About this Program

The Master of Arts program in English develops professional competency in literary and textual analysis and in writing. The program prepares students for further graduate study in English; for technical writing and editing; for teaching in secondary schools and colleges; for further study in such fields as anthropology, law, psychology, and philosophy; for careers in government and industry; and for other professions requiring analytical, literary, linguistic, digital media, or writing skills.

Program Highlights

  • The program offers concentrations in literature, the teaching of English, rhetoric and composition, and technical writing with learning opportunities in education, gaming, web design, environmental sustainability, indigenous studies, and ethnic and gender diversity.

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Graduate
Degree Earned
Master of Arts
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Technical Writers

$74,440 Median Salary

Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.

English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

$77,660 Median Salary

Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Graphic Designers

$53,280 Median Salary

Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.

Editors

$68,230 Median Salary

Plan, coordinate, or edit content of material for publication. May review proposals and drafts for possible publication. Includes technical editors.

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for English at ODU?
Students entering the Master of Arts program in English should meet the minimum university admission requirements Graduate Admission.
  • GRE

  • 3 recommendations for international applicants (1 evaluating English ability); 2 recommendations for domestic applicants

  • A short personal essay, plus a 5-10 page sample of scholarly or professional writing

  • Transcripts 

  • TOEFL for non-native English speakers

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $599
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $623
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,439

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Graduate Assistantships

Students have the option of applying for a Graduate Assistantship offering a stipend against tuition while gaining experience in research, tutoring, or in the classroom.

Contact

Professor

5022 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS
NORFOLK, 23529