(Bachelor of Arts Degree)
English majors study the great heritage of the English-speaking peoples in a comprehensive and varied program that includes literature, the history and structure of the English language, and various aspects of writing. Students develop an understanding of the relationship between English and the diverse cultural traditions around the world through the study of ancient and modern foreign literature in translation. They gain cultural understanding, communication skills, and experience in scholarship, and are therefore prepared to teach, do graduate work, or enter any occupation that requires critical thinking, good writing, and a broad perspective.
Detailed advising guides (available from any member of the department faculty or in the School of Arts and Sciences Office) help students select from the options in the major requirements to prepare themselves for careers in business, civil service, law, or publishing, for graduate work in English language, English as a second language, literature, or writing.
Students planning to be certified in K-12 teaching will take elective courses that will strengthen their expertise in their content area of specialization. Prospective childhood education teachers will be advised to take ENG 303 when possible.
Total credit hours required for degree: 120
Learning Objectives
Students who complete the English Major should be able to:
- Write about texts using MLA conventions;
- Demonstrate an understanding of literature in its time and culture;
- Articulate ideas about texts with the use of close readings;
- Recognize authorial choices when writing texts;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the phonological, morphological, and syntactic patterns of the English language.
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