FAQ
What do students do when they finish the program?
Our students have gone on to work as professional writers and editors in nonprofit organizations and in the private sector, to teach writing in postsecondary contexts, to direct writing centers, to teach English as a foreign language in the US and overseas, and to continue their education in top PhD programs in the field. Check out the "Student Spotlights" and "Student and Faculty News and Updates" features on our department blog to learn more about our alumni.How long does the program take to complete?
The program requires students to complete 12 courses. Full-time students take two courses per quarter and can complete the program in six academic quarters (not including summer term). Many students take longer to complete the program by taking courses part time. We discourage students from taking more than two courses per quarter and do not guarantee availability of required courses to allow degree completion in fewer than two years.What is the schedule for the academic year?
DePaul offers three 10-week quarters from September through early June. The summer quarter is divided into two 5-week sessions. View the the full academic calendar.
Can I take courses in the summer?
WRD has very limited graduate course offerings in the summer; however, appropriate courses may be offered by other departments during the summer terms. Advanced MAWRD students may take up to two non-WRD courses upon approval by the graduate committee.When and where are courses offered?
All courses in the program are taught once per week (for a total of 10 regular class sessions plus finals), in the evenings from 6:00 to 9:15 pm. We offer graduate courses on Monday through Thursday evening at DePaul's Lincoln Park campus.Do I need to declare a concentration area? If so, when do I need to do so?
The program offers optional concentrations in Teaching Writing & Language and in Professional & Digital Writing. You may declare a concentration at any time during the program. You may also complete the program without a concentration area, taking a broad range of courses instead. Your faculty advisor can help you plan a program that will best meet your individual goals and interests.What kinds of events does the department sponsor?
The WRD department regularly holds workshops and panels for students, guest lectures, and other social and professional events. You can learn about these upcoming activities through our WRD Blog or our Facebook page.
Can I transfer from another DePaul program or another university into the MA in WRD program?
Students interested in transferring to the MA in WRD from another graduate program at DePaul should contact the MA in WRD Program Director, Professor Jason Kalin, to discuss their course history and interests in the MA in WRD program and to obtain information regarding the transfer application procedures.
Students interested in transferring to the MA in WRD from a graduate program at another institution must complete a full application to the program (see Admissions).
Up to three classes from another program or institution may be accepted for credit toward the MA in WRD, pending approval of the Program Director.When are the application deadlines for admission?
The MAWRD program accepts applications and admits students year round; however, we suggest that you submit your applications at least eight weeks prior to the quarter in which you hope to enroll.
If you plan to apply for a Graduate Assistantship or Partial Tuition Fellowship, you must apply by February 15.Are students expected to maintain a minimum GPA?
Yes. In order to maintain good standing in the program, students in the MA program must maintain an overall grade point average of 3.0 or better in their course work. Students whose cumulative GPA falls below 3.0 will be placed on probation and given two quarters to raise their average to the minimum 3.0 level. Students on probation are required to consult with the program director before registering for classes.What kinds of financial aid are available?
See our Financial Assistance page for information on Graduate Assistantships, Partial Tuition Fellowships, and Partial Tuition Waivers.
Other positions at DePaul can be found through DePaul's Human Resources online job listings.Additional information about financial aid is available through the Office of Financial Aid.
Where can I find answers to other questions I have?
Much of the information can be found on the university's website.
- Graduate School Admission, College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
- College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Graduate Division
You may also contact the Graduate Program Director:
Department of Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse
Professor Jason Kalin
773.325.2066