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ENGLISH PROGRAM

As an English major or minor, you will learn to think critically and write well. You will study great works of literature, ranging from ancient poetry to twenty-first century fiction, and you will learn to express your ideas in clear, precise language.

Many BHSU English majors become highly-successful high school and middle school teachers. Others go into writing, editing, publishing, advertising, public relations, or journalism. Still others continue their education in English graduate programs, law school, and other professional programs.

We encourage all BHSU students to become involved in readings and lectures sponsored by the English program. We also invite submissions to the Bellman Awards for outstanding undergraduate writing and to our creative publication, which is sponsored by Three Peaks Review.

Entrance Requirements

In order to declare an English major, student must meet the following requirements:

  • Be in good academic standing with the University.
  • Have passed both ENGL 101 and ENGL 201 with a grade of C.

Reasons to Choose BHSU

  • A talented, diverse, and experienced group of faculty who are committed to student success  

  • Many program options for English majors, including creative and professional writing concentrations and a professional writing certificate.

  • Multiple opportunities outside of the classroom, including writing competitions and Three Peaks Review  

  • Paid work experience as a consultant in the BHSU Writing Assistance Center

Quick Sells

  • The English major delivers a broad study of literature and culture in Britain, America, and beyond, but also provides students with the freedom to choose electives and intensive seminars that fit their interests and passions. 

  • Less than 40% of employers are basing hiring decision on GPA, according to the NACE 2024 job outlook report. Instead, they are interested in key attributes in potential employees: 88.7% of the surveyed employers desire candidates with problem-solving skills, 72.7% desire strong written communication skills, and more than 70% of employers are seeking both a strong work ethic and flexibility and adaptability.

    The creative writing and professional writing minors assist students in developing dexterity in creative problem solving and observation and invention, while our English major and minor fosters superior critical reading and analytical skills. Each of our programs focus on exceptional writing skills and verbal acuity, readying our graduates for the competitive job market and the diverse demands of the workplace.

  • English Education Placement is at 100% for those seeking employment after graduation. 

  • Many students pursue internships at regional organizations such as Matthews Opera House and Sanford Underground Research Facility, an opportunity that gives them an edge in the job market, per NACE’s 2024 job outlook report.

  • Students are eligible for paid positions as writing consultants in the Writing Assistance Center.

Recent English Graduates

*Current students, please refer to the DegreeWorks Dashboard in MyBHSU to confirm your major requirements.

Find Your Career

English majors are trained for diverse careers:
» Advertising Executive
» Author
» Bookstore Manager
» Columnist
» Communications Director
» Copywriter
» Creative Writer
» Editor
» Entertainment Agent
» Entrepreneur
» Grant & Proposal Writer
» Journalist
» Librarian
» PR Specialist
» Publisher
» Sales
» Social Media Manager
» Teacher
» Technical Writer
» Translator

CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT

THREE PEAKS REVIEW

Open to all students at BHSU, this campus organization (formally known as English Club) provides students with the chance to run or contribute to BHSU’s literary journal. Contact Matthew.Bauman@BHSU.edu to learn how to become involved.

BELLMAN AWARDS

The Bellman Awards for Excellence in Undergraduate Writing is a competition open to any student who has a passion for writing. Awards are given in three categories: Composition, Literature, and General Writing. All submissions must be work produced at BHSU during the respective academic year. To learn more visit the Bellman Awards page.

WRITING RESOURCES

BHSU is proud to offer services for students who need assistance with their writing. The Writing Center is open during the fall and spring semester. Assistance is available during every step of writing. Whether students need help with their outlines, original ideas, or simple revision, the Writing Center has it all. The goals of the Writing center are to: Enable students to compose more fluently Assist students in writing and revising their work Assist students with further development of your critical thinking skills Help students become stronger and more diverse writers Acquaint students with the conventions and expectations of academic writing Walk-ins are welcome as space allows. To make an appointment visit BHSU.edu/WritingCenter. The Writing Center is located on the first floor of the E.Y. Berry Library and is open various times Monday-Friday, and Sunday.