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Professional Writing and Communication

The English department MA program's emphasis in rhetoric and composition provides theoretical and practical knowledge in rhetoric, writing, and communication for students considering careers in post-secondary teaching or additional graduate-level study.

The digital humanities and professional writing emphasis allows graduate students to develop career-focused technical and professional communication skills relevant in workplace and academic settings.

Regardless of emphasis, graduate students will become expert-level critical thinkers, readers, writers, and communicators prepared to compete for a variety of careers in education, law, business, technical writing, or editing and publishing.

For more information on career paths, see the English department's Career Paths for MA and MFA Graduates page.

Rhetoric and Composition Emphasis (Thesis)

Here's a recommended schedule for your first year, along with program milestones.

  • Fall
    • ENGL 600: Introductory course for all MA students
    • ENGL 612R or 613R
    • Other core, electives, or program prerequisites
    • Submit program of study (in consultation with graduate program manager)
  • Winter
    • ENGL 610: (for WRTG 150 graduate instructors)
    • ENGL 615R or 616R
    • Other core, electives, or program prerequisites
    • Select faculty member to chair thesis committee

Take additional required courses and electives, and continue researching and writing your thesis.

    • Fall

      • ENGL 611R (for advanced writing graduate instructors)
      • ENGL 612R or 613R
      • Other core, electives, or thesis hours
      • Submit thesis prospectus
    • Winter

      • ENGL 615R or 616R
      • Other core, electives, or thesis hours
      • Defend thesis

    Digital Humanities and Professional Writing Emphasis (Portfolio)

    Here's a recommended schedule for your first year, along with program milestones.

    • Fall
      • ENGL 600: Introductory course for all MA students
      • DIGHT 590R (Introduction to Digital Humanities)
      • Other core, electives, emphasis, or program prerequisites
      • Submit program of study (in consultation with graduate program manager)
    • Winter
      • ENGL 610 (for WRTG 150 graduate instructors)
      • ENGL 615R (if offered)
      • Other core, electives, emphasis, or program prerequisites
      • Select faculty member to chair portfolio committee
      • Submit program proposal
    • Spring/Summer
      • Complete internship (ENGL 599R) or program prerequisite

    Take additional required courses and electives, and start preparing portfolio items.

    • Fall
      • DIGHT 590R emphasis courses
      • Other core and electives
      • Prepare portfolio
    • Winter
      • ENGL 615R (if offered)
      • Other core, electives, emphasis,
      • Defend portfolio

    Questions? Contact the program’s graduate advisor, Dr. David Stock.

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