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    MA English

    About MA English

    MA in English is a full form for Master of Arts in English. MA English is a two-year postgraduate programme that focuses on the study of English Literature and Language throughout the world. MA in English studies famous writers' novels, short stories, poetry, and epics. MA in English helps students improve their command of the English language, as well as their analytical and critical thinking skills. 

    MA in English admissions are either made through entrance exams or through merit-based. Some of the MA in English top colleges are JNU, Calcutta University, St Xaviers College Kolkata, Delhi University, and Presidency College, etc and also, these all mentioned colleges hold entrance exams for admission process.

    Distance learning is also offered for the MA in English. The most popular institute for MA in English Distance Education is IGNOU. The MA in English course fee for distance education is INR 13,200. MA in English syllabus includes subjects such as English Poetry from Chaucer to Milton, Eighteenth-Century English Literature, Language and Linguistics, Shakespeare, and Indian Literature. With English being the most commonly used official language in the world, it is one of the top specialisations in Master of Arts programmes. MA English graduates can find employment as writers, editors, and teachers in a variety of international job markets.

    MA English - Course Highlights

    MA English or Master of Arts in English is a postgraduate program in the field of Arts and Humanities. MA English is a 2 year program. Any candidate who has interest in English literature can pursue MA English course. Many colleges and universities in India offer postgraduate program in MA English course. Below are important highlights related to MA English Course.

    Level of Course

    Postgraduate

    Duration of MA English Course

    2 Years

    MA English Eligibility Criteria

    Candidates who have pursued a BA in English or equivalent degree with a minimum overall aggregate of 50% are eligible.

    MA English Admission Process

    Entrance based admission process and direct admission process

    MA English Top Entrance Exams

    • Jawaharlal Nehru University Entrance Examination (JNUEE)
    • Delhi University Entrance Test (DUET)
    • Banaras Hindu University Postgraduate Entrance Test (BHU PET)
    • University of Hyderabad Entrance Examination (UoH Entrance Exam)
    • English and Foreign Language University Entrance Examination (EFLU Entrance Exam)

    MA English Average Course Fee

    INR 40,000/- to INR 50,000/-

    Average Starting Salary

    INR 3 LPA to INR 8 LPA

    Job Options

    • Content Writer
    • Copywriter
    • Teacher
    • Translator
    • Stenographer
    • Editor

    Why MA English?

    Master of Arts has been one of the most pursued courses in India. It has been considered as one of the oldest courses being studied in India. There are a variety of Master of Arts courses that a candidate can do such as MA Economics, MA Hindi, MA Geography, MA History, MA Political Science, etc. One of the most pursued course among all these Master of Arts courses is MA English. Below mentioned are some of the reasons as why a candidate must pursue MA english course:

    • Candidates who pursue MA English will get in-depth knowledge of subjects related to literature and other subjects
    • Candidates will get new skills and learn new abilities related to English subjects
    • After pursuing MA English candidates can get jobs in MNCs which prefer candidates with good English skills
    • Candidates can also pursue higher studies after completing MA English such as MPhil English or PhD English
    • Candidates who pursue MA English will get good research skills
    • While doing MA English course, candidates will get to expand their professional circle. It will help in increasing professional skills and increasing practical knowledge about the world

    Who Should Pursue MA English?

    MA English course is a two year course. MA English is a postgraduate course which can be followed by anyone who has completed undergraduate courses in any stream. Candidates can do English course at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. There is not special requirement for MA English course. While pursuing MA English course candidates get to learn a lot of things about English literature. Given below are some of the facts about who should pursue MA English Course:

    • Students who wish to pursue a career in the field of journalism, or in any MNCs can go for MA English course
    • Candidates who wish to study English literature should study MA English which will help them raise their knowledge about English literature
    • After pursuing MA English candidates will have immense job opportunities through which candidates can make a successful career in their life

    MA English Eligibility Criteria

    All colleges and universities have nearly the same eligibility criteria for MA in English courses. A few of the major eligibility criteria that should be followed are listed below.

