master of arts in english @ eastern kentucky university

Our program offers students an opportunity both to explore various areas within English studies and to focus on one particular area of emphasis. The Master of Arts program requires 30 hours of graduate credit in English, including thesis and non-thesis options. 

All students

• take core courses in composition theory, literary theory, and research methods
• complete at least nine hours of coursework in an area of emphasis
• take at least one literature course and one course in Language Studies/ESL
• write a thesis or a shorter faculty-mentored research paper by the end of their studies
• must pass a comprehensive examination at the end of their studies

Students enrolled in our program choose one of the following areas of emphasis:

• American Literature


• British Literature


• Composition/Rhetorical Studies


• Creative Writing


• Language/ESL

Our dedicated faculty members work with students in the classroom and individually to help them achieve their goals. Our students are encouraged to explore and develop their knowledge of a wide range of topics and to participate actively in professional growth and development opportunities.

Program Learning Objectives

Upon graduation, students will

• have knowledge of a variety of theoretical approaches and demonstrate application of rhetorical and critical theory to a literary text or practical problems of the classroom.
• demonstrate knowledge of core genres and concepts in their area of emphasis.
• demonstrate the ability to write for a variety of purposes, including textual analysis, research in the field, and argumentative texts.

For questions about the MFA in Creative Writing, please contact Dr. Young Smith by phone: 859.622.3093 or by email