M.A. in General English Studies

About the Program

The Department of English has offered graduate degrees for future college faculty, secondary school educators, and other writing and research professionals since 1961.

We offer an online Masters (M.A.) of General English Studies focused on an overall exploration of multiple facets of English Studies such as literary history and analysis, writing and rhetoric, and linguistics. The program is tailored for working teachers and other professionals seeking the M.A. for career advancement, including accreditation to teach undergraduate college English coursework.

Program Mode of Delivery

Coursework to complete the degree is provided online, mostly synchronously in the evenings, during the fall and spring terms. Online courses also regularly offered in summer terms as well in afternoons and evenings. While the program is designed for online completion, students have the option to take face-to-face or hybrid courses to complete the degree.

Curriculum

The M.A. in General English Studies requires 30-36 hours of coursework, depending on a designation of Track 1 (demonstrating second language proficiency) or Track 2 (no second language proficiency). The student completes coursework in literature, rhetoric and writing, and linguistics, with the opportunity of 9-15 hours of English electives. The degree also requires the completion of a capstone project. 

Information about specific course requirements can be found in the NIU course catalog.

Applying to the Program

Admission requires the following:

• an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 with minimum English course GPA of 3.2
• two letters of recommendation (ideally, from professors who know the applicant’s work well, though we will consider letters from professional colleagues, especially from working teachers)
• a goals statement (explaining the nature and purpose of your interest in an advanced degree in English that you wish to pursue in our program)
• a quality writing sample (ideally in the area of English Studies), 1,000-3,000 words excluding works cited and notes section, if applicable.

In your goals statement, please specify you are applying for the Online General English Studies M.A. program. Start your application now with the NIU Graduate School.

Faculty

Visit the Department of English faculty directory to learn more about the professionals who will help you gain valuable knowledge in the field.

Why NIU Online?

We know you have responsibilities and commitments. It's just easier if you're able to take classes where you are without the commute. The good news is that with NIU, you're not alone. Your classmates and instructors are available via the same technology that helps deliver your classes. In our classrooms or in your living room, we want you to succeed academically because your future is our focus.

Application Deadlines

For applicants residing in the U.S.

Term	Deadline
Fall	August 1
Spring	December 1

Apply