University of Northern Iowa

English Majors

Summary

 

In the English program, students explore the immense variety of literary and media texts created within historical traditions and cultures, with special attention to works originally written in the English language. Through the study of diverse literary and cultural traditions within the United States and around the world, students become aware of the human issues, values, and aspirations and prepare for life-long learning and community citizenship. English programs provide skills for a wide range of careers: interpersonal communication, analysis and synthesis.

 

Majors:

English, B.A.
English, B.A.-teaching
TESOL    Plan of Study  (typical courses for this major)
TESOL: Teaching

 

Minors:

English: Literary Studies
English: Film Studies
English: Teaching
Writing: Creative Writing
Writing: Professional Writing
TESOL
TESOL: Teaching

Comparative Literature

 

Certificate Programs:

Post-Colonial and Multicultural Literary Studies

 

(Click major/minor/certificate title to see typical courses for the program)

 

Complementary Minors

An English major may be accompanied by any minor depending on the individual's interests and goals.


Possibilities include:
History and Humanities
Women's Studies
Modern Languages
Philosophy and Religion
Music, Art, and Theatre
Communication Studies & Journalism
Political Science & Business

 

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Careers

 

These vocations range from secondary and post-secondary teaching and careers in writing, technical writing, public
information, editing and publishing to professional positions in such areas as the arts, law, business, banking, and insurance, computer technology and software, library services, and local, state and national government service.

 

Professional Organizations

Society for Technical Communication

 

Examples of postitions held by recent graduates

Middle school teacher

High school teacher

School guidance counselor

College/university teacher

College student services director

School librarian/media specialist

Public library director

Free-lance writer

Technical writer

Newspaper reporter, feature writer

Newspaper sports editor

Magazine writer, editor

Production editor, publishing company

Publications director, university public relations

Director, academic skills center

Technical training instructor

Lawyer

Psychotherapist

Insurance agent

Sales associate

Marketing analyst, manager

Manager, computer software development

Civil engineer

Pastor

 

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Unique Features

  • Highly productive and student-centered faculty

  • Distinguished visiting writers and scholars teach occasional courses

  • Broad range of literature courses, traditional to contemporary

  • Courses in multicultural literature, women's studies, and film and media studies

  • Minor programs in creative writing and professional writing

  • Small classes emphasizing discussion and student participation

  • Home of the North American Review, Prolepsis, and Inner Weather

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Facilities

 

Lang Hall

Many English classes take place in Lang Hall. More Information

 

Baker Hall

Faculty offices in the English Department are located in Baker Hall. More Information

 

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Activities

 

Publishing opportunities

North American Review
Prolepsis
Inner Weather

 

Student Organizations

TESOL Club
Sigma Tau Delta, student affiliate of National Council of Teachers of English

 

Student exchange programs in the United States and abroad Student teaching placements in the United States and abroad are available.

 

Special Events

Readings and lectures by nationally recognized writers and scholars
Occasional location of regional, national and international conferences on language and literary studies

 

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Scholarships

 

Margaret Divelbess Scholarship

Mary Wheat Graves Award

Frank and Otelia Kraft Scholarship

Myrtle Telleen Collins Spirit of Life Creative Writing Scholarship

Irene M. Thompson Scholarship

Critical Writing Essay Competition

Erlene Hubley Literary Prize

Selina Terry Poetry Award

James Hearst Award

Dean's Award

Roberta S. Tamres Sci-Fi Award

 

More information on department scholarships can found at Financial Aid.

 

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