Degrees, minors, and certificates

B.A. English — Literature Track
The program in English literature produces graduates with a variety of important, marketable skills; these include the ability to analyze language thoughtfully and to write and speak clearly. As a consequence, successful English majors make their way in a variety of professions, ranging from business to government to law to teaching. The literature programs prepares students for life by prompting graduates to explore questions about identity, culture, relationships and knowledge. Readers of literature learn to see the provincial demarcations of their own lives within broader contexts. At its best, the literature major encourages a passion about life — a passion that influences one’s response to professional and personal challenges. Graduates may choose to continue their studies in M.A. or M.Ed. programs.

B.A. English — Professional Writing Track
This program within the English major is designed to prepare students for careers as writers, editors and publication managers. Professional writing is a large, growing field. Coursework for the program includes Technical Writing, Scientific Writing, Advertising Writing, News and Feature Writing, Theories of Rhetoric and the Electronic Writer, as well as other courses. The program's capstone course is an internship with an area organization or institution, including work in medical research, journalism, public relations and the military.

B.A. English and Secondary Education
Students pursuing this degree receive the training and credentials for careers as high school English teachers. Further, like literature-track English majors, they develop advanced critical reading, writing and research skills as they study composition, linguistics and a broad range of American, British and world literatures. Graduates with this degree may choose to continue their studies in M.Ed. programs.