M.S. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
M.A. in English
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in English at Missouri State University is a flexible program that can be completed either full-time, typically within two years, or part-time, allowing up to eight years for degree completion. It builds upon undergraduate knowledge in English, offering a broad perspective on literature and culture while facilitating specialized advanced research. The program also offers an online modality for increased accessibility. Students are encouraged to discuss potential thesis topics and committee formation early in their studies with faculty advisors.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.A. in English is structured to provide both breadth in literary studies and opportunities for specialization, totaling a minimum of 33 credit hours. All students complete an 18-hour core curriculum, and then choose to specialize in one of three distinct tracks: Literature, Creative Writing, or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Core courses often include "Introduction to Research Methods in English" and foundational seminars in various literary periods. Depending on the chosen track, students delve into specialized coursework such as advanced writing workshops for creative writing, or courses in linguistic theory and second language acquisition for the TESOL track. A language requirement can be met through prior undergraduate coursework or through specific language courses. The program culminates in either a comprehensive examination based on reading lists relevant to the student's emphasis or a master's thesis, which can be a critical research project or a polished creative work.
Research Focus: The M.A. in English program at Missouri State strongly emphasizes independent research at the graduate level. Students are encouraged to develop original research projects under the guidance of faculty, with the thesis option allowing for in-depth exploration of a critical or creative topic. Research areas span a wide array of fields, including various periods of British and American literature, critical theory, cultural studies, gender studies, postcolonial literature, digital humanities, rhetoric and composition, and linguistics. The program cultivates advanced critical reading, sophisticated argumentation, and rigorous scholarly writing, equipping students to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse.
Industry Engagement: While primarily an academic degree, the M.A. in English at Missouri State University cultivates highly transferable skills that are valuable across numerous industries. The program's rigorous training in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, research, and persuasive written and oral communication makes graduates competitive for diverse professional roles. While formal, mandatory internships may not be a standard component, the skills acquired are directly applicable to careers in publishing, journalism, marketing, content creation, technical writing, editing, and various educational roles. The university's career services and alumni network can also facilitate connections to these industries. Missouri State also offers graduate assistantships, which can provide valuable experience in teaching introductory-level English courses or other departmental work, further enhancing professional development.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in English program inherently fosters a global perspective through its engagement with diverse literatures and critical theories from around the world. Courses often explore postcolonial literature, global Englishes, and literary movements that transcend national borders, promoting an understanding of interconnected cultures and societies. The department's faculty includes scholars with expertise in a wide range of national and international literary traditions. Furthermore, the university's diverse international student body enriches classroom discussions with varied global viewpoints. Missouri State University's "Global Education and Engagement" initiatives, including the English Language Institute (ELI) and study abroad opportunities, further support a global mindset, preparing graduates to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world. The program also emphasizes the applicability of language and analytical skills in a globalized workforce.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in English from Missouri State University equips graduates with highly versatile and sought-after skills in critical thinking, advanced communication, research, and analysis. These competencies open doors to a diverse range of career paths across various sectors. While specific job titles may vary, the core abilities developed within the program such as sophisticated reading, nuanced writing, and the ability to articulate complex ideas are universally valued in the professional landscape.
Postsecondary Educator/Professor: Many M.A. English graduates pursue careers in academia, teaching English language and literature, rhetoric and composition, or creative writing at community colleges or universities. While a Ph.D. is often required for tenure-track university positions, an M.A. can qualify individuals for adjunct, lecturer, or instructor roles, particularly in first-year composition or developmental English courses.
High School English Teacher: For those passionate about shaping younger minds, an M.A. in English enhances qualifications for teaching English language arts at the secondary school level. This advanced degree can lead to increased earning potential and the ability to teach more advanced or specialized courses, such as dual-credit programs.
Editor: The meticulous reading and revision skills honed in an M.A. program are invaluable for editing roles. Graduates can work as copy editors, developmental editors, content editors, or managing editors for publishing houses, newspapers, magazines, online platforms, or corporate communications departments.
Technical Writer: With a strong command of language and the ability to translate complex information into clear, concise, and user-friendly content, English M.A. graduates are well-suited for technical writing. This involves creating instruction manuals, guides, reports, and other technical documentation for diverse industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Content Writer/Strategist: In the digital age, demand for high-quality content is immense. English M.A. graduates excel at crafting engaging, informative, and SEO-friendly content for websites, blogs, social media, marketing campaigns, and various digital platforms. They can also take on strategic roles, planning and overseeing content initiatives.
Copywriter: This specialized writing role focuses on persuasive content designed to attract and retain customers or influence audiences. English M.A. graduates can develop compelling advertising copy, marketing materials, slogans, and branding messages for agencies or in-house marketing teams.
Public Relations (PR) Specialist/Manager: Strong communication and storytelling abilities are central to public relations. Graduates can work to manage an organization's public image, write press releases, develop media kits, and craft communication strategies for businesses, non-profits, or government entities.
Grant Writer: Many non-profit organizations and educational institutions rely on grants for funding. English M.A. graduates' research, persuasive writing, and organizational skills make them excellent grant writers, capable of crafting compelling proposals that secure essential financial support.
Librarian/Archivist (with additional training): While typically requiring a Master of Library Science (MLS), an M.A. in English provides a strong foundation in research, literary knowledge, and information organization, making it a valuable prerequisite for those interested in pursuing careers in libraries or archives.
Communications Specialist/Manager: Across various sectors, organizations need skilled professionals to manage internal and external communications. English M.A. graduates can develop and execute communication plans, write organizational messages, and ensure clear and effective information flow within a company or for external stakeholders.
