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  • Degrees Available:
    • M.A.
  • Locations:
    • Quad Cities
    • Macomb
  • Required GPA:
    • Cumulative: 2.75
    • Last 2 years: N/A
  • Admission Requirements:
    • Goals Statement
    • Transcripts
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • Writing Sample
  • Interesting Facts: Fall 2009
    • Currently enrolled: 36
    • International: 1
    • Minority: 2
    • Male: 13
    • Female: 23
    • Students with Assistantships: 17

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Graduate Programs of Study

Academic College: Arts and Sciences

Program: English

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

Program Overview

The Department of English and Journalism offers graduate-level study in all areas of English studies. Our graduates pursue information-intensive careers in business and education, including those demanding intensive writing, editing, and sophisticated literacies; secondary or community college teaching in composition or literature. Many also complete further graduate study in the humanities.

The M.A. in English allows students to develop individualized plans of study which suit their professional goals.

In addition to the M.A., we offer a post-baccalaureate certificate with three emphasis options: literary studies; professional writing, and teaching writing. To earn a certificate students must be admitted into the School of Graduate Studies, complete a total of 9 hours of electives with a "B" or better, and complete either a 3 hour internship or a 3 hour capstone course.

English

Why English at WIU?

We offer individualized programs that encourage students to choose courses and projects tailored to their interests and career goals. While some students focus on literary studies, others work with literature and emerging new media, film, popular culture, professional editing, composition and writing studies. All students take one required introductory course, and consult with faculty to choose elective courses, consider independent work such as internships, and select an exit option.
Exit options offer a choice between the thesis or directed readings and an exam. Both help develop scholarly and professional skills, allowing students to cultivate expertise in one or more areas of English Studies.
Many students earn credits with internships in teaching, professional writing, library science and other fields, gaining hands-on experience and making valuable professional connections.

Our Faculty

The English Graduate Faculty offer cutting-edge courses in every area of English Studies, and publish innovative scholarship in traditional and emerging fields, including textual studies, new media, film, literary studies, and popular culture.

Extracurricular Opportunities

Our graduate students run the English Graduate Organization (EGO). Together, they plan the annual EGO Conference, presenting papers on exciting and emerging fields of study with scholars from around the county and the world. Additionally, EGO students attend regional and national conferences, plan local picnics, softball games, and more.

Other Information

Recent graduates have made careers in editing, technical writing, management, and public relations. Many of our graduates also teach in community colleges, or teach English overseas. Students have also gone on to further graduate study in prestigious schools around the country, including programs leading to the Masters of Library Science and the Ph.D. in English Studies. Visit our web site for student profiles and other information: wiu.edu/english/graduate.