University of Wisconsin–Parkside

What you'll study

The English programme at UW–Parkside combines historical and thematic study of literature with practical instruction in writing, rhetoric and research. You will read major works from a variety of periods and traditions while learning interpretive methods and literary theory. Course sequencing moves from foundational surveys and introductory literary analysis to specialised seminars and a senior capstone or practicum.

• Core topics and typical modules: Introduction to Literary Study, British Literature surveys, American Literature surveys, World and Postcolonial Literature, Shakespeare, Contemporary Literary Theory, and Research Methods in the Humanities.
• Writing and rhetoric: Academic Writing, Rhetoric and Composition, Professional/Technical Writing, and courses that emphasise argument, editing and revision.
• Creative and specialised options: Creative Writing (poetry, fiction), Children's and Young Adult Literature, Gender and Literature, Environmental Literature, and Digital Humanities or multimedia writing.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Senior seminar or capstone project, internships with local publishers, media outlets or cultural organisations, and opportunities for undergraduate research under faculty supervision.
• Teacher preparation: For students seeking secondary-school certification, a pathway integrates English coursework with education classes and student teaching placements (meets state licensure requirements when completed).

Entry requirements

Admission to UW–Parkside’s Bachelor’s in English typically requires a high-school diploma or equivalent. Transfer students with college-level credits are admitted based on their college transcript and GPA. International applicants must provide recognised secondary-school credentials and meet English-language proficiency requirements. Specific documentation and any testing requirements vary by applicant type and residency; applicants should consult the university admissions office for current guidance.

Prospective students will benefit from having a strong background in secondary-level English and demonstrated writing ability. Some specialised tracks (for example, creative-writing concentrations) may request or recommend a writing sample or portfolio.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English from UW–Parkside enter a wide range of careers that value communication, analysis and research. The degree provides flexible preparation for professional roles as well as for graduate or professional study.

• Publishing, editing and copyediting
• Journalism, content strategy and digital media
• Public relations, marketing and communications
• Technical and professional writing
• Secondary teaching (with completion of the teacher-preparation pathway and licensure)
• Law, library science, and other graduate programmes in the humanities and social sciences
• Nonprofit management and community advocacy, where strong writing and critical thinking are essential

Why study at University of Wisconsin–Parkside

UW–Parkside offers a student-focused liberal-arts environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty. The campus’s location between Milwaukee and Chicago creates internship and cultural opportunities with regional publishers, media organisations and arts institutions. Faculty in the English department are engaged in research and mentoring, and undergraduates can participate in research projects, campus literary events and student publications.

The university supports practical learning through a Writing Centre, career services that connect students to internships and employers, and a teacher-education programme for students pursuing secondary certification. These resources, combined with a flexible curriculum, help students tailor their studies to specific career goals or postgraduate plans.