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.
One of the university’s most successful majors, the English Education degree at West Liberty University offers students many opportunities to do what they love: to teach others about the ways in which language and literature shape the world around them. Students choosing to major in English Education gain the benefit of two robust programs: the English faculty in the Department of Humanities and the education specialists from the College of Education. While earning their certifications, English Education majors develop the essential skills needed to become great teachers, especially those related to literature, the structure of the English language, and composition.
Required Courses (51 hours)
ENG 200 Literature Foundations for English Majors
ENG 204 British Literature through the 18th Century OR ENG 214 British Literature After the 18th Century
ENG 214 British Literature After the 18th Century
ENG 205 American Literature Before the Civil War
ENG 215 American Literature After the Civil War
ENG 275 Structure of English
ENG 311 Shakespeare
ENG 315 Multicultural Studies in Literature
ENG 320 Young Adult Literature
ENG 360 Creative Writing – Poetry OR ENG 361 Creative Writing –Fiction
ENG 385 Advanced Composition
ENG 395 Literary Criticism
ENG 400 Composition Theory
ENG 490 World Literature I OR ENG 492 World Literature II
LING 150 Intro to Language & Linguistics
Literature Electives (6 hours)
Any two 300- or 400-level literature courses
Professional Education Component (41 hours)
Students should consult the Professional Education component section of the University catalog under the College of Education.
Electives and/or optional second specialization to total 128 hours.