English Masters Programs in the Midwest

Places in the Midwest to Pursue an M.A. In English

Thomas West
Deciding to go on to graduate study in English can be a very challenging decision, but it can also be very exciting, especially for those who love the world of letters and literature. If you have already decided on this course of action and you live in the Midwest region of the United States, and if you want to begin graduate study by pursuing a masters degree, then consider one of these masters programs in English in the Midwest.

Ohio University

Located in the beautiful city of Athens, Ohio, the University of Ohio offers a Masters Program in English that meets the demands of various kinds of students, so it's an ideal choice whether you want to use the masters as a stepping stone to a Ph.D. program or simply to supplement your education. They have a number of key core classes that students must take, and they must also take seminars in three of six periods (which include Renaissance and 20th Century Literature.) A number of financial aid opportunities are also available for students in this program.

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Students in the English M.A. Program at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities have a great deal of flexibility when it comes to planning their course of study, and they have an opportunity to work closely with the research faculty in the department. The degree program requires 30 hours of coursework, and students must also show competence in one foreign or classical language. At the end of the program, students are required to take an oral exam. Although some financial aid opportunities are available, this is not a guarantee, so it's best to keep that in mind when applying.

University of Iowa

The M.A. in Literary Studies at the University of Iowa offers students and introduction to the professional study of English, while also preparing students for a variety of options including pursuit of the Ph.D. and several career paths. Students in the program work closely with faculty, and take the same courses as those in the Ph.D. program. Those who finish the program will be required to either write a thesis or to compile a portfolio.

University of Missouri-Columbia

The Masters Degree in English at the University of Missouri-Columbia is a two-year, 30 hour degree that allows students to build upon their experience in their undergraduate program and to increase their knowledge of their preferred field. The program requirements in the department are designed to ensure that students are as prepared as possible for the job market, and the lowest passing grade for a graduate course is a "B." Students admitted to the program typically receive full tuition and a stipend, for both working in the Writing Lab and teaching in the department.

Whether you're planning on using your M.A. as a stepping stone to a Ph.D. program or whether you plan to use it to enter the job market (or to supplement your current skills and qualifications,) these programs in the Midwest are sure to prepare you for your future endeavors.

Published by Thomas West - Featured Contributor in Arts & Entertainment

Thomas grew up in West Virginia, where he earned a B.A. in English, History, and Classics from Marshall University. He went on to earn an M.A. in English (with a Certificate of Advanced Study in Women s and...  View profile

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.