Bachelor of Arts in English

Building upon the cultural diversity and urban experience that distinguishes Wayne State University, an English degree equip students with the intellectual knowledge and practical tools to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world, by teaching them to understand the power and influence of literature and other forms of textual and media production, circulation, and interpretation; and by imparting skill and fluency in close reading, critical thinking, rhetorical analysis, and writing in multiple genres.

The English major is designed to introduce students to these skills and to provide a challenging and flexible liberal arts education as well as a pre-professional program for students interested in careers in education, law, business, and other professions.

Our major and minor requirements allow students to shape their programs according to their own interests. English majors may focus on a variety of areas, such as rhetoric and composition studies, literary and cultural studies, film and media studies, and creative writing. 

English majors can also complement their degrees with one of our departmental minors in film studies, creative writing, and professional writing. Our students also frequently co-major or minor in interdisciplinary fields such as film, gender, sexuality and women's studies, African American studies, pre-med, journalism, and linguistics. 

Career insights

This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.