R1 Ranked

NDSU is among the nation’s top research institutions

Top 2%

NDSU researchers are among the top two percent of scientists in the world

96%

Recent graduates employed full-time

Top 100

Public research university in the country with $190 million in research expenditures

NDSU’s graduate programs in English offer advanced study in literature, writing studies, digital rhetoric and professional communication. Whether pursuing the Master of Arts in English or the Doctor of Philosophy in Rhetoric, Theory and Culture, you’ll find a supportive, student-focused environment designed to help you reach your academic and professional goals. Here, you’ll have the mentorship and training needed to thrive in a variety of fields, including teaching at the college or K-12 level, or exploring careers in technical writing, nonprofits or industry.

Explore the Curriculum

Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

Flexibility to Meet Your Goals

Work closely with award-winning faculty to design a program of study tailored to your interests, from Shakespeare and contemporary American literature to digital rhetorics and professional writing.

Meaningful Mentorship and Professional Development

Work closely with faculty who provide one-on-one mentoring and support to help you achieve your scholarly and professional goals. Their expertise spans pedagogy, writing program administration, technical and medical writing, usability, disability studies and feminist rhetoric. You’ll also have opportunities to connect and grow through the English Graduate Organization’s networking and professional development activities.

Funding Opportunities

All students admitted in good standing are eligible to receive a teaching assistantship with a full tuition waiver, office space, a laptop and opportunities to apply for travel funding. The department also awards the Richard L. Johnson Endowed Graduate Fellowship, the Rooney Scholarship and the Madeline S. Giddings Scholarship each year.

Real-World Experiences

With a focus on experiential learning, you’ll find hands-on opportunities ranging from teaching discipline-specific writing to interning with nonprofits and local industries.

Tuition and Funding

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To help you cover tuition and expenses, various departments offer graduate assistantships designed to support your academic and professional goals.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking to further their education within a supportive, welcoming community.

No matter your academic path, we're committed to making your application process straightforward and stress-free. Find the specific requirements and steps for your graduate application.

Graduate students are huddled around a laptop at a table.

Elevate your expertise and achieve your goals with graduate studies at NDSU.

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Additional Resources

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NDSU Graduate School