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

Iowa State University’s MA Master of Arts (MA) in English program offers two different specializations: one in Literature and one in Literature and the Teaching of Reading. Specialization in Literature: This two-year master of arts MA program offers high-quality, personalized instruction to students interested in secondary or college teaching or in pursuing further graduate study. Our courses develop students’ knowledge of major literary and cinematic trends as well as discipline-specific research skills in the analysis of literature and film; theory and criticism; as well as pedagogy and professionalization. In recent years, we have been able to support nearly every student who has sought funding. Our teaching assistantships are among the best in the Big XII conference with generous stipends, and our incoming students participate in a research apprenticeship program where each is mentored by a faculty member. Our students present at conferences, earn teaching and research awards, and some publish prior to graduation. Specialization in the Literature and the Teaching of Reading: This 30-credit master of arts MA program is designed for licensed teachers who wish to advance their study of literature as they work toward a reading endorsement. Students take graduate courses in British, American, and other areas of literature while also completing three reading courses in Iowa State’s School of Education. Many Most graduate English courses are taught in the late afternoon, evening, or online to accommodate teachers and other working professionals. In these courses, faculty regularly offer options for papers and other assessments that emphasize pedagogy. Additionally, in their 3-credit culminating project, students with this specialization can opt to produce a pedagogy-specific Creative Component or a Portfolio consisting of revised versions of some of their best seminar projects. This program is especially valuable to teachers in the upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels, including teachers of dual-enrollment courses.


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
    IELTS 7.0
    PTE 68
    Duolingo (only approved through spring 2025 requested entry term) 115

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