Cost & earnings at Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
A two-year, 36-credit Master of Arts in English that integrates Christian perspectives into literary study, rhetoric, pedagogy and theory. Suited to students aiming for doctoral study, creative writing or careers that demand advanced analytical and communication skills, including teaching, publishing and communications roles.
The MA is a generalist English program covering literature, composition and rhetoric, pedagogy, and literary theory, with attention to historical and cultural contexts from Medieval periods to contemporary work. Example courses listed by the department include:
Applicants submit an online application with a $50 fee and provide official transcripts in English from all previous institutions showing an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or equivalent). Transcripts should reflect at least 12 hours of upper-division English coursework and an approximate undergraduate B average in the area of focus or related area. Additional application materials include two letters of recommendation, a two-page double-spaced purpose statement (motivation for graduate study, reasons for choosing ACU, and career goals), and a writing sample: either a critical essay (up to 15 pages) or creative writing in prose or poetry (up to 20 pages). Application review timelines: Priority Review (preferred consideration for graduate assistantships and scholarships) by May 1; Standard Review by August 10.
The program prepares graduates for a range of next steps: pursuing a Ph.D. (and eventual college-level teaching and research), continuing into an MFA, or entering professions that rely on advanced writing, analysis, and argumentation. Typical fields cited by the department include communications, publishing, research, education, advertising and marketing, public policy, government, nonprofits, digital media, journalism, and business.
Students may apply for graduate assistantships that provide tuition assistance and practical experience (e.g., work in the Writing Center, research assistance, or teaching freshman composition). The program page lists a tuition rate of $779 per credit hour for 2027–28; applicants seeking funding are encouraged to apply by the priority deadline for preferred consideration for assistantships and scholarships.
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