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children's literature

There are five required courses for the M.A. in Children’s Literature: Criticism of Literature for Children, The Picturebook, Contemporary Realistic Fiction, Fantasy and Science Fiction, and a historical literature course. Other courses address topics such as book publishing, folklore, literacy and orality, poetry, nonfiction, writing fiction for children, and the multiple ways that children’s literature constructs perceptions of childhood. M.A. students have the option to do a thesis or an independent study project in the area of curriculum development or literature education.

Degree Options

The Master of Arts in Children’s Literature program is 36-credits. A full course load is three courses per semester. Although the program may be completed in one academic year, including summer study, most students choose to complete the program over three to five semesters in order to explore their interests more thoroughly. Students may take up to five years to complete the degree program. Most courses meet once a week in three-hour seminar. Although not required, proficiency in a second language is strongly recommended for the Master of Arts degree — particularly for students who intend to pursue further graduate work, college-level teaching careers, and research.

Dual-Degree M.A./M.F.A. or M.A./MAT

Students who wish to pursue both degrees may combine both master’s programs in a 56-credit course of study that includes core requirements for both programs. Simmons also offers a dual-degree in Children’s Literature and Education (M.A./MAT) for students who wish to become certified as an elementary, middle, or high school teacher.

B.A./M.A. in Children’s Literature

Simmons offers an accelerated program that allows Simmons undergraduate students to acquire a Master of Arts in Children’s Literature within one year after completing their undergraduate studies at the College.

Courses and Curriculum

Sample Courses
  • Victorian Children's Literature
  • Poetry for Young Readers
  • Origins of Story
  • Nonfiction: The New Frontier

In general, the Master of Arts curriculum emphasizes historical and critical analysis, including feminist, ideological, and multicultural perspectives. Interdisciplinary coursework draws upon art, history, education, sociology, psychology, and media studies.

Download the PDF Document Program Fact Sheet for more information on the curriculum.

See our "Courses" section to view all courses in the Children's Literature program

 

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