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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.

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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.