English

English textbooks on bookshelf Library education background
The graduate program in English offers advanced study in literature, language, and critical theory, preparing students for careers in academia, writing, publishing, education, and various fields requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
Program Homepage Program Handbook

The MA in English (ENGL) degree program offers advanced study of literature, film, research, writing, and the teaching of reading. Students admitted to the program choose between two areas of specializations: (1) Literature or (2) Literature and the Teaching of Reading. These tracks prepare students for a variety of career paths, including teaching at the secondary or college levels, publishing, research, administration, and work in nonprofit sectors. For individuals interested in pursuing research at the PhD level and/or teaching at the high school, college, or university level, the specialization in Literature provides excellent preparation through this program’s small class sizes, research opportunities, and professionalization. The specialization in Literature and the Teaching of Reading is designed for licensed teachers who wish to take graduate literature courses and work toward a reading endorsement by taking three reading courses in Education. This degree program requires a minimum of 30 hours of graduate credit. Students can choose to complete a thesis or a creative component option.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Arts (M.A.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Literature (M.A.)
  • Literature and the Teaching of Reading (M.A.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)

Graduate Program Office

englgrad@iastate.edu
515-294-2477
English Department
Graduate Program Office
Iowa State University
227 Ross Hall
Ames, IA 50011-1201

Learning Goals

  • Expand knowledge related to the study of literature and film that includes a diversity of authors, genres, theories, and cultural-historical contexts
  • Communicate research effectively through oral and written presentations
  • Conduct independent scholarship in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism
  • For graduate students who receive a teaching assistantship, develop strategies for the effective teaching of undergraduate students

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 587
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 95
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) new scale 4.5
    IELTS 7.0
    PTE 68
    Duolingo 130

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 5 for fall semester entry with financial support consideration. Early applications are encouraged. April 1 (fall entry) and October 15 (spring entry) with no consideration for assistantships, scholarships, or fellowships

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions