Point Park University

What you'll study

This is a four-year undergraduate programme combining survey courses in British, American and world literatures with thematic and period options, theory and practical writing modules. You will study literary history and major authors, approaches to literary criticism, and the connections between literature and other arts. Core topics typically include narrative and genre studies, Shakespeare and drama, modern and contemporary fiction and poetry, literary theory, rhetoric and composition.

Practical and applied courses complement the surveys: creative writing (poetry, fiction, nonfiction), professional and digital writing, editing and publishing, research methods, and a senior capstone or thesis project. Elective opportunities often allow you to explore film and adaptation, children’s literature, multicultural and postcolonial literatures, and digital humanities tools for literary analysis. Internships with local cultural organisations, publishers, media outlets or digital agencies are regularly available and encouraged.

Programme structure

• Combination of general education requirements and major-specific courses across four years.
• First-year seminars focus on close reading, academic writing and research skills.
• Mid-level courses introduce theory, genre studies and methods; upper-level seminars emphasise independent research, advanced writing and a capstone or senior project.
• Opportunities for experiential learning through internships, study abroad, collaborations with the Conservatory and community-engaged projects in downtown Pittsburgh.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions consider academic records, personal statements and recommendations. Students who apply to a creative-writing concentration are often asked to submit a short writing sample or portfolio to demonstrate preparedness for advanced workshops; check with the admissions office for programme-specific guidance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or accepted alternatives.

Point Park values applicants who show strong reading, writing and analytical ability, engagement with literature or the arts, and an interest in experiential learning and professional development.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English Language and Literature move into a wide range of fields that value communication, critical thinking and research skills. Common pathways include:

• Publishing and editing (trade, educational, digital publishing)
• Journalism, content strategy, copywriting and communications roles in corporate and nonprofit sectors
• Marketing, public relations and social media management
• Education (with additional teacher certification for K–12 teaching), library and information work
• Creative professions including creative writing, scriptwriting and theatre-related roles
• Graduate study in literature, creative writing, law, library science or other humanities and professional programmes

Internships and the programme’s emphasis on workplace-ready writing help graduates move into entry-level positions and build professional networks in Pittsburgh and beyond.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park offers small class sizes and direct faculty mentoring that help students develop individualized programmes of study and close-critical-reading and writing practices. The university’s downtown Pittsburgh location places students in a culturally vibrant city with theatres, literary festivals, independent publishers and media organisations that provide internship and collaboration opportunities.

The curriculum integrates practical training—editing, publishing labs, digital writing and internship placements—with strong liberal-arts foundations, making the degree both intellectually rigorous and career relevant. Students benefit from cross-disciplinary links with the Conservatory of Performing Arts and the School of Arts & Sciences, hands-on professional development, and a supportive advising structure aimed at preparing graduates for both employment and further academic study.