Rockford University

What you'll study

The programme is a four-year liberal arts degree that balances core courses in literary history and theory with applied modules in writing and language. You will study major periods and genres — including Medieval and Renaissance literature, Romantic and Victorian writing, modern and contemporary fiction and poetry — alongside courses in American literature, world literatures in translation, and genre studies such as drama and the novel.

• Core modules: Close reading and textual analysis, introduction to literary theory, history of the English language, and advanced composition.
• Period and genre studies: Shakespeare and the Renaissance, Romanticism, Victorian literature, Modernism and postmodern literature, contemporary fiction and poetry.
• Language and linguistics: Syntax and grammar, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis and language variation.
• Writing options: Creative writing workshops (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction), professional and technical writing, journalism and digital storytelling.
• Research and methods: Literary research methods, archival research, and a senior capstone or honours thesis project supervised by faculty.
• Experiential learning: Internship placements with local publishers, newspapers, museums and community organisations; opportunities for study abroad and public-facing projects.

Students personalise their degree through electives and may combine the major with minors such as history, communications, education or theatre. Emphasis is placed on developing strong analytical reading, persuasive oral presentation and advanced writing skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid record in English and humanities subjects. Rockford University typically looks for evidence of strong written communication skills; applicants are often asked to submit a writing sample or portfolio, particularly for creative-writing pathways.

• Academic qualifications: Successful completion of secondary education with competitive grades in English and related subjects.
• Testing: Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be submitted where applicable; many applicants are considered through a holistic review process.
• Supporting materials: One or more academic references and a personal statement outlining your interest in literature and writing. A creative portfolio may be requested for workshop-based modules.
• International students: Proof of English language proficiency such as TOEFL or IELTS where English is not the first language.

Career prospects

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

• Education: secondary teaching (with appropriate certification) and further study in education or literacy.
• Publishing and editing: roles in book publishing, academic publishing, copy-editing and editorial assistance.
• Journalism and media: reporting, content creation, digital media and public relations.
• Communications, marketing and advertising: content strategy, corporate communications and social media management.
• Law and public service: many graduates proceed to law school or to roles in government, non-profits and cultural organisations.
• Research and further study: postgraduate study in literature, linguistics, creative writing or related disciplines.

Internships and the senior capstone project help students build practical experience and professional networks before graduation.

Why study at Rockford University

Rockford University offers a small-college environment with close faculty mentoring and regular opportunities for one-to-one supervision on research and creative projects. The English programme emphasises active learning: seminar discussion, workshop-based creative writing, and community-engaged work with local cultural institutions.

• Small class sizes: Accessible faculty and frequent feedback to support writing and research development.
• Practical experience: Local internship partnerships, editorial opportunities in student-run publications and public-facing projects.
• Research and creative support: Faculty-led undergraduate research, capstone supervision and chances to present work at campus events and regional conferences.
• Liberal arts education: A broad curriculum that allows combination with other disciplines and prepares students for diverse career paths or graduate study.

Together these elements create a programme that develops both the analytical depth and the applied communication skills employers and postgraduate programmes expect.