Degree Information
Degree: Doctor of Arts (D.A.) in English
Delivery Format: 100% Online
Credit Hours: 45 Post-Master’s or 69 Post-Bachelor's
Program Focus: Advanced English studies, pedagogy, and applied research
Doctor of Arts in English
The Doctor of Arts (D.A.) in English at Jacksonville State University is a terminal degree designed for K-12 educators, community college instructors, and other professionals seeking advanced expertise in teaching English. The program combines disciplinary study with applied research to help educators strengthen classroom instruction and prepare for teaching college-level English. Preparation for National Board Certification is integrated into the program. An active National Board Certificate may count for 9 hours toward the 12 hours required of EH 8990 D.A. Project.
Designed for working educators, the D.A. is offered in a flexible, 100% online format that allows students to remain in their current positions and locations while pursuing a doctorate
Unlike Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) and Ed.S. (Education Specialist) programs focused on educational leadership, administration, or specialized support roles, the D.A. in English emphasizes advanced content knowledge of English and discipline-specific pedagogy. It is designed for educators who plan to continue teaching, including Dual Enrollment courses in high schools and English courses at colleges. It is not designed as a pathway to research-focused, tenure-track faculty careers that require Ph.D. preparation, nor does it lead to Alabama professional educator certification.
The D.A. program also offers a post-bachelor’s track for applicants with a bachelor’s degree in English, English Language Arts, or a related discipline.
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Who Should Apply
This program is ideal for:
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High school English teachers seeking advanced knowledge in English studies and teaching practices
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Educators interested in teaching Dual Enrollment or Advanced Placement (AP) courses
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Secondary English educators pursuing professional advancement while remaining in the classroom
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English educators interested in National Board Certification
- Community College English Instructors seeking an advanced degree
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Teachers seeking to develop advanced research skills and improve reading, writing, and critical thinking instruction
Potential Careers
Secondary English Education
High school English teacher, advanced English instructor, or English department educator
Dual Enrollment Instruction
High school educator prepared to pursue opportunities to teach college-level English courses, subject to applicable institutional requirements
Advanced Placement Instruction
English educator specializing in advanced coursework and college-readiness skills
College-Level Teaching
Teaching-focused instructional roles at the postsecondary level, subject to institutional qualifications and hiring requirements
Curriculum and Instruction
English curriculum development, instructional design, and assessment
Literacy and Professional Development
Educator training, literacy initiatives, and research-informed instructional improvement