Decoding the M.A. in English Syllabus: What You’ll Learn and Why It Matters

Blog / January 22, 2025

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Did you know that globally, there are 1.35 billion English speakers, and among these, 360 million individuals speak it as their first language? Oddly enough, the English language is the pillar of our civilization, articulation, and bonding among other humans. It is the official language of 67 countries and 27 other jurisdictions. Depending upon whether you're reading a novel, delivering a speech, or crafting an email, your ability to comprehend English efficaciously shapes the way you interact with the world. 

Mastering this language doesn’t only give you the power to persuade, inform, or entertain; rather, it connects you with others on a wider level. Well, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that one of the best ways to deepen your understanding of language is by pursuing an M.A. in English.

The Value of an M.A. in English

An M.A. in English provides a holistic exploration of language, literature, and critical theory, making it an optimal choice for those passionate about words. This innovative degree helps hone your writing and communication skills and enables you to dive deep into various literary genres, historical contexts, and linguistics systems. It opens doors to vibrant career paths. Some of them are mentioned below.

• Teaching and Academia

• Content Writing & Editing

• Publishing

• Journalism

• Public Relations 

• Corporate Communication

• Translation and Linguistics

• Creative Fields

M.A. in English Syllabus

The M.A. in English syllabus includes core subjects and electives, enabling you to specialize in creative writing, linguistics, or postcolonial studies. You will master a combination of historical, theoretical, and practical coursework that will help you develop analytical, research, and writing skills. Below is the general outline for the same.

Semester 1

• Foundations of Literary Studies
• Literary Theory and Criticism
• British Literature: Medieval to Renaissance
• Introduction to American Literature
• Academic Writing and Research Methods

Semester 2

• Exploring Literary Genres
• British Literature: 18th to 19th Century
• American Literature: 19th Century
• World Literature and Global Perspectives
• Elective: Poetry Workshop or Fiction Workshop

Semester 3

• Cultural Contexts and Interpretations
• Postcolonial Literature
• Contemporary Literature and Modernism
• Elective: Drama and Performance Studies or Film Studies
• Elective: Comparative Literature or Gender and Literature

Semester 4

• Specialized Topics and Research
• Special Topics in Literature (E.g., Victorian Literature, African-American Literature, Science Fiction, etc.)
• Independent Research Project or Thesis Preparation
• Elective: Literature of a Specific Region or Author Studies
• Elective: Creative Writing Workshop or Editing and Publishing

Explore the Depths of Language and Culture with an M.A. in English @ Shiv Nadar University (Institution of Eminence)

The M.A. in English program offered by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Shiv Nadar University is meticulously curated to blend academic diligence with creative exploration. 

This specific program plunges students into the rich tapestry of English literary history and world literature. It also encompasses a broader array of critical and cultural theory, creative writing, translation, and visual theory courses.

Not only this, the School's commitment and dedication to balancing a student-to-mentor ratio ensures the implementation of a comprehensive and diverse writing program. This course mandates academic writing, public writing, and narrative composition programs..

The Objectives of an M.A. in English 

• Diverse pedagogical techniques, which include lectures, seminars, and intensive individual supervision, help the students identify their research interests.

• Writing activities primarily involve one-on-one interactions between the teacher and student.

• Students are guided to develop an extensively researched 8,000-word thesis through these personalized interactions.

• The program prepares students for competitive exams and careers in publishing and media by equipping them with essential skills.

The M.A. in English Eligibility 

• The candidate must hold a valid Bachelor's degree from a recognized institution. It could be a degree in English, literature, or any correlating field; however, one may apply even with a different educational background.

• The respective candidate should also have a minimum of 50% to 55%.

Epilogue 

Besides equipping one with a special knowledge of literary analysis, The M.A. English course proves to be useful for a number of professional fields. By studying a vast range of literary traditions, theories, and linguistic mechanics, this domain prepares you for a satisfying career in teaching, writing, editing, publication, etc. Whether you choose to become a professor, a writer, or work in any other field, the knowledge and skills you gain will set you up for success. So, become the voice of the world with your words. Enroll now for an M.A. in English at Shiv Nadar University.