Overview

The M.A. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies at San Diego State University provides a deep exploration into the research and teaching of written, spoken, and visual language. This programme is designed to prepare students for academic and professional success by fostering a sophisticated understanding of how discourse shapes culture, politics, and identity. Participants engage with complex rhetorical theories to become powerful communicators in a diverse global environment.

Why Rhetoric and Writing Studies at San Diego State University?

The department is a recognised centre of excellence, offering small class sizes and highly personalised instruction from over 80 award-winning faculty members. Students benefit from a curriculum that bridges the gap between academic theory and professional practice, supported by high-impact learning environments. The university provides unique resources such as the Landmark Lecture Series and a dedicated Writing Centre that promotes success across all disciplines. Furthermore, the department is committed to inclusive pedagogy and social justice, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for a diverse student body.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 8548 per year
National fee: USD 8548 per year
Local fee: USD 8548 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the study of rhetorical traditions and modern writing practices. Modules may include:

Rhetorical Theory
Professional Writing
Teaching Writing
Rhetoric and Culture
Visual Rhetoric
Literacy Studies
Research Methods

Careers with Rhetoric and Writing Studies

Graduates are equipped for a wide range of professional paths where advanced communication and analytical skills are paramount. The programme facilitates the transition from education to employment through a personalised internship programme that places students in various organisational settings. Many students gain practical experience through the Teaching Associate Program, preparing them for roles in higher education. Career outcomes typically include positions in professional writing, teaching, and organisational communication. Students also find opportunities as writing mentors and tutors, developing leadership skills applicable to numerous industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Editing

Professional Writing

Advanced Professional Writing

Writing Project Management

Writing Internship

Professional Communication in Nonprofit Organizations

Scientific Writing

Teaching Composition in Secondary Schools

Rhetoric and Culture

Writing Tutor Theory and Practice

Reading and Writing Rhetorically

History of Rhetoric

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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4.9/5 student rating

Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Creative Writing Literature View 341 other Masters in Literature in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

4.5 _(analytical)

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You can apply to SDSU as a graduate student if you:

have earned an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution or one approved by a Ministry of Education or
will have earned an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution or one approved by a Ministry of Education by the term immediately prior to enrollment.
have a minimum U.S. equivalent GPA (grade point average) of 3.0 (B grade or about 80%) or higher is required to be considered for admission.

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

11548 USD / year

≈ 11548 USD / year
Out-of-State

11548 USD / year

≈ 11548 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8548 USD / year

≈ 8548 USD / year

Additional Details

Non-resident tuition: Add $444 per unit to the basic tuition and fees listed above.

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 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 and Writing Studies.

Available Scholarships

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

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

San Diego

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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