Master's in English

A close-up image of a hand holding a mechanical pencil, writing on sheets of paper filled with text.

The Master of Arts in English at UNCG prepares students to teach in community college and secondary schools, to continue their studies in PhD programs, or to work in humanities-supported fields ranging from business, to law, to arts administration. Flexible scheduling, tuition value, and hands-on coursework make UNCG a great option for those wanting to continue their English studies.

Students choose from three flexible plans of study – Thesis, Teaching Composition, and Careers in the Humanities – to develop their particular interests and professional goals.

Master’s in English PROGRAM DISTINCTIONS

UNCG’s graduate program in English ranks No. 3 in North Carolina by U.S. News & World Report (2025).
Member of the Association of Departments of English, the South Atlantic Association of Departments of English, and the Associated Writing Programs.
Professors regularly win university-wide teaching and mentorship awards for their commitment to student success.

THE English Master’s STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Our graduate programs offer paths in which students will complete internships and gain valuable real-life experience while pursuing their degree. Internships are designed to work with or under a mentor. Graduate students consistently remark on the strong sense of community in the graduate English program.

Students can focus their studies on one of three areas:

Thesis Plan: Especially suitable for those planning to pursue a PhD in English.
Teaching Composition Plan: Especially suitable for those who wish to teach writing and English studies at community colleges.
Careers in the Humanities Plan: Serves a wide range of career goals.

AFTER GRADUATIng with a Master’s in English

The MA in English is designed for those planning to pursue a doctorate; to teach in community colleges, technical institutes, or some undergraduate colleges; and to work in non-academic settings.

Career examples include: