Eastern Mennonite University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major at Eastern Mennonite University emphasises critical reading, effective writing and ethical engagement with texts. The curriculum typically covers major literary periods and genres (including British, American and world literature), literary theory, creative writing, rhetoric and composition, and courses that explore literature in relation to history, culture and religion.

Core elements commonly include a first-year writing sequence, introductory and advanced literature seminars, a senior capstone or thesis, and practicum or internship options. Typical modules and topics you might encounter are:

• Survey courses in British and American literature, from medieval to contemporary works.
• Genre studies such as poetry, drama, the novel and short fiction.
• Literary theory and criticism covering formalist, historical, feminist, postcolonial and other approaches.
• Rhetoric and composition focusing on argumentation, research writing and digital rhetoric.
• Creative writing workshops in fiction, poetry or creative nonfiction (often including peer review and revision practises).
• Linguistics and language study electives addressing structure of English, sociolinguistics or language and identity.
• Interdisciplinary electives that connect literature with fields such as history, peacebuilding, theology, media studies and environmental humanities.
• Senior capstone or thesis project demonstrating sustained research, critical analysis or a portfolio of creative work.

Small seminar classes, opportunities for undergraduate research, community-engaged learning and short-term study abroad are commonly integrated into the programme, allowing students to pursue special interests and apply literary skills in real-world contexts.

Programme structure

The major is structured to balance foundational requirements, upper-level electives and a culminating experience. Students usually complete general-education requirements alongside the major and may combine the English major with minors or a second major in education, communications, business, peace and justice studies or another discipline.

Entry requirements

Admission to the English programme at Eastern Mennonite University follows the university's undergraduate admissions process. Typical expectations include a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent, school transcripts and a personal statement or admissions essay that demonstrates writing ability and interest in the humanities.

Additional elements that strengthen an application include academic references, a portfolio of creative work or writing samples if available, and participation in extracurricular activities that show communication skills or community engagement. Standardised test submission may be optional depending on the university's current admissions policy; prospective students should check EMU's admissions guidance for current practices.

Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework in literature or writing. International applicants will need to provide proof of English language proficiency according to university requirements.

Career prospects

A degree in English Language and Literature prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value analytical thinking, clear writing and cultural literacy. Common pathways include:

• Secondary education and teaching (often pursued alongside state certification or further training).
• Publishing and editing, including roles in editorial departments, literary agencies and textbook publishing.
• Communications, public relations and content development for nonprofits, businesses and cultural organisations.
• Writing professions such as journalism, copywriting, technical writing and grant writing.
• Graduate study in English, creative writing, library and information science, law, theology or other professional programmes.
• Work in arts administration, cultural heritage, civic engagement and peacebuilding organisations, where humanities skills support programming and outreach.

The university's emphasis on internships, practicum experiences and close faculty mentoring helps students build portfolios and professional networks that employers and graduate programmes value.

Why study at Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University offers an English programme grounded in a liberal-arts tradition with a distinctive commitment to community, ethical reflection and peacebuilding. Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty who are active scholars and writers, and a campus culture that supports collaborative learning and civic engagement.

The programme encourages cross-disciplinary study and experiential learning—students frequently combine literary study with service, internships, study abroad and projects that connect literary analysis to social issues. For those interested in creative writing, EMU provides workshop-driven coursework and opportunities to present work in campus publications and readings. Overall, the programme is well suited to students seeking rigorous textual study alongside opportunities to apply writing and communication skills in professional and community contexts.