Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major at MTSU combines historical surveys of literature with topical and theoretical courses, practical writing opportunities, and options to specialise. Students typically complete a mix of core literature courses, electives, and general education requirements over the course of a four-year degree.

• Core surveys: introductory and survey courses in British, American, and world literature that build historical and contextual knowledge.
• Period and author studies: focused work on medieval and Renaissance literature (including Shakespeare), the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, modernism, and contemporary literature.
• Theory and criticism: courses in literary theory, methods of criticism, and interdisciplinary approaches that train students in close reading and analysis.
• Writing and rhetoric: classes in advanced composition, professional and technical writing, rhetoric, and multimedia composition to strengthen written communication skills.
• Creative writing and genres: workshops and seminars in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and genre studies such as film, drama, and digital storytelling.
• Linguistics and language study: introductory linguistics and courses that examine language structure, dialect, and sociolinguistic topics.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior seminar or capstone project that synthesises analytical and research skills, plus opportunities for internships, undergraduate research, publishing in student journals, and community-engaged projects.
• Electives and minors: flexibility to take electives across related fields—media studies, history, theatre, communications, or education—and to combine the major with minors or certificates such as creative writing, film studies, or digital humanities.

Structure

The programme is structured to balance major requirements with the university's general education courses. Students progress from foundational writing and literature classes to more specialised seminars. Options for independent study, research assistantships with faculty, and internship placements are built into the curriculum to support career preparation.

Entry requirements

Admission to MTSU follows the university's undergraduate application process, which requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a completed application. Typical entry expectations for the English major include evidence of academic readiness through high school coursework in English and the humanities.

• Academic preparation: successful completion of college-preparatory courses in English, with strong grades in reading and writing-intensive subjects.
• Standardised tests: MTSU's current admissions policy should be consulted for test-score requirements or test-optional provisions.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency is required (for example, by recognised tests or other accepted demonstrations of proficiency).
• Transfers: transfer students should provide college transcripts; transfer credit is evaluated and many students enter the major after completing general education and introductory English courses.
• Additional recommendations: applicants may strengthen their application with examples of college-preparatory writing or a brief writing sample, though specific portfolio requirements vary.

Career prospects

A degree in English Language and Literature from MTSU prepares graduates for a wide range of directions. The programme emphasises analytical thinking, research, clear communication and strong writing — skills valued across sectors.

• Publishing and editorial work: roles in book and magazine publishing, copyediting, proofreading and literary assistant positions.
• Writing and content careers: copywriting, content strategy, digital media, technical writing and corporate communications.
• Education: with additional teacher certification, graduates move into K–12 teaching; others pursue graduate study in English, creative writing, literacy studies or related fields.
• Law, business and public service: the degree is also a common foundation for law school, public administration, advocacy, and nonprofit work.
• Libraries, archives and cultural institutions: positions in librarianship, archival work and museum education, often combined with further professional qualifications.
• Creative industries: opportunities in film, theatre, music-related enterprises and Nashville's broader creative economy, especially where storytelling and textual skills are needed.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU offers an English programme grounded in a balance of traditional literary study and practical writing experience, taught by faculty who are active researchers, critics and practising writers. The department supports student publishing, writing centres and undergraduate research, helping students develop portfolios and real-world experience.

• Proximity to Nashville: close connections to a vibrant regional creative economy provide internship and networking opportunities in publishing, music, media and the arts.
• Student support and resources: access to campus writing and tutoring centres, faculty mentorship, and student-run publications that give undergraduates hands-on experience.
• Flexible pathways: a range of electives, minors and certificates lets students combine literature study with practical skills in digital media, film, theatre or education.
• Experiential learning: emphasis on internships, community projects and undergraduate research helps bridge academic study and career readiness.