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Master of Arts in English

Whether you intend to teach, pursue a terminal degree, enhance your critical reading and writing skills, or better understand the rhetoric of daily life, a Master of Arts in English from Creighton University can help you achieve your goals.

Designed to meet the academic and professional goals of each student, this program allows you to work closely with renowned faculty, conduct research and gain hands-on teaching experience in college English classrooms. Customize the skills you build and the type of instruction you receive by choosing from one of three concentrations:

  • Creative Writing
  • Literature
  • Rhetoric and Composition

No matter which path you choose, you’ll benefit from the exceptional sense of community here at Creighton. Geared toward an academic tradition of excellence, class sizes are small and student-to-faculty ratio is low, giving you the personal attention you deserve.

“During my time in Creighton's MA program in English, the professors provided individualized academic guidance, and my knowledge of literature and scholarly study increased tenfold. I didn't discover one of the best parts of the program until after I graduated, though: the professors continued to mentor me and actively contributed to my academic development.”
—Jennifer Eimers | Alumna, College of Arts and Sciences

Build adaptable strengths to prepare for success

Earning your master’s degree in English signals that you’ve established strong critical reading and writing skills. Those are two important assets for nearly every professional to possess. Most graduates of our program go on to pursue fulfilling roles in editing, communications, professional writing, marketing and more. Many others who earn their Master of Arts in English continue their education at a doctoral level at Creighton and pursue careers as university and college professors.

Program At A Glance

Master of Arts in English

This program is offered On-Campus

Application Deadline

FOR AUGUST ENROLLMENT
August 1

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA or higher
  • Official transcripts from all educational institutions attended
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Writing sample, either critical or creative, approximately 10-15 pages
  • Application
  • $50 application fee
Apply Now
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Completing my MA in English at Creighton allowed me to apply competitively to PhD programs and prepared me to research at that level. I gained the professional training required to research, write, and effectively teach.
Natalie Roxburgh, Alumna, College of Arts and Sciences
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PROGRAM DETAILS

Program Goals and Curriculum

Creighton’s MA in English program is ideal for those who are interested in teaching, advancing an academic career or becoming a stronger writer. It can be completed in as little as two years.

To earn this degree, you must complete 33-36 credits, depending on the concentration you choose.

Areas of Concentration

Creative Writing (36 hours)
The Creative Writing track includes literature seminars and a core of workshops that allow writers to share their work in a professional, mentored environment. This is a good option for those who wish to develop writing as a creative practice alongside scholarly research and methodologies.

Literature (36 hours)
The Literature track may be used to develop strengths in critical reading and interpretation of a text, persuasive and analytical writing, creative thinking and more. It also allows students to explore new areas in the study of literature. Coursework combines period-specific seminars with foundation and practicum courses.

Rhetoric and Composition (33 hours)
The Rhetoric and Composition track is a combination of theoretical, practical and ethnographic courses that keep students at the leading edge of composition scholarship and encourages them to use knowledge to improve teaching, learning and literacy.

 

Faculty in the Department of English work closely with their students, helping them develop a solid knowledge of their field, critical thinking and writing skills, and the values and ethical background necessary to be well-rounded individuals who are successful in their careers.

Meet the department faculty

Specific Application Requirements

To be considered for admission to the MA in English program, applicants must:

  • Complete an application and submit a $50 application fee
  • Possess a bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA or higher
  • Provide official transcripts from all educational institutions attended. Read more about sending transcripts here
  • Submit a personal statement (see application for specific requirements)
  • Submit three letters of recommendation
  • Include a writing sample, either critical or creative, depending on the student’s area of interest (approximately 10-15 pages)

A personal interview may be requested in addition to the above requirements. The GRE is not required, though you are welcome to submit your scores if you have taken the test. If you choose not to submit official GRE scores, at least one letter of recommendation must be from a former or current professor who can speak to your preparation for graduate study. 

International applicants must:

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition rates change in the fall of each year. Visit the Tuition and Fees page for more details.

Financial Aid
To help make your graduate studies at Creighton University more affordable, we encourage you to file the FAFSA to apply for financial assistance. We also encourage you to apply for available graduate student scholarships and fellowships.

Learn more about funding your education

Still have questions? Email or call a friendly financial specialist at 402.280.2731 for any additional questions you may have. 

Dates and Deadlines

The table below details the enrollment deadlines and starting dates of courses for the current academic year. If you have any questions about dates, deadlines, or application materials, please contact an enrollment specialist for personalized assistance.

ON-CAMPUS

Start Classes In

Apply By

August

August 1

Fellowship Consideration Deadline
For Fall: March 15

Apply Now

Tuition & Financial Aid

Learn about how to fund your investment in education at the Creighton Financial Aid Office.

Funding Your Education

Learn more about the English Department