What You'll Learn
Through the master’s degree in the field of English you build:
- The ability to identify topics and develop questions that lead to meaningful scholarly inquiry.
- An enhanced knowledge of the philosophical, historical, and cultural forces that shape literary works.
- A deeper understanding of the work that literary scholars do.
- The skills required for communicating your ideas and entering a critical conversation.
- Earn an optional graduate certificate in American literature and culture.
Your Harvard Degree
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, field: English.
Our Community at a Glance
Your peers from the field of English work in a variety of writing, research, and communication-intensive industries, such as fundraising, publishing, advertising/marketing, and education (secondary and higher education).
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40
Average Age
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1
Average Courses Taken Each Semester
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70%
Work Full Time
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98%
Would Recommend the Program
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55%
Professional Experience in the Field
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Most
Pursued for Personal Enrichment
Getting Started: Admissions and Degree Requirements
At Harvard Extension School, your admission is based largely on your performance in three specific Harvard Extension courses that you complete before submitting an application.
To get started, we invite you to explore degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.
Cost and Financial Aid
Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.
| Our Tuition (2022–23 rate) | $3,100 per 4-credit course ($775 per credit) |
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $5,476 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $37,200 |
After admission, you may qualify for financial aid. Typically, eligible students receive grant funds to cover a portion of tuition costs each term, in addition to federal financial aid options.
Learning & Connection
Deep learning springs from human connection. That’s why we work so hard to bring people together — whether in a live virtual classroom or an in-person seminar on campus.
Our approach to online learning fosters interaction without sacrificing flexibility. Each week, you’ll engage with your instructor, participate in peer discussions, and receive one-on-one support from teaching staff—all from your home or office.
