• Course Delivery
    100% Online
  • Total Credits
    36
  • In-State Tuition Per Credit
    $320.00
  • Out of State Tuition Per Credit
    $450.00

English, MA

Master of Arts

The IU Online Master of Arts in English provides broad training in the primary areas of English studies.  

How you benefit

Explore the core principles of writing and literature pedagogy, the linguistic structure and history of English literature, and a wide variety of reading strategies associated with genre and close reading. Gain skills and knowledge to conduct archival research, develop analytical and presentation skills through the focused study of literature in a seminar format, and acquire an appreciation of current trends in the field of digital humanities. 

What you study

Specific areas of focus include: 

  • Linguistic structures and history of the English language  
  • Reading strategies and literary practices, such as close reading, analysis of style, form and genre, and rhetorical practices
  • Approaches to composition and writing instruction, including the identification and evaluation of sources, use of evidence, generation of ideas, and the development and organization of argument
  • Fostering discussion and developing presentation skills in a seminar setting
  • Developing archival research skills and facility with electronic resources
  • Developments, trends, and frontiers in the digital humanities 

This 100 percent online, consortial program is taught by IU Bloomington, IUPUI, IU East, IU Kokomo, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast. 

See courses that are being offered this semester. 

Download a printable PDF summary of the MA in English. 

Download a printable PDF summary of all our graduate programs for teachers.

Your IU Online MA in English prepares you for such careers as: 

  • High school dual-credit English teacher 
  • High school dual-credit literature teacher
  • Community college instructor
  • Other professions that value critical analysis, strong communication skills, and clarity of expression

To earn the MA in English, you must complete a total of 36 credit hours.

This degree has a two-part "stackable" structure.  

  • You first complete an online, 18-20 credit hour graduate certificate in literature, composition studies, or language and literature. The certificate allows you to acquire specialized knowledge.
  • After you successfully complete one of the certificates, you take an additional 16 credits of master's-level coursework that extends the breadth and depth of your knowledge. 

Requirements are broken down as follows: 

  • English graduate certificate (20 credit hours) 
  • MA core courses (8 credit hours)
  • MA elective courses (8 credit hours) 

The stackable structure of the MA in English is ideal for dual-credit and community college teachers who need to meet the Higher Learning Commission's instructor qualification standards. These standards require teachers to hold either a master's degree in their area of instruction or a master's degree in another discipline plus at least 18 credit hours of discipline-specific graduate coursework.

  • If you hold a master's degree in a discipline other than your discipline of instruction, you can meet HLC's standards by completing one of the online certificates.  
  • If you need both discipline-specific coursework and a master's degree, the MA in English meets HLC standards and provides a comprehensive program of study in English.

To be accepted to this program, you must have:
  1. successfully completed one of the four graduate certificates: Composition Studies, Language and Literature, or Literature.
  2. You must complete at least three courses in one of the certificate programs with a 3.5 or higher GPA before you may transition into the MA in English.

NOTE: This program is authorized, exempt, or not subject to state regulatory compliance and may enroll students from all 50 states

To apply to this program:

Complete an online application that includes:

  • 250-word personal statement explaining background and reasons for entering the program
  • Two letters of recommendation
Application Dates

Fall semester: Aug 1

Spring semester: Jan 1

Summer 1 semester: May 1

Summer 2 semester: Jun 15

Twenty (20) credits from your IU Online graduate certificate will apply to the MA in English degree requirements. Students who have earned credits from a different accredited college or university may transfer up to 4 credits.

Core
English Graduate Certificate20 Credits
Core Skills and Methods of Advanced Literary Study8 Credits
ENG-X 500/600Any graduate English course4 Credits
Elective
ENG-W 609Independent writing project4 Credits

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool.

Tuition & Fees

Cost for Indiana Residents
  • Per Credit Hour
  • Tuition: $320.00
  • 3 Credit Hours
  • Tuition: $960.00
Note: 

Additional fees will apply.

Cost for Out of State Residents
  • Per Credit Hour
  • Tuition: $450.00
  • 3 Credit Hours
  • Tuition: $1350.00
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