Tarleton State University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature programme combines study of literature from a range of historical periods and cultural traditions with coursework in language, literary theory, and composition. Students take survey courses in British and American literature, seminars on authors and genres (for example Shakespeare, the novel, poetry, drama), and modules in contemporary and global literatures. Core skills courses emphasise critical reading, academic research, argumentation, and advanced writing.

Options and specialised topics commonly available include literary theory and criticism, linguistics and the history of the English language, creative writing (poetry and fiction), rhetoric and professional/technical writing, digital humanities, and multicultural and postcolonial literatures. The degree typically culminates in a capstone seminar, senior project or internship that gives hands-on experience in research, teaching, publishing, or community engagement.

Programme structure integrates the university general-education curriculum with major requirements and elective credits, allowing room for minors or double-majors. Practical experiences such as internships with local media, collaboration with the university writing centre, participation in literary journals and opportunities for undergraduate research are encouraged.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or recognised equivalent and submit official transcripts. Tarleton typically looks for evidence of strong performance in college-preparatory coursework, including multiple years of English and composition. Transfer applicants must provide college transcripts showing completed credit and course descriptions for transfer evaluation.

Standard application materials include the university application form and transcripts; additional materials such as a personal statement, writing sample, or letters of recommendation may be requested for certain specialisations or competitive placements. English-language proficiency documentation is required for international applicants. Specific admissions decisions take into account the whole applicant profile rather than a single metric.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English Language and Literature pursue a wide range of careers where advanced communication, critical thinking and analytical skills are valued. Common paths include:

• Secondary teaching (with appropriate teacher certification) and educational roles in schools and colleges;
• Publishing, editing and copywriting for print and digital media;
• Content strategy, communications, public relations and marketing positions in public, private and non-profit sectors;
• Technical writing, information design and user experience (UX) content roles;
• Law, library and archival work, and further graduate study in literature, linguistics, creative writing or related disciplines;
• Careers in cultural organisations, arts administration and community outreach that require strong writing and interpretive skills.

The programme’s emphasis on internships, portfolios and applied writing helps graduates demonstrate practical experience to employers and admissions committees.

Why study at Tarleton State University

Tarleton State offers the resources of a regional public university combined with a liberal-arts environment that supports close faculty mentoring and hands-on learning. The Department provides small seminars, opportunities for undergraduate research and collaboration with campus publications and the writing centre. Students can access internship placements across the region and participate in study-abroad or exchange programmes to broaden their literary perspectives.

As part of the university’s broader academic community, English majors benefit from cross-disciplinary elective options in communication, history, theatre and digital media, enabling students to tailor their degree to career goals. Faculty members are active teachers and scholars who supervise senior projects and support students preparing for graduate study or professional careers in writing and communication.