Master of Arts (M.A.) in Literature
Explore Influential Authors from a Variety of Times, Places, and Literary Genres with a Master of Arts in Literature
Do you love learning about other people, places, and time periods? Are you easily captivated by the power of a well-told story and excited to dive into the deeper meaning of a book, poem, or play? If so, our Master of Arts (M.A.) in Literature may be just the program for you.
This 100% online degree offers an in-depth look at great works of literature from many different cultures and time periods. As you analyze various texts, you’ll have the opportunity to hone your writing abilities and practice crafting persuasive, logical arguments – skills that are essential in nearly all professional career endeavors.
Maybe you want to eventually earn your Ph.D., write for scholarly journals, and pass on your love of literature to the next generation as a professor – or perhaps you’d like to pursue an industry job in editing, copywriting, marketing, or another area where you can apply your writing and critical thinking expertise. Either way, our master’s in literature online is a great next step to take in your professional journey.
What Will You Study in Liberty University’s Online Master’s in Literature Program?
- British, American, classical, contemporary, African-American, and world literature
- Graduate-level research and bibliography methods
- Literary theory and analysis of literature from a variety of critical approaches
- The works of William Shakespeare
In addition to studying the topics listed above, you will complete a research seminar – then customize your degree by either writing a thesis or taking 2 graduate-level English and writing elective courses. The thesis may be the best option if you hope to someday pursue a terminal degree or have your work published in an academic journal.
Alternatively, electives give you the chance to broaden your horizons and customize your degree with studies in the topics that most interest you. Some of the subjects you could explore include rhetoric, editing and publishing, writing as cultural engagement, or grant writing. These courses may be especially helpful if you want to prepare for a career outside of academia.
Potential Careers for Graduates of the M.A. in Literature Online Program
- Author
- Digital copywriter
- Digital marketer
- Editor
- Grant writer
- Professor
- Publisher
- Technical writer
Benefits of Pursuing Your Online M.A. in Literature with Liberty University
As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Our online programs are backed by our brick-and-mortar campus – ranked among Niche.com’s Top 5 College Campuses in America – and that commitment to excellence extends to our online students as well. Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
- The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
- Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Military Benefits
Service is important to us, so whether you’re currently serving in the Armed Forces, have served, or are married to someone who serves, we’re here to serve you. Liberty’s military benefits are available to:
- Active duty service members of the U.S. Armed Forces
- Reserve/National Guard
- Veterans/retirees
- Spouses of service members and veterans/retirees
- Current Department of Defense employees
We are proud to support you in your pursuit of a flexible and affordable online education by offering you the following benefits:
- Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
- Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course)
- 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
Credit Hours

Transfer Credits
Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total
Next Start Date
Jun 23, 2025
Accreditation
Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC










600+ Online Degrees
With over 600 online degrees, we have something that will accommodate your dreams and calling.
Backed by a brick-and-mortar campus
Our residential campus ranked among Niche.com’s Top 5 College Campuses in America. That commitment to excellence extends to our online students as well.
No tuition increase for 9 years
We want to help you pursue your goals – so while tuition rates at most universities have continued to increase over the years, the majority of our rates haven’t.
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