.