Idaho State University

What you'll study

The MA in English Language and Literature combines core coursework in literary history and theory with seminars and research-focused work. Students study a range of periods and genres—such as medieval and renaissance literature, nineteenth- and twentieth-century British and American literature, contemporary and postcolonial literatures—alongside classes in literary theory, rhetorical studies, and language. The programme typically offers both thesis and non-thesis options: the thesis route emphasises sustained research and closes with a supervised thesis; the non-thesis route focuses on coursework and may include a substantial project or comprehensive examinations.

Typical modules and course types include:

• Literary Theory and Criticism – foundations and contemporary approaches to reading and interpretation.
• Research Methods in Literary Studies – archival research, bibliographic skills, and preparation of a thesis or capstone project.
• Period Surveys and Seminars – close-reading intensive seminars in areas such as Shakespeare, Romanticism, Modernism, and Contemporary Fiction.
• Genre and Special Topics – courses in poetry, drama, the novel, ecocriticism, digital humanities, or film and literature.
• Language and Rhetoric – studies in historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, composition theory, or advanced rhetoric.
• Teaching Practicum – opportunities to develop college-level teaching skills through supervised instruction or teaching assistantships.

Students design their programme with faculty advisors to balance required graduate seminars with electives that support particular research interests. Regular opportunities exist for presenting research at campus colloquia and for contributing to campus literary publications.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree with a major in English or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance in undergraduate coursework in literature and related fields. Required application materials generally include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, and letters of recommendation from academic referees. A writing sample—such as a substantial undergraduate essay or research paper—is usually required to assess readiness for graduate-level study.

Some applicants with degrees in other disciplines but with relevant coursework or professional experience in writing, teaching, or literary studies may be considered. International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. GRE scores may be optional or not required depending on departmental policy; applicants should consult the department for the current testing expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in English Language and Literature pursue a wide range of careers that value advanced analytical, research and communication skills. Common career paths include:

• Secondary and community college teaching (with appropriate certification where required) and preparation for doctoral study and academic careers.
• Publishing, editing and literary journalism, including roles with trade and academic presses, magazines and online media.
• Communications, public relations and content strategy in nonprofit, corporate and government sectors.
• Technical and professional writing, grant writing, and proposal development.
• Cultural and museum work, arts administration, and roles with libraries and archives that draw on research and curatorial skills.

The programme’s emphasis on research and teaching experience also makes graduates competitive for PhD programmes in literature, rhetoric and composition, or related humanities fields.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a graduate English programme with close faculty mentorship and small seminar sizes that allow for sustained intellectual engagement. The department emphasises practical experience alongside scholarship: teaching assistantships provide classroom experience, and the campus writing centre and library special collections support student research and pedagogical development. Students benefit from interdisciplinary connections across related departments—such as history, communication, and cultural studies—and from regional cultural institutions where internships and collaborative projects are possible.

The programme is positioned to serve both students preparing for academic careers and those seeking advanced humanities training for professional fields. Faculty research interests span traditional and contemporary areas, providing supervision in a variety of specialties and enabling students to pursue individual research agendas within a supportive departmental community.