The MA in English at EIU offers a high-quality, flexible program ideal for:
All courses are taught by our graduate faculty, who are active scholars and writers. Online and in-person courses are individually crafted by the faculty members, with graduate seminars averaging 12-15 students, allowing for individualized attention.
The curriculum (33 credits) offers both a thesis and non-thesis path. Students may also develop their own independent study project, where under the mentorship of a faculty member, students design a course of study directly related to their interests or career goals.
Students choose one of three concentrations -- Rhetoric/Composition, Literary & Cultural Studies, or Creative Writing – in a curriculum that encourages students to take courses from all concentrations.
Our Certificate in the Teaching of Writing (K-16) is an 18-credit certificate designed primarily for full-time educators who are seeking dual credit certification or who want further professional development. The certificate is affiliated with the Eastern Illinois Writing Project, an affilate of the National Writing Project. Full-time educators may enroll in our Summer Writing Institute, earning 6 credits in a specialized 4-week online course.
Graduate assistantships (competitively awarded) are available for students who wish to study in residence.
See our current program costs for online MA.
Watch our graduate faculty discuss their research on the English Department's YouTube channel.
NEW: pursue your master's degree in English fully online!