Ursinus College

What you'll study

The English curriculum at Ursinus emphasizes both literature and language across historical periods and global traditions, alongside practical training in writing and research. Core study typically includes American and British literature surveys, world and postcolonial literatures, poetry and drama, and courses in literary theory and criticism. Students also take classes that focus on specific genres, periods or themes—such as Renaissance drama, 19th‑century fiction, modernist poetry, contemporary fiction, and African and Caribbean literatures.

Creative writing and rhetoric are integral to the programme: workshop courses in fiction, poetry and creative non‑fiction develop craft and peer critique skills, while classes in composition, rhetoric and digital writing train students to produce persuasive texts for varied audiences. The department supports applied opportunities including internships, editorial experience with student publications, and courses in digital humanities and new media that introduce textual analysis with contemporary tools.

As part of the major, students complete advanced seminars and a capstone experience—often a senior seminar, thesis or substantial independent project—designed to synthesise close reading, original research and sustained writing. The department encourages interdisciplinary study, study‑away options and elective coursework across history, philosophy, theatre, film studies and education to broaden perspectives.

Entry requirements

Admission to Ursinus College is based on a holistic review of academic preparation and potential. Prospective students should present a strong high school record with coursework in English and humanities; honours or Advanced Placement classes in English or related subjects are advantageous. Ursinus has test‑optional policies, so SAT/ACT scores may be submitted but are not required.

Typical application materials include a completed college application, official high school transcript, a personal statement, and one or more letters of recommendation. Students interested in the English major usually declare the programme during their first two years; there is no separate competitive application to join the major, but majors must fulfil departmental requirements and complete upper‑level coursework to graduate with the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English from Ursinus enter a wide range of fields. Many pursue careers in education, media and publishing (editing, copywriting, journalism), communications and public relations, non‑profit programme coordination, and government or policy roles. The degree is also a common pathway to professional schools, including law, library science and business, as well as to graduate study in English, creative writing and related disciplines.

Hands‑on experiences such as internships, editorial work on campus publications, teaching practica, and partnerships with local organisations help students build portfolios and professional networks. The college’s career services and alumni network support job searching, graduate applications and skills development in areas like oral presentation, grant writing and digital content creation.

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus offers the advantages of a small liberal arts college: close faculty mentoring, small seminar classes, and an emphasis on writing and individual attention. The English faculty combine scholarly expertise with a commitment to undergraduate teaching, supervising independent research and senior theses. Students benefit from a collaborative environment where classroom discussion, peer workshops and one‑to‑one advising are central.

Beyond the classroom, Ursinus encourages experiential learning—internships with regional cultural organisations, study‑abroad opportunities, and campus literary events give students practical experience. Support resources such as the writing centre and library research services help students develop rigorous research habits and strong writing portfolios that serve both career and graduate study ambitions.