    • Students must have completed their Bachelor's degree, i.e. a BA in English, with 45% - 50% aggregate marks or an equivalent CGPA
    • They must hold a Bachelor's degree from a recognised college or university
    • A passing score on the JNUEE, DUET, IPU CET, or other required entrance exams is required 
    • This course is open to students of all ages

    MA English Required Skills

    MA English course is a two year program in which students learn about English literature in detail. Candidates who wish to pursue MA English course must be dedicated and hard working because MA English course requires deep research and analytical skills. Following are some of the required skills that must be there in every candidate who wish to pursue MA English course or even go for higher studies after completing MA English course:

    • Good communication skills
    • Management skills
    • Goal-oriented
    • Intellectually curious
    • Organizational skills
    • Problem-solving skills
    • Analytical thinking
    • Ability to work under pressure
    • Inquisitive
    • Interpersonal skills

    MA English Admission Process

    The MA English admission process begins with a minimum aggregate score of 45% to 50% in BA English or any other equivalent degree from any recognised college or institute, as well as passing marks on entrance exams administered by national bodies, institutes, or groups of institutes. After passing these exams, aspirants are invited to write a written test, participate in group discussions, and have a personal interview.

    Though the admission process varies by college, the steps that one should take in general to gain admission are as follows:

    How to Apply for MA English?

    The application form is available online through the university/college's portal. It must then be filled. Because of covid, online is currently the only option. After that, the aspirant must upload/attach the required documents in accordance with the guidelines and specifications. Then, if necessary, apply for a loan and pay the fee if chosen. 
     

    MA English Selection Procedure

    The MA English eligibility criteria of the minimum scores in the listed exams are used to make the selection. After that, there may be an entrance exam in colleges. The aspirant is chosen after passing those with a good score. The fee must be paid with or without the loan, depending on the ones quoted by the institution.
     

    Popular Entrance Exams for MA English

    Some colleges, institutions, and even states may hold entrance exams for MA English admissions. They can better understand the course by taking the exam, which covers topics like contemporary British and Indian literature, historical coverage of English literature, contextual readings for all ages, and many other topics. The MA English entrance exams are:

    • JNUEE
    • DUET
    • IPU CET
    • BHU PET
    • CUET
    • AUCET
       

    Brief Overview of the MA English Entrance Examinations

    The students must be eligible to sit for the JNUEE, CUET, and other state- or national-level MA English entrance exams. The coaching centres that help students prepare for the entrance exams are available to aspirants. An overview of the subject is provided by the entrance exam, which provides a glimpse at the entire programme.

    • To be able to attempt all the questions, the aspirant must learn time management
    • The generalised section calls for aptitude knowledge and time management
    • Language proficiency is required because the exams are only offered in English
    • For the entrance exams, thoroughly review the entire syllabus, paying close attention to each topic
    • Quantitative aptitude, English comprehension, analytical reasoning, and data interpretation are among the abilities to practise

     

    Types of MA English

    Many colleges offer courses full-time, part-time, and online due to the high demand for MA English graduates across the nation and by many employers. The following details are provided:

    English MA Full-TimeMA English Part-TimeMA English Distance Education
    It is a two-year course with a focus on interaction with professors, research, and classroom learning. The most advantageous and popular choice for aspirants is a Full-Time MA in English because students not only gain proficiency in the English language but also a wide range of other skills.Depending on the university or college they choose, students can earn a part-time MA degree. It is not always more expensive or less expensive to attend part-time school. However, if you enrol in fewer classes, you will typically pay less.English literature master's degree programmes are widely available through correspondence or distance learning at numerous universities. For those who are unable to enrol in a traditional institution or who have been refused admission to any traditional school, this type of study is ideal.

    MA English Syllabus

    MA English is a two-year postgraduate programme that focuses on the study of English Literature and Language throughout the world. The MA English course provides students with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to generate original insights in scholarly academic writing and discourse.

    The programme would foster fundamental literary concepts, tendencies, and trends in English literature across periods, genres, and cultures, as well as literary theory and approaches to composition and rhetoric.

