Overview

The Literature M.A. at University of California, Santa Cruz provides a dedicated pathway for scholars to expand their expertise in literary theory and critical practice. This academic programme is specifically structured to support students aiming to transition into doctoral studies at leading global institutions. By engaging with complex texts and diverse methodologies, participants develop the sophisticated research skills necessary for high-level academic success.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible yet intensive, allowing students to define a specific area of concentration that aligns with their research interests. Over the course of one to two years, learners work closely with distinguished faculty members to refine their analytical capabilities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15102 per year
National fee: USD 15102 per year
Local fee: USD 15924 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of a foundational proseminar and seven additional courses to establish a concentration area. Modules may include:

Proseminar
Advising
Thesis Research
Literature

In addition to these core components, students may select up to two courses from other departments to support their interdisciplinary interests. The programme culminates in the submission of a substantial master's thesis, typically ranging from 35 to 50 pages, which must be defended before a faculty reading committee.

Careers with Literature

Graduates of this programme primarily progress into advanced academic research, with many successfully entering Ph.D. programmes at prestigious universities. The advanced critical thinking, writing, and research skills developed during the course are also highly valued in sectors such as publishing, education, and cultural consultancy. By mastering complex literary analysis, students prepare for professional roles that require sophisticated communication and deep cultural understanding.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Pedagogy

Individual Authors: John Milton

Cultural Studies: Transcultural Poetics

Writing Studio: Vectors, Space, and the Self

Studies in Literary and Cultural History: Paperwork

Methods and Materials: Creative Non-Fiction

Topics in Theory: Theory of the Novel

Studies in Literary and Cultural History: Contested Boundaries: Rereading Contemporary Poetic Controversies

Studies in Literary and Cultural History: Topics of the Medieval and Renaissance through the Movies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-03 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Literature View 341 other Masters in Literature in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Official transcripts

Supplemental Materials

Recommendations

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required, up to 5 may be submitted.

Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)

Writing Sample: Please provide a writing sample between 10-20 pages in length. Though the sample need not be in Literature, it should demonstrate relevant skills in writing, critical thinking, and textual analysis.

A Statement of purpose is required: Please describe your plans for graduate study or research and for your future occupation or profession. Include any information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and qualifications for graduate study at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages.

A Personal History Statement is also required

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

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Out-of-State

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

15924 USD / year

≈ 15924 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

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

Financing

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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 Literature.

Available Scholarships

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

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Cruz

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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