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Is it easy to get a job as an English major?
How do I become an English major?
Are there any scholarships offered through the major?
How do I know what English courses are being offered?
How do I make a faculty advising appointment?
How do I get help with writing?
How do I avoid plagiarism in my writing?
How do I get an internship?
Does the English major have study abroad opportunities?
Is the English major difficult?
Is it easy to get a job as an English major?
Good question! You might think that the only options an English major have in the career world are to write or teach. Truth is, there are many opportunities for English graduates. In fact, SPU English alums are doctors, lawyers, ministers, scientists, entrepreneurs, parents, executives, artists, and everything in between. But sometimes it isn't obvious how to get "there" from "here." You’ll find out more about discerning your own path after graduation in the required English Capstone Class, taken senior year. You can also get information about jobs and internships from the Center for Career and Calling, while you are still a student here -- always a great way to explore and learn more. You might also want to try out a job you’re interested in through the Mentorship Program, as well.
How do I become an English major?
After you've taken a few English courses and done well, we recommend that you talk with a professor you know and discuss the possibility of majoring in English. After that, it's easy. Fill out this major application form, signed by yourself and your advisor, and turn it in to the Humanities office. But remember that before applying you must display an average GPA of 2.5 or higher (4.0 = A) in any two of the following core major courses: ENG 2225, ENG 2251, ENG 2252, ENG 2253.
Are there any scholarships offered through the major?
Absolutely! The Demaray Scholarship is an endowed scholarship and offered annually to juniors or seniors who are dedicated to the study of literature and to writing as a means of discovery, and the Hanawalt Scholarship is a gift scholarship and annually awarded to seniors passionate about social justice. To find out more about these scholarships, check with Student Financial Services, and check out other scholarships you can apply for.
How do I know what English courses are being offered?
Simply check out the course listings here on the English website to find English classes you can take in the quarter want to take them in. And keep a head’s up for brand-new courses to the major! You can also check out more general listings in the SPU time schedule and catalog.
How do I make a faculty advising appointment?
Simply contact your advisor and he or she will be glad to meet with you. If you don’t have an advisor yet, choose one on Banner, preferably a professor you know already from one of your English classes.
How do I get help with writing?
At SPU, we won’t leave you hanging when you’re looking for help editing, outlining, or revising your written word. The Writing Center in The Center for Learning, provides writing tutors that can consult you on issues you’re having with writing. You can schedule an appointment ahead of time or visit during drop-in hours.
How do I avoid plagiarism in my writing?
Please refer to “Avoiding Plagiarism: Mastering the Art of Scholarship” PDF.
How do I get an internship?
The SPU Center for Career and Calling can help you get started on your internship search. They have contacts, databases, and suggestions for searching that go a long way toward helping you find an internship.
Does the English major have study abroad opportunities?
Yes! The most out of any SPU major, in fact! On British Isles Quarter, you can learn about Shakespeare and Medieval literature, while traveling the English countryside. A summer in Rome, Italy is the place to stretch your creative writing skills. And the South Africa Summer Program includes literature, theatre, and service experiences. For more information on English’s study abroad programs, visit the study abroad website.
Is the English major difficult?
“Challenging” would be a better word to describe the English major. Picture yourself among stacks of novels, scouring critical essays, fueled by lots of caffeine. Sometimes you’ll be reading one Shakespeare play per week. Other times, you’ll be rewriting and revising one story for a whole quarter. The English major is time-consuming and rigorous, yes. But don’t let that scare you off: at the same time, you will have the opportunity to discover new things about humanity, faith, and self. Class discussions are lively, fun, and very open. Professors in the department offer their time and help to make sure you do the best you can in their classes; they won’t leave you in the dust. And ultimately, the hard work will pay off, when you receive a shining and glorious B.A. in English.
