Berea College

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major at Berea College provides a broad grounding in literary history, close reading, critical theory and written expression. Core study typically includes surveys of British and American literature, Shakespeare, contemporary fiction and poetry, and world literatures in translation. Students also encounter:

• Literary theory and criticism — approaches to interpretation from formalist and historical methods to modern and postcolonial theory.
• Creative writing — workshops and craft courses in fiction, poetry and non-fiction to develop original work and peer critique skills.
• Rhetoric and advanced composition — argumentation, research writing and professional communication.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options — courses linking literature to fields such as history, philosophy, digital media, gender studies and environmental humanities.
• Capstone and independent study — senior seminars, research projects or a thesis under faculty supervision to synthesise skills and knowledge.
• Experiential learning — internship placements, community-engaged projects and opportunities to work on campus publications or literacy programmes.

Classes are small and discussion-focused, emphasising close reading, archival and digital research skills, and written and oral presentation. The programme is designed to be completed alongside Berea College’s student work programme, integrating practical responsibilities with academic progress.

Entry requirements

Admission to the English major follows general admission to Berea College. Typical expectations include a completed secondary-school credential or equivalent and a record of successful academic work in humanities and writing. Applicants commonly submit:

• High school transcripts or recognised secondary-school credentials.
• A personal statement or writing sample that demonstrates interest in literature and writing.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counsellors, where available.
• For transfer or returning students, college transcripts and a description of completed coursework.

Berea College evaluates applications holistically; standardised tests are neither required nor determinative for admission decisions. International applicants should provide evidence of secondary completion and meet college guidance on English language proficiency when applicable. Prospective majors are encouraged to meet with faculty advisers early to plan required courses and electives.

Career prospects

A BA in English Language and Literature from Berea prepares graduates for a range of careers that value critical thinking, clear writing and communication. Common pathways include:

• Education — secondary or postsecondary teaching, often following teacher certification or graduate study.
• Publishing and editing — roles in book, magazine and digital publishing, copy-editing and literary agencies.
• Writing and communications — journalism, content strategy, technical writing, grant writing and corporate communications.
• Public service and non-profit work — programme management, community outreach and advocacy roles that require strong communication skills.
• Graduate study and professional programmes — advanced degrees in literature, creative writing, law, library science or related disciplines.

Internships, campus editorial experience and the college’s emphasis on work and service help students build practical portfolios and professional networks. Faculty mentorship and alumni connections support career planning and graduate-school applications.

Why study at Berea College

Berea College combines a liberal arts curriculum with a distinctive student work programme and a strong commitment to access and service. Students benefit from small class sizes, close faculty-student collaboration, and opportunities to integrate academic work with community engagement in the Appalachian region and beyond.

The college’s educational model emphasises affordability, hands-on learning and leadership development. English majors at Berea have access to faculty who specialise in a range of historical periods and theoretical approaches, opportunities to participate in campus literary activities, and support for internships and experiential learning that connect classroom study to careers and graduate study.

For students seeking a rigorous literature education within a tight-knit, service-oriented campus, Berea provides a programme that emphasises intellectual growth, civic responsibility and practical experience.