College of Arts and Sciences
English (M.A.)
College of Arts and Sciences
English (M.A.)
Craft, Teach, Communicate — Discover Your Path in English Studies
At New Mexico State University, the Master of Arts in English is more than a degree — it’s a gateway to academic, professional, and creative excellence. Designed with flexibility and depth, the program allows students to specialize in literature, rhetoric and professional communication, or the teaching of English as a second language (TESOL). With a strong emphasis on research, writing, and cultural analysis, students gain the tools to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully with diverse audiences. Faculty mentors bring expertise across a wide spectrum of fields, ensuring students are supported in developing their scholarly interests, professional skills, and career goals. Whether your passion lies in teaching, publishing, technical communication, or creative expression, the M.A. in English at NMSU provides the foundation to succeed in today’s dynamic and interconnected world.
Admission Deadlines
February 1 (fall) and October 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 33
Delivery Format
In-person and 100% online (technical and professional communication emphasis only)
Career Pathways
Graduates of the M.A. in English program are prepared for a wide range of rewarding careers that value strong communication, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.
- College instructor
- High school teacher
- Book or journal editor
- Technical writer
- Digital media specialist
- Communications manager
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Arts in English? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.A. in English at NMSU?
New Mexico State University offers MA programs in three areas of emphasis; each one requires 33 hours of graduate-level work. In addition, the M.A. in English serves as excellent preparation for doctoral study and careers in academia, equipping graduates with the expertise to contribute to scholarship and teaching at the highest level.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
Students electing this emphasis can choose to work in various areas of literature, criticism and film. Students are required to complete 33 hours of coursework while satisfying area requirements (in early and modern literatures, in British and American Literatures, and in critical theory) with advisor-approved courses; demonstrate competency in a foreign language; deliver a public presentation on their research; write a master essay or thesis; and complete their program by passing an oral examination.
The M.A. in literature has a thesis and non-thesis option. The M.A. Master’s Essay requires revision of a scholarly essay of 25 to 30 pages, the approximate length of a journal article, and reformulation of this essay to the seven to eight pages appropriate for presentation at a conference or symposium. Students electing the thesis option complete a master’s thesis on an appropriate topic, chosen in consultation with a thesis director and approved by the thesis committee, which also conducts the oral examination.
Take classes like:
- ENGL 517 - Graduate Study in Critical Theory
- ENGL 564 - History and Theory of Composition Studies
- ENGL 521 - Graduate Study in a Literary Period or Movement
- ENGL 522 - Graduate Study in Comparative Literature
Students electing this emphasis take core courses across a wide range of topics within rhetoric and professional communication and choose from one of four areas of specialization: Composition, Critical/Cultural Studies, Rhetoric and Professional and Technical Communication. Students conclude their program by writing a thesis, composing a portfolio of work completed in the program, or writing a master essay and by passing an oral examination.
Take classes like:
- ENGL 548 - Graduate Study in Empirical Research
- ENGL 564 - History and Theory of Composition Studies
- ENGL 658 - Rhetoric and Cultural Studies
- ENGL 519 - Graduate Study in Modern Rhetorical Theory
Students take 33-36 hours of graduate coursework, including core courses in creative writing, film, literature and rhetoric and professional communication, as well as additional courses in an area of specialization approved by an advisor. They conclude their program by developing a master’s portfolio or other approved capstone project and passing an oral examination. This portfolio may provide material for public schools' Professional Development Dossier. Students in the M.A. in English with emphasis in English Studies for Teachers do not hold a Graduate Assistantship.
Take classes like:
- ENGL 567 - Documentary Film Theory and Criticism
- ENGL 564 - History and Theory of Composition Studies
- ENGL 571 - Composition Pedagogy and Practicum
- ENGL 577 - Workshop: Advanced Technical and Professional Writing
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.