COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in English at SEMO is a 30-hour graduate program designed to deepen your expertise in literature, linguistics, rhetoric, pedagogy, and writing studies while also giving you flexibility to shape your academic path based on your interests and career goals. Students build a strong foundation by selecting one course from each of three core categories: Literature/Linguistics/Rhetoric/Pedagogy, Broad and Contemporary Perspectives in English Studies, and Professionalization and Career Readiness. These courses cover areas such as sociolinguistics, visual rhetoric, TESOL methods, African American literature, postcolonial studies, creative writing, editing, composition theory, and advanced literary research, allowing students to explore both traditional and modern approaches to English studies.In addition to core coursework, students complete 21 hours of electives at the 500–600 level in English, literature, or TESOL, ensuring a high level of specialization. A major requirement is that at least 18 hours must be at the 600 level, reinforcing advanced graduate-level training. The program also requires students to complete a culminating experience in one of four forms: a thesis, a comprehensive exam, a portfolio, or a teaching portfolio, each paired with a reflective component to demonstrate intellectual growth and applied understanding.The MA in English emphasizes professional development alongside academic study. Students may engage in research, publishing, editing, teaching assistantships, and internships, gaining practical experience in writing, analysis, and instruction. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in education, publishing, writing, communication, TESOL, or doctoral study by combining rigorous academic training with hands-on professional preparation.