University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature degree combines historical surveys, thematic and period courses, and practical writing modules. Core components typically include:

• Literary survey courses covering major periods such as medieval, Renaissance, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century, modern and contemporary literatures.
• Theory and criticism introducing literary theory, close reading, rhetoric and methods of interpretation.
• Genre and specialised courses in poetry, drama, the novel, children’s literature, and emerging forms like digital narrative.
• Linguistics and language study options addressing the structure, history and social use of English.
• Writing and composition classes emphasising academic, creative and professional writing, including opportunities in creative writing workshops.
• Capstone or seminar experience, where students complete a substantial research project, thesis or practicum demonstrating advanced analytical and writing skills.

Students combine major requirements with the university’s general education curriculum and have options to take electives, minor subjects (for example in theatre, history, communication, or digital media), or pursue interdisciplinary tracks. The programme supports experiential learning through internships, community-engaged projects and opportunities to work on editorial teams or literary magazines.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature follows the University of Cincinnati’s undergraduate entry process. Typical requirements include a completed secondary school diploma or equivalent, a competitive academic record, and submission of the university application. Applicants from non‑English speaking backgrounds are usually expected to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or alternative evidence of academic English ability.

Successful applicants often present strong grades in humanities courses, writing samples or portfolios if requested, and may highlight extracurricular activities that demonstrate communication, critical thinking or leadership. Transfer students must provide transcripts from previous postsecondary institutions and information about completed coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with an English degree develop transferable skills valued by employers: close reading, clear writing, argumentation, research and project management. Common career paths include:

• Publishing, editing and literary production
• Journalism, content strategy and digital media
• Communications, public relations and marketing
• Teaching at K–12 levels (with appropriate certification) and adult education
• Law, policy and graduate study in the humanities or professional fields
• Library and information services, archival work and cultural heritage organisations

The University of Cincinnati’s strong co‑operative education (co‑op) programme and internship networks help students gain workplace experience, build professional contacts and explore industry options while completing their degree.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

Studying English at the University of Cincinnati combines a broad liberal arts education with access to experiential learning. The department offers small seminars led by faculty active in research and publishing, plus opportunities to pursue independent research or creative projects under faculty supervision.

Students benefit from the university’s co‑op and internship programmes, which connect classroom learning to workplaces in publishing, media, non‑profits and corporations. The campus also supports extracurricular literary activity through readings, writing groups, student publications and partnerships with regional cultural organisations. These resources make the programme well suited to students seeking both intellectual depth in literature and practical preparation for a range of careers or further study.