M.A. in English with a Focus on Rhetoric and Professional, Technical Writing

[This set of requirements has been replaced by the concentration on Rhetoric and Professional Writing.]

The Department of English offers a program of studies concentrating on various aspects of professional, technical communication. The program is intended for students seeking careers as technical writers, editors, or trainers; practicing professionals seeking to enhance their skills and to earn a Master's degree in English; students seeking careers as teachers of technical writing in two-year or four-year colleges; and students who wish to pursue graduate (M.A.) studies in rhetoric and professional, technical communication as a stepping stone to further graduate (Ph.D.) study either here or elsewhere.

Assistantships are often available. They offer free tuition with a 20-hour per week position that involves either teaching, writing, editing, research, or some combination of these. Traditionally, these assistantships have been on campus, but off-campus opportunities may be available.

Total Credit Hours:

Option A: at least 30 hours and foreign language requirement

Option B: at least 36 hours

Required Courses (15 hours):

English 503, Traditions in Written Rhetoric

English 525, Research Methods in Technical Writing

English 526, Technical Writing

English 527, Technical Editing

English 530, Theory and Research of Rhetoric and Professional, Technical Writing

Elective Courses:

(Option A: 15 hours)

(Option B: 21 hours)

With the faculty advisor's approval, students may choose from a wide variety of courses offered by the English department, such as courses in linguistics, language, and literature, and courses offered by other departments, such as communication, education, journalism, art, business, and instructional technology. (See the English department's list of possible elective courses offered by other departments.)

Of these elective courses, students are encouraged to take two courses in rhetoric (offered by either the English department or the Communication Studies department).

Students who are not employed as technical writers are encouraged to serve an internship (English 528).

Comprehensive Exam:

The M.A. comprehensive examination includes questions on the theory and research of rhetoric and professional, technical communication; research methodologies; and specialized areas in technical communication.