English, B.A.

The English major at HSU encompasses perspectives derived from literary theory, contextual knowledge about literature, the analysis of language, the close reading of texts, and written expression. Students take a balance of lecture and small-group instruction. This program is excellent preparation for a wide range of careers, all requiring reasoning ability and skill in the use of language. Students in English do well in many occupations, including magazine or book editor, teacher, critic, library assistant, and writer in many areas such as technology, business, government, non-profit organizations, and other organizations for social change.

High school students should take four years of English, including composition and literature to prepare for this major. We recommend the study of a language other than English.

A bachelor’s degree requires a total of 120 units. For a description of degree requirements to be fulfilled in addition to those listed below for the major, please see “Bachelor’s Degree Requirements ”.

Requirements for the Major (49-62 units)

The English major with concentrations in Literary Studies or Writing Practices consist of 16 units of required courses; 16 units in concentration electives; two classes (7-8 units) from the other two concentrations; a capstone course; and one year of college-level study of a language other than English. The English major with a concentration in Teaching the Language Arts (English education) consists of 50 units of required courses and a choice of one of three emphases.

Concentrations

Select one concentration and complete all requirements.

English, B.A. Program Learning Outcomes

Students completing this program will have demonstrated:

the ability to read and explicate written English precisely.
analysis of literature from several critical perspectives.
meaningful use of literary, linguistic, theoretical, and rhetorical terminology.
an awareness of structures of power in language, literature, and culture.
stimulating and effective writing in a variety of genres according to the accepted conventions of English studies.
knowledge of literary movements and writers from a range of historical periods and cultural frameworks.
the ability to understand and perform rhetorical strategies to inform, persuade, and argue.