Literatures and Languages: English

Studying English prepares you to think widely, to read with nuance, to share your knowledge and ideas, and to write and communicate with professional skill. A degree in English can prepare you to work in almost any profession. English majors and minors complete their degrees with demonstrated abilities that are desirable in the professional workplace. We help students learn to analyze texts and information, think critically, and write persuasively.

Our former majors and minors work in a wide range of professions. They work in corporate and non-profit writing, editing, and communication jobs, pursue graduate work in Library Science, English, Law, Business, and Medical School, and teach in public and private K-12 schools in Wisconsin, and beyond.

Our work in English is situated in a love of the written word. Literature is about the world—including science, politics, human behavior, history, religion, philosophy, economics, music, art, and film. Film is also our love language: in our Film and Cultural Studies track, you can learn to analyze film and also how to write, make, and edit your own films. English is the major for people who are curious, and love to read and love to learn.

Department Highlights:

Hands-on Experience in Publishing
English majors and minors receive hands-on experience in most aspects of the publishing industry through internships on our literary journal, Straylight. Straylight accepts fiction, poetry, and graphic artwork from writers and artists worldwide. Straylight is completely student generated. Student interns learn how to accept or reject submissions, to edit author’s work and engage in professional dialogue with authors, artists, and vendors. Interns produce and sell the journal, and have the opportunity to interview internationally renowned authors through the accompanying podcast, The Pub, as well as to compose articles on the journal’s website.

Teacher Education
Our English Language Arts major prepares students to earn certification for middle or high school. In this track, you will find courses that ensure you enter your own classroom with the experience to teach a range of authors and skills with confidence. If you plan to teach Elementary School, we offer a minor that can prepare you for work as a classroom teacher or a Reading Specialist. We work closely with our Teacher Education program to make sure you are fully prepared to begin your career as soon as you graduate. You’ll be licensed and equipped with a portfolio of unit and lesson plans, as well as experience in multiple teaching placements. Our grads are well respected and have successfully found employment throughout Wisconsin.

And don’t forget—your English degree can help you travel the world, since English is the most sought-after second language in the world. Our alumni have taught all around the world.

Tracks and Certificates that Suit Your Needs

Major tracks:
Choose between our Standard Major, our English Language Arts, or our Film and Cultural Studies Major.

English Minor
We also offer an 18-credit English minor, which is a great companion for many majors across the university. For example, a Business major with an English minor will be able to show expertise in writing, communication, and persuasive strategies. A scientist with the ability to write is an unstoppable combination. A medical professional who is also a student of the human condition brings empathy to patients. The English minor can be a huge boost on your resume, while also allowing you to explore books and ideas about which you are passionate.

Creative Writing Certificate
In just 12 credits, you can explore and nurture your creative side. This certificate is an excellent companion to degrees such as Graphic Design or Marketing. Some folks just have that itch to write—this certificate is a place to help you develop your skills, no matter your major. Creative writing both requires and leads to creative thinking—this is what humans do that Artificial Intelligence cannot.

Film Studies Certificate
In only 15 credits, you will have the opportunity to study film from its roots to its branches. In courses like Digital Video or Creative Writing: Screenplay, you have the opportunity to create your own projects, with the guidance of experienced professional instructors.

Who We Are
UW-Parkside’s English professors are award-winning, dedicated, experienced, and creative teachers. In fact, Parkside's Teaching Excellence Award is named the Stella Gray Award after a retired English faculty member. English majors and minors at UW-Parkside develop trusting and supportive relationships with their professors, and can count on these relationships for professional support long after they graduate.

Come to Parkside.  Major in English!