Southeastern Louisiana University

What you'll study

The master's programme offers advanced coursework across periods and genres, combining close textual study with contemporary critical approaches. Core areas typically include literary theory and criticism, British and American literature surveys, genre- or period-specific seminars (for example Shakespeare, nineteenth-century fiction, or modernism), and research methods in the humanities. Students also study composition and rhetoric, pedagogy for postsecondary teaching, and elective topics such as digital humanities, southern literature, women’s writing, and literature and culture.

Degree candidates usually complete a mix of required core seminars and electives, and have the choice to pursue an extended research thesis or an applied final project. Coursework emphasises research skills, archival practice, scholarly writing, and oral presentation. Typical module themes you can expect include:

• Advanced Literary Theory and Criticism
• Research Methods and Bibliography in English Studies
• Historical Surveys: British and American Literature
• Genre Studies: Poetry, Drama, and the Novel
• Composition, Rhetoric and Pedagogy
• Seminars on Special Topics (e.g. Southern Literature, Postcolonial Studies, Digital Humanities)
• Thesis or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an accredited bachelor's degree, preferably in English, literature, writing, or a closely related discipline. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional objectives, a writing sample demonstrating critical and analytical skills, and letters of recommendation. Some applicants may be asked to meet additional departmental requirements or provide evidence of prior coursework in literature and composition.

The programme evaluates candidates holistically; prospective students whose undergraduate background is in another field may be admitted but could be asked to complete prerequisite courses to build foundational knowledge in literature and critical analysis.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MA in English Language and Literature follow a range of career paths. Common destinations include secondary and community college teaching (often combined with state certification where required), doctoral study in literature or related fields, and roles in publishing, editing and copywriting. The degree also prepares professionals for work in content strategy, communications, nonprofit programme writing, cultural institutions, libraries and archives, technical writing, and public humanities.

The programme develops transferable skills valued by employers: advanced research and writing, critical thinking, textual analysis, project management and public speaking.

Why study at Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University offers a close-knit academic environment with small seminar classes that encourage discussion and individual mentorship from faculty. The Department of English balances traditional literary study with attention to teaching practices and applied skills, enabling students to tailor their degree to scholarly or professional goals. Located in the Gulf South, the university provides opportunities to engage with regional literary traditions and community-based projects, while also supporting students preparing for national doctoral programmes or careers beyond academia.

Graduate students benefit from departmental resources such as research guidance, opportunities to present work at conferences, and chances to gain teaching experience as graduate instructors or assistants. The programme is suited to those who want intensive study of literature alongside practical experience in writing and pedagogy.