English

Master’s Degree Program

Strengthen your writing voice and explore the rich history of English literature in UAF’s master’s in English program. UAF's intensive two-year degree will prepare you for a multitude of career paths, including teaching, editing, professional writing and continuing your education in a doctoral program.

Design your own plan of study to read and critique the books and topics that you are truly passionate about. We feature coursework in British, American and World literature, with specialties in Environmental Humanities and Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies.

Thanks to UAF's small class sizes and active literary community, English master’s students can work closely with extensively published and experienced faculty members.

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Why Earn a Master’s in English at UAF?

At UAF, you’ll find one of the best master’s in English programs for pursuing your passion. From Old English to contemporary American literature, UAF's English master’s degree offers you the intellectual freedom to delve deep into the subject matter you care about most, creating a unique educational experience guided by your interests and aspirations.

Get hands-on experience for your career

  • Strengthen your resume or CV with an internship at the University of Alaska Press or get involved in the editing and production of the student-run literary journal, Permafrost. Interested in teaching? We offer English master’s students teaching assistantships so you can share your passions with students while improving your teaching skills.

Join a passionate cohort of writers and thinkers

  • The Alaskan lifestyle is unlike any other. It attracts those seeking a more attentive and intentional way of living. That’s why UAF's M.A. English students and faculty members share a common desire to balance their independence with fostering cooperation and close-knit relationships that last well beyond graduation day.

Find inspiration from Alaska’s natural beauty

  • Let the natural beauty of Alaska fuel your imagination as you earn your master’s in English. Located just 140 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks offers a unique combination of city-like amenities and off-the-grid adventure.

 

What Can You Do with a Master’s in English?

The ability to write well and think critically will always be attractive to employers across any industry, and the best master’s in English programs open myriad doors for graduates to find lasting careers.

As the oldest M.A. English program in Alaska (actually predating Alaskan statehood), we have a decades-long history of helping English master’s students turn their passion for literature into meaningful and rewarding careers. Many M.A. English graduates pursue doctoral degrees at some of the most prestigious universities in the country, eventually becoming inspiring and engaging teachers. Graduates have also brought their writing skills to careers like public relations and professional writing.

What can you do with a master’s in English? Here are just a few of the professional pathways you might pursue with this versatile degree:

  • English teacher
  • Author
  • Copywriter
  • Communications specialist
  • Technical writer
  • Adjunct professor
  • Editor
  • Advertising manager

Now that you know some of the career options, you might be asking: How much do M.A. English graduates make?

Your earnings with a master’s in English degree will greatly depend on what your plans are after graduation. For example, if you choose to pursue a career in professional writing, you can look forward to earning somewhere between $51,858 and $65,795 a year.

The median pay for high school teachers is $62,870, while college English professors tend to make between 76,882 and $153,052 a year.

 

 

 

Get Started on Your Master’s Degree in English

Take the next step toward earning your master’s in English at UAF. We have the resources to help you get started.