English Major

Excel at communication

An English degree from Bridgewater College offers a strong foundation for careers in education, law, government, journalism and related fields. The program also prepares students for graduate study in literature, creative writing or rhetoric. No matter your path, you’ll develop advanced oral and written communication skills that are applicable across industries.

What to Expect as an English Major

• Develop your skills in writing, public speaking, research and critical analysis through a curriculum that emphasizes both analytical and aesthetic engagement.
• Study major works in American and English traditions to global voices representing many cultures. Examine how stories shape, sustain and reflect cultural heritage.
• Apply your knowledge in internships or faculty-mentored research projects as well as take advantage of student-led publications and teaching opportunities.

English Courses and Curriculum

The English degree program provides a strong foundation in literature and writing. Core courses include Introduction to English Studies, advanced writing, and focused studies in short fiction, drama, novels and poetry. The program culminates in a senior capstone featuring a semester-long research project and a professional writing portfolio.

Introduction to English Studies

ENG-200

An introductory course that surveys a variety of rhetorical and critical theories, their terminology and their application to a variety of texts in different genres. Modes of writing for diverse audiences are also practiced.

Linguistics

ENG-300

Linguistic analysis incorporating traditional grammar, phonology, syntax, sociolinguistics, morphology semantics and historical linguistics (including the history of the English language).

Studies in the Novel

ENG-366

Study of the development of the novel as a distinctive literary form with emphasis on different techniques, conventions and themes of the genre exemplified by representative works chosen from American, British, and other national literatures.

Career Opportunities with an English Degree

A degree in English opens the door to a wide range of career paths. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in higher education, law, marketing, non-profit organizations, sports information, elementary and secondary education and professional writing. With strong skills in critical thinking, communication and analysis, English majors thrive in positions such as copywriting, editing, content development, public relations and teaching.

BCVoice: Gain writing experience

BCVoice, the campus news outlet, provides English majors with the opportunity to refine their writing and storytelling skills while serving the college community. Students gain real-world experience in producing news articles, reviews, event coverage, opinion pieces, and sports stories to build a strong writing portfolio. With opportunities to create written, visual, podcast, and video content, English majors develop essential multimedia communication skills that prepare them for careers in journalism, publishing, digital media, and content creation.

Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy

Industry-Relevant Expertise

Gain cutting-edge skills in digital media, analytics and content strategy to excel in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.

Flexible and Accessible

With online and evening courses, this program is designed to fit your schedule, making it ideal for working professionals.

Hands-On Experience

Build a comprehensive portfolio through real-world projects and internships that prepare you for leadership roles in digital media.

Graduate Schools

Like many BC graduates, you might enter graduate schools such as:

• Clarion University of Pennsylvania (Master of Library Science)
• University of Delaware (M.A./Ph.D. in Communication)
• Indiana University (Ph.D. in English)
• James Madison University (M.A. in English)
• Lehigh University (Ph.D. in English)
• Ohio State University (M.A./Ph.D. in English)
• Pennsylvania State University (Ph.D. in Anthropology)
• Rutgers University (M.A. in English)
• University of Tennessee (M.A./Ph.D. in English)
• University of Virginia (M.A./Ph.D. in English, Ph.D. in German Literature and Culture)
• Wake Forest University (M.A. in English)

Activities and Clubs

• Present at the Virginia Humanities Conference and other associations and conferences.
• Do independent study in collaboration with a faculty member in poetry, memoir, science writing and more
• Join BC’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the international English honor society.
• Be a tutor for the Writing Center
• Write for BC Voice, the College’s online, student-run news organization
• Study abroad for a semester in England or one of dozens of other countries

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Outline:

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Specific Requirements:

The specific requirements for this major can be found in the College Catalog.

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Activities and Clubs:

• Present at the Virginia Humanities Conference and other associations and conferences.
• Do independent study in collaboration with a faculty member in poetry, memoir, science writing and more.
• Join BC’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the international English honor society.
Email Dr. Christian Sheridan or Dr. Scott Suter for more information.
• Be a tutor for the Writing Center.
• Write for BC Voice, the College’s online, student-run news organization.

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Teaching:

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Meet the Faculty:

For a list of faculty members, visit the Department of English webpage.

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Careers:

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Graduate Schools:

• Clarion University of Pennsylvania (Master of Library Science)
• University of Delaware (M.A./Ph.D.
in Communication)
• Indiana University (Ph.D. in English)
• James Madison University (M.A.
in English)
• Lehigh University (Ph.D. in English)
• Ohio State University (M.A./Ph.D.
in English)
• Pennsylvania State University (Ph.D. in Anthropology)
• Rutgers University (M.A.
in English)
• University of Tennessee (M.A./Ph.D.
in English)
• University of Virginia (M.A./Ph.D.
in English, Ph.D. in German Literature and Culture)
• Wake Forest University (M.A.
in English)

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Other Career Options:

• Higher education
• Law
• Marketing
• Non-profit agencies
• Teaching (elementary and secondary education)
• Writing

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Other:

• The first-year student deposit deadline has been extended to June 1, 2024.
• Kennesha Parker, a student at Bridgewater College, shares her positive experience with the college and its connections during the coronavirus pandemic.
• Abby Blair Woerner, a 2015 graduate of Bridgewater College, discusses how her creative abilities were sparked by taking pottery classes at the college.
• You can improve your writing and editing skills by majoring in English at Bridgewater College.

Bridgewater College: A Summarization

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Overview:

Bridgewater College is a private, liberal arts college located in Virginia. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a close-knit community and personalized learning experience. The college prides itself on its affordable tuition, making a college degree accessible to a wider range of students.

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Services Offered:

Academics:

Bridgewater College offers a diverse selection of 60 majors and minors across various disciplines.

Admissions & Aid:

The college provides comprehensive support for prospective students, including application assistance, financial aid options, and a net price calculator to estimate individual costs.

Life at Bridgewater:

The college fosters a strong sense of community, with opportunities for student involvement in clubs, organizations, athletics, and social events.

Visit:

Prospective students can schedule campus tours, meet with current students and faculty, and experience the college environment firsthand.

Other:

Bridgewater College offers additional services such as career counseling, alumni networking, and a campus store.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Bridgewater College emphasizes a close-knit community where students are encouraged to participate in various activities and events. The college provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and socially.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Tuition:

Bridgewater College offers a competitive tuition rate, making a private college education more accessible.

Personalized Learning:

The college prioritizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a personalized learning experience.

Strong Community:

Bridgewater College cultivates a strong sense of community, encouraging student involvement and fostering lasting connections.

Focus on Experiential Learning:

The college offers opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad programs, enhancing their practical skills and knowledge.

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Academic Programs:

Bridgewater College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Undergraduate:

60 majors and minors across various disciplines, including the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

Graduate:

Four graduate programs, focusing on areas such as education, athletic training, and business.

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Other:

Connections Campaign:

The college is currently running a $35 million campaign to raise funds for scholarships, teaching and learning initiatives, and capital projects.

Summer Research Awards:

Bridgewater College provides funding for students to conduct research projects under the guidance of faculty members during the summer.

International Opportunities:

The college offers study abroad programs and opportunities for students to engage in global learning experiences.