Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in English cultivates transferable skills in language, analysis, critical thinking, and perspective-taking. With flexible tracks in Literature, Writing, and English Education, students can tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The program emphasizes assessment through exams, essays, presentations, and class participation, and is taught by a dedicated faculty using diverse teaching methods. Graduates are highly valued in fields that prioritize communication, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Arts in English focuses on the highly transferable skills acquired as a student of literature: command of language, analytical skills, critical thinking, and the capacity to understand multiple perspectives. Combined with internships, research, and study abroad experiences, you will be highly valued by many fields that prize people who can communicate well, solve problems, assimilate information quickly, and work well with others.
Outline:
The English major offers a flexible curriculum, allowing for double majors and minors. Students can choose from three tracks: Literature, Writing, or English Education.
Literature Track:
- Three (3) credits of U.S. Literature elective courses
- Eighteen (18) credits of elective courses with at least twelve (12) credits from List A and at least six (6) credits at 300/400 level
Writing Track:
- Three (3) credits of Creative Writing Foundation courses
- Three (3) credits of Professional Writing Foundation courses
- Fifteen (15) credits of elective courses with nine (9) credits from List C and six (6) credits from List C or List D
English Education Track:
- Three (3) credits of U.S. Literature elective courses
- Three (3) credits of British Literature elective courses
- Fifteen (15) credits of elective courses with at least nine (9) credits from List A and at least six (6) credits at 300/400 level
Assessment:
Assessment methods and criteria vary depending on the course and instructor. However, common assessment methods include:
- Exams: Midterms and final exams are used to assess students' understanding of course material.
- Essays: Essays are used to assess students' ability to critically analyze and write about literature.
- Presentations: Students may be required to give presentations on their research or creative work.
- Class participation: Class participation is often used to assess students' engagement with the course material and their ability to contribute to class discussions.
Teaching:
The English program has a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to teaching excellence. Faculty members use a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Lectures are used to introduce new material and provide context for students' reading.
- Class discussions: Class discussions allow students to engage with the course material and share their own ideas.
- Workshops: Workshops provide students with an opportunity to work on their writing and receive feedback from their peers and instructors.
- Conferences: Conferences allow students to meet with their instructors one-on-one to discuss their progress and receive feedback.
Careers:
An English degree opens up a wide range of career possibilities. Graduates can find work in fields such as:
- Education: English teachers are in high demand at all levels, from elementary school to college.
- Writing and editing: English graduates can work as writers, editors, and journalists.
- Marketing and communications: English graduates can work in marketing, public relations, and advertising.
- Law: English graduates can pursue a career in law.
- Business: English graduates can work in a variety of business settings, including management, consulting, and human resources.
