Pfeiffer University

What you'll study

The programme balances survey and specialised courses across historical periods, genres and global traditions. Core topics include surveys of British and American literature, world and postcolonial literatures, literary theory and criticism, and courses in rhetoric and advanced composition. You can expect modules such as:

• Introduction to Literary Studies and Close Reading
• British Literature to 1800 and British Literature since 1800
• American Literature from Colonial to Contemporary
• World and Postcolonial Literature
• Shakespeare and the Early Modern Period
• 19th- and 20th-Century Novel and Poetry
• Literary Theory and Criticism
• Composition, Rhetoric and Professional Writing
• Linguistics and the History of the English Language
• Creative Writing workshops (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction)
• Digital Humanities, text analysis and contemporary media
• Senior Seminar and Capstone Project or Thesis

Students are encouraged to pursue applied learning through internships, independent study, undergraduate research and community-based writing projects. Electives allow tailoring toward concentrations such as creative writing, professional writing, secondary education preparation or literary studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit a full academic transcript. Pfeiffer considers academic performance across core subjects, a personal statement that outlines interest in literary study and any relevant writing samples; applicants seeking a creative-writing focus may be asked to provide a short portfolio. Standardised tests may be optional depending on admissions policy; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and a record of previous coursework in writing or the humanities. International applicants must meet Pfeiffer's English proficiency expectations through recognised tests or demonstrated prior instruction in English.

Career prospects

Graduates with an English degree develop skills in analysis, research, argumentation and clear written communication that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Publishing, editing and literary production
• Content strategy, copywriting and digital communications
• Teaching and education (many graduates pursue teacher certification or graduate study to teach at secondary level)
• Public relations, marketing and nonprofit communications
• Law, graduate study in humanities and interdisciplinary research
• Library, archival and cultural heritage work

Internships, campus career services and alumni networks support practical experience and job-search preparation. Many students also continue to postgraduate study in literature, creative writing, education, law or related fields.

Why study at Pfeiffer University

Pfeiffer offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling regular tutorial-style discussion and individualised feedback on writing and research. The university emphasises experiential learning—students have access to internships in nearby regional centres, study-abroad opportunities, and faculty-led research projects. A dedicated writing centre and campus resources help students strengthen composition and editing skills, while career services and strong alumni connections provide guidance on professional pathways. Pfeiffer's values-informed campus community supports personal development alongside academic study, making it a good fit for students seeking both rigorous literary education and attentive support.