Widener University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major combines study of British, American and global literatures with courses in rhetoric, linguistics, literary theory and writing. You will build core skills in critical analysis and written argument while exploring genres such as poetry, drama and the novel, and topical areas like race and gender studies, postcolonial literature and digital humanities.

• Core literature survey courses — introductions to Old, Renaissance, Romantic, Victorian, modern and contemporary literatures.
• Genre and period courses — focused classes in Shakespeare, the American short story, nineteenth-century novel, twentieth-century poetry and more.
• Theory and criticism — literary theory, methods of interpretation, and courses that introduce critical approaches (formalism, feminism, postcolonial studies, critical race theory).
• Language and rhetoric — courses in linguistics, sociolinguistics, rhetoric and composition to sharpen analytical and persuasive writing skills.
• Creative and professional writing — workshops in creative writing (fiction, poetry), technical and professional writing, editing and publication practicum.
• Capstone or senior seminar — a research seminar or senior project that synthesises skills in research, composition and presentation.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options — courses in film, digital media, history, philosophy and education to tailor the programme to your interests.
• Experiential learning — internship placements with local publishers, media organisations, nonprofits or businesses and opportunities for undergraduate research and study abroad.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admission to the major generally requires an undergraduate application to Widener University, submission of official transcripts, and standard supporting materials (personal statement or essay, and a high school or college transcript). Applicants transferring from other institutions should provide college transcripts and typically must meet residency and credit requirements to declare the major. Competitive candidates demonstrate strong writing ability; some pathways or specialised writing concentrations may invite a writing sample or portfolio.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in English Language and Literature develop versatile skills—analytical reading, persuasive writing, research and oral communication—that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Publishing, editing and literary agency roles
• Content strategy, digital content creation, social media and communications
• Marketing, public relations and advertising
• Teaching at elementary and secondary levels (note: K–12 certification requires additional state-specific teacher preparation)
• Law, library science and graduate study in the humanities or social sciences
• Nonprofit programme management, advocacy and community engagement
• Technical writing, grant writing and corporate communications

Many students pair the major with internships, minors or certificates (for example in journalism, business, or education) to increase job-market readiness. Alumni also pursue postgraduate degrees in literature, creative writing, education and law.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers small class sizes and close faculty mentorship that support development as a writer and scholar. The English programme emphasises experiential learning through internships with publishers, media organisations and cultural institutions in the Delaware Valley and Philadelphia region. Students can pursue specialised tracks such as creative writing, literary studies or professional writing, and can combine the major with minors or certificate programmes across the university.

Additional advantages include access to campus writing centres and research resources, opportunities for undergraduate research and presentations, and coordinated career services that help students secure internships and employment. The department fosters a collaborative environment where students can prepare for a range of careers or further study while honing analytical and communicative abilities valued in many fields.