English, MA

Mission

The MA in English seeks to impart advanced skills in writing, critical reading, and the analysis of language, as well as a broad, general knowledge of literature. Varying with students’ interests, the MA prepares graduates for doctoral study and for careers in writing, teaching, and other professions.

Program Description

Students complete a core of 18 hours and specialize in one of three tracks: (1) literature, (2) creative writing, or (3) TESOL.

Admission Requirements

Due Dates: Admission applications are reviewed year-round, but applicants who are also applying for Graduate Assistantship positions in the English Department should make sure to submit all required application materials, for both admission and an assistantship, by March 1. (Review of English Department assistantship applications typically takes place in March, and the assistantship awards themselves typically begin during the following August.)

Admission to the program is based on the following components and Application Requirements/Deadlines:

1. A bachelor’s degree with undergraduate preparation in English or, in the case of applicants interested in TESOL, course work in language and linguistics;
2. A minimum GPA of 3.00 overall;
3. A completed Missouri State University Graduate Application; and
4. The following materials must be submitted:

• A personal statement (a 200- to 250-word description of the reasons and goals behind your interest in English graduate studies);
• At least two letters of recommendation from individuals able to speak of the applicant’s academic achievements and potential;
• A 10-15 page writing sample or a set of writing samples totaling 10 to 15 pages;
• Graduate Assistantship Application if the prospective student would like to be considered for this award (submitted directly to the English Department).

Applicants will be notified by mail once their application is complete. Students who do not meet 1 and 2, above, but show high promise, may be admitted conditionally. As conditions of admission, they may be required to take extra courses to address deficiencies (including weaknesses in writing) or they may have other requirements stipulated.

Accelerated Master’s Requirements (Accelerated Master’s Option Available Only for the Literature Track)

Admission Requirements:

1. Junior standing, with an overall GPA of 3.00 or higher;
2. Undergraduate major in B.A./B.S.-English, Literature Track;
3. A minimum of 9 hours in Literature with no grade below B in these courses;
4. Letters of recommendation from two Literature faculty members.

Once accepted, students may take up to 12 credit hours at the 600 level that will apply to both their B.A./B.S.-English, Literature Track and their M.A.-English, Literature Track. Before enrolling in a course to be counted as both undergraduate and graduate credit, undergraduate students must be accepted into the accelerated Master’s program and complete a Mixed Credit Form. Acceptance into the program and all approvals must be completed before the end of the Change of Schedule Period for the course(s) to apply to the accelerated degree.