M.A - English

Overview:

A Master of Arts (MA) in English is a two-year postgraduate program that studies English language and literature across the world. It can help students develop critical thinking and analytical skills, and prepare them for careers in writing, media, publishing, and academia.

M.A in English includes readings from various novels, stories, poetry and epics written by prominent writers. M.A in English helps students to have a better grasp of the English Language, and develop analytical skills, and critical thinking ability.  The program includes a mix of required and elective courses, as well as independent study modules. Students can also choose to specialize in a particular field, such as South Asian literature.

Admission is usually based on entrance exams, but some colleges may consider merit or college-level admission tests.  To be eligible, candidates typically need to have graduated with a minimum of 50% marks in any discipline.

Top colleges like JNU, St Xaviers College Kolkata, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Lucknow, Mithibai College of Arts, Delhi University, Calcutta University, and Presidency College offer M.A English Admission based on national or state-level entrance exams.  Distance MA English is available in IGNOU, VMOU, etc. M.A in English syllabus consists of subjects like English Poetry from Chaucer to Milton, Eighteenth-Century English Literature, American Literature, Language and Linguistics, and works of Shakespeare and Indian Literature.

An MA in English can lead to careers in Writing, Editing, Proof Reading, Journalism, Content Writing, and more.

After M.A in English, a graduate may choose to pursue a PhD in the subject or begin working in many different types of fields, including teaching, journalism, language translation, etc. In general, a graduate with an M.A in English can expect to earn between INR 2 and 8 LPA.

Some Highlights of M.A English:

Top Colleges Offering M.A English:

• IIT Madras Chennai
  
• SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
  
• St Stephen’s College
  
• Hindu College 
  
• Gargi College
  
• Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore
  
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi
  
• Delhi University (DU), Delhi
  
• Amity University, Mohali
  
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal
  

Why Choose M.A English?

Opting for a Master of Arts (M.A.) in English can be an enriching and versatile decision. Here’s why this specialization might be the right path for you:

Deep Literary Understanding: Students can dive into a diverse range of literary works, from classic to contemporary, gaining a profound understanding of different genres, authors, and historical contexts. They can also develop strong analytical skills to interpret and critique literary texts.

Diverse Career Opportunitie: One ccan pursue careers in Teaching, Writing, Publishing, Journalism, Public Relations, Content creation, and more. The skills acquired are valuable in various fields, enhancing your employability across industries.

Advanced Communication Skill: Students can hone their ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively, both in writing and verbally. It is a good opportunity to strengthen  public speaking skills through presentations and seminars.

Creative and Analytical Skills: Students can enhance your ability to express ideas creatively, whether through writing, storytelling, or other forms of artistic expression. Analytical Thinking: Develop critical thinking skills that are crucial for analyzing texts and constructing arguments.

Research Opportunities: Engage in in-depth research projects, exploring specific literary topics or themes that interest you. Thesis Writing: Complete a thesis or dissertation under the guidance of experienced faculty, contributing to academic scholarship.

Cultural Awareness: Study literature from different cultures and time periods, gaining a broader understanding of the world. Cultural Sensitivity: Develop an appreciation for diverse perspectives and experiences.

Personal Fulfillment: Passion for Literature: If you have a love for reading and literature, an M.A. in English allows you to immerse yourself in what you enjoy. Lifelong Learning: The study of literature fosters a lifelong appreciation for learning and intellectual growth.

Teaching Opportunities: Share your knowledge and passion for literature by teaching at the high school or college level. Mentoring: Mentor students and help them develop their own analytical and writing skills.

Choosing to specialize in English allows you to explore your passion for literature while developing a versatile skill set that can be applied in various professional contexts.

Admission Procedure For M.A English:

Admission to an MA in English course in India usually involves entrance exams and meeting certain eligibility requirements:

• Many colleges in India use the CUET PG national-level entrance exam for admission to MA English courses. Other entrance exams include PUCET PG, URATPG, and JMI entrance exams. The application process for entrance exams usually begins several months before the exams are conducted.
• Eligibility requirements vary by institution, but typically include a bachelor's degree in English with a minimum of 50% marks. Some institutions may also require an Advanced English Proficiency Test for students who majored in a different discipline at the undergraduate level.
• Some institutions may have additional requirements, such as a minimum GPA for students from foreign universities.

Eligibility For M.A English:

• Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree, such as a BA in English, with 50% aggregate marks or an equivalent CGPA
  
• They must have earned a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
  
• It is necessary to have a passing score on the JNUEE, CUET, or other required entrance exams
  

Career Opportunities For M.A English:

M.A English graduates have diverse career paths. A common path for graduates with an MA in English is to enter academia. They can apply for Assistant Professor or Lecturer positions at colleges and universities. Additionally, MA English literature job opportunities are also abundant, as you can work as a Literary Critic, Book Reviewer, Librarian, Curator, or Publisher.

For those interested in pursuing further education, a Master of Arts in English degree can be an important stepping stone to a PhD or other advanced degree program. As they gain experience and publish research, they can progress to higher academic ranks. This could lead to even more career opportunities, including positions in academia or research.

Apart from this Graduates with a Master’s degree in English can pursue professions such as Professors, Editors, Communication Specialists, Content Writers, Copywriters, Journalists, Technical Writers, Public Relations Specialists, Social Media Managers, Marketing Managers, and many more. 

There are many job sectors and profiles for students who complete M.A in English courses. Considering English is one of the major official languages globally, students with a degree in English can get placed at several international job sectors.

Jobs Opportunities After M.A English:

• Translator
  
• Editor
  
• Content Writer
  
• Copywriter
  
• Teacher
  
• PR Specialist
  
• Digital Media Specialist
  
• Advertising Executive
  
• Content Developer
  

Top Recruiters of M.A English:

• TCS
  
• Infosys
  
• IBM
  
• Deloitte
  
• MSL Group
  
• Weber Shandwick

Syllabus For M.A English

Semester I

Introduction to Linguistics
Drama
Prose
Poetry

Semester II

Poetry 1
Linguistics and English Language Teaching
Fiction 1
Drama 2

Semester III

Literary Criticism
Drama
Fiction

Semester IV

Poetry
Elective
Literary Criticism 2