Mar 19, 2024  
2023-2024 Undergraduate Bulletin 
    
2023-2024 Undergraduate Bulletin

English, Major B.A.


Total minimum number of credits required for a major in English leading to the B.A. degree - 120.
Total minimum number of credits required for a minor in English - 18 (beyond ENG 101 )

Wilkes University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours for a B.A. degree in English. These include completion of General Education Curriculum requirements and 39 credits in English, including ENG 101 , which is a prerequisite for ENG 120 .

The English major offers students an opportunity to develop skills in language, rhetoric, and writing; to practice critical and creative thinking; and to examine the diversity of human identity and experience through the study of literature. The skills, values, and habits of thought acquired through the study of language and literature prepare students for leadership positions and careers in teaching, graduate school, law, communications, journalism, publishing, business, government service, and other professional areas. The department strongly recommends that students who major in English take a foreign language.

A second major or a minor in English adds an attractive dimension to a student’s major preparation in communications, business, theatre, pre-law, and other pre-professional and technical programs in which effective writing, liberal learning, and critical thinking are valued.

Students who major in English may concentrate in literature, writing, digital humanities, or may choose a program leading to certification in secondary teaching.

Non-majors may be admitted to courses numbered 300 and above with the permission of the instructor and department chair.

Concentrations

Certifications

Recommended Course Sequence


First Semester


Total Credits: 16


Second Semester


Total Credits: 15


Third Semester


Total Credits: 16


Fourth Semester


  • English Survey (ENG 234 ,ENG 281 ) Credits: 6
  • Free Electives Credits: 9

Total Credits: 15


Fifth Semester


  • Free Electives Credits: 9
  • Major Electives Credits: 6 *

Total Credits: 15


Sixth Semester


  • Free Electives Credits: 6
  • Major Electives Credits: 9 *

Total Credits: 15


Seventh Semester


Total Credits: 15


Eighth Semester


  • Free Electives Credits: 12
  • Major Capstone Credits: 1

Total Credits: 13


Total Credits: 120


*Students select major electives to meet requirements in their area of concentration.