Master of Arts in English: Concentration in Composition
Program Overview
The Master of Arts in English with a Concentration in Composition prepares students to effectively teach composition and postsecondary reading in diverse settings. Through critical evaluation, principled inquiry, and pedagogical application, graduates develop a solid foundation in the theory and practice of teaching composition and are well-prepared for careers in community colleges or higher education.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Arts in English with a Concentration in Composition is a 30-unit program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theory, research, policy, and practice of teaching composition and postsecondary reading. The program focuses on preparing students to teach diverse student populations in various settings. Graduates often pursue careers in community colleges or continue their education with doctoral studies.
Program Learning Outcomes:
- Critical Evaluation: Students will develop the ability to critically evaluate scholarship in composition, TESOL, and linguistics, drawing upon disciplinary history, foundational theories, epistemologies, and scholarly debates.
- Principled Inquiry: Students will learn to conduct principled inquiry through critical reflection, observation, and formal research, utilizing appropriate methods and tools of analysis to address disciplinary questions and practical problems.
- Effective Communication: Students will produce effective written and oral presentations adhering to professional disciplinary standards in composition, TESOL, and linguistics.
- Pedagogical Application: Students will acquire and apply pedagogical knowledge and skills to the teaching of language, literacy, or linguistics.
- Teaching Philosophy: Composition students will develop a coherent teaching philosophy informed by practical experience and knowledge of relevant teaching principles and research.
- Curriculum Development: Composition students will design appropriate lessons and curricula for postsecondary reading and writing classes.
- Critical Reflection: Composition students will critically reflect on their teaching practices, materials, and how they embody educational values of ethics, social justice, diversity, and globalization.
Careers:
Graduates of the Composition concentration typically find employment in community colleges or pursue doctoral programs with the goal of teaching at a college or university. Specialists in composition and rhetoric are in high demand as researchers and directors of undergraduate writing programs at universities. Community colleges are increasingly recognizing the need for professional training in composition teaching and hiring accordingly.
Other:
Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better and earn a B- or better in all core and concentration courses. Only one elective course can be taken on a credit
o credit basis.