    The MA English course syllabus for each semester is as follows:

    First Year Syllabus for MA English
    Semester ISemester II
    Introduction to LinguisticsPoetry 1
    DramaLinguistics and English Language Teaching
    ProseFiction 1
    PoetryDrama 2
    Second Year Syllabus for MA English
    Semester IIISemester IV
    Literary CriticismPoetry
    DramaElective
    FictionLiterary Criticism 2


     

    MA English Subjects

    Business principles, business communication, operations management, marketing research, and other topics are covered in the MA English programme. Based on the curriculum's core subjects, this postgraduate programme provides a broad understanding of business. A postgraduate business course covers the most recent advances in business and marketing techniques. The following MA English subjects are available:

    MA English Core Subjects

    The core MA English subjects list includes the following subjects that all MA English students must study regardless of the options available:

    • Language and Linguistics
    • Shakespeare
    • 20th Century Poetry and Drama
    • Literary Criticism 1 & 2
    • 19th & 20th Century Novel
       

    MA English Elective Subjects

    The elective MA English can be chosen by graduates based on their preferences and are not required subjects. The following are some MA English electives:

    • Gender and Literature
    • European Visual Arts and Literature vs. American Literature
    • Literature from Greece and Latin
    • Comedy in Europe

    MA English Colleges

    MA English course is offered by many reputed colleges and universities in India. MA English is a two year postgraduate programme in which admission is given on the basis of merit list or entrance exam. Candidates can do MA english course either as a regular course or through distance education. Most of the top MA english colleges are situated in different metropolitan cities in India. Given below are top MA English colleges in which candidates can apply for admission in MA English course:

    Top MA English Colleges in Delhi

    There are variety of colleges situated in Delhi which offer MA English course. In some of these MA English colleges, admission is offered on the basis of entrance exams. These MA English colleges are top among many other colleges in India. Hence, obtaining MA english admission in these colleges is a bit difficult. Candidates must study well and prepare accordingly for MA English colleges entrance tests. Some of the top MA English colleges are as follows:

    Top MA English Colleges in Bangalore

    Candidates can apply for admission in MA English colleges in Bangalore also. There are man y reputed MA English colleges in Bangalore which offer admission on the basis of merit list or conduct an entrance test for providing MA English course admission. Given below are some of the top MA English colleges in Bangalore:

    Top MA English Colleges in Mumbai

    Mumbai is a place where one can find one of the best MA English colleges in India. Candidates can apply for MA English admission in given colleges in Mumbai:

    Top MA English Colleges in Kolkata

    Kolkata is considered as a hub for education and knowledge in India. One can find many scholars and intellectuals of Bengali origin from Kolkata. Candidates can apply for MA English admission in given top MA english colleges in Kolkata.

    Top MA English Colleges in Pune

    Candidates can find various top MA English colleges in Pune. Given below is the list of various MA english colleges in Pune:

    MA English Distance Education

    MA English course can be done both as a regular course or through distance education. The eligibility criteria for pursuing MA English course through distance education is same as the regular course. In distance education, candidates are not required to regularly visit the college. Candidates who are working or do not have time to regularly attend the classes can go distance education. The eligibility criteria for MA English Distance Education is given in detail as follows:

    • Candidates applying for MA English course must have completed an undergraduate course from some recognized university or college.
    • Candidates are not required to have any kind of minimum aggregate score as is required for regular course admission.
    • Candidates are required to appear for the exam as per the schedule set by the respective universities and colleges.
       

