About Our Program
Our English master’s degree program allows students to work toward a higher level of intellectual and professional accomplishment. Whether you are preparing for professional positions in the workforce or entrance to a Ph.D. program, we can help you reach your professional goals.
Course Requirements
Examination Requirement
In addition to coursework, you must successfully complete a written examination over a prescribed reading list. You will become eligible to take the exam once you have completed 24 semester credit hours. We offer the test once on a specified date each long semester. The five-hour examination consists of three essay questions, and you must successfully respond to all three questions to qualify for graduation.
Thesis Option
Our program does not require you to write a thesis in order to graduate. However, some students choose to complete a thesis project to bolster their applications for Ph.D. programs. You may use up to six of your 18 elective credits as thesis credits, allowing you to work closely with a faculty member over two semesters to complete a thesis project. Pursuing this option does not exempt you from successfully passing the written M.A. exam.
Program Faculty
Our graduate faculty specialize in a variety of areas within English studies, including traditional literary authors and periods as well as areas of contemporary inquiry such as magic realism, women’s studies, and technical and business writing. Please see our faculty profile page to learn more about the members of our faculty.
Program Resources and Opportunities
- Financial Assistance via Graduate and Teaching Assistantships
- Traditional, Hybrid, and Online Course Offerings
- Small Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- Comprehensive Library Resources
- Annual Writer’s Conference Featuring High Profile Writers
- Active Writing Center
- State of the Art Usability Testing Lab