Why Study English?

The undergraduate major in English affords students an integrated, comprehensive learning program that teaches the fundamental ways of organizing knowledge in the discipline.  The major also provides students with a core of knowledge and skills essential to career choices that require creative thinking and communication skills. 

The master’s program in English provides students with an opportunity to develop skills in literary scholarship and criticism through an intensive study of British and American literatures. The program emphasizes independent research - using both print and electronic sources - and the writing of scholarly papers based on a critical understanding of literature’s aesthetic and humanistic values and of social, historical, and cultural differences.  

Consider these key features of this program:

  • The concentration in English education allows students to get their secondary teaching license with the degree in four years.
  • Concentrations in professional writing and creative writing are also offered.
  • Non-majors may earn a minor in professional writing or creative writing.
  • Study abroad opportunities to Ireland and England are offered.
  • Graduate program offers masters’ tracks in literature and English education with optional teacher licensure.
  • Graduate teaching fellowship program gives selected students experience in the classroom through participation in the learning community with experienced faculty members.
  • Internship opportunities are available.

Career Options

Graduates of the English program at Radford University will find career opportunities in a variety of areas, some of these may require additional education. Typical English careers may include:

  • Communication-related work in the business industry. Graduates will know how to write clear and concise reports, proposals, letters, memos, newsletters, news releases, public relations documents, promotional materials, manuals and websites.
  • Education. Graduates may acquire teacher licensure to teach in secondary schools, colleges and universities, and grant funded research organizations.
  • Politics and Public Service. Graduates find employment in local, state and federal government agencies as writers, technical writers, researchers and editors.
  • Media and Journalism. Graduates are employed as writers, editors, literary agents, and publishers of websites, magazines, newspapers, blogs, journals, etc.

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