Children’s Literature (MA) / Writing for Children (MFA)
Description
Students in the MA/MFA program seek a unique place in literature for young people. Whether they write for children or young adults, middle grade novels or picturebooks, speculative fiction or transitional readers, MA/MFA students combine critical analysis with creative practice. Coursework grounds them in an understanding of the publishing industry and as well as theoretical perspectives. Writing courses and mentorships offer individual critiques and rare partnerships with editors and agents.
Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the learning outcomes for the MA and MFA Children’s Literature above.
Requirements for entry into program
Please refer to the admission requirements for the MA and MFA Children’s Literature above.
Degree requirements
MA/MFA students must complete 56 credits of graduate coursework to qualify for the degrees.
Graduate students in the MA/MFA dual degree program typically carry between eight and ten credits in the fall, spring, and summer semesters after their first semester of eight credits. Students considering registering for more than 10 credits per term must consult with the graduate program director.
Required and Elective Courses
This 56 credit program requires the following courses:
| CHL 401 | Criticism of Literature for Children | 4.00 |
| CHL 403 | The Picturebook | 4.00 |
| CHL 413 | Contemporary Realistic Fiction | 4.00 |
| CHL 414 | Fantasy and Science Fiction | 4.00 |
| CHL 421 | Children's Book Publishing | 4.00 |
| CHL 430 | Writing for Children I | 4.00 |
| CHL 431 | Writing for Children II | 4.00 |
| CHL 441 | MFA Mentorship I | 4.00 |
| CHL 442 | MFA Mentorship II | 4.00 |
|
CHL4XX
History elective/s
|
Coursework in the history
of children's literature,
selected from courses with
a chronological focus.
|
To total 4.00 |
| CHL 4XX |
Coursework in children's
literary genres
|
To total 4.00 |
The remaining 16 credits are completed by drawing from a variety of two- and four-credit elective courses. Electives cover a range of academic and professional interests. See the list of general electives above in the Department catalog page.. A student’s academic advisor will be an invaluable partner in determining which electives to take to meet the student’s immediate interest and to build their professional portfolio.