English is both a traditional and evolving discipline that involves the study of language, writing, history and culture. Our Master of Arts in English program introduces students like yourself to a variety of topics in English Studies such as:
- Literary Theory
- Creative Writing
- Writing pedagogy
- Critical Analysis
- Digital Humanities
Good writing is the basis for employment in fields like creative writing, digital humanities or any professional career and our department strives to provide that basis for you. At Marshall we offer an intensive, yet informal approach to English Graduate Studies. Students enroll in a variety of courses that help you build a broad knowledge while working toward an area of emphasis. Students studying for a Master’s in English are required to complete a capstone project, including a thesis, portfolio or comprehensive exam and earn six credit hours in another language besides English. These requirements are all aimed at putting you in the best position for your future employment.
The English graduate program also offers an emphasis in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Upon completion of the M.A. in English program with this emphasis you’ll be familiar with methods in teaching English as a second language.
- Find out which of our academic programs is right for you.
- Meet some of our current students and hear about their favorite Marshall moments.
- Receive invitations to special events for future students.
- Get help with the application and enrollment process.
Students take classes in a variety of areas that build a broad knowledge of English.
We work with you to find ways to work toward your ultimate goal with an English, M.A. degree.
The program offers an intensive, yet informal approach to English Graduate Studies
- Editor
- Professional and Technical Writer
- Ph.D. or Law Degree (J.D.)
- English Educator
Admission Requirements
Applicants should follow the admissions process described in this catalog or at the Graduate Admissions website at www.marshall.edu/graduate/admissions/how-to-apply-for-admission. All admission materials must be sent to the Graduate Admissions Office.
In addition, to be admitted to the English department, an applicant must have:
- an undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all previously completed undergraduate university work (otherwise strong candidates may be fully admitted with a 2.75 GPA);
- a letter of interest/ personal statement identifying the applicant’s reasons for pursuing an M.A. and how the degree will contribute to the applicant’s broader plans (1-2 pages);
- a writing sample of 8-12 pages (scholarly essay, creative writing, or language study), prefaced by a brief explanation of why this work has been selected;
- at least three professional letters of recommendation regarding the applicant’s academic ability, at least two of which must be from college instructors. Applicants who are not able to obtain letters from college instructors may submit letters from other professional sources with a brief note of explanation.
International students and applicants who have earned a degree from a non-English institution must provide proof of English proficiency as follows: minimum of 80 on TOEFL IBT (or 550 paper based); IELTS 6.5; Duolingo 105.
Conditional Admission
The English M.A. program may admit applicants conditionally for one term, on a limited basis, at the discretion of the program.
Provisional Admission
The English M.A. program may admit applicants provisionally, on a limited basis, at the discretion of the program.