Overview

The Rhetoric programme at Carnegie Mellon University offers a rigorous exploration of communication, writing, and rhetorical theory within a world-class research environment. Students engage deeply with the major subfields of the discipline, benefiting from a curriculum designed to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and professional practice. This intensive course is ideal for those aiming for doctoral studies or high-level careers in policy, law, and editing.

Why Rhetoric at Carnegie Mellon University?

Choosing this programme means joining a tier-one research institution where the rhetoric faculty are recognised global leaders. Their expertise spans diverse areas including digital technology, cognition, law, feminism, and visual design. Students receive personalised mentoring from scholars who take immense pride in both their research and the development of their students.

The university provides a unique interdisciplinary landscape, allowing students to take elective modules across various departments such as psychology, history, design, and computer science. Furthermore, the English Department is home to a storied creative writing programme and distinguished faculty in literary and cultural studies, all of whom are accessible to students for collaborative projects.

Practical experience is a cornerstone of the student experience. Participants have the opportunity to work as tutors in a state-of-the-art communication centre. This facility applies research-based instruction to help communicators improve their skills in contexts ranging from first-year writing to advanced scientific research, providing invaluable professional preparation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 53000 per year
National fee: USD 53000 per year
Local fee: USD 53000 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build mastery in rhetorical frameworks and research methodologies. Modules may include:

Rhetoric, Science, and the Public Sphere
Digital Rhetorics
Audience
Professional Writing and Editing
Rhetorical Theory
Composition and Pedagogy
Discourse Analysis
Visual Design

Careers with Rhetoric

Graduates are well-equipped for a variety of professional and academic pathways. Many students progress to leading doctoral programmes to continue their research at a higher level. Others successfully transition into professional sectors, securing roles that require sophisticated communication and analytical skills.

Common career destinations for graduates include positions as college writing instructors, technical communicators, and secondary school teachers. The programme also provides a strong foundation for careers in law, non-profit organisations, policy work, and freelance editing. The skills gained in rhetorical analysis and professional writing ensure that alumni are highly competitive in the global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Global Communication
Center Practicum

Data Stories

Environmental Rhetoric

Organizational
Communication

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-13 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

102

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

30 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Pittsburgh, United States

Disciplines

Creative Writing Linguistics View 381 other Masters in Creative Writing in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

102

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Statement of Interest

Resume or Curriculum Vita

Letters of Recommendation

Transcripts

Writing Samples

Required Standardized Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

53000 USD / year

≈ 53000 USD / year
Out-of-State

53000 USD / year

≈ 53000 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

53000 USD / year

≈ 53000 USD / year

Living costs

Pittsburgh

United States

1148 - 1944 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Rhetoric.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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