Success Starts with Strong Skills
Our students form strong communication skills, establish research methods, develop flexibility in facing complex situations and increase their awareness of the humanities tradition. These ideas suit both the liberal arts major and the practical, pre-professional student. Success in the marketplace is tied to the ability to analyze, understand and restate written material. Such success requires habits of investigation, a fluency with documents and speeches, and the self-assurance to handle unfamiliar materials.
Find the Right Degree for You
B.A. and B.S. in English
Both degrees require 42 credits in English courses beyond first-year composition. The B.A. degree requires two years of a foreign language or the equivalent competency; the B.S. requires a minor outside English. Students can emphasize course work in literature, writing studies, or a balance of the two, but the department does not offer degrees in literature or writing exclusively.
B.A. and B.S. in English Education
Both degrees require 36 credits in English courses beyond first-year composition and 35 or 38 credits in education courses. The B.A. requires two years of a foreign language or the equivalent competency. The B.S. degree in English Education with a Communication Option leads to certification in both English and speech. English teaching majors should contact the School of Education or the English education advisor for additional requirements.
English Minors & Certificate
Creative Writing
This minor give students a well-rounded education in the various facets of creative writing, encouraging you to explore and hone your skills in poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, and scriptwriting.
Literature
This minor gives students the opportunity to read widely in literature, develop analytical skills and hone writing skills. Courses include six credits in survey courses, literary analysis and elective credits in literary studies. English majors cannot earn a minor in literature.
Writing Studies
This minor lets students develop creative and professional writing skills, explore diverse texts and engage with new communication technologies. Coursework includes Introduction to Writing Studies, five writing classes, and one linguistics or literature course (with at least one at the 400 level). English majors are not eligible for this minor.
Professional Writing Certificate
Expand your learning beyond the classroom through English student organizations like the English Club, Word Herd, and the annual literary magazine Northern Eclecta. Build connections, gain leadership experience, and strengthen your skills.