Florida State University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature degree combines historical and thematic study of literature with courses in language, criticism and writing practice. Core work typically includes survey courses in British and American literature, classes on world and contemporary literatures, and introductory modules in literary theory and criticism. Students also study the structure and history of the English language, rhetoric and composition, and may take modules in linguistics or digital textual studies.

Many programmes offer a choice of elective strands such as creative writing (poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction), film and media studies, cultural studies, and professional writing. Typical module examples include:

• Survey of British Literature
• Survey of American Literature
• Literary Theory and Critical Methods
• History of the English Language
• Introduction to Linguistics
• Advanced Composition and Rhetoric
• Creative Writing Workshop
• Studies in Genre (e.g., drama, poetry, the novel)
• Digital Humanities or Textual Editing

The programme is usually structured with a mix of large lectures and smaller seminars or workshops. Assessment commonly combines essays, close-reading exams, portfolios, creative projects and presentations. Students are encouraged to complement the major with minors or electives in related areas such as history, communication, education, theatre, or business. Opportunities for undergraduate research, internships in publishing or media, and study abroad are regularly available.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma and meet the university's general admission standards. Successful candidates typically present a strong academic record with evidence of ability in reading and writing. Recommended preparation includes advanced coursework in English/literature, writing, and humanities subjects.

International applicants must satisfy English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Mature applicants and transfer students are considered; transfer applicants are expected to provide college transcripts and a record of college-level writing and literature coursework where applicable. A personal statement that demonstrates interest in literature or writing and, for some specialisations, a portfolio of creative work may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

A BA in English Language and Literature provides transferable skills in critical thinking, research, written and oral communication, and close analysis. Graduates move into a wide range of careers including:

• Teaching and education (with appropriate certification for K–12 teaching)
• Publishing, editing and literary agency work
• Journalism, content strategy and digital media
• Public relations, marketing and communications
• Law, public policy and graduate study in the humanities
• Library and information services
• Creative careers including writing, screenwriting and theatre

Many alumni also continue to postgraduate study in literature, creative writing, linguistics, library science or law. Internships, campus career services and alumni networks at Florida State University help students make industry connections and gain practical experience.

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University offers a large, research-active English department with faculty working across historical periods, theoretical approaches and creative practice. Students benefit from a range of specialised centres, writing and tutoring support, and access to extensive library collections. The university's location in the state capital provides internship and cultural opportunities in government, media and the arts, while study-abroad options broaden literary and linguistic perspectives.

Undergraduates can engage in creative writing workshops, undergraduate research projects, and extracurricular literary groups. Small seminar classes alongside larger lectures help develop close analytical skills, and the university’s career resources and alumni network support transitions into professional roles or postgraduate study.