Undergraduate Programs

Welcome to undergraduate programs within the Department of English. English majors enjoy satisfying careers and admission to graduate programs due to their ability to read closely, write clearly, research thoroughly, and think critically. From first-year composition through senior capstone courses, English students engage a wide range of historical and contemporary texts and subject matter, including global, ethnic, minority, and popular literatures; film and visual media; and scientific and professional writing. Our majors are known and respected for their ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, and find success in such diverse fields as law, business, media, education, publishing, and science.

Currently, the program offers unique opportunities for undergraduate students to shape their curriculum according to their interests and future professional goals. All undergraduate students take a core group of courses designed to introduce them to the history, language, and current disciplinary discourses of English studies. Beyond the core courses, students choose a track designed to develop their skills and talents in Creative Writing (Fiction, Literary Nonfiction, Poetry), English Education, Literary & Cultural Studies, or Rhetoric & Professional Writing.

Undergraduate students can double major in two tracks of English, and can also combine a major in one of the tracks with a certificate in a different track; the department offers certificates in Creative Writing and Professional Writing. For students in other majors, the English minor is an excellent opportunity to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. In a global economy, the well-rounded and versatile options in our undergraduate programs make our graduates attractive to future employers.

We offer a variety of major, minor, and certificate programs. Click on any program below to be directed to more in-depth information, including the curriculum and academic requirements.