Graduate Concentration

The Department of English offers a program of study concentrating on various aspects of professional writing. This area of study, Rhetoric and Professional Writing, is intended for students and practicing professionals who want to develop their writing skills in order to seek or advance a career in professional writing and who want to explore the rhetorical, linguistic, and technological context of the field. Rhetoric and Professional Writing is also intended for students who may go on to academic careers such as Ph.Ds. in rhetoric or technical communication.

How Long Will It Take Me to Earn a Master's Degree?

You can earn an M.A. in English with a focus in Rhetoric and Professional Writing in two years if you take just two courses per semester, one course in the summer, plus an internship, depending on the availability of courses.

Can I Apply the Credits I Earned for My Certificate of Graduate Study in Technical Writing Toward an M.A.?

Yes. The Certificate requires 18 credits and these can be applied toward the 36 credits required for the master's degree.

Are Any of the Courses Offered in the Chicago Suburbs?

Yes. The Institute courses are usually offered in the suburbs in the fall and spring semesters. These courses are co-sponsored by NIU and the Chicago Chapter of the Society for Technical Communication. For more information on these courses, visit the Institute for Professional Development.