Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in literary analysis, language, and writing across historical periods and global traditions. Core study areas typically include British and American literature, world and postcolonial literatures, literary theory, and the history of the English language. Students also study rhetoric and composition, creative writing (poetry and fiction), and applied linguistics.

• Introductory modules — survey courses in literary interpretation, academic research and composition skills.
• Period and genre courses — medieval to contemporary literature, drama, poetry, the novel and short fiction.
• Theory and criticism — close reading, critical theory, cultural studies and approaches to textual analysis.
• Language and linguistics — structure and change of English, sociolinguistics and language in context.
• Writing workