Bachelor’s Degree in English
Earn your bachelor's degree in English at SUU, where you'll dive deep into the world of literature, creative writing, film studies, and technical writing. Our comprehensive curriculum covers everything from grammar and rhetoric to fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Learn from our award-winning faculty, all of whom are published authors. While earning an English degree from SUU, you have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research presentations.
College: Humanities & Social Sciences
Department: English
English Major Emphases
The Creative Writing Emphasis within the Bachelor of Arts in English degree enhances students’ skills in Fiction, Poetry, and Creative Nonfiction. It centers on the Writing Process, covering research, critical theory, reflection, technique, and revision, with a focus on idea creation, form, voice, and language. Students can choose from six specialized tracks: Environmental Writing, Creative Arts and Entrepreneurship, International Studies, Writing About the Arts, Editing and Publishing, and Administration of Literary Arts. This emphasis prepares students for advanced study in Master of Fine Arts programs and careers in professional writing and editing.
Academic Catalog Program MapThe Literature Emphasis within the English Bachelor of Arts degree fosters a deep understanding of literature through diverse cultural perspectives and literary theories. The program includes broad survey courses and specialized seminars, encouraging critical thinking and comparative analysis of texts. Students can enhance their learning with undergraduate research and presentations at national conferences.
Academic Catalog Program MapThe Rhetoric and Writing Emphasis in the English Bachelor of Arts program equips students with critical analysis and composition skills across various writing genres, including feature, manuscript, marketing, and academic writing. Students learn from experienced faculty in areas like publishing, technical writing, and professional communication. The program emphasizes mastering the Writing Process, including research, critical theory, and revision. Graduates will be adept at analyzing rhetorical features, articulating arguments, and applying critical perspectives in their writing. Key courses include Critical Theory, History and Theory of Rhetoric, and Literary Genres.
Academic Catalog Program MapWhat Careers Can You Pursue with an English Major?
An English major is one of the most versatile and valuable degrees in the modern economy. It prepares you not just for a job, but for a flexible career in any field requiring sharp critical thinking, persuasive communication, and effective content creation. Graduates are highly sought after in technology, law, media, and marketing.
The wide range of career options available to you often aligns with your chosen focus in Creative Writing, Literature, or Rhetoric and Writing.
Creative Writing Emphasis Careers
- Content Strategist/Manager
- Copywriter (Advertising/Marketing)
- Author/Screenwriter
Literature Emphasis Careers
- Publishing Editor/Agent
- Law School/Paralegal
- Journalist/Reporter
Rhetoric and Writing Emphasis Careers
- Technical Writer
- Public Relations (PR) Specialist
- Grant Writer/Development Officer
Where have SUU English majors been hired?
Data gathered by the SUU Career Center
Dynamic Learning Environments
SUU provides resources for English students, including modern classrooms equipped for multimedia presentations and access to a professional literary journal. Our facilities support a dynamic learning experience, fostering both creative and analytical skills.
Engaged Student Community
Join a vibrant student community through organizations like the Association of Writing Programs and the SUU Visiting Writers Series. Opportunities also include undergraduate research presentations, Study Abroad programs, and roles as teaching assistants or Writing Center tutors.
Recognized Excellence
The English program at SUU is highly regarded, with faculty who hold numerous national writing and university teaching awards. Our graduates enjoy high job-placement rates and recognition in their respective fields.