English

Overview

An English degree from Saint Joseph’s University offers excellent training for a broad range of careers, from public relations to teaching to journalism and beyond. Employers continue to seek talented and articulate individuals who can analyze complex situations, and a degree in English will teach you how to write both creatively and persuasively.

What Comprises the English Major?

The English major at Saint Joseph’s University will acquaint you with many forms of literary expression. You can choose concentrations in literature, writing, journalism, education or drama, and you have the ability to minor in another subject of interest. Small classes, careful advising, individualized instruction and discussion-oriented seminars provide a vibrant learning atmosphere.

What Can You do with a Degree in English?

English faculty members offer direction to those wishing to develop a portfolio for admission to graduate programs or other career objectives. Professions for English majors include:

Print journalism
Law
Communications
Media
Publishing
Public relations
Creative writing
Community and civil service

Saint Joseph’s University’s active internship program also offers opportunities to work in a variety of professions.

Ways to Study English

You can pursue a major in English or an English minor if you are majoring in another discipline. You can also pursue our 4+1 English/Writing Studies M.A. program to advance your career while saving time on your graduate degree study.

How will Saint Joseph’s University Prepare You for a Career in English?

Saint Joseph's University offers unique opportunities for English majors to demonstrate their writing skills by working for our student newspaper, The Hawk, or the campus literary magazine, Crimson and Gray. Students who write for The Hawk will learn how to report local campus events and news stories in Philadelphia in a clear, compelling manner. Those who write for Crimson and Gray will have the opportunity to publish their creative writing in a literary magazine, further enhancing their writing portfolio.

Saint Joseph’s University is also home to the Omicron Phi chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the official International English Honor Society. The Omicron Phi chapter offers membership to English majors and minors every year based on academic excellence, and membership to the organization provides important connections when securing a career.

Continue Your Education in English

A graduate degree can help you to better hone your skills in your field. If you’re interested in pursuing a professional writing career, the 4+1 English/Writing Studies program is available to pursue your master's degree, while completing your bachelor's at the same time. You can explore this option by enrolling in graduate classes during your junior and/or senior year. You can apply these credits to the 30-credit M.A. in Writing Studies.

Saint Joseph's offers a variety of graduate options to help undergraduates further develop their skills and advance their careers after graduation.

Course Catalog Information

Communication Studies

As a communication studies major, you will gain knowledge and experience to pursue a career in media, journalism, public relations, marketing, advertising, law, film and more.

Political Science

The political science major at Saint Joseph’s University offers the opportunity to examine politics, government and the political process. This program is ideal for those interested in the study of power, behavior, compromise and relationships between political figures in a variety of different contexts.

Education - Secondary Education (Grades 7-12)

The secondary education major at Saint Joseph's prepares future high school teachers (grades 7-12). Earn a dual major and become a teacher of English, biology, chemistry, history, mathematics, physics, French, Italian, classical studies (Latin) or Spanish. This program leads to Level 1 Teaching certification in Pennsylvania.