English (BA)
Overview
Do you dream of being a masterful communicator? Are you a critical thinker seeking truth and finding beauty in words? Do you see yourself as a successful author? Then the English degree at BU is for you. As an English major, you will choose either a literature or writing concentration. Each concentration offers specialized courses on topics that speak to you. Hone creative writing skills in exciting workshops. Polish critical thinking skills with fellow students in special seminars focused on such topics as mythology, fairy tales, literature & healing, or science fiction. As an English major, you’ll study with accomplished faculty members who are fully committed to your success in college and your career.
Theory and Hands-On Practice
Designed with the real world in mind, English program students gain practical experience with Bluefield University’s literary magazine, The Bluestone Review. Or you can serve as a tutor helping fellow students in the Academic Center for Excellence.
Are you ready to explore centuries of the written word and analyze the diverse experiences that shape us? Take the first step toward a transformative education by completing the request information form today.
Available Concentrations
Literature Concentration
This concentration immerses students in a diverse range of literary works, fostering an appreciation for language and storytelling. It sharpens critical thinking and analysis skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, writing, or further academic pursuits in literature.
Pre-Law Concentration
Tailored for students considering a legal career, this concentration emphasizes critical reading, persuasive writing, and ethical reasoning skills. It provides a strong foundation for law school, equipping students with the skills needed for success in legal studies and related fields.
Writing Concentration
Focusing on developing versatile writing skills, this concentration covers creative, technical, and professional writing. Ideal for aspiring authors, journalists, or content creators, it equips students with the tools to craft compelling narratives and effective communication in various mediums.
Courses & Competencies
General Education Requirements
- Introduction to the Writing Process
- Fundamentals of Speech
- Biblical Perspectives
- Developing the Christian Mind
- Math/Science* (3 Credits)
- Fine Arts/Humanities* (6 Credits)
- Social/Behavioral Science* (3 Credits)
- Degree Requirements (BA or BS/BSN)* (6 Credits)
- Personal Wellness
- ESS Activity Course* (1 Credit)
- Career Pathways I & II (2 Credits)
- Career Pathways III & IV (2 Credits)
- Career Pathways V & VI (2 Credits)
* Course or requirement includes multiple options. Online offerings may differ.
Core Requirements
- Argumentative and Analytical Writing
- History of the English Language
- (Choose 4)
- Literature Appreciation
- British Literature I
- British Literature II
- American Literature I
- American Literature II
- World Literature I
- World Literature II
- Literature & Healing
- The Meaning of Myth
- Literature of Quest
- Fairy Tales
- Science Fiction
- Literature and The Life of Faith
- Appalachian Literature
- Literature: The Short Story
- Literary Nonfiction: The Fourth Genre
Concentrations
Choose your Concentration (3 Available)
- Concentration – Literature
- Shakespeare
- Regional & Ethnic Literature
- Introduction to Creative Writing or Creative Nonfiction
- (Choose 8)
- Modern English Grammar
- Literature of Children & Adolescents
- World Literature II
- Literature & Healing
- The Meaning of Myth
- Literature of the Quest
- Fairy Tales
- Science Fiction
- Literature & The Life of Faith
- Studies in Rhetoric
- Medieval Literature
- Renaissance British Literature
- Eighteenth-Century British Literature
- Nineteenth-Century British Literature
- Nineteenth-Century American Literature
- Twentieth & Twenty-First-Century Literature
- Special Topics in Literature
- Concentration – Pre-Law
- Modern English Grammar
- American Government and Politics
- Constitutional Law
- Studies in Rhetoric
- (Choose 5)
- Substantive Criminal Law
- Comparative Criminal Justice
- Law of Evidence
- Minority Issues in Criminal Justice
- Criminal Procedure
- Criminal Law
- Sport Law
- Business Communication
- Business Law
- Legal Environment of Business
- Media Law
- Technical Writing
- Concentration – Writing
-
- Modern English Grammar
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- English Internship
- (Choose 6)
- Technical Writing
- Advanced Creative Writing
- Creative Nonfiction
- Studies in Rhetoric
- Journalism
- Public Relations I
- Media Writing
- Beginning Media Management
- Business Communications
-
Electives (27 Credits)
Elective requirements for this program are detailed in the undergraduate catalog.
For a full breakdown of each course, reference the undergraduate catalog located in Academic Resources.
