Write Your Next Chapter with an English Degree from Gannon University
If you are passionate about reading and writing, Gannon’s English program is the prologue to the career that you desire. You will learn to shape your prose, engage with literary works, construct new ideas and challenge arguments in one of the most versatile programs available. Translate your passion into an exciting profession in copy editing, publishing, journalism, professional and technical writing, public relations, marketing, teaching or law.
- Earn academic credit through study abroad opportunities with an English faculty member.
- Receive individualized faculty support through small class sizes.
- Develop your career through internships, experiential learning and career planning resources.
Learn to Lead the Way
in English
- Tailor your career interests through one of three concentrations: secondary education, legal career and literary studies. Develop effective written communication skills that are essential in a variety of occupations.
- Learn to think critically and analytically; form, interpret and share complex ideas.
- Hone your creativity to become a best-selling author,
editor or publisher.
Experience an Exceptional Learning Environment
- Contribute to Gannon-produced publications including the nationally recognized Totem literary magazine and The Gannon Knight campus newspaper.
- Participate in workshops and readings alongside nationally known poets and novelists at the Gannon Writing Awards event.
- Present your academic research at Gannon’s annual CHESS Conference and Celebrate Gannon event.
Major in English
The Department offers four curricular tracks to
help students tailor the major to fit their interests and professional goals.
Secondary
Education in English Track: For students interested in teaching English at
the high school level
Legal
Career Track: For students preparing to attend law school or wanting to
pursue another law-related career (e.g., paralegal)
Literary
Studies Track: For students preparing for graduate school in English
literature or a related discipline or seeking careers demanding strong liberal
arts preparation All tracks cultivate the student’s ability to write in a
variety of genres for different audiences and purposes.
The Department also offers students a variety
of internships, and a 3-3 program in legal studies with Duquesne University,
and features student-run publications such as the Totem (an award-winning
literary magazine). Whether they seek careers in education, publishing,
journalism, media, public relations, government, business, industry or law, Gannon
English Majors acquire the scholarly focus, broad preparation and intellectual awareness
that form the basis of an intensive liberal arts education. Students in all
tracks are required to complete an internship as part of their academic
program.
Minor in English
A minor in English will consist of 15 hours
beyond the first year writing courses, LENG 111 and LENG 112. Student may elect
to include a course from the LENG 240/250 series, but 12 credits must be from
courses designated ENGL.
This is a wonderful complement to many majors
in both Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields and
humanities fields. A minor in English provides an opportunity to hone essential
academic and professional skills, including critical analysis and writing.
For more detailed
course descriptions and degree requirements, visit the
Undergraduate Catalogue page
Inspire Your Academic Success
Gain real-world knowledge through core English classes including:
Writing for Social Change: Analyze and compose texts that advance causes for social change and justice.
Writing in Digital Environments: Develop writing and design skills for work in web-based environments such as social media.
Contemporary World Literature: Engage with texts from around the globe to better understand and appreciate the historical, literary and social concerns of contemporary world cultures.
Achieve Your Possibilities
Gannon’s English program will help you build a diverse and impressive portfolio to prepare you for your career. Through an array of exciting opportunities, you can:
- Secure valuable internship placements with Fortune 500 companies such as Erie Insurance and Wabtec Corp., and at local broadcast affiliates of national and local radio and news stations, health care industries and nonprofit organizations.
- Obtain career opportunities ranging from education and law to business, journalism and environmental activism.