Wartburg College

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major blends study of British, American and world literatures with courses in rhetoric, linguistics and creative writing. Coursework typically begins with introductory modules in literary studies and composition and moves into survey courses (for example, Medieval to Early Modern, 18th–19th century, and 20th–21st century literatures).

• Core modules: Introduction to Literary Studies, Academic Writing and Research, Literary Theory and Criticism, Senior Seminar or Capstone Project.
• Literature modules: Surveys of British and American literature, Shakespeare, modern and contemporary fiction, poetry and drama, ethnic and postcolonial literatures, and genre studies.
• Language and writing: Courses in rhetoric and composition, linguistics or language studies, professional and technical writing, and creative writing workshops (poetry, fiction, nonfiction).
• Skills and experiences: Emphasis on close reading, critical analysis, argumentation, research methods, editing, and oral presentation. Many programmes include internships, community-engaged projects, theatre collaborations, and opportunities for publication in student journals.

Students normally complete electives to pursue concentrations—such as creative writing, literary studies, or language—and undertake a senior project, thesis or capstone seminar that synthesises research and writing skills developed during the degree.

Entry requirements

Admission to Wartburg College for the BA in English typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a competitive secondary school GPA, and a complete application including official transcripts. Applicants are usually asked to submit a personal statement or writing sample and one or more letters of recommendation.

• Academic background: Strong preparation in English or language arts at secondary level is advantageous. Successful applicants demonstrate reading and writing proficiency.
• International students: Must provide proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications when English is not the first language.
• Placement and advising: Incoming students may take placement assessments in writing to determine appropriate first-year composition courses and will work with an academic advisor to plan the major sequence.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English Language and Literature develop transferable skills—critical thinking, research, clear writing and persuasive communication—that are valued across many sectors.

• Teaching and education (often with additional teacher certification).
• Publishing, editing and literary journalism.
• Communications, public relations, marketing and content strategy for non-profit and corporate organisations.
• Law, graduate study in literature or humanities, library and information services.
• Technical writing, grant writing, advocacy and roles in cultural organisations or theatre and media.

Many graduates combine the major with internships, student teaching, or further qualification (for example, a master’s degree or teaching credentials) to pursue specialised careers.

Why study at Wartburg College

Wartburg College is a residential liberal arts institution with an emphasis on small classes, close faculty mentorship and a community-focused education. The English programme benefits from faculty who are active teachers and scholars, offering personalised advising and opportunities for undergraduate research and publication.

• Small class sizes: Frequent seminar-style classes and one-on-one faculty mentoring support deeper discussion and detailed feedback on writing.
• Experiential learning: Internship partnerships, service-learning courses and production collaborations with theatre and campus media give hands-on experience beyond the classroom.
• Support for writers: Workshops, writing centres and student literary publications allow students to develop creative and professional portfolios.
• Broad liberal arts context: Cross-disciplinary options and study-abroad programmes enable students to place literature and language study in wider cultural and global contexts.

Together these features prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce, professional programmes or graduate study while fostering the communication and critical-reasoning skills essential to many careers.