Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 Graduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Graduate Catalog This is not the most recent catalog version; be sure you are viewing the appropriate catalog year.

Master of Arts in Children’s Literature (CHL)


The Master of Arts in Children’s Literature is designed to provide master’s level competency in all major areas of children’s literature, including folklore, mythology, literary theory, illustrated texts, and multicultural children’s literature.

The degree is an appropriate choice for candidates who anticipate teaching in the elementary, middle or junior high school levels, as well as special education teachers, reading specialists, librarians, authors and editors of children’s books. It also provides preparation for college teachers of children’s literature and for those who anticipate undertaking doctoral studies. Students can choose to take CHL courses for all 30 credits or can include electives from such programs as creative writing, literature, technical and professional writing, English education, theatre and drama for the young, women’s studies or reading.

Admission Requirements


Applicants must submit the following:

  1. A completed graduate school application
  2. A personal statement (we recommend that these statements be 1 to 2 pages in length)
  3. Official transcripts from ALL prior colleges and universities (note: If you attended EMU, you do not need to request your EMU transcript)
  4. An academic writing sample (preferably something related to children’s literature)
  5. Two letters of recommendation

Department Information


English Language & Literature, College of Arts & Sciences

Joseph Csicsila, Ph.D. | Interim Department Head | 612 Pray-Harrold | 734.487.4220 | jcsicsila@emich.edu

Christine Neufeld, Ph.D. | Graduate Coordinator | 613C Pray-Harrold | 734.487.2670 | cneufeld@emich.edu

Advisor Information


Ian Wojcik-Andrews, Ph.D. | 603G Pray-Harrold | 734.487.0138 | iwojcika@emich.edu

Degree Requirements: 30 hours


Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours from the following

Elective Courses: 0-9 hours


Select additional children’s literature courses from the above list or appropriate courses in literature, writing, linguistics, or other programs. Independent study and thesis hours also count as elective courses.

Cognate Courses: 0-6 hours


Select in consultation with the program coordinator.

Capstone Requirement


In addition to required coursework, the candidate must either complete the written M.A. examination in Children’s Literature or submit a thesis in order to complete the degree. The written examination is taken during the semester before graduation and draws from a candidate’s coursework, covering a broad spectrum of periods, genres, and critical theories. The thesis is written during a candidate’s final year in the program and fulfills three hours of elective credits, as well as serving as a culminating option for the degree.