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JMU Major: English
Description of the Major | Degrees Offered | Concentrations | Minors |
Declaring the Major | Progressing in the Major

Description of the Major

The English major is designed to serve as basic preparation for many professions in which skillful use of language is important, for example, law, publishing, free lance writing, creative writing, journalism, public relations, broadcasting, government, advertising and business; to prepare you to enter graduate study; or to prepare you for the teaching profession.

The study of English offers all students, whatever your professional and vocational interests, the development of critical thinking skills through the study of American, British and world literatures. You may choose a variety of courses covering contemporary and early literature, as well as period, genre and linguistics courses.

Degrees Offered

B.A.

Concentrations

British or American Literatures
World Literature
Creative Writing

Minors

American Studies
Creative Writing
Film Studies

Declaring the Major

New Freshmen and Transfer Students
Declare the English major when you register for orientation.

Currently Enrolled Major Changers
Submit a "Change or Declaration of Major" form to the English department head in Keezell Hall, room 215.

Progressing in the Major

Remain in good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.