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M.A.English

english graduate program

A graduate degree in English helps prepare you for a variety of careers including teaching, writing and research-intensive professions. It can also be the next step in working toward acceptance in a doctoral program. Graduate-level writers, editors and researchers can use their skills to work in a variety of settings in education, the private sector, non-profit organizations, government institutions and other fields. Western Carolina University offers three M.A. in English concentrations: Literature, Professional Writing, and Rhetoric and Composition.

What You'll Learn

The Master of Arts in English is a unique chance to receive highly individualized attention from a faculty comprised of award-winning writers and a New York Times best-selling author. The program’s course work offers students a deeper understanding of creative writing, research techniques, business writing, teaching theories and other skills. The 33-semester hour program also includes a carefully curated reading list, comprehensive writing exams and there is an option to complete a thesis.

Where You'll Go

A graduate degree in English can open doors in a number of disciplines. Many go on to teach in secondary and postsecondary environments while other find work writing, editing or researching. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states the average salary for community college literature and English instructors is $69,110 and the average salary for writers is $67,870.

Next Steps

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