Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The programme combines survey courses in British and American literature with focused study in world literatures, literary theory, and the history of the English language. Core modules typically include introductory and advanced courses in literary analysis, a senior seminar or capstone experience, and classes in rhetoric and composition. Students can expect options in creative writing (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction), linguistics (phonetics, syntax, sociolinguistics), and elective seminars on topics such as modern drama, contemporary poetry, Victorian literature, postcolonial writing, digital humanities, and film and literature.

Structure includes a mix of lecture, seminar, small-group tutorials and writing workshops. Many students undertake an independent research project or practicum in their final year, and there are opportunities for internships with local publishers, media outlets, cultural organisations and education partners. The department also encourages participation in the university writing centre, student literary publications and undergraduate research forums.

Typical modules and subjects

• Survey of British Literature
• Survey of American Literature
• Introduction to Literary Theory and Criticism
• History of the English Language
• Rhetoric and Composition
• Creative Writing Workshop
• Linguistics and Language Structure
• Senior Seminar / Capstone Project
• Electives: World Literature, Gender and Literature, Contemporary Fiction, Film & Literature

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of strong performance in English courses. Admissions typically review academic transcripts, a personal statement and sometimes supplemental material such as a writing sample or creative portfolio for applicants who wish to emphasise creative writing strengths. Standardised-test requirements follow the university’s general undergraduate admissions policy; prospective students with questions about specific documentation or preparation are encouraged to contact the admissions office or departmental advisers.

Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and a sample of collegiate-level writing; advanced placement or transfer credit for introductory literature/composition courses may be considered according to departmental policy.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles that value strong communication, analysis and research skills. Typical career pathways include teaching (with additional teacher certification where required), editing and publishing, journalism, content strategy and digital communications, technical writing, public relations, and marketing. Many graduates also pursue graduate-level study in literature, creative writing, law, library and information science, or allied disciplines.

The programme’s emphasis on writing, close reading and argumentation is also attractive to employers in business, non-profit organisations and government agencies where clear expression and critical thinking are essential.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a close-knit departmental environment with faculty who are active teachers and scholars, providing substantial opportunities for mentorship and small-class discussion. Students benefit from hands-on learning through writing workshops, a campus writing centre, student literary journals and internship connections in the region. The university supports study-abroad options and undergraduate research, and its career services work with English majors on portfolio development, resume writing and interview preparation.

The programme’s flexible curriculum allows students to combine literature study with minors or elective concentrations in areas such as education, communication, creative writing or digital media, helping tailor the degree to specific career goals.