Master of Arts in English - Public Humanities

The Public Humanities concentration combines advanced study in traditional English areas (writing, pedagogy, theory, literature) with training in transferable, hands-on skills applicable to many careers, including work with state agencies, arts organizations and non-profits, and educational institutions in student-support roles (recruitment, advising, program design and leadership). In addition to taking courses such as Writing in Public Genres (English 5050) and Non-Profit Writing and Grants (English 5075), students concentrating in Public Humanities may produce a public-facing thesis portfolio containing materials tailored to their unique career path. As part of the public-facing thesis, students are encouraged to present their scholarship in public settings or design research-related public programming, from organizing a film series, a digital tour or exhibition, or a conference, to creating grants and social media content for non-profits. Students may also gain experience and make professional connections through credit-bearing internships with local arts, governmental, and non-profit organizations.

In this concentration, graduates will analyze literary and cultural texts with theoretical and rhetorical sophistication, hone skills in teaching, writing, and communicating across genres and communities, and bridge critical and civic discourse to address public concerns. Graduates receive the know-how to excel at jobs in non-profit administration and fundraising, arts advocacy and community organizing, professional communication and media, and two-year college teaching and university academic advising and support.

Bachelors degree from an accredited institution

A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in previous coursework recommended

Solid undergraduate background with courses in English however your undergraduate degree need not be in English

International Students Minimum of 605 on the Paper based TOEFL and of 50 on the TWE Equivalent minimums 101 on the Internet based TOEFL with a minimum of 25 on the writing section or 7 on the IELTS Additional international requirements

Minimum GRE score of 291 recommended but not required