Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

English

With an emphasis on critical thinking, research and communication skills, a bachelor's degree in English from McNeese prepares students for careers in a variety of fields, including education, administration, public service and law.

Program Highlights

Why Become an English Major at McNeese?

In McNeese’s English bachelor’s degree program, students develop the skills to relate ideas effectively through the study of classic and contemporary literature and by practicing a variety of techniques to foster strong, compelling writing. In addition, English students cultivate critical thinking, time management, research and communication skills that are crucial to success in a wide variety of career fields.

More than just an English degree

As an English major, you also have the opportunity to study Spanish, French, Latin or ancient Greek language and literature. Alongside learning how to speak, read, write and understand a foreign language, you will become acquainted with a wide range of non-English texts and the diverse cultures and perspectives represented within them, and discover their impact on humanity’s collective cultural heritage.

At a Glance

Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Program Length: 4 years (120 credit hours)

Availability: in person

Program Overview

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Program overview

Explore More for English Majors

With an emphasis on small class sizes, high-quality instruction and academic opportunities outside of the university, the English degree program at McNeese is committed to excellence with a personal touch. Highlights of this major include:

Financial Aid and Scholarships:

The College of Liberal Arts offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for undergraduate students, including scholarships specifically for students earning their bachelor’s degree in English and foreign languages. Learn more from the Office of Financial Aid.

Study Abroad:

Get first-hand immersive experience in the French language with McNeese’s partnership with the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL). Students can receive scholarships to study French at the Université de Sainte-Anne in Canada or the Université de Liège or Université de Mons in Belgium.

Learn Beyond the Classroom:

As an English major, you will have opportunities to travel to conferences such as South Central Modern Language Association (SCMLA) annual conference and the Sigma Tau Delta International Convention. There, you can present creative works and academic research, attend panels and presentations and network with the English academic community.

Expert faculty

Widely published and recognized as experts by a variety of professional organizations, the faculty of the English and Foreign Languages department specialize in fields ranging Cajun folklore to classic medieval literature to contemporary graphic novels. Committed to serving the intellectual and cultural needs of students, faculty strive to make personal connections with English majors and give them a deep and rich learning experience in the area of their choice.

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English Bachelor’s Degree Program Concentrations

Literature or Comparative Literature

Explore the history of the English language and study literature ranging from medieval British texts to contemporary American classics with a concentration in comparative literature.

Comparative Literature Curriculum

English Education Grades 6-12

With a concentration in English education, you'll learn how to introduce junior high and high school students to classical literature and teach a variety of grammar and rhetorical skills.

Education Grades 6-12 Curriculum

Foreign Languages and Literatures

In this concentration, you will study French, Spanish, Latin and Greek literature, plays and poetry and learn how to understand, place and evaluate them within their unique cultural and social contexts.

Foreign Languages and Literatures Curriculum

Writing

In the concentration in writing, develop your creative writing skills while also learning the fundamentals of editing, rhetorical and technical writing.

Writing Curriculum

Literature

Literature Curriculum

Literature Dual Degree Concentration

Literature Curriculum

Careers and Opportunities

What Can You Do with an English Degree?

An English degree is one of the best foundational degrees for continued study in business, law and a variety of other research-based fields. Or, move directly into any career that requires skills in language, media and communication.

Graduate Schools or Programs

Job Titles or Employers

Archivist
Copywriter
Communications Director
Content Strategist
Editor
English Teacher, Grades K-12
Grant Writer
Journalist
Legislative Assistant
Marketing Specialist
Media Researcher
Public Relations Specialist
Screenwriter
Speechwriter
Records Manager
Research Analyst
Social Media Manager
Technical Writer
Web Content Developer

The Arena and The Contraband

McNeese has two publications for undergraduate students. The Arena publishes creative works including short stories and poetry, while The Contraband is McNeese’s online publication for campus news and events, opinions and student interest stories. English majors at McNeese can gain professional experience by working for the editorial boards or by submitting work for publication.

Student Activities

McNeese’s 100 student organizations offer opportunities for you to build on your classroom experience. Practice and refine your English, writing, foreign language or rhetoric skills outside of the classroom with Sigma Tau Delta English honor society, the So You Like to Write club, the Society of Professional Journalists or the Speech and Debate club.

Write to Excellence Center

McNeese’s Write to Excellence Center (WTEC) offers students from all academic backgrounds free one-on-one tutoring in the fundamentals of academic writing, including grammar, thesis statements, outlining and organization. English majors at McNeese have the chance to work at the WTEC to gain valuable on-the-job teaching experience.