English (BA)

As an English major, you’ll take courses spanning three themes: narrative forms, literature of place, and society and justice. Our literature, language, and writing classes are small, so you’ll have ample one-on-one time with faculty who bring diverse expertise in areas such as science fiction, environmentalism, Native American literature, the Beat generation, and the Transcendentalists. You’ll learn to identify and articulate the skills that employers need and gain insights into the wide variety of careers available to you as an English major. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit cultural centers and museums in Chicago as part of your coursework.

Outside of the classroom, you can write for the AU student literary magazine Elysian, work for AU Spartan Media, and gain real-world experience through internships in the Chicago area. You’ll also be able to present your research and writing at national organizations and other universities. And you can even hear from renowned writers and thinkers through AU’s Celebrating Arts and Ideas series, which brings notable authors and leaders to campus.

The English major combines well with a number of majors and minors, allowing you to expand your career opportunities. About half of AU English students double major in Secondary Education, going on to work as middle school or high school teachers, jobs that are in demand locally and across the country. History is an excellent double major for students interested in library sciences, archival work, or graduate school. Pairing an English major with a major in Biology, Business Administration, Environmental Studies and Sustainability, or Spanish can set you up for successful careers in the environmental fields, medical writing, translation, and entrepreneurship, as well as prepare you for law school, MBA studies, or graduate school. Even with a double major, you’ll still be able to graduate in four years.

You can also combine your English major with a minor in Gender Studies, Latin American and Latino/a Studies, or Black Studies, ideal for students going into non-profit work, politics, teaching, social work, or law.