English Graduate Programs

Degrees: M.Ed., M.A.

Why Study This Program?

Refine your research, analytical, and writing skills through a graduate-level English program that enables driven students to advance into doctoral programs or other professional endeavors. The English department at Millersville University offers two graduate degrees: the Master of Arts (M.A.) (offered fully online) and the Master of Education (M.Ed.) (offered either on campus or online). In addition, the department provides a pathway to certification for students who wish to become teachers but do not have a degree in education through the post-baccalaureate certification in English.

The online Master of Arts program features courses that emphasize the history of literature and language. The Master of Education program combines courses in language and literature with those in educational psychology and pedagogy. The post-baccalaureate certification program in English is designed for students with bachelor's degrees in English who would like to teach in Pennsylvania or add another instructional area of certification to their current certificate.

Applicants to these graduate-level English programs must possess a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university with an undergraduate major in English, or by special permission.

Millersville University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and approved by the American Association of University Women. 

What Will You Learn?

The graduate-level English program features coursework and experiences intended to produce outstanding English academics, teachers, and leaders. 

The Master of Arts in English curriculum is grounded in graduate core courses that explore literary theory, literature, linguistics, and the profession of English studies. Students then focus their studies in one of the following English specializations: writing studies, linguistics, British literature, American literature, or world literature. Reading competency in one foreign language is also required through an exam or coursework.

The Master of Education curriculum allows students to explore any area of interest within the English department at the graduate level. Aspiring educators then explore research methods, psychology, and philosophy of education through professional core courses, followed by various English education courses. Both master's programs conclude with a thesis, a creative thesis, qualitative research, a curricular artifact, or a peer-reviewed journal article as the capstone project.

Students seeking their first instructional certificate through the post-baccalaureate certification program in English receive coursework tailored to their prior knowledge and experiences to best prepare them as educators. Most applicants need to complete foundational and professional education courses and a semester of student teaching. To be certified as an English teacher and receive a Pennsylvania Instructional I certificate, you must pass the Pennsylvania Department of Education-mandated Praxis Tests.

At Millersville University, graduate students may pursue student assistantships, assist faculty on research and campus projects, and work in the Tutoring Center. Graduate students also have the opportunity to participate in two conferences of the English Association of Pennsylvania State University (EASPU).