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English

English majors explore the best of Western literary tradition from a Christian point of view. Students may select one of two academic tracks - literary studies or writing - or they may pursue both.

Academics

  • Maintain Christ as your focus while gaining a solid background in literature, writing, and education. Join classmates and professors as you travel to historic locations in America and Europe to study significant literary figures. Meet authors, scholars, and songwriters from across the country. Obtain meaningful internships with area businesses, publishing companies, and theatre troupes. Prepare for a career in teaching, publishing, writing, advertising, public relations, marketing, library science, or law.

    The English program at Wisconsin Lutheran College explores the best of the Western literary tradition from a Christian point of view. We ask what a text says and means, whether it is true, and how Scripture would have us respond. Courses are offered in three areas: literature, writing, and education. Students have the opportunity to explore all areas of American and British literature, in addition to women’s literature, non-Western writings, creative writing, and literary criticism. Studies in these areas help students develop their powers of expression and explore the behavior, ideas, and values of others. The English major enhances critical and analytical skills in thinking, reading, and writing, all crucial to numerous disciplines and professions.

    What Makes the Program Distinctive?

    In all aspects of the English program at Wisconsin Lutheran College, professors strive to approach their subjects through the frame of Scripture. Students are challenged to develop a thoughtful and thoroughly Christian approach to art and life. Qualified professors are accessible and creative, structuring courses that include off-campus performances and visits to historic sites, including trips to Great Britain or Italy. Guests such as singer/songwriters, authors, and literary scholars are invited to campus. In addition, students have the opportunity to learn from their professors by serving as student research assistants.

  • ACADEMICS AND RESEARCH

    Track Options

    Wisconsin Lutheran College offers English majors an opportunity to select one of two academic tracks - literary studies or writing - or they may pursue both. The literary studies track provides students with a thorough knowledge of American literature, British literature, and additional areas of emphasis, as determined by the electives chosen. The writing track provides students with experiential knowledge and analysis of a diverse range of writing techniques, including expository, creative, technical, and scientific. In addition, students participate in communication and philosophy courses.

    Interdisciplinary Options

    While English is an excellent stand-alone major, faculty members encourage students to consider combining English with additional programs of study. The English major consists of 36 credits, allowing students to pursue an additional major or minor while graduating within four years. For example, students interested in pre-law may study English and philosophy. Those desiring a career in marketing would benefit from majors in English and business administration, or potentially a communicative arts major or minor. Students studying Spanish, German, or China Studies would also benefit from an English major or minor, acquiring highly marketable knowledge and skills.

    BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

    Travel Course Opportunities

    Every two years, the English department sponsors a travel opportunity for students. The trip provides students with the chance to earn elective credits, as well as engage in intensive learning and travel experiences. In the past, students have traveled alongside faculty to New England, Great Britain, and Italy. A 2013 visit to England included a sighting of Prince William and his wife, Kate, Prince Harry, Prince Charles, and Queen Elizabeth! Students also were able to visit the Jane Austen Centre, participate in walking tours, stand in a replica of the Globe Theatre, walk to the Tower of London, and examine artifacts on display at the Ashmolean Museum located on Oxford University's campus.

    Experiential Learning Opportunities

    The English program offers unique opportunities to enhance student success in gaining admittance to graduate programs and finding jobs. Students may serve as writing tutors, assist in WLC's Center for Academic Excellence, or intern in area Milwaukee organizations. Recent English majors have served as editor-in-chief of WLC's student newspaper, The Sword, and as class speaker at WLC's Commencement. In addition, recent English majors have interned at Bellwether Funding LLC, Waukesha Civic Theatre, and Penzeys Spices. 

    GRADUATE SCHOOL AND CAREERS

    Graduate School

    English majors graduating from WLC have been accepted into graduate programs at such schools as Marquette University, University of Aberdeen, University of Adelaide, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

    Careers

    WLC's English program prepares students for a variety of careers including writing, publishing, advertising, public relations, marketing, library science, and law. Graduates are employed as literacy program coordinators, teachers, legal coordinators, publishers' assistants, content writers, technical writers, marketing consultants, and authors. Companies employing alumni include Harvard University, Literacy Council of Greater Waukesha, RedMoxy Communications, Wild Knight Publishing, and Zywave.

    ADVISING INFORMATION

    Learn more about course offerings, sample programs, and entrance requirements for this major:

    ENGLISH ADVISING PAGE

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