Teaching of Writing at SIUE
The Department of English Language and Literature's teaching of writing specialization in the College of Arts and Sciences at SIUE introduces students to some of the key theoretical, institutional and pragmatic questions that currently circulate about the teaching of writing. Students will be provided with a glimpse at the long and varied history of writing instruction, exposure to key pedagogical questions, and the opportunity to engage a variety of pressing contemporary questions under the guidance of experienced faculty (recent special topics courses have focused on anti-racist writing assessment, activist teaching, and literacy as a civil right).
Students completing this program will be prepared to teach college-level writing, critically reflect on writing curriculum and literacy questions more broadly, and, for licensed secondary teachers, be prepared to teach AP or dual-credit writing courses. Some students draw on the knowledge they gain to present their ideas at national or regional conferences.
Our flexible curriculum is designed to accommodate both full-time students who wish to graduate in two years, as well as working students who need to pursue their degree on a part-time basis. Full-time students are encouraged to apply for our competitive graduate teaching assistantships, which offers practical experience in the teaching of first-year writing under the mentorship of experienced faculty.
Degrees Available at SIUE
- Master of Arts in English, Teaching of Writing (TOW) Specialization
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Program Format
The program can be completed through traditional daytime courses and courses offered on evenings/weekends.
What can I do with a teaching of writing specialization?
Many graduates continue their careers in middle and secondary schools or accept full time or adjunct positions at community colleges. Some of our graduates choose to pursue PhD programs in rhetoric and composition.
