University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The programme combines close study of literary texts with coursework in language, rhetoric and writing. You take core courses in literary analysis and critical theory alongside period and genre surveys such as British literature, American literature, world literatures, and contemporary fiction. Additional modules commonly available include creative writing (poetry and fiction), linguistics and the history of the English language, digital humanities approaches to textual study, and rhetoric and composition.

The major is typically structured around introductory core classes, a set of required intermediate seminars, and a range of electives that let you tailor the degree to your interests. Many students complete a senior capstone experience—such as a seminar, a senior thesis or a substantial creative project—and opportunities exist for internships, directed research with faculty, and participation in literary journals and campus writing initiatives.

Typical modules and topics

• Introduction to Literary Study and Methods
• Survey courses in British, American and World Literature
• Critical Theory and Cultural Studies
• Creative Writing: Fiction, Poetry, and Craft Workshops
• Linguistics and the History of the English Language
• Rhetoric, Argumentation and Professional Writing
• Digital Humanities and Textual Analysis
• Senior Seminar or Thesis/Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Successful applicants will usually have a completed secondary school diploma and a strong record in English or humanities subjects. Admissions commonly consider high school grades, the strength of your academic programme, and any submitted writing samples or personal statements that demonstrate interest and ability in reading and writing. Standardised test policies vary; check the university's admissions guidance for current practice.

Recommended preparation includes coursework in literature and composition, evidence of sustained reading and writing (for example, school essays, publications or writing course work), and extracurricular engagement with reading, debate, theatre or student publications. Applicants to honours or accelerated tracks may be asked to submit a portfolio or additional writing samples.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English from the University of Tennessee go on to careers across the public, private and creative sectors. The degree develops skills prized by employers—clear written and oral communication, critical thinking, research and project management.

• Publishing, editing and literary agencies
• Journalism, content strategy and digital communications
• Marketing, public relations and corporate communications
• Education and teacher training (postgraduate certification usually required for K–12 teaching)
• Law, public policy and graduate study in the humanities
• Non‑profit, cultural institutions, museums and archives
• Creative professions including writing, screenwriting and theatre

Many graduates also choose to continue with postgraduate study (MA/PhD) in literature, linguistics, creative writing or related fields, or to pursue professional degrees in law, business or education.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers an English programme with a broad curriculum and opportunities for close mentorship from faculty working across American, British and global literatures, as well as in rhetoric and creative writing. Small seminars and writing workshops encourage intensive discussion and personalised feedback, while larger courses provide a strong foundation in critical methods.

Students benefit from campus resources such as the university libraries and Special Collections & Archives, support from the campus Writing Center, and extracurricular outlets including student literary magazines, theatre and public reading events. The programme also connects students with internship and research opportunities across the city and region, and supports study abroad for those wishing to deepen language and cultural studies in an international setting.