Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English Literatures, Language, and Writing

The study of English as a field affords students the opportunity to master the allied skills of thinking, reading, and writing through immersion in the currency of language. Courses in linguistics and composition impart knowledge essential for the management of language. Courses in literature help students to appreciate the full range of human expression, leaving them better equipped to engage with words and the world. Courses in the art of teaching enable majors and minors to convey the earned legacy of their education to future generations. Students in the English program will hone their reading, writing and critical thinking skills and also develop a deeper appreciation for literature in preparation for a variety of careers. The key features distinguishing this program are: writing opportunities with many on-campus student publications, such as central review; tutoring opportunities and learning assistance at the CMU Writing Center; access to the Instructional Materials Center, which offers contemporary children's literature and teaching materials; access to a collection of more than 7,000 old and rare children's books in the Lucile Clarke Memorial Children's Library; and experience in small classes with faculty members who have earned distinction as teachers, writers, and researchers. Students studying English can choose from two program options: English education or English for nonteaching careers. Graduates of the English program will find a variety of career opportunities such as: advertising executive, copywriter, editor, editorial researcher, journalist, librarian, literary scholar, manuscript reviewer, public relations specialist, research analyst, screenwriter, teacher (K-12 or postsecondary), and as writer. In this program students specialize in children's/young adult literature.