California Baptist University
The M.A. 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. Whether students are looking to advance their knowledge or their career, they'll find CBU's M.A. in English an intellectually stimulating program designed to help them reach their goals.
Collaborate within a community
A small collegial graduate program, CBU's M.A. 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 M.A. 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.
Students will become acquainted with the discipline of mythology from a variety of perspectives.
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.
This course engages students in the technological, aesthetic, publication, and attribution issues of digital creative writing and reading.
Students will be able to:
1. What are the program's entry dates and application deadline?
The M.A. 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 B.A. degree in English to enter the program?
No. However, M.A. 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* |
"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. I believe that the
holistic educational experience provided in my graduate program at CBU equipped me
with the ability to be exceedingly successful in the education profession."
Dana Dunams, 2009
"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, 2011
"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, 2007
"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. I can't wait to
teach at CBU again once I'm done with my PhD."
Rida Mall, 2017
"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, 2017
Once upon a time, I started my journey to become a high school history teacher. But as they say, “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans!” Unexpectedly, I stumbled upon an opportunity to teach English in Korea. I became a linguist and now, I am living my dream, designing linguistics curriculum and bowling in leagues.
I love books, especially the old ones. That love prompted me to pursue a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature at Baylor University. Now I specialize in medieval and Renaissance English literature, publishing primarily on the 17th-century poet George Herbert. As a native Southerner, I find “y’all” to be the perfect way to express a second person plural pronoun.
Once upon a time, I started my journey to become a high school history teacher. But as they say, “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans!” Unexpectedly, I stumbled upon an opportunity to teach English in Korea. I became a linguist and now, I am living my dream, designing linguistics curriculum and bowling in leagues.
I love books, especially the old ones. That love prompted me to pursue a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature at Baylor University. Now I specialize in medieval and Renaissance English literature, publishing primarily on the 17th-century poet George Herbert. As a native Southerner, I find “y’all” to be the perfect way to express a second person plural pronoun.
8432 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
Dr. Erika Travis, Chair
(951) 343-4362
calbaptist.edu/modern-languages-and-literature
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