English (MA)
Department: English
Melinda McBee Orzulak
Graduate Advisor
The Master of Arts in English provides post-baccalaureate students with study in the theory and practice of English. It is intended to prepare students for professional advancement and for further study in literature and writing. The 30 credit-hour online program provides opportunity for the study of literary texts as well as related study and practice of writing, theory, and methods. A required practicum offers students their choice for experiential learning within the context of literature or writing courses; students may also complete a practicum in a professional or research context. All students present a portfolio of written work or a thesis, complete a written comprehensive exam over selected work taken in the program.
Because the master’s program is predicated upon the complementary relationship between theory and practice in the study of English, the program requires ENG 500 Theory and Practice of English, another course in theory, two literature classes, and a practicum. Students not only will become familiar with the aesthetic, formal, and theoretical underpinnings of the field, but also will learn how to address their audiences by means of professional discourse. In this way, the program enriches students’ professional lives and enhances their uses of the discipline in the classroom and the workplace.
Special Admission Requirements
In addition to the admission requirements of Graduate Education, the applicant shall present the following material with the application:
- A statement of interest that describes the applicant’s fit for the English MA online program and the motivations for graduate study in English. This statement describes achievements and/or work experience relevant to 1) interest in and capacity for graduate study; 2) career objectives and how the graduate program will assist in attaining these goals; 3) the interest in Bradley University's English program.
- At least one writing sample that shows critical thinking and writing skills. Examples include essays written for an English course and/or professional writing samples.
- Two letters of recommendation from references who know the applicant in a relevant capacity (as their current supervisor, previous/current academic professor, and/or manager). Recommendations should be from those who can comment on the applicant’s ability to benefit from a graduate program in English.
Programs of Study
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| ENG 500 | Theory and Practice of English | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Language Theory | ||
| Writing Theory | ||
| Contemporary Literary Criticism | ||
| Theories and Methods of Teaching Composition | ||
| ENG 630 | American Periods | 3.0 |
| ENG 640 | British Periods | 3.0 |
| ENG 690 | Practicum in Literature, Reading, and/or Writing | 3.0 |
| or ENG 691 | Internship in Writing | |
| Electives | ||
| Five elective courses from literature, writing, theory, or independent study electives: | 15.0 | |
| Intensive Creative Nonfiction Workshop | ||
| Writing in the Professions | ||
| Intensive Poetry Workshop | ||
| Intensive Fiction Workshop | ||
| Intensive Screenwriting Workshop | ||
| Genres | ||
| Language Theory | ||
| Writing Theory | ||
| Contemporary Literary Criticism | ||
| Theories and Methods of Teaching Composition | ||
| Topics in Language and Literature | ||
| Selected Authors | ||
| Advanced Topics in Writing | ||
| Directed Readings | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |