Villanova University

What you'll study

The English programme combines chronological and thematic study of literature with training in research, theory and creative practice. You will study major periods and genres—such as medieval and Renaissance literature, 18th- and 19th-century British literature, modern and contemporary poetry and prose, American literature, and world and postcolonial literatures—alongside modules in literary theory, rhetoric and composition.

• Core courses in close reading and literary analysis
• Surveys of British and American literary traditions
• Thematic and genre courses (e.g., Shakespeare, Victorian literature, the novel, poetry, drama)
• Contemporary theory and critical approaches (e.g., feminism, Marxism, postcolonial studies, queer theory)
• Creative writing workshops in fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction
• Courses in film and media studies that explore narrative across forms
• Rhetoric, professional writing and digital communication modules
• Research methods and a senior capstone seminar or honours thesis option

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to combine English with minors or double majors, take elective seminars, and pursue internships. Opportunities for study abroad and community-engaged projects are commonly integrated into the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent and to demonstrate strong preparation in English and the humanities. Typical admissions considerations include academic transcripts, a personal statement, and school or teacher recommendations. Standardised test requirements vary by applicant and cohort; check the university's admissions guidance for current policy. International applicants must satisfy English language proficiency requirements if their prior education was not in English.

While there are no fixed module prerequisites beyond a solid foundation in reading and writing, successful applicants usually show evidence of sustained engagement with literature, writing, or related extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates of the English programme leave with transferable skills prized across many sectors: analytical reasoning, persuasive writing, research, close reading and effective communication. These capabilities prepare students for a wide range of careers.

• Publishing, editing and literary agencies
• Journalism, content strategy and digital media
• Marketing, public relations and communications roles
• Education and library science (many graduates progress to teacher certification or graduate study)
• Law and business—English is a common pre‑law preparation due to its emphasis on argument and analysis
• Nonprofit programme development, advocacy and fundraising
• Graduate study in literature, creative writing, cultural studies or related fields

The department supports career development through internships, alumni networks, writing centres and linkages to Philadelphia's cultural and publishing scene, helping students translate classroom learning into professional experience.

Why study at Villanova University

Studying English at Villanova combines rigorous liberal arts training with the values of an Augustinian, student‑centred education. The Department of English emphasises close mentorship from faculty who are active scholars and writers, small seminar settings, and opportunities for independent research or creative projects. Students benefit from campus resources such as writing support centres, undergraduate literary journals and performance spaces, and access to internships and cultural institutions in the Philadelphia region.

Additionally, the university encourages interdisciplinary study, enabling English majors to pair literary study with subjects such as history, philosophy, communication or digital media to tailor their degree to specific career goals or graduate study plans.