Information for:
Professional Writing and Rhetoric Concentration in the Masters of Arts in English
The MA concentration in professional writing and rhetoric is oriented to workplace uses of language. In addition to the training in pragmatic skills offered, the concentration is characterized by a self-reflexive attention to workplaces as institutions. Courses on research and theory in nonfiction writing complement instruction in editing, technical writing, digital publication, and other current practices to prepare students for roles as writers and editors in the private and public sectors. Instruction in research methodologies melds archival research with the most current technological advances to equip students with valuable research tools and strategies, while courses in literature, media studies, folklore, and linguistics provide insight into language and writing practices across a variety of contexts.
Concentration Requirements (Catalog Year 2009-2010)
See the university catalog for policies governing all master's degrees.
Students receiving this concentration must complete 30 graduate credits distributed as follows.
- Two required courses (6 credits): ENGL 501 (usually in the first semester of study) and 502
- Two courses (6 credits) in professional writing and rhetoric
- One course (3 credits) in writing, nonfiction, or professional writing and rhetoric
- Three courses (9 credits) chosen from designated courses in literature and literary theory, linguistics, cultural studies, film and media studies, and folklore
- 3 credits in ENGL 797
- Foreign language proficiency as described in the MA in English requirements
Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.
Director
Tamara Harvey
Director of Graduate Studies
Robinson Hall A 487, MSN 3E4
Fairfax, VA 22030
703.993.2769
tharvey2@gmu.edu
Contact information
Jennifer Stone
Graduate Program Manager
Robinson Hall A487, MSN 3E4
703.993.1180
jstone22@gmu.edu