Program Overview

English Program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a Bachelor of Arts in English, a program designed to immerse students in the world of great literary works and equip them with exceptional writing skills. This degree program is part of the College of Arts and Sciences and is tailored to help students become critical consumers and creators of content.

Program Overview

The Department of English provides a rich educational experience that spans classic British and American literature to contemporary, multifaceted narratives. Through a combination of classroom learning, research, internships, and creative projects, students explore diverse literary themes and develop sought-after analytical and communication skills. These skills are essential for a broad range of career paths.

Specializations

Students in the English program have the opportunity to add a writing specialization to their degree. There are three writing certificates available:

• Creative Writing: This specialization ignites students' imagination, allowing them to explore fiction, poetry, playwriting, and more, while developing their unique voice.
• Professional Writing: Students build persuasive, informative, and analytical writing skills, preparing them for careers in marketing, communications, grant writing, and more.
• Technical Writing: This specialization focuses on the art of clear and concise communication, enabling students to craft user manuals, proposals, and other technical documents effectively.

Program Type and Format

The English program is offered as a Major, leading to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. The format of the program is On-Campus, providing students with a traditional university experience.

Why Earn an English Degree at UMSL?

The BA in English from the University of Missouri-St. Louis equips students with in-demand expertise for a wide variety of professions. Key highlights of the program include:

• Diverse Academics: Students can explore diverse literary genres, including Irish, American, and British literature, as well as unique courses such as the Rhetoric of Horror, Sport Literature, and Disability Studies.
• Focused Writing Studies: The program allows students to customize their English degree with a specialization in creative, professional, or technical writing. There are also opportunities to explore publishing through courses like Writers at Work and to contribute to Litmag, the award-winning, student-run literary and arts journal.
• Dedicated Faculty: Students learn from award-winning faculty with diverse research and teaching interests, who are committed to excellence in teaching and mentorship.
• A Supportive Learning Environment: The Department of English offers small classes that foster collaborative learning, and numerous scholarships are available for English majors.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a degree in English can pursue many careers, including but not limited to:

• Author
• Content Manager
• Copywriter or Editor
• Educator
• Grant Writer
• Human Resources Specialist
• Journalist
• Marketing Coordinator
• Social Media Manager
• Technical Writer

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, technical writers, for example, have a median annual salary of $75,930, with a 4% job growth expected through 2032.

Plan of Study

All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements. Prospective students can review the full degree requirements and sample four-year plans to understand the program's structure better.

Student Organizations and Involvement

English majors can engage with various student organizations and activities, such as the Student Government Association and Students of the University of Missouri. The Department of English publishes two literary magazines, one of which, Litmag, is edited by undergraduate English majors. Additionally, the English department staffs and administers the campus Writing Center, providing tutoring appointments for students across campus.

Honors College and Undergraduate Research

The UMSL Honors College offers a certificate program that can be paired with any major without adding extra classes or extending time to graduate. The program features seminar-style classes focused on reading, writing, discussion, and critical thinking. Undergraduate research is also encouraged and supported, allowing students to engage in exciting activities that enrich their academic and professional understanding of their chosen area of study.

Related Majors

For students interested in fields related to English, the university offers other degree options such as Secondary Education: English, Communication, Philosophy, and Marketing.

Conclusion

The English program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in literature and writing, preparing them for a variety of career paths and graduate studies. With its diverse academics, focused writing studies, dedicated faculty, and supportive learning environment, the program offers a unique and enriching experience for students.