English forms the cornerstone of the humanities. In a variety of courses in literature, writing, and the English language, SHSU English students find a source of personal enrichment, and they develop verbal, analytical, and cultural skills readily adaptable to a variety of careers. English students learn to write with grace and precision, to read and analyze texts with accuracy, to conduct research and organize a welter of materials, to speak and listen well-in short, to sharpen their critical thinking and critical inquiry skills. These skills are highly valued by prospective employers. When our graduates leave SHSU with a degree in English, they are prepared for career opportunities or advanced study in technical and professional communication, teaching, journalism, government service, editing, law, and business.

Texas Poet Laureate

Paul Ruffin, a Texas State University System Regents’ Professor and Distinguished Professor of English at Sam Houston State University, has been named the Texas Poet Laureate for 2009. Ruffin was recognized by the Texas Legislature in Austin. Dr. Ruffin is the author of six acclaimed books of poetry as well as several volumes of fiction and nonfiction. He has published poems in hundreds of journals and anthologies, is the founder and editor of The Texas Review and the director of Texas Review Press.

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