Introduction

Northeastern's M.A. in English offers advanced courses in a variety of fields for current high school teachers, those preparing for Ph.D. programs, or others seeking to improve their skills in reading, writing, and critical analysis.  

While the program officially offers two distinct tracks–Literature and Composition–students regularly complete their electives for either with a combination of courses from both tracks. 

Credit hours required: 33

Admission Information

The program admits students for the fall, spring and summer semesters.

Program Benefits

RANGE of Courses

Our wide variety of courses range from critical theory and pedagogy to popular culture, race and gender studies, and seminars closely linked to faculty expertise in African and post-colonial studies, film, Latinx literature and culture, material culture, writing and assessment, and creative writing.  

ACCOMMODATING YOUR SCHEDULE

All regular graduate courses in English are offered in the late afternoon and evening, with some three credit hour 8-week intensive classes offered in sequence during the fall and spring semester, allowing for students to take two courses during the same time pattern in one semester.  During the summer, several seven-week and 10-day intensive classes are offered. Both innovative models afford more concentrated study and faster time-to-degree.

Financial and experiential SUPPORT

Each semester, the M.A. in English supports qualifying students with Merit Tuition Scholarships, Graduate Teaching and Research Assistantships, and Student Aide positions paid at an hourly rate. Connect with the Department of English to find out how to qualify and apply for any of these opportunities. 

Career Options

Current high-school teachers completing the M.A. in English deepen their knowledge of content, re-engage their writing and critical thinking skills, and update their own courses to include current developments in theory and pedagogy.

Those pursuing a Ph.D. to teach at the college level gain rigorous experience in current research methods, theory and writing, with some using their graduate theses at Northeastern to launch their future dissertation.

More generally, the M.A. in English at Northeastern provides students with advanced skills in critical analysis, written and oral presentation, research and editing that have prepared them for jobs in areas such as:

  • Publishing
  • Advertising
  • Law
  • Journalism
  • Marketing
  • Communications  

For more detailed career information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Academic Catalog Information

Take a closer look at the master's degree in English and the courses offered toward the degree.

English, M.A.

Department and Contact Information

If you are interested in the program or have questions, please contact English.

English Department Homepage

About Northeastern

Northeastern Illinois University is home to students from all corners of the world and is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the nation. Our small class sizes, flexible schedules and dedicated faculty can help you succeed in your studies.

We offer an education with value.

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