A critical look at children's books
Simmons's Center for the Study of Children's Literature provides a rigorous, disciplined study of children's, middle reader, and Young Adult books. Our M.A. in Children's Literature teaches critical vocabulary for appraising text and illustration, from folklore and mythology to realistic contemporary fiction and nonfiction. The M.F.A. in Writing for Children combines the critical study of children's literature with the art of writing. CSCL offers several exciting dual degree options, as well as offsite programs at The Eric Carle Museum in Amherst, Mass.
Children's Literature
The Center for the Study of Children's Literature (CSCL) at Simmons College administers the nation's first
Master of Arts in Children's Literature as well as a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Writing for Children.
The CSCL provides a rigorous, disciplined study of children's books for those who are — or who intend
to be — involved in teaching, library services, publishing, writing, or related fields. To develop a
critical vocabulary essential for appraising text and illustration, students apply a high level of scholarly
analysis to children's literature ranging from folklore and mythology to contemporary realistic fiction and
nonfiction. With an emphasis on historical and critical analysis - including feminist, ideological, and
multicultural perspectives - our interdisciplinary curriculum draws upon art, history, education, sociology,
psychology and media studies.
