Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) will begin offering a Master of Education in English Education in fall 2026 through the Department of Language and Literature. The online graduate program is designed for educators and other professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge of literature, writing, and teaching, all while advancing their careers.

Across the state, districts continue to face teacher shortages and a growing need for qualified instructors. “This is an exciting revival of a necessary program in Western Oklahoma that we hope will help alleviate the ongoing teacher shortage in the state,” said Dr. Denise Landrum-Geyer, Dean for the SWOSU College of Arts and Sciences.

Students can complete the degree in as little as 18 months through fully online courses offered in eight-week sessions. The format was designed with working adults in mind, making graduate study more accessible for teachers and other professionals who cannot relocate or attend traditional in-person programs.

The program offers two pathways. The Foundational English Education track is designed for students who want to build a strong graduate-level foundation in English education, writing instruction, literature, and pedagogy. The Advanced Practice English Education track is intended for experienced educators who want to refine their teaching practices and prepare for advanced teaching opportunities.

The curriculum was designed to build both subject knowledge and practical teaching skills. Students will examine how people learn to read, write, and communicate while developing strategies they can bring directly into classrooms and other educational settings.

The degree can support students pursuing teacher certification and includes a certificate pathway for teaching college-level writing. While many students may use the degree to advance their current teaching careers, the program can also open doors to careers in college instruction, instructional coaching, curriculum development, educational consulting, academic leadership, and more.

Strong communication skills remain essential across nearly every profession. Within the Department of Language and Literature, students will work closely with faculty mentors who support them throughout their graduate studies.

Questions about the degree may be directed to Dr. Anika Rohla, coordinator for the English Education M.Ed. program, at anika.rohla@swosu.edu. For more information, visit https://www.swosu.edu/academics/degrees/english-med.php.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves over 5,000 students and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.

For more information about Southwestern Oklahoma State University, visit www.swosu.edu.

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