The English department’s MA program in writing and communication (officially titled rhetoric and composition) not only equips you with expert-level skills as a critical thinker and writer; it prepares you to become a teacher and scholar of rhetoric. Use your masters degree to move directly into teaching, or to launch to a top tier PhD program and eventually become a professor. Consider leveraging your degree to transition into law school, business, technical writing, or editing and publishing.
A typical program of study for a full-time MA student in rhetoric and composition takes two years. The sequence is flexible, but it is recommended you consider the following:
Build a solid foundation by taking as many of the following courses as possible.
- ENGL 600: Introductory course for all MA students (2 hrs)
- ENGL 610: Composition Pedagogy, for students who will teach writing
- ENGL 612: The History of Rhetoric
- ENGL 613: Rhetorical Theory and Criticism
- Electives of your choice, including courses in literature and creative writing
Take additional required courses as well as electives in your areas of interest, and start producing original scholarship in the form of a thesis.
- ENGL 611R: Studies in Teaching Advanced Composition
- ENGL 616: Research Methods in Rhetoric and Composition
- ENGL 699R: Thesis Hours
- Electives of your choice, including courses in literature and creative writing
Questions? Contact the program’s graduate advisor, Dr. David Stock.