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College of Humanities and Social Sciences

English

Studying English provides personal enrichment that lasts a lifetime. Through literature and various forms of writing, you learn valuable skills for many careers.

Related programs
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Degree
  • Bachelor of Arts
Location
  • Huntsville
  • Online
Type of Instruction
  • Face to Face
  • Online
Length

4 Years

turn the page on your story

The study of English enriches your personal and professional lives.

English majors may take courses in literature, creative writing, English linguistics, rhetoric and composition, and technical communication. Our excellent professors frequently win awards and recognition.

English majors develop career-ready skills, such as research, analysis, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Our graduates find careers in many fields, including technical writing, teaching K12 students, marketing, and higher education.

Do you offer online English classes?

Yes, we offer classes online and in-person.

When can I apply?
  • Fall semester applications due August 1
  • Spring semester application due December 15
  • Summer semester applications due May 15

write your own future

The BA in English lets students choose courses to fit their interests. Students may study creative writing, linguistics and grammar, technical communication, advanced composition, and many aspects of literature.

  • undergraduate research

    Students may apply to present at the university’s Undergraduate Research Symposium and other conferences. These experiences help students improve public speaking and get experience with networking.

    SHSU’s journal, called The Measure, publishes the best student work done each year in classes taught by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

  • Professional Publishing

    Students have a unique opportunity to learn about publishing from the Texas Review Press, which publishes 30 books and several journals each year. 


    Students learn how to edit and publish their own literary journal, The Beacon. Selected students can work with faculty to produce the English department’s long-running literary journal, the Texas Review.

  • Technology Access

    The Iris Technical-Communication Suite is equipped with industry-standard tools for students to use in producing and delivering their messages. Students can use the space to create professional-quality documents and content—from printed proposals to podcasts—for a variety of audiences.

Minors

ChatGPT said:

Not sure if an English major is the right fit for you? Explore our Minor in English, Minor in Creative Writing, or Minor in Technical and Professional Writing!

The English minor offers a flexible way to deepen your understanding of literature, language, and communication while strengthening your reading, writing, and critical-thinking skills—abilities that are valuable in any field. You’ll gain insight into how stories, texts, and rhetoric shape the world around us, cultivating perspectives that complement a wide range of majors.

The Creative Writing minor allows you to develop your voice as a writer across genres such as fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. You’ll learn techniques for crafting compelling narratives and vivid imagery, making it an excellent choice for students interested in storytelling, publishing, media, or any field that values creativity.

The Technical and Professional Writing minor blends clarity, precision, and communication strategy. You’ll gain practical skills in writing for professional contexts—such as reports, proposals, documentation, and digital communication—preparing you for careers in business, technology, science, nonprofits, and more.

Discover how these minors can enrich your education, broaden your perspective, and enhance your future career opportunities.

English scholarship opportunities

Genevieve Sandhop Endowed Scholarship
Award $10,000

J. Philip Gibbs, Jr. Endowed Scholarship in English
Award $1,000

Mary Louise Embry Estill Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,500

Paul Ruffin Creative Writing Award
Award Varies

Paul Ruffin Fellow in Publishing
Award $5,000

Pease Family Endowed Scholarship
Award Varies

Ruthannah Brown Endowed Scholarship in the Teaching of English
Award $1,000

Texas Review Journal Editorial Fellow
Award $1,000

Paul Ruffin Fellow in Publishing
Award $5,000

Pease Family Endowed Scholarship
Award Varies

Ruthannah Brown Endowed Scholarship in the Teaching of English
Award $1,000

Texas Review Journal Editorial Fellow
Award $1,000

Students review homework assignment in the Lowman Student Center.

Discover Your Future

An English degree offers various career paths, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking, with opportunities in teaching, publishing, journalism, marketing, and more.

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Learn From Our Outstanding Faculty

Our nationally recognized and award-winning professors bring extensive educational and research experience, demonstrating their commitment to excellence in teaching.

Become a Bearkat

Ready to see what a degree can do for you or to start your application to SHSU? Our Admissions team is here to help.