Why Study English?
Encounter and be transformed by all of the beautiful, strange, and startling ways that we use language to understand our world and imagine its alternatives. Prepare for careers in law, advertising, education, intelligence work, publishing, public relations, and library and information services.
English is a flexible and powerful discipline that centers critical thinking about how language works to shape our world. While studying English, you鈥檒l engage with thought-provoking texts and develop dynamic skills valuable to a wide range of career paths. English offers you the opportunity to:
- Read literary and non-literary texts from a range of historical periods and cultural traditions.
- Understand the complex moral, social, and political problems societies face by analyzing how writers engage with them.
- Make your voice count by learning to write compellingly in a variety of genres, from poetry to grant writing to business writing.
- Deepen your analytical, imaginative, and empathetic responses to texts by discussing them with a community of your peers.
- Become a better citizen by developing your ability to critically evaluate social and political issues, make morally coherent decisions, and persuade others.
- Help local communities through community-engaged coursework and programs like Grantwriting in Valued Environments (GIVE) and Greater Baltimore Community Literacy Collective (GBCLC).
- Produce or contribute to our award-winning literary magazine, Grub Street, or our undergraduate research journal, Discourse
- Hone transferable skills that are in high demand with employers, including professional and persuasive writing, nuanced analysis of complex issues, and empathetic interpersonal communication.
Grub Street, the university鈥檚 literary magazine, is the venue for student fiction, poetry and art.
How to Study English
- Major in English
- Major in English with a secondary education (SCED) concentration
- Minor in English
- Minor in creative writing
The English department also offers an M.S. in Professional Writing, with an accelerated B.S.-M.S. track for undergraduate English majors.
If you major in another program, but have a strong interest in language, literature, or writing, explore the value of an English double major or minor. Many students can add an English major or minor without any delay to graduation. Contact your adviser or the chair of the Department of English (efehskens AT_TOWSON) for more information.
Try an English class next semester!
Many English courses are also available to non-majors, including options that fulfill core requirements. Try out a class next semester! English courses are available in the mini and summer sessions, too.
