Bachelor of Arts in English - Secondary Education Emphasis

We can learn massive amounts of facts, figures, and theories, but the true mark of an educated person in any field is the ability to be an innovative communicator. This degree program is the study of both the written and spoken English language. You can become a researcher, a magazine editor, a teacher, or a linguist. English majors work in public relations, professional writing and editing, publishing, or sometimes even become the next Stephen King. Where do English majors work: A degree in English will give you the skills to work in a number of environments. You can write market analysis reports for consulting firms, develop advertising promotions, become a columnist for the New York Times, or develop training programs for new employees. The English curriculum involves the study of language, literature, and culture. Topics include literary history, criticism, literary forms, and detailed examinations of individual authors. Additional genre and theme courses are available, including world literature, literature and film, and science fiction. Linguistics and writing courses include the history and structure of the English language, advanced composition, and creative writing. If you plan to become a secondary school teacher of English/language arts, the department offers an emphasis area in secondary education. Six minors in English also are available. These minors consist of approved course work in American studies, creative writing, literature, writing, technical communication, and literature and film. You can major in any other academic field and minor in these areas. In addition to taking the courses in the English curriculum, English majors and minors will have the opportunity to join the writing staffs of campus publications to contribute work to a creative magazine (Southwinds), to participate in Sigma Tau Delta and to attend lectures given by visiting scholars and writers.