Department of English and Modern Languages
Explore language, literature, and culture through the Department of English and Modern Languages at West Liberty University. Develop critical thinking and communication skills through literary study, writing, linguistics, language learning, and teacher preparation—opening doors to diverse careers and lifelong learning.
Explore language,
literature, and culture
English and Modern Languages students at West Liberty University develop strong analytical, writing, and communication skills while exploring how language and literature shape human experience across cultures and communities. With small classes and engaged faculty, students receive personalized support as they prepare for professional and graduate pathways.
Degrees Offered
- B.A. in English Education (5–Adult)
- B.A. in English: Literature
- B.A. in English: Rhetoric and Writing
Minors
- Spanish
- French
- Teaching English as a Second Language
Degree
Pathways
Students can tailor their education through focused degree pathways that combine a strong liberal arts foundation with practical, career‑ready skills in teaching, writing, literature, and language studies.
This program prepares future educators to teach English language arts at the middle and secondary levels by combining rigorous literary and linguistic study with professional education coursework. Students benefit from collaboration between English faculty and education specialists.
Ideal if you want to:
- Teach English at the secondary or adult level
- Inspire students through literature and writing
- Build strong foundations in language, composition, and pedagogy
The Literature pathway immerses students in British, American, and world literatures while sharpening skills in critical reading, research, and interpretation. Graduates gain a deep understanding of how texts reflect and influence societies across time.
Ideal if you want to:
- Study literature across cultures and historical periods
- Prepare for graduate study or professional school
- Develop advanced critical thinking and analysis skills
Designed for students passionate about writing, this program emphasizes composition theory, professional writing, linguistics, and creative expression while maintaining the traditional strengths of an English degree.
Ideal if you want to:
- Pursue careers in writing‑intensive fields
- Strengthen professional, creative, and digital writing skills
- Prepare for publishing, media, law, or graduate study
Facilities
Supportive learning spaces for writing, research, and collaboration
Facilities & Technology Include:
- Robinson Writing Center for individualized writing support
- Faculty‑led small classes that encourage discussion and mentorship
- Access to campus libraries and research resources
Students benefit from personalized instruction and hands‑on learning experiences that strengthen communication skills and academic confidence.
Careers in
English and Modern Languages
Career Paths
English and Modern Languages graduates educated at West Liberty University are prepared for diverse career paths, including:
- Law school
- Secondary and adult education
- Professional and technical writing
- Publishing and editing
- Public relations and communications
- Journalism and media
- Graduate and professional schools (law, humanities, education)
Graduates contribute to society as effective communicators, thoughtful educators, and engaged global citizens who understand the power of language to inform, connect, and inspire.
Mission, Vision
& Values
The Department of English and Modern Languages is dedicated to fostering critical inquiry, effective communication, cultural understanding, and lifelong learning through the study of language and literature.
Core Values:
Critical thinking and intellectual curiosity · Clear, ethical, and effective communication · Cultural awareness and global citizenship · Personalized mentorship and student success
The curriculum emphasizes close reading, thoughtful writing, analytical reasoning, and experiential learning that connects classroom knowledge to real‑world contexts.
Graduate
Competencies
Graduates demonstrate competence in:
- Critical reading and textual analysis
- Written and oral communication
- Research and information literacy
- Cultural and linguistic understanding
- Professional and ethical engagement
Student Resources
& Engagement
Students and alumni benefit from a wide range of departmental resources and engagement opportunities, including:
- Publication of Threshold: A Journal of the Arts, which is a collaboration between the English and Modern Languages Department and the Department of Media and Visual Arts
- Omicron Nu chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society
- Robinson Writing Center support
- Faculty mentoring and advising
- Internship and experiential learning opportunities
- Honors Program participation
- Student organizations and literary activities
Contact the
Department
Have questions about programs, admissions, or career pathways? Our faculty and advisors are here to help you take the next step.
Dr. Angela Rehbein
Professor of English & Department Chair
West Liberty University
Phone: 304‑336‑8818
Email: angela.rehbein@westliberty.edu
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.