Overview

The Biography and Memoir at The City University of New York provides an intensive academic environment dedicated to the exploration of life writing as both a literary art and a historical discipline. Students engage with diverse narrative techniques to transform archival research and personal memory into compelling prose. This programme bridges the gap between creative expression and scholarly investigation.

By enrolling in this course, students join a vibrant intellectual community situated in a global cultural hub. The curriculum is designed to support writers at various stages of their development, offering the tools necessary to produce high-quality manuscripts. The faculty consists of acclaimed biographers and scholars who provide personalised guidance throughout the creative process.

Why Biography and Memoir at The City University of New York?

The City University of New York maintains a distinguished reputation for its contributions to the humanities and liberal arts. Students benefit from the institution's deep connections to the publishing industry and its proximity to world-class libraries and archives. The programme emphasises a hands-on approach, ensuring that graduates possess a sophisticated understanding of the ethical and technical challenges inherent in documenting lives.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 855 per credit
National fee: USD 855 per credit
Local fee: USD 470 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the structural and thematic elements of narrative non-fiction. Modules may include:

Life Writing
Archival Research Methods
Narrative Techniques
Historical Biography
Contemporary Memoir
Ethics in Life Writing
Thesis Workshop

Careers with Biography and Memoir

Graduates of the Biography and Memoir programme are well-prepared for diverse roles within the literary and media landscapes. Many alumni pursue careers as professional authors, editors, or journalists, while others find success in archival management and historical consultancy. The analytical and narrative skills developed during the course are highly transferable to roles in communications, publishing houses, and cultural organisations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Forms of Life Writing
Ethical Problems in Biography and Memoir
Multi-genre creative writing as a path to memoir
Case Histories: patient and physician narratives of self and disease
Post / Modern Memoir
Writing the Self: From Augustine to Covidity

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

New York City, United States

Disciplines

Liberal Arts View 390 other Masters in Liberal Arts in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Submit an online completed application form
A personal statement: Explain why you want to obtain this degree and how your interests and academic/professional background are relevant. Up to 1000 words.
A writing sample: A compelling essay or research paper of no more than 2,000 words.
A Curriculum Vitae: A resume or CV listing any work and personal experiences that may be relevant.
Two letters of recommendation
A $75 non-refundable application fee
Higher Education transcripts
GRE scores: Optional
International Applicants - English Proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

25650 USD / year

≈ 25650 USD / year
Out-of-State

25650 USD / year

≈ 25650 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14100 USD / year

≈ 14100 USD / year

Additional Details

Local students: $5,545 / semester

Living costs

New York City

United States

1819 - 3968 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Biography and Memoir.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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