Professor leading an English literature class discussion at Bridgewater College
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English Major

Excel at communication

An English degree from Bridgewater College offers a strong foundation for careers in education, law, government, journalism and related fields. The program also prepares students for graduate study in literature, creative writing or rhetoric. No matter your path, you’ll develop advanced oral and written communication skills that are applicable across industries.

English professor conducting an outdoor seminar at the Forrer Learning Commons.

What to Expect as an English Major

  • Develop your skills in writing, public speaking, research and critical analysis through a curriculum that emphasizes both analytical and aesthetic engagement.
  • Study major works in American and English traditions to global voices representing many cultures. Examine how stories shape, sustain and reflect cultural heritage.
  • Apply your knowledge in internships or faculty-mentored research projects as well as take advantage of student-led publications and teaching opportunities.

English Courses and Curriculum

The English degree program provides a strong foundation in literature and writing. Core courses include Introduction to English Studies, advanced writing, and focused studies in short fiction, drama, novels and poetry. The program culminates in a senior capstone featuring a semester-long research project and a professional writing portfolio.

Introduction to English Studies
ENG-200

An introductory course that surveys a variety of rhetorical and critical theories, their terminology and their application to a variety of texts in different genres. Modes of writing for diverse audiences are also practiced.

Linguistics
ENG-300

Linguistic analysis incorporating traditional grammar, phonology, syntax, sociolinguistics, morphology semantics and historical linguistics (including the history of the English language).

Studies in the Novel
ENG-366

Study of the development of the novel as a distinctive literary form with emphasis on different techniques, conventions and themes of the genre exemplified by representative works chosen from American, British, and other national literatures.

Required Courses Meet the Faculty

English major student presenting during ASPIRE event

Career Opportunities with an English Degree

A degree in English opens the door to a wide range of career paths. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in higher education, law, marketing, non-profit organizations, sports information, elementary and secondary education and professional writing. With strong skills in critical thinking, communication and analysis, English majors thrive in positions such as copywriting, editing, content development, public relations and teaching.

Chart your path

Learn more about employment and advancement in technical and science writing fields from the Society for Technical Communication and the National Association of Science Writers.

Student with the BC Voice sitting in front of poster that reads "BC Voice" at the clubs and organizations fair

BCVoice: Gain writing experience

BCVoice, the campus news outlet, provides English majors with the opportunity to refine their writing and storytelling skills while serving the college community. Students gain real-world experience in producing news articles, reviews, event coverage, opinion pieces, and sports stories to build a strong writing portfolio. With opportunities to create written, visual, podcast, and video content, English majors develop essential multimedia communication skills that prepare them for careers in journalism, publishing, digital media, and content creation.

Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy

  • Industry-Relevant Expertise: Gain cutting-edge skills in digital media, analytics and content strategy to excel in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
  • Flexible and Accessible: With online and evening courses, this program is designed to fit your schedule, making it ideal for working professionals.
  • Hands-On Experience: Build a comprehensive portfolio through real-world projects and internships that prepare you for leadership roles in digital media.
Explore the MDMS Program
Student in the M.A. in Digital Media Strategy degree program with a mentoring faculty
Professor and student in the game design degree program working on summer research

Like many BC graduates, you might enter graduate schools such as:

  • Clarion University of Pennsylvania (Master of Library Science)
  • University of Delaware (M.A./Ph.D. in Communication)
  • Indiana University (Ph.D. in English)
  • James Madison University (M.A. in English)
  • Lehigh University (Ph.D. in English)
  • Ohio State University (M.A./Ph.D. in English)
  • Pennsylvania State University (Ph.D. in Anthropology)
  • Rutgers University (M.A. in English)
  • University of Tennessee (M.A./Ph.D. in English)
  • University of Virginia (M.A./Ph.D. in English, Ph.D. in German Literature and Culture)
  • Wake Forest University (M.A. in English)
Student sitting outside the Academic Resources office with laptop

Dr. Christian C. Sheridan

Questions? Contact Us!