Why Choose English at Bethel University?
English is the degree for people who love language and want to do something powerful with it. Bethel University's Bachelor of Arts in English develops you as a sharp reader, a strong writer, and a clear thinker, skills that travel into nearly any career. You study how the language works, how great literature is built, and how to craft writing of your own that holds up.
The program's strength is its range. You move through the sweep of American and British literature, dig into Shakespeare, study the history and structure of the English language itself, and sharpen your own voice through nonfiction writing. By the end, you can read closely, argue persuasively, and write well, the kind of versatile, durable skill set that employers and graduate programs both value.
What You’ll Learn
In this program, you will learn:
- An understanding of the origin, development, and structure of the English language, including its history and dialects
- A close knowledge of Shakespeare's major tragedies, comedies, histories, and poetry
- Strong nonfiction writing skills across the personal essay, journalistic forms, and the book review
- A command of American literature from its colonial beginnings to the present
- A command of British literature from before the eighteenth century to the modern era
- The ability to analyze literary movements, authors, and genres in their historical context
- Skill in revision, editing, and responding to the writing of others
- The critical reading and persuasive writing skills that carry into any field
Courses You'll Take
These are the main courses that define the major:
ENG 301, The English Language
ENG 321, Shakespeare
ENG 334, Writing Non-Fiction
ENG 311, American Literature I
ENG 312, American Literature II
ENG 313, American Literature III
ENG 421, British Literature to 1700
ENG 422, British Literature 1700-1830
ENG 423, British Literature 1830-1901
ENG 424, British Literature 1901 to Present
Beyond these, you will complete additional upper-level English electives chosen from the department's offerings numbered 300 or above.
Career Possibilities
Editor
Shapes and refines written content for clarity, accuracy, and style across publishing, media, or organizations.
Content Writer
Produces articles, web copy, and marketing material that informs and engages a target audience.
Communications Specialist
Manages an organization's messaging through writing, public relations, and internal and external communication.
Technical Writer
Translates complex information into clear guides, documentation, and instructions for a specific audience.
Journalist
Researches, writes, and reports stories for newspapers, magazines, or digital outlets.
Grant Writer
Researches and writes proposals that help nonprofits and institutions secure funding.
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