English Major

The major is a part of the Department of English, an academic unit within the College of Arts and Letters.

The English major may be an entry point for graduate study, law school, or a career in teaching, and prepares students for many professions in which skillful use of language is important: publishing, journalism, public relations, broadcasting, government, non-profit work, advertising, and business.

English offers all students, whatever their vocational interests, an opportunity to experience the challenges and pleasures of the world's literature in a sustained program of study. Reading literature and literary criticism exercises skills in critical thinking, writing, and communication, and builds an awareness of diverse perspectives that will become important in students' professional and personal lives. Students may choose a variety of courses covering American, British, and world literatures, contemporary and early literatures, cultural studies, gender studies, creative writing, film, and linguistics.

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
Students should declare the English major when they register for orientation.

Currently Enrolled Major Changers 
Current students wishing to declare or change a major, minor or pre-professional program must complete a request through MyMadison. Additional department specific information will be available when that academic plan is selected.  Follow all directions and steps necessary to execute your request. Once all necessary steps are completed, the department will either approve or deny your request or contact you for additional information.

For additional assistance making this request, view the Change/Declare a Major/Minor tutorial in MyMadison or on the tutorials website.

Progressing in the Major

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