Consider an English Major
Do you love to read novels and poetry, but think you ought to do
something more practical in college? Do you find satisfaction in creative writing, but
know that you don't want to be a starving artist? You can still major or minor in English.
Those who have majored or minored in humanities studies such as
English are increasingly valued in a wide variety of careers. The professional and
business worlds have found that humanities majors are often better at solving problems and
adapting to new directions than are their more narrowly educated, technically trained
co-workers.
The writing and communication skills that are developed and enhanced
by an English major or minor are valuable assets. Today, professionals in all fields need
to know how to think critically and speak and write clearly and effectively.
What will I do with an English major?
An undergraduate English major can be a first step to graduate study
in a number of disciplines. Edgewood College English graduates currently attend law or
library schools, business schools, and programs in journalism or other fields as well as
in literature or creative writing.
Other graduates are teaching in secondary or elementary schools, or
are working in print, radio, and television media. Some are in publishing firms. Many
serve as program administrators, while others are in government agencies, personnel
departments, health care and allied services, or in religious ministries. Still others
work in a wide range of business situations such as insurance, real estate, or public
relations.
What concentrations does Edgewood offer?
English majors may select from among bachelor's degree programs in
- journalism
- literature
- teaching
- writing
All three programs expose students to a broad range of literature as
well as a variety of writing venues and styles. Writing courses include professional
writing and journalism as well as fiction and poetry writing. Students in literature
courses have a wide range to elect from mythology to contemporary fiction or poetry. Other
courses examine traditional figures such as Chaucer and Shakespeare, while recent seminars
have focused on Latin-American women writers and works by American minority writers.
Students who wish to prepare for teacher certification at the secondary level combine
writing and literature courses with a minor in secondary education.
What are classes and instructors like?
The English department faculty is composed of committed scholars who
are enthusiastic about both teaching and research. Advanced literature courses
are often taught by faculty members who research and publish in their
specialties. Advanced writing courses are taught by
professional writers with expertise in their specialties, including journalism and
creative works. Small classes permit a great deal of individual interaction among students
and between students and their instructors. Teachers help students explore texts
critically and thoughtfully, using their own expertise in research to lead students to
discover the riches of libraries and cyberspace.
Any extra-curricular opportunities?
A college literary magazine, The Edgewood Review, is staffed
and published by students. English majors and minors may contribute works to the magazine
as well as gain editorial and managerial experience by working on the editing and layout
of the magazine. On the Edge, the college newspaper, welcomes staff writers,
editors, photographers, layout and copy editors.
An annual English department sponsored writing contest offers all of
Edgewood's students an opportunity to win recognition and cash prizes for their fiction,
poetry, and essays.
Each semester, the English department sponsors visits to campus by
published writers in an "Evening with the Author" series that offers live
readings and discussions of poetry and fiction.
What about internship opportunities ?
The English Department has a program that enables a student to work
as an intern obtaining valuable professional experience while completing the undergraduate
English major. In recent semesters these internships have been in editing, public
relations, banking, and other professional situations.
Tell me more about the Collaborative Program with
the UW
Edgewood's Collaborative Program with the University of Wisconsin
not only allows students to take specialized courses to complement the selection offered
at Edgewood, but also gives an Edgewood student access to the libraries of the
University-- a special advantage because of the scope and quality of their collections.
How about study in England or elsewhere?
Summer or semester-long study/travel in Great Britain,
Scotland, and Australia is encouraged
and facilitated. Credit may be obtained in most overseas study programs, and students find
the enrichment of overseas studies a vital part of an undergraduate experience.
Whom should I contact for more information?
If you have access to e-mail, you may contact the
chairperson of the English department, Associate Professor Susan Rustick, by writing to
her: rustick@edgewood.edu
or via phone: (608) 663-2822
or via surface mail:
Department of English
Edgewood College
1000 Edgewood College Drive
Madison WI 53711.
Catalogs and brochures or admissions/financial aid information for
transfer or new students are available from the Admissions
Office, Edgewood College
(608) 663-2294.
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