Program Overview

Texas Tech University Department of English

The Department of English at Texas Tech University offers a range of programs for students interested in pursuing a degree in English. These programs cater to various interests and career goals, providing a comprehensive education in English literature, language, and writing.

Programs and Degrees

• The department offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including:
  • BA in English
  • BA in Writing, Design, and Technical Communication
  • MA in English
  • MA in Technical Communication
  • PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric
• Undergraduate programs include concentrations in Literature and Language, Creative Writing, English Teaching, and Writing, Design, and Technical Communication.
• Graduate programs offer specializations in Literature, Creative Writing, Linguistics, and Technical Communication.

Online Degrees

• The department also offers online degree programs, providing flexibility for students who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes.
• Online programs include the BA in English, BA in Writing, Design, and Technical Communication, MA in English, MA in Technical Communication, and PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric.

Certificates

• Undergraduate certificates are available in User Experience and Writing.
• Graduate certificates can be earned in Book History and Digital Humanities, Grants and Proposals, Linguistics, and Teaching Technical Communication.

Student Involvement

• The department encourages student involvement through various student organizations, such as the Book History Club, Graduate English Society, Harbinger Magazine, Iron Horse Literary Review, Sigma Tau Delta, and the Creative Writing Series.
• Labs and studios, including the Digital Humanities Lab, Letterpress Studio, Media Lab, Phonetic and Phonology Linguistics Lab, Studio E, and UX Lab, provide students with hands-on experience and opportunities for research and creativity.

Degree Resources

• The department offers resources for both undergraduate and graduate students, including advising, FAQs, and course information.
• Application and admission information is also available for prospective students.

PhD in Technical Communication and Rhetoric Online Program

Program Overview

The online PhD program in Technical Communication and Rhetoric is designed for working professionals and offers a flexible schedule to accommodate their needs. The program can be tailored to individual students' interests and career goals.

Admissions Requirements

• The admissions requirements for the online PhD program are the same as those for the on-campus program.
• Applicants must submit a letter of commitment from their employer, acknowledging the program's requirements and the student's obligations.
• A distance learning agreement must also be signed and returned, indicating the student's understanding of the program's technology and time requirements.

Program Cost

• The cost of the program varies for in-state and out-of-state students, with Texas residents receiving reduced tuition rates.
• The distance electronic rate applies to students enrolled fully online, with a cost of approximately $1500 per 3-credit hour course.
• A course fee for the mandatory May workshop is also required, covering lunch, keynote speakers, and administrative costs.

Program Length and Structure

• The program typically takes 2-3 years to complete coursework, depending on the amount of relevant graduate work transferred to Texas Tech.
• Students must attend an intensive three-day session held each May on the Texas Tech campus.
• After completing coursework, students take a qualifying exam and then write a dissertation, with the typical post-coursework phase taking between 1 and 3 years.

Doctoral Residency Requirements

• The online program does not require a conventional period of residency.
• Attendance at the three-day May workshop is mandatory, providing students with daily exposure to ongoing scholarship and communication with faculty advisors.

Faculty and Expertise

• The Texas Tech TCR program has 15 tenure-track faculty members with diverse interests and expertise.
• The faculty provides deep coverage of core disciplinary issues and offers progressive specialties, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education.

Online Course Delivery

• The program uses various modes of instruction and interaction, including Blackboard for asynchronous discussions and Zoom for synchronous meetings.
• Students can expect engaging and interactive online courses that facilitate learning and communication.

Financial Support

• The department offers internal scholarships and has a history of providing doctoral students with university-wide fellowships.
• Travel funds are also available for students to attend conferences and conduct research.

Program Flexibility

• Students can take graduate classes in Lubbock or move to the on-campus program at any time during their degree, with no additional applications or requirements.
• The program is designed to accommodate working professionals and provides flexibility to meet their needs.