    Some of the top MA English colleges for pursuing MA English course through distance education are as follows:

    MA English Distance Education Syllabus

    MA English distance education syllabus is the same as the regular course. Although there are some changes in the syllabus. MA English course in distance education does not comprise semesters. MA English distance education is done in the period of two years. Exams are conducted once a year. Syllabus for MA English course for distance education is divided as follows: 

    MA English Distance Education Syllabus for First YearMA English Distance Education Syllabus for Second Year

    Fiction

    Drama

    Non-Fictional Prose

    Twentieth-Century English Literature

    Internship & Training

    English Poetry

    Shakespeare

    Indian English Literature

    Literary Theory & Research Documentation

    Internship & Training

    MA English Colleges Abroad

    After completion of undergraduate course, candidates can apply for MA English admission in foreign universities also. In order to get admission in MA English colleges abroad, candidates are required to meet the eligibility criteria set by the particular university or college. One of the most important eligibility criteria for getting admission in MA English colleges abroad is that candidates must have a required IELTS or TOEFL score. Given below are some of the top MA English colleges abroad:

    MA English Course Fee

    The average MA English Course fee varies from INR 10,000 to INR 50,000. This average fee structure is applicable for government colleges and universities. MA English course fee structure for different private colleges is different. Private colleges fees may vary from INR 50,000 to INR 5,00,000. The colleges that offer MA English course in distance education have their MA English course fee structure very different from the regular course offering colleges and universities. MA English course fee for distance education can vary from INR 6,000 to INR 20,000 per year. Candidates must check the prospectus in order to get an exact idea about the fee structure for that particular college or university.

    What after MA English?

    There are various things that a candidate can do after completing MA English course. Candidates can apply for higher studies after PG in English such as MPhil in English or PhD in English. Candidates can also study English linguistics or Comparative English literature. There are endless courses that a candidate can choose after completing MA English course. 

    Courses After MA English

    After completing MA English course, candidates can go for higher studies in the English field. Candidates can do Phd in English or Mphil in english. Candidates wit NET/JRF score have better chances in getting admission in higher studies in the English department. Given is the general criteria for applying for admission in different courses after MA English course:

    • Candidates must have completed undergraduate degree in relevant subject or some other subject from some recognized university.
    • Candidates must have a minimum aggregate score of 50% in their postgraduate studies. 
    • Candidates who have SC/ST quota have a relaxation of 5% in aggregate score. 
    • Candidates must have knowledge about English subject in order to clear the entrance exam for PhD in English or MPhil admission in some reputed universities.
    • Candidates who have JRF or NET score have better chances of getting admission in some good universities and colleges in India.

     

    Some of the top universities offering admission in PhD English courses are as follows:

    MA English Career Options and Job Prospects

    After completing the programme of MA English Literature, students have several career options to choose from. If they wish to pursue higher education, they can enroll in a programme of MPhil or PhD. In order to get selected for these courses of the doctorate level, they will have to appear for the exam of UGC NET. Students can also start working right after finishing their postgraduate degree in English literature. Postgraduates with an MA English Literature are hired in the sectors of publishing, teaching, communication, public relations, journalism, advertising, etc. Here are some of the topmost job roles that are offered to students after an MA English.

     

    Students who complete MA in English courses can choose from a variety of career fields and job roles. Students with an English degree can find employment in a variety of international job sectors because English is one of the most widely used official languages in the world.

    The top positions and job descriptions that graduates of the MA in English programme can expect to be offered are briefly listed below.

    Job ProfilesJob Description
    Editor or Assistant EditorA popular option among postgraduate English Literature students. A diploma in book publishing can be beneficial.
    Web Content WriterA rapidly expanding career path for English graduates. The job of a Web Content Writer is to create engaging and informative articles for web pages and blogs.
    Academic WriterAcademic Writing is another popular option for English graduates. An academic writer must primarily write research papers, journal articles, and statements of purpose, among other things.
    TeacherPGTs can be postgraduates in English Literature. A second degree in BEd can help you land a good job.
    TranslatorThe job of a translator is to translate a given document into English. A translation diploma is recommended.
    SEO AnalystSEO, or Search Engine Optimization, has emerged as a rapidly growing field of work that is ideal for people with strong English language skills.

     

    MA English Top Recruiters

    The following are some of the top recruiters in this field of study:

    The TelegraphThe Times of IndiaBritish Council
    TCSInfosysIBM
    DeloitteMSL GroupWeber Shandwick

    MA English Salary in India

    Candidates who have done MA english course and have opted for a variety of jobs like Editor or Assistant Editor, Web Content Writer, Academic Writer, Teacher, Translator, SEO Analyst can earn upto INR 4.5 Lakhs to INR 7 Lakhs. Salary of the candidate also depends upon the amount of experience that the candidate has. More is the experience, more is the salary. Candidates have better scope in getting recruited in top MNCs after completing MA English course. 

    The following are the average salaries for candidates by designation:

    Job ProfilesAverage Salary (INR)
    Editor or Assistant EditorINR 3.5 - 5 LPA
    Web Content WriterINR 3 - 4.5 LPA
    Academic WriterINR 2.5 - 5 LPA
    TeacherINR 3.5 - 6 LPA
    TranslatorINR 4 - 6 LPA
    SEO AnalystINR 4 - 7.5 LPA

    FAQs about MA English

    Can I pursue a PhD after completing an MA in English?

    Students must have completed their Masters degrees before enrolling in a PhD English course. Before applying for a Phd programme, one must first complete an MA in English or an MPhil.
     

    Can I become a teacher if I have an MA in English?

    Teaching is one of the most common jobs available after earning an MA in English. As an English teacher, you can work in a private school. After earning an MA, you will be eligible to take the UGC NET exams.
     

    Can I work as a lecturer after finishing my MA?

    You can become a lecturer if you have at least 55% in your Master's degree programme (50% for reserved category candidates).
     

    Which university offers the best MA English programme?

    Jawaharlal Nehru University's Centre of English Studies in Delhi. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) is India's highest ranked educational institution. As a result, students from all over the world apply for courses here, not just those from India.

    Is an entrance exam required for MA English?

    Admission to the course is determined by entrance exams such as JNUEE, DUET, and BHU-PET. Candidates who have completed a BA in English with a minimum aggregate score of 50% are eligible to apply for an MA in English.
     

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    Related Questions

    V

    Vijay Bishnoi, Student / Alumni

    Yes, it is often possible to pursue a Master of Arts (MA) in English without having an undergraduate degree in English. Many universities and colleges offer MA programs in English that are open to students from various academic backgrounds. However, it is important to note that some institutions may require applicants to have completed certain prerequisite courses or to demonstrate proficiency in the subject through an entrance exam or portfolio submission. Additionally, some programs may offer preparatory courses for students who need to acquire additional skills or knowledge in the field before beginning graduate-level coursework. It's always a good idea to check the specific requirements and prerequisites for the MA in English program you're interested in, and to reach out to the program administrators or faculty for more information and guidance. You should checkout best hindi blogs and Computer gk in hindi to continue reading.
    p

    priyal gogna, Student / Alumni

    Hi there, of course you can study MA English at LPU. At LPU the MA English program focusses on literary analysis and criticism of English literature with an intellectual journey through poetry, theatre and fiction. The programme also trains students in creative and journalistic writing. The eligibility is Pass with 50% aggregate marks in graduation (any discipline) or equivalent. 5% relaxation to North East states and Sikkim candidates/ Defence Personnel and their Dependents/ Wards of Kashmiri Migrants) (10% relaxation to outstanding Sports Persons (i.e. A/A+ category as per Sports Scholarship, Subject to verification from Selection committee* of the University) * Selection committee will be comprising of Head (DSW), Director Sports, Dy. Director Sports, Concerned Coach and VC Nominee. The program has Industry Interface Tie-ups with industry content delivery by industry experts Projects in collaboration with industry Internships to engage deeply in hands-on real-life situations Undergraduate Research: A student can avail an option of undergraduate research to go beyond the obvious. The Student going for the research option will have to study four courses as Open Minor or Generic elective courses and the final year Capstone project of the UnderGraduate program will also be associated with the research options.
    p

    priyal gogna, Student / Alumni

    Yes you can continue studies at LPU even if there is a gap. Right now gap is not important, its the zeal to move forward that is important. You can bring the marksheets of your previous qualification, class 10 marksheet and an affidavit stating the reason behind the gap. You are welcome at LPU.

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