Master of Arts for Teachers in English (online)

A flexible, career-ready M.A. designed for educators and professionals

The IU Online Master of Arts in English offers advanced, comprehensive training for professionals looking to grow as teachers, writers, scholars, and communicators. Whether you’re preparing for classroom instruction, academic research, or a career that values strong critical thinking and communication skills, this degree provides a solid foundation.

Stackable approach that keeps you graduating on time

The program features a two-part, stackable structure. You’ll begin with a 20-credit graduate certificate in one of three areas: literature, composition, or language and literature. This certificate may be completed on its own or applied toward the full 36-credit master’s degree. After completing the certificate, you’ll take 16 additional credit hours that broaden your expertise and deepen your specialization.

Build advanced, applicable skills with a program that fits your schedule

Designed for working adults, the M.A. is fully online, offering the flexibility you need to pursue your academic goals without putting your personal or professional life on hold. You can progress at your own pace while gaining meaningful, practical experience with real-world applications. 

Throughout the program, you’ll explore key topics that enhance your teaching, writing, and analytical abilities:

  • The linguistic history and structure of the English language
  • Literary theory, genre studies, and close reading techniques
  • Effective writing instruction
  • Archival research and the use of digital tools
  • Current trends in digital humanities and scholarly communication
 

Prepare to teach dual-credit, community college courses

This M.A. meets the Higher Learning Commission’s qualifications for dual-credit and community college instructors, helping you stay competitive in today’s education landscape. A stand-alone certificate option is available for those who already hold a master’s degree.

Application and tuition information

Online application

Learn how to apply to this program.

Scholarships

Explore which scholarships are available to you.

Tuition information

Use our calculator to estimate your tuition and fees.

Careers

Graduates of the IU Online M.A. in English are prepared for a wide range of careers, including:

  • Dual-credit or community college instructor
  • High school English or writing teacher
  • Professional or technical writer
  • Editor or content strategist
  • Communications or public relations specialist
  • Nonprofit or cultural organization leader
  • Doctoral student in English or related fields

This degree empowers you to lead, teach, write, and communicate with confidence in today’s evolving professional landscape.

Degree Information

120 Credit hours
Minimum culumulative GPA of 2.0
100% Online

Degree requirements

Please visit the IU Southeast Bulletin website for specific degree requirements.

Kentucky residents

Kentucky students are part of our IU Southeast family. In fact, students from ten Kentucky counties receive in-state tuition through our reciprocity program, students from non-reciprocity Kentucky counties qualify for reduced tuition through our Indiana Partner Program, and all Kentucky students may qualify for the KEES Match Scholarship! Learn more about the advantages of attending IU Southeast, including the lowest four-year tuition rate in the region, staying close to home while you earn your degree, and the unique experience only IU Southeast can offer.

Interested in learning more or ready to apply?