The English programs at West Liberty University prepare students for many pathways beyond graduation, especially those that benefit from a graduate’s ability to read, think, and write critically. Many majors prepare students for specific careers, but majoring in English opens countless doors for students who are especially interested in studying the ways in which language and literature shape the world around them. Along the way, English majors grow into the types of graduates employers are looking for and, perhaps more importantly, individuals with the skills needed to continue to grow as global citizens and lifelong learners.
With a flexible curriculum that allows students many opportunities to explore a wide variety of interests related to language and literature, Literature majors acquire the skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing world where employers expect college graduates to think critically and communicate effectively. Although most of the required courses in the English program focus primarily on American and British literature, students with particular interests can focus their electives around diverse topics such as composition, Appalachian literature, comics studies, young-adult literature, linguistics, and literary theory. In the end, through whichever paths the students ultimate take, they will gain a deeper insight into the human experience while cultivating concrete skills related to research, analysis, and communication.
English Core (21 hours)
ENG 200 – Introduction to Literary Study
ENG 204 – British Literature through the 18th Century
ENG 205 – American Literature through the Civil War
ENG 214 – British Literature after the 18th Century
ENG 215 – American Literature after the Civil War
ENG 385 – Advanced Composition
ENG 495 – English Liberal Arts Senior Seminar
Required Courses (10 hours)
ENG 311 – Shakespeare
ENG 395 – Literary Criticism
ENG 484 – Directed Readings (1 hour)
Choose ONE:
- ENG 275 – Structure of English
- ENG 276 – Linguistics and History of English
English Electives (15 hours)
Any 5 English courses except 101 and 102; three must be at the 300-level or above
Students may also want to consider picking up a minor in Literature.