2020-2021 Academic Catalog 
    
    Apr 18, 2024  
2020-2021 Academic Catalog [Archived Catalog]

English, B.A.


The English major is for students who enjoy reading, writing, and thinking about questions reflected on by writers through the ages and around the world. The English major develops competence in the analysis, discussion and criticism of literature.  In addition to the traditional writing and literature track, the major offers three optional tracks including Narrative Arts, Fantasy & Science Fiction, and Video Literacy.

Students interested in teaching English/ Language Arts should see the Education, B.A. - Middle School English/Language Arts (Grades 5-9) and English Double Major  or Education, B.A. - Secondary/High School English (Grades 9-12) and English Double Major  pages. Professional certification is granted after completion of the programs.

In addition to preparing students for teaching, the English major has proven to be excellent preparation for law and for other careers that require critical thinking, analytical writing, and creativity.  The track in Narrative Arts includes specific preparation for writing for digital media.

English Majors also have the option of a dual major in Communication and English Dual Major, B.A.    The dual major in Communication and English is designed for students who are interested in developing the skills of a professional writer as well as the liberal arts foundation in literature, creative writing, and critical analysis that compliments career goals in public relations, advertising, marketing, or publishing. This dual major offers students a broad curriculum that builds skills in writing, research, and critical thinking.

General Education Requirements


(48 credits)

Humanities


(5 courses)

Social Science


(3 courses)

  • American History or Political Science elective
  • Two social science electives

Natural Sciences and Quantitative Reasoning


(2 courses)

  • Science elective
  • Science or Math elective

Electives


(2 courses)

  • Two electives from within the College of Arts and Sciences

Requirements for the Major


(39 credits)

A minimum of 39 credit hours, at least 27 of which must be from courses at the 300/400 level, including ENGL 316, ENGL 317, and ENGL 498.  An internship is required as part of the 39-credit hour major. (ENGL 101 and ENGL 104 may not be counted toward the major.)

A minor is required for a B.A. in English.

English Electives


(24 credits, 18 must be upper level)

Studies may range widely in the literatures of America, England, the Continent and non-Western cultures. These courses aim to enrich the student’s understanding of various literary, artistic, and historical traditions and their contemporary expressions. Because these courses include discussion and the writing of essays, English majors enhance their skills in communication, critical thinking, research, and analysis. The English faculty strongly recommend that the English major select at least one upper division writing course.

Optional Tracks


(requires at least 9 credits from the track)

English majors have the option of including 9 credits from one of the following interdisciplinary tracks for a secondary concentration in the English major.  For example, a student may graduate with a major in English and a concentration in Narrative Arts.

Graduation Requirements


  • 128 credit hours minimum (last 30 hours in residency)
  • A minimum half the major credit hours in residency
  • A minimum half the minor credit hours in residency
  • ​60 credit hours must be completed at a 4-year institution