Master of Arts in English

We offer a two-year program of study in a small department that features close mentoring and full funding for most students via Teaching Assistantships in our award-winning College Composition program. Assistantships include full-tuition waivers, a 1-1 teaching load, generous support, and excellent benefits.

The University of Maine Master of Arts in English engages MA candidates as scholars, teachers, and artists who understand that individual excellence is developed within a community that values respectful exchange and a strong network of peer and mentor support. All of our program’s areas of expertise—poetics, writing studies, literature, creative writing—centralize dialogue, experimentation, and collaboration. We responsibly challenge received ideas in our disciplines with a passion for new approaches and a nuanced understanding of our histories. 

Our degree culminates with a professional portfolio our graduates use to advance their goals toward PhD or MFA programs, teaching careers, employment in the private or public-sector, or personal growth.

Our graduate students are central actors in our intellectual community: they serve on committees, organize events, participate in research expos, and have their own symposium.  Students can also apply for a third year of funding through our competitive Ulrich Wicks Distinguished Teaching Assistantship. Our program offers a professionalizing environment in which to enhance your knowledge, explore new ideas, and gain experience while continuing to do what you love: read, write, and think critically.