In today’s information-based society, the ability to use and analyze the spoken and written word has become critically important. In recognition of this fact, the English Department offers students a range of courses in English language, writing, and literature, focusing on the development of skills in independent inquiry and analysis, training in literary and rhetorical traditions that deepen students’ appreciation of language and literature, and preparation to become astute analysts of culture and sophisticated writers.
About The Program
English courses teach the skills of critical thinking, writing, and research, as well as the historical and theoretical frameworks through which literature can be read. They are designed to help students read for pleasure and understanding, write with skill and grace, appreciate diverse cultures and values, understand the relationship between art and life, discover the liberating qualities of the imagination, and prepare themselves for careers that require skill with the English language. As such, courses in English are valuable not only to those students majoring in English, but also to any student, regardless of major, who plans to enter a professional field in the 21st century. English majors develop the skills and flexibility that are increasingly necessary in today’s workplace. They prepare for a variety of careers in business, industry, and government, for teaching, writing, publishing, journalism, law, and ministry, and for graduate study in English and related fields.
Major: English (BA)
Minor: English
Chair: Dr. Kellie D. Holzer
School: Susan S. Goode School of Arts And Humanities
Why Study at VWU?
Internships/Undergraduate Research
Internships may be taken by English majors who have completed three English courses at Virginia Wesleyan. The internship must be approved by the student’s advisor and the Department Chair and must be with an organization approved by the department. In the past few years, internships have been approved for such organizations as:
- the Space and Naval Warfare Command
- the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce
- the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
- and the NATO Innovation Hub.
Beyond the Classroom
Students who major in English develop the skills and flexibility that are increasingly necessary in today’s workplace. Studying English helps prepare students for a variety of careers in business, industry, and government, as well as for careers focused more specifically on the use of language, such as writing, publishing, journalism, law, ministry, and teaching, and for graduate study.