English

While poring over poems, novels, and plays, English majors develop a critical and aesthetic understanding of English as a language, and of literature as an art form. Students learn a little of nearly everything along the way, and they learn it with the help of faculty who embrace undergraduate research.

• In recent years, two-thirds of English department tenured or tenure-track faculty have mentored at least one student-presented project at Undergraduate Research Day, the celebration of collaboration held on Family Weekend each year.
• The English department is a major stakeholder in Wake Forest University press, the premier publisher of Irish poetry in North America.
• English majors have won Rhodes, Truman, Goldwater, Marshall and Fulbright Scholarships.

The English degree is offered as a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a minor.

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Our model and curriculum educate the whole person and often help students discover interests they had never previously discovered. Students generally take 100-200 level courses during their first year of college, while registering for higher level courses as upperclassmen.

Sample courses that you may take as a English student include:

* Courses listed above are offered during the current academic year. Course availability and offerings can change at any time. Refer to the Academic Bulletin to view all major requirements.

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A common misconception about English majors is that after they graduate the only thing they can do with their degree is go to graduate school or teach. With such a firm foundation of writing and communication skills; however, English majors are ready to hit the street and tackle a host of careers—after a few internships, that is. An internship within an intriguing industry will help translate academic skills directly into applicable workplace skills. Internships are great ways to get experience and help you narrow down your endless career possibilities.

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Joining a club or organization is a great way to get involved and do more with your major. Our English students participate in the following programs:

• Can I Poet
• Old Gold and Black
• The Howler

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Careers that often interest English majors, and fields our graduates work in, include:

• Advertising Copywriter
• Attorney
• Author
• Book Store Manager
• Broadcast Journalist
• Copy Editor
• Court Reporter
• Editor
• Educator
• Entertainment Agent
• Human Resources Director
• Journalist
• Librarian
• Media Specialist
• Paralegal
• Press Representative
• Public Relations Director
• Publishing Assistant
• Technical Writer

The roster of English majors includes at least 50 who own their own businesses; more than 150 executives in other businesses; more than 200 lawyers and judges; and hundreds of other distinguished alumni.