Purdue University Northwest

Programme overview

The English minor is an undergraduate complementary programme that introduces students to close reading, literary history, and argumentative writing. It is designed to be taken alongside a primary major and to strengthen skills in research, interpretation, and written expression.

What you'll study

Coursework typically covers introduction-level composition, survey courses in major literary periods, and upper-division classes focused on genres or thematic studies. Students can expect to practice critical analysis of poetry, prose, and drama; learn methods of literary research; and produce sustained written projects that emphasize clarity, structure, and evidence-based interpretation.

Entry requirements

Admission to the minor normally requires that a student be enrolled in an undergraduate degree programme at the university and formally declare the minor through the registrar or department advising office. Completion requires a specified number of credit hours in approved English courses, including both lower-division prerequisites and upper-division electives; students should consult departmental advisors for exact course lists and any grade or residency requirements.

Career prospects

An English minor complements many majors by improving written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and research abilities. Graduates commonly leverage these skills in careers such as education, publishing, communications, marketing, public relations, law preparation, nonprofit work, and roles that value analytical reading and persuasive writing.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Financial support for students pursuing an English minor is typically handled through university-wide scholarships, departmental awards, and merit- or need-based aid rather than programme-specific funding. Students should explore institutional scholarships, writing prizes, internship stipends, and external humanities grants; academic advisors and the financial aid office can help identify applicable opportunities.