English, MA
The MA in English encompasses a diverse curriculum reflecting the program’s interdisciplinary approach to exploring literature. Rigorous in nature, the program encourages a strong ethical approach to achieving academic excellence in the classroom and beyond.
Program Intro
Whether students are looking to advance their knowledge or their career, they'll find CBU's MA in English an intellectually stimulating program designed to help them reach their goals.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn Your MA in English at CBU?
Collaborate within a community
A small collegial graduate program, CBU's MA in English invites collaboration among students and the professors who mentor them. Small classes provide a collective learning experience in which discussion and dialogue are encouraged, ideas are challenged, and every individual has a voice. At various times students are offered opportunities to work on projects for the department, such as being an editorial assistant on the literary journal or working on the department newsletter. They are eligible to apply for the English honors society Sigma Tau Delta and to attend and present at local conferences as well.
Read diverse texts and learn to think critically
Courses cross cultures and mediums to include world and multicultural literature, film studies, rhetoric and composition, and traditional British and American literature—broadening students' perspectives while also illuminating interconnections. With an emphasis on critical theory, graduate English courses also develop critical thinking skills.
Integrate faith and language
CBU's MA in English is unique in its examination of spiritual perspectives on literature and learning. Integrating the university's Christian mission into the classroom, courses explore the ethical implications of literature and the moral values great works express and shape.
Learn to teach
Several students have been hired by CBU in Graduate Admissions or as English adjunct professors. Other students have begun teaching careers at the high school and college levels. Other alumni have taught TESOL overseas in China and the Philippines.
What You'll Learn
Students will be able to:
- Faith/Worldview: articulate their personal worldview in relationship to the discipline, including a synthesis of how Christian faith impacts approaches language and literature.
- Theory & Criticism: apply a variety of theoretical and critical approaches in, and articulate their importance for, literary and language analysis.
- Writing and Research: compose original scholarly writing and research in literature and language.
- Literary Analysis: analyze texts based on literary genre, form, context, and social significance.
- Professional Development: engage in academic discourse regarding the language and literature through participation in scholarly presentations and the publication process.
Program Details
ENG 510: Comparative Mythology
Students will become acquainted with the discipline of mythology from a variety of perspectives.
ENG 545: Teaching College Writing
This course prepares students to teach college writing by introducing them to current composition philosophy and methods, and practical application of teaching techniques for collegiate-level writing courses.
ENG 577: Digital Creative Writing
This course engages students in the technological, aesthetic, publication, and attribution issues of digital creative writing and reading.
- Digital Literary Studies Concentration
- English Pedagogy Concentration
- Literature Concentration
- TESOL Concentration
Jennifer Newton, Ph.D.
Professor of English
Office Phone: 951-343-4276
E-mail: jnewton@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 262
Deron Walker, Ph.D.
Professor of English
Office Phone: 951-343-4652
E-mail: dwalker@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 263 B
1. What are the program's entry dates and application deadline?
The MA in English offers a rolling admission policy and accepts students for the fall
(September), spring (January) or summer (May) semesters. Students are strongly encouraged
to have their application files, including all needed documentation, completed at
least two months prior to the start of the semester.
2. Am I required to have a BA degree in English to enter the program?
No. However, MA English candidates must complete a minimum of 18 semester (27 quarter)
units of study in English beyond the level of freshman composition, with a grade of
"C" or better. If your undergraduate degree is in another area of study, you may be
required to complete additional bachelor's-level courses to meet the program's minimum
English competency requirements.
3. How long does the program take?
The length of the program may vary for each student depending on course load and thesis
work. Students taking 2 courses per semester may complete the program in as little
as two years.
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall | Spring | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 | November 1 | March 1 |
| Standard | August 1 | December 1 | April 1 |
The deep study of literature from all over the world opened my eyes to different lived experiences. I became a more critical thinker because of the ways I was challenged in several of my master’s courses.
Jessica Alzen '07
Pursuing English at CBU’s graduate program allowed me the Christian lens and scholarly help that I felt was crucial for refining my writing and teaching while also allowing me to have scholarly conversations with likeminded people.
Michael Sutherlin '17
I work at a high school, so I am consistently mentoring and guiding students. This is the most fulfilling role that I have acquired in my career thus far because I can physically see how my work is positively affecting my students.
Dana Dunams '09
I felt a comfort with the people in the program, both students and professors. The passion for literature is evident in all the instructors, and that passion is contagious. Nearly everything I learned in the CBU grad program is used in my profession today.
Brandon Daily '11
I sincerely believe that one of the main reasons I thrived in my academics is because I was surrounded by a supportive group of people who constantly encouraged and helped each other out. Such an environment is very conducive to learning.
Rida Mall '17
Career Possibilities
Graduates of CBU's MA in English program will be well prepared for various careers dealing with the English language. Some careers listed below may require further education.
- Author
- Writer
- Copywriter
- Editor
- College Professor
- TESOL Teacher
- English Teacher
- Journalist
- Research Scientist
- Editorial Director
- Copy Editor
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.