University of South Alabama

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature degree combines historical and thematic study of literature with practical training in writing, rhetoric and language analysis. You will read major works from British, American and world traditions, explore literary theory and criticism, and study the English language and its varieties.

• Core literature modules: Surveys of British and American literature, Shakespeare, modern and contemporary fiction, poetry and drama.
• Thematic and period courses: Medieval and Renaissance literature, Romanticism, Victorian studies, 20th-century literature, postcolonial and global literatures.
• Language and rhetoric: Courses in linguistics, sociolinguistics, rhetoric and composition studies, and research methods in language.
• Writing practice: Instructional, creative and professional writing workshops that develop editing, publication and multimedia communication skills.
• Capstone and research: Seminar-based capstone projects, senior thesis options or practicum experiences that synthesise critical, historical and creative work.
• Electives and experiential learning: Options typically include digital humanities, gender and sexuality studies, film and media studies, internship placements and study-abroad modules.

Structure

The programme is delivered through a mix of lectures, small seminars and writing workshops. Students combine major requirements with the university's general education courses and electives, and may choose a minor or concentration. Practical experience is encouraged through internships, editorial work on campus publications and community partnerships in the Mobile region.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent. Admission considers academic achievement in secondary school, strength of written work and readiness for university-level reading and writing. Standardised test scores may be considered where submitted, but many applicants are evaluated on a holistic basis.

• Recommended preparation: Courses in English, composition, humanities and history are useful preparation.
• Portfolio: Applicants to creative-writing pathways may be asked to submit a short portfolio of original work.
• Transfer applicants: Transfer students should provide college transcripts and a record of completed general-education coursework; individual course equivalencies are assessed on admission.
• International students: English-language proficiency is required; applicants should consult the university for accepted tests and documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong research, critical thinking and written-communication skills that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Secondary-school teaching (with additional teacher certification) and further study in education.
• Publishing, editing and copywriting for print and digital media.
• Communications, public relations and content strategy roles in business, non-profits and government.
• Law, library and archival work, and graduate study in literary studies or related fields.
• Digital media, technical writing and user-experience writing roles that combine language skills with technology.

Internships, campus editorial opportunities and community partnerships often help students build portfolios and professional networks before graduation.

Why study at University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers a personalised learning environment with small seminars and accessible faculty who combine research and teaching. Located in Mobile, the programme benefits from regional cultural institutions and internship opportunities in publishing, museums and civic organisations.

• Experienced faculty: Professors with expertise across periods, genres and language studies supervise research and mentor students.
• Practical experience: Opportunities to gain editorial and internship experience through campus publications and local partners.
• Support services: Writing support, career services and advising help students prepare job applications, graduate-school materials and professional portfolios.
• Flexible pathways: Options for minors, double majors and study-abroad placements allow students to tailor the degree to specific career aims.