English BA

English students learn to use language to make a positive difference in a changing world.

English – Bachelor of Arts

English, BA

Offered as a Bachelor of Arts Degree

The English faculty is committed to offering students a strong foundation in literature, language, and writing, contributing to a well-rounded undergraduate education and leading to a variety of rewarding careers. All of our courses focus on the delights and difficulties of reading, writing, and interpreting texts of various types. Class sizes are small, allowing professors to work closely with students. The English major is flexible to match student needs: Professors in the program partner with students to create a plan that will best meet their goals, whether they intend to teach, attend graduate school, edit or write for nonprofits, or pursue a career in any field that requires strong critical thinking and communication skills. English majors choose from a wide range of courses in literature, English education, linguistics, rhetoric, and writing. The English Program’s commitment to diversity is reflected in course content as well as instructional approaches.

The major concludes with a senior capstone project, providing the opportunity for independent study guided by a faculty mentor.

To take 300-level courses in the major, students must complete several program prerequisites: USEM 103, 45 undergraduate credits, and a minimum 2.5 GPA in English coursework. Students must meet with their faculty advisor prior to turning in the major application, which requires an advisor’s signature.

Students interested in pursuing a major in English should visit the Student Success Coordinator in Taylor Hall 101A to fill out paperwork and have an advisor assigned. Students may do this at any time.

Degree Fit

Program Preparation

Students who love reading and are curious about the intricacies of language in the writing of others or their own are the perfect candidates for an English major.

Degree Roadmap

English students working toward a BA degree will learn the foundations of literary analysis, literary theory, research writing, writing for publication and linguistics. The English major also gives students the opportunity to take forty English elective credits in offerings such as teaching pedagogy, literature, linguistics, and professional writing. Within those electives, students have the option to take practicum credits to gain real life experience in writing.

Capstone

The Capstone project, designed by the student in consultation with a mentor, integrates and applies the knowledge and skills the student has acquired in the English Program. The Capstone project emphasizes the development of an original contribution, whether it is a teaching unit, a literary essay, a linguistics project, or some other aspect of technical and/or creative writing.