Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in English Language
Majors Overview February 7, 2015Bachelor’s degree programs in English Language are offered at publicly and privately supported universities and colleges. Those interested in pursuing an undergraduate education in the English language can choose to focus on several areas, including literature, education, or linguistics.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in English Language
The focus of coursework in the English language major can center on various aspects of the subject. In some programs, for instance, classes relating to linguistics focus on ancient forms of English apart from history and grammar. There is also a concentration on literature courses, such as Shakespearean plays, 20th century novels, and African-American poetry. Students enrolled in English language programs may also focus on creative writing. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma, in addition to having strong reading and writing skills.
Coursework
Coursework in bachelor’s degree programs in English language may include numerous linguistics and literature classes. The study of linguistics includes topic areas such as phonetics and etymology; writing styles throughout history are studied in literature courses. Coursework in an English language programs may commonly include these courses:
•Studies in rhetoric
•Literary theory
•Applied linguistics
•English composition
•Syntactic structure
•Children’s literature
•English grammar and usage
•British literature
•Expository writing
Career Choices
Those that successfully complete a bachelor’s degree program in English language can choose from various job opportunities in industries such as business, media, and law. Some may seek occupations in communications and public relations, while other individuals could choose to be employed in the fields of journalism and education. These are some of the popular job options:
•Reporter
•Editorial assistant
•Technical writer
•English teacher
•Speechwriter
•Copywriter
•Managing editor
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates of a bachelor’s degree in English language may seek continuing education by enrolling in graduate or professional programs. While many English language graduates choose to join law school, they can also choose from master’s degrees in English. Many schools offer a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in English. Some even offer the programs in online formats.