Master of Arts in English

• For advancement in high school teaching
• Preparation for teaching at community or technical colleges
• Preparation for MFA and PhD Graduate Study

Study in English at the graduate level is intense and satisfying. In graduate seminars, you will read deeply in the literature of a period, place or author. Often in these classes you will identify the subject for a scholarly thesis. You may also undertake a creative thesis, presented in the context of your literary studies. From the first semester to the last, you will work closely with an advisor to carry out your thesis project.

Graduate Assistantships

You may apply for a teaching graduate assistantship in the English Department. This carries with it twelve credits of tuition waiver and a stipend of $8,500 for a year, renewable for a second year. GA's teach one section of College Writing each semester and take courses in teaching, composition and rhetoric. You may also apply for nonteaching graduate assistantships in other areas of the university such as the library and the graduate office.

Preparation

If you hold a bachelor's degree in English, you are probably ready to begin graduate study in English at Bemidji State. If you hold a bachelor's degree in a different field, you may be granted provisional admission for study toward the MA, pending completion of designated undergraduate literature courses. To complete the MA, you must demonstrate proficiency in a second language at the two-year level. Most students find it desirable to complete this study during their undergraduate years.

Outlook

With an MA in English you can teach in two-year colleges (if you held a teaching GA) and can apply for further graduate study, either PhD or MFA. If you are a high school English teacher, the MA will enhance your teaching and contribute to your advancement.