Montana State University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature programme combines historical and contemporary approaches to literature with practical study in writing and rhetoric. Core study typically covers surveys of British and American literature, world literatures, literary theory and criticism, and courses in research methods. Students choose from elective modules in areas such as Shakespeare and early drama, modern and contemporary fiction, poetry, documentary and memoir, genre studies (fiction, poetry, drama), and specialised topics like Native American literatures or film and literature.

Practical and professional components emphasise writing across contexts: composition and rhetoric, creative writing workshops (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction), technical and professional writing, and editing. Many degree plans include a senior capstone or thesis option that involves independent research or a creative project, and opportunities for internships with publishers, cultural organisations or campus publications. Interdisciplinary options allow students to pair literature study with minors or certificates in subjects such as digital humanities, film studies, environmental studies, or education.

• Foundations in literary history and genre studies
• Literary theory, criticism and research methods
• Creative writing workshops and craft seminars
• Rhetoric, composition and professional writing
• Senior capstone, honours thesis or practicum
• Electives in global literatures, film, cultural studies and digital humanities

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry expectations include a strong record in English and humanities subjects at secondary level and a competitive overall academic profile. Montana State University requires demonstration of English-language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (for example, via recognised tests or institutional equivalents).

Some pathways to the programme may consider a portfolio of writing for students interested in the creative-writing sequence, though this is not always mandatory. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts showing successful completion of introductory writing and literature courses where applicable. Specific admission requirements and any preparatory coursework are available from the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in English Language and Literature develop transferable skills valued across many sectors: analytical reading, clear and persuasive writing, research, editing, and project organisation. Common career paths include:

• Publishing, editing and literary production (editor, copyeditor, production assistant)
• Communications, marketing and public relations (content writer, communications specialist)
• Education and youth services (with additional teacher certification for K–12 roles)
• Non-profit and cultural organisations (program coordinator, grants writer)
• Law, business and graduate study (many alumni pursue law school, library science, or masters/PhD programmes in literature and related fields)
• Digital media and technical writing (web content specialist, UX writer)

Internships, campus editorial experience and undergraduate research at Montana State University help graduates build practical experience and professional networks that support entry into these roles.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State University offers a supportive liberal-arts environment with small seminar-style classes, close faculty mentoring and ample opportunities for undergraduate research and creative practice. English students can gain hands-on experience through the university’s long-standing literary magazine, CutBank, which provides editorial and publishing experience. The department also supports internships with regional cultural institutions, museums and media organisations.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments, options to pursue certificates such as digital humanities or environmental studies, and opportunities for study abroad or community-engaged projects. Located in Bozeman, the university provides access to a vibrant arts scene and outdoor recreation, enabling a balance of academic and extracurricular life while building skills for a wide range of careers or further postgraduate study.