Augustana University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major at Augustana University centres on literary history and interpretation alongside practical language and writing skills. Coursework typically includes survey courses in British and American literature, genre studies (poetry, fiction, drama), and period-focused classes such as Medieval and Renaissance literature, Victorian literature, Modernism and contemporary literature.

Students also take modules in literary theory and criticism, research methods for the humanities, and courses in rhetoric and composition to develop argumentation and teaching skills. Many programmes offer electives or concentrations in creative writing (poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction), linguistics and language study, or digital humanities.

The degree is structured around a combination of foundational required courses, elective seminars, and a senior capstone or honours project. Common components include:

• Introductory seminars that introduce close reading, critical vocabulary and academic writing.
• Survey courses covering major British and American authors and movements.
• Specialist seminars in areas such as Shakespeare, narrative theory, gender and literature, postcolonial literature or contemporary global literatures.
• Creative writing workshops and manuscript development opportunities for students interested in producing original work.
• Language and linguistics courses that explore structure and change in English, sociolinguistics and historical linguistics.
• Capstone options: a research thesis, creative portfolio, or practicum that demonstrates advanced analytical and writing skills.

Learning and assessment

Teaching methods typically include small seminars, close-reading workshops, lecture-discussions and one-to-one mentoring with faculty. Assessment emphasises essays, research projects, portfolios, presentations and in some cases oral exams or teaching practica. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research, present at undergraduate conferences and collaborate on publication efforts with campus literary journals.

Entry requirements

Admission to the English programme follows Augustana University's undergraduate admissions process. Typical applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school diploma or equivalent and present strong evidence of written and analytical ability. Suggested academic preparation includes college-preparatory English courses and coursework in history, languages or the humanities.

Applicants are usually asked to submit a personal statement or writing sample that demonstrates clarity of thought and writing skill; this sample is an important part of assessing fit for the programme. Augustana considers the whole application, including transcripts, recommendations and extracurricular engagement.

International applicants should demonstrate English-language proficiency through recognised qualifications or test scores, and transfer students must provide transcripts from post-secondary institutions. Specific institutional requirements such as minimum GPAs, test scores or required documents are available from Augustana University's admissions office.

Career prospects

A degree in English Language and Literature from Augustana prepares graduates for a broad range of careers that value critical thinking, research and communication. Common career paths include:

• Publishing, editing and copywriting
• Journalism and digital media
• Public relations, marketing and content strategy
• Teaching and education (often combined with teacher certification for K–12 roles)
• Law, public policy and graduate study in the humanities or social sciences
• Non-profit and community outreach roles that require strong writing and project management
• Technical communication, grant writing and corporate communications

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study (MA, MFA, PhD) or professional programmes. Augustana supports career development through internships, alumni networking and on‑campus career services that help translate humanities skills into workplace opportunities.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana is a residential liberal-arts university with an emphasis on close faculty-student collaboration. The English programme benefits from small class sizes, regular access to faculty mentors, and opportunities for undergraduate research and creative publication.

Students can take advantage of a supportive writing centre, campus literary events and student publications to build a professional writing portfolio. The university's location and community partnerships also provide internship placements and experiential learning in publishing, cultural organisations and communications roles.

Finally, the liberal-arts approach at Augustana encourages interdisciplinary study, so English majors can combine literature with complementary fields—such as history, theatre, communication or digital studies—to tailor their degree to specific career goals or postgraduate plans.