
M-A in English at SRM Institute of Science and Technology


Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is English at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.A. English program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on an in-depth exploration of English language and literature, encompassing historical periods, diverse genres, and critical theories. It prepares students for a variety of academic and professional roles, aligning with India''''s growing demand for skilled communicators and literary experts across education, media, and content creation industries. The program distinguishes itself through its comprehensive curriculum and interdisciplinary approach.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in English or humanities seeking to deepen their literary and linguistic understanding. It also caters to aspiring researchers, educators, and content creators looking to enhance their analytical and critical thinking skills. Working professionals in related fields, such as publishing or journalism, aiming to upskill or transition into academic roles will also find the program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as university lecturers, content writers, editors, journalists, and public relations specialists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15 LPA. The program also serves as an excellent foundation for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D. degrees, paving the way for advanced research and academic leadership in Indian institutions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Robust Reading & Critical Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with prescribed literary texts and critical theories. Actively participate in class discussions and utilize the library''''s vast collection to explore diverse perspectives. Regularly write analytical essays to hone critical thinking and argumentative skills.
Tools & Resources
University library, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Project MUSE), Literary journals, Peer study groups, Writing center services
Career Connection
Strong analytical skills are fundamental for research, academic writing, content creation, and critical evaluation in any professional domain, from teaching to journalism.
Master Foundational Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Learn the basics of academic research, including identifying credible sources, proper citation (MLA/APA), and structuring research papers. Attend workshops on academic integrity and research ethics. Begin exploring potential areas of interest for future projects.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Academic writing guides, University research workshops, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Essential for higher studies (M.Phil./Ph.D.), research-oriented roles, content development, and evidence-based decision-making in various industries.
Enhance Public Speaking & Presentation Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Actively volunteer for presentations, group discussions, and seminars in all courses. Practice articulating complex literary concepts clearly and confidently. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine delivery and engagement techniques.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (local chapters), Departmental debate clubs, University communication workshops, Recorded practice sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for teaching, academic conferences, corporate communications, media roles, and leadership positions, building confidence and persuasive communication ability.
Intermediate Stage
Specialization through Electives & Advanced Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose electives that align with career aspirations (e.g., Media Studies, ELT, E-Content Writing). Deep dive into these chosen areas through advanced reading, independent projects, and engaging with faculty experts in those fields.
Tools & Resources
Specialized course materials, Faculty office hours, Professional organizations related to chosen specialization, Online courses for supplementary learning
Career Connection
Builds expertise for targeted job roles (e.g., content writer, editor, journalist) and provides a competitive edge in specific industry niches within India.
Undertake a Substantive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 3-4)
Identify a compelling research topic, formulate a strong research question, and conduct extensive literature review. Execute the research project meticulously, applying learned methodologies, and culminating in a well-structured dissertation or project report.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisors, University ethics committee, Plagiarism check software, Academic writing tools, Relevant databases for data collection
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research capabilities, independent critical thinking, and contributes to a professional portfolio, highly valued in academia and research-oriented industries.
Network with Industry Professionals & Alumni- (Semester 3-4)
Attend webinars, conferences, and seminars organized by the department or university. Connect with alumni working in desired fields via LinkedIn and university networking events. Seek informational interviews to gain insights into various career paths.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni portal, Career services department, Professional association meetings in India
Career Connection
Opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, job referrals, and staying updated on industry trends and requirements in the Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in English or any Bachelor''''s Degree with English as one of the subjects with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. Candidates who have studied in non-semester pattern and secured 50% overall in aggregate in their Bachelor''''s degree are also eligible.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE2201 | HISTORY OF ENGLISH LITERATURE I (From Chaucer to Eighteenth Century) | Core | 4 | Chaucer''''s Period, Elizabethan Age, Jacobean Age, Puritan Interregnum, Restoration Period, Augustan Age |
| PE2202 | LITERARY THEORY AND CRITICISM I (From Classical to Romantic) | Core | 4 | Classical Criticism, Neoclassical Criticism, Romantic Criticism, Formalism, New Criticism |
| PE2203 | BRITISH LITERATURE I (Elizabethan and Jacobean Drama) | Core | 4 | Pre-Shakespearean Drama, Shakespearean Tragedies, Elizabethan Comedy, Jacobean Tragedies, Revenge Tragedy |
| PE2204 | LINGUISTICS AND PHONETICS | Core | 4 | Nature of Language, Phonetics and Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, Pragmatics |
| PE2205 | ELECTIVE I | Elective | 4 | Research Methodology for Literature, Media Studies, Business Communication |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE2206 | HISTORY OF ENGLISH LITERATURE II (From Nineteenth Century to Modern) | Core | 4 | Romantic Age, Victorian Age, Modernism, Postmodernism, Contemporary Literature |
| PE2207 | LITERARY THEORY AND CRITICISM II (From Modernism to Postmodernism) | Core | 4 | Modern Literary Theories, Structuralism, Post-structuralism, Feminist Criticism, Postcolonial Criticism, Deconstruction |
| PE2208 | BRITISH LITERATURE II (Restoration and Augustan Poetry and Prose) | Core | 4 | Restoration Drama, Augustan Poetry, Satire, Neoclassical Prose, Sentimental Comedy |
| PE2209 | INDIAN LITERATURE IN ENGLISH | Core | 4 | Indian English Poetry, Indian English Fiction, Indian English Drama, Partition Literature, Post-Independence Writing |
| PE2210 | ELECTIVE II | Elective | 4 | Discourse Analysis and Stylistics, Public Relations, Soft Skills for Professionals |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE2211 | HISTORY OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE | Core | 4 | Old English Period, Middle English Period, Early Modern English, Modern English, Etymology, Sociolinguistics |
| PE2212 | AMERICAN LITERATURE | Core | 4 | American Romanticism, Transcendentalism, Realism and Naturalism, Modern American Novel, African American Literature |
| PE2213 | NEW LITERATURES IN ENGLISH | Core | 4 | Postcolonial Literature, African Literature, Caribbean Literature, Canadian Literature, Australian Literature |
| PE2214 | ELECTIVE III | Elective | 4 | Subaltern Studies, Cultural Studies, English Language Teaching |
| PE2215 | ELECTIVE IV | Elective | 4 | E-Content Writing, Translation Studies, Eco-Criticism |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE2216 | GENDER STUDIES | Core | 4 | Feminist Theories, Gender Identity, Masculinity Studies, Queer Theory, Representation in Literature |
| PE2217 | CHILDREN''''S LITERATURE | Core | 4 | History of Children''''s Literature, Genres in Children''''s Literature, Fantasy and Adventure, Picture Books, Moral Education in Literature |
| PE2218 | PROJECT WORK / DISSERTATION | Project | 8 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
| PE2219 | ELECTIVE V | Elective | 4 | Journalism, Film Studies, Academic Writing |




