The chief goals of the English major are (1) to provide training and experience in the effective use of English prose, including techniques of argumentation and revision; (2) to assist students in gaining an understanding of the nature of language and a balanced knowledge of the historical development and present-day descriptions of the English language; (3) to develop in students an understanding and appreciation of literature and to acquaint them with the rich literary heritage of the past and variety of the present; (4) to assist students in developing critical standards for evaluating literature based on understanding of such concepts as genres, prosody, styles, and levels of meaning, and the most significant theories and practices of representative critics, past and present; (5) to offer instruction and guidance designed to develop the student’s potentialities for creating, thinking and writing; (6) to help students to develop an appreciation of and a growing interest in literary scholarship by providing instruction and practice in the writing of scholarly papers, critical and historical; and (7) to acquaint students in all focus areas with technological tools to enhance their preparation for leadership roles in the twenty-first century. The English major is recommended for students interested in a variety of professions that require a knowledge of language, writing, literature and human values. The program for the English major encourages the student to focus on the area best suited for his or her chosen profession: publishing, diplomacy, journalism, law, teaching, creative writing, and advanced professional writing such as screenwriting and technical writing.

To qualify for teaching certification, a student majoring in English must also complete courses in the School of Education and Urban Studies. An interested student should contact the School of Education and Urban Studies for additional information.