English Major (BA and minor)
“Much have I traveled in the realms of gold” – John Keats
If you are inquisitive, open-minded, creative, and desirous of discovering beauty, truth, and goodness in literature, and you wish to develop communication and critical thinking skills through conversation and careful reading, then you should choose the English major at HCU.
The Power of an English Major
The most powerful tool we have is language. An English major at HCU focus on both exploring the artistry of words as well as developing the tools for critical thinking and writing. Those studying English can interpret the world around them and translate their thoughts into clear language, preparing them for the workplace, graduate study, and a trajectory of lifelong learning. Our graduates enter the fields of teaching, law, professional writing, creative writing, and business as they take their ability to interpret language with them into artistic, professional, and personal endeavors.
Testimonials from English Major Alumni
“I’m truly grateful to have studied English at Houston Christian University. The enthusiasm and guidance of the brilliant faculty deepened my love for literature and inspired me to pursue excellence not only in writing but also in every area of life. The impact of so many lectures and discussions—with both professors and classmates—on my growth as a critical thinker and communicator will never fade.” – Emily Kleinhenz, BA 2020, graduate student
“I witnessed passion from all of my teachers regardless of the subject they taught. It really pushed me to find my own passion in regards to my professional career. When it comes to writing job descriptions or opening positions online, I feel confident in sending them to be reviewed by my supervisor, and I thank those countless essays we did for that. Not being afraid to ask questions to push for answers or explanations is another thing I got from discussions with my teachers and peers.” – Bianca Hernandez, BA 2020, current HR Recruiter
“Studying English at Houston Christian University is one of the best choices I could have made during my collegiate career. The decorated faculty department, thought-provoking lectures, and intimate class sizes are few of the many exciting things that the program has to offer. Most importantly, it has been special to continue cultivating relationships with professors who I have grown to admire greatly.” – Nina Harrison
“I’m beyond thankful for my education at HCU’s English department. The professors and my classmates helped shape who I am and will continue to shape who I will be.” – Stephen Hayes
“I loved being an English major at HCU. Not only did my classes and classmates just feel like home, they allowed me to think critically, write freely, and communicate effectively. I was also constantly inspired by my professors, who had such an incredible enthusiasm for literature and really pushed me to think with an open mind. – Claire Casuyon
“Studying English at HCU was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not only did I have excellent professors who were truly passionate about literature, I developed critical thinking and writing skills that have been extremely beneficial to my life. – Devon Greene
Jobs for English Degrees
The ability to think critically, analyze ideas and communicate effectively is in great demand in today’s marketplace. Because of this, an English major will find jobs in:
- teaching
- journalism
- law
- management
- marketing
- sales
- technical writing
- copy-editing
- museum curating
- literary and film criticism
- library science
- research analysis
- public relations
- literature
Further Study After Your Bachelors Degree in English
Our English major will also prepare you for graduate studies. HCU English majors have been admitted into law school and graduate programs in English and other fields in the humanities. We encourage students who intend to apply to graduate schools to take our course on Literary Theory. For information on how HCU students can earn a Master’s degree in five years from their matriculation as undergraduate freshmen, please review our Accelerated Masters of Liberal Arts degree at HCU, or contact Dr. Micah Snell at msnell@HBU.
How to Become an English Major
We look forward to meeting you and answering your questions! For more information, please contact Dr. Emily Stelzer, Chair of the Department of English, Communication, Great Texts, and Modern Languages.