Academic Programs / Majors

English

Program Details

• Major: English
• Degree Program: English
• Program Web Site
• Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Degree Designation: Bachelor's (B.A.)

Program Description

English is the study of English language and literature. Courses taken in the program help majors acquire skills to read and analyze complex material, interpret and assess what is read, conduct language-based research, understand and use language, and write concise prose. Although there are requirements that must be met by all English majors, the program offers considerable flexibility.

Courses are available in the areas of literature, language, creative writing, and professional writing and editing. Upon graduation, English majors have well-developed writing, analytical, and speaking skills that are valuable assets in many careers and to many employers.

The department provides many opportunities for English majors (which are also open to any WVU student), including participating in the publication of Calliope, WVU’s award-winning literary magazine; entering one of the annual departmental writing contests; joining the English Club, which is open to any student with an interest in literature or creative writing; working at the Center for Literary Computing or the Writing Center; and participating in a variety of annual symposia, readings, and workshops. Outstanding English students are recognized by induction into the national English honorary, Sigma Tau Delta, and are eligible for several scholarships coordinated by the Department.

For course requirements, please see http://english.wvu.edu/current_students/undergraduate/major_requirements.

The program offers a wide range of courses in literature, language, writing, and cultural studies. Concentrations in creative writing or professional writing and editing allow students to specialize.

Career Profile

A degree in English offers many opportunities. Graduates from the program have continued their education by attending graduate school or have used their English degree as a preprofessional degree for medical or law school. Still others have become associated with writing in media-related fields, professional writing and editing, creative writing, or management positions.

Business and industry leaders consistently call for applicants with a solid command of written and spoken English. Jobs available to graduates include administrative assistant, customer service representative, editor, management trainee, office manager, and public information specialist.

Graduates also have the opportunity to enter the teaching profession at public and private institutions.

English Language Proficiency

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Please see Office of Admissions - English Language Proficiency for more information.

Apply Now

Prospective students should apply online at:
apply.wvu.edu.

Accreditation

WVU is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

WVU is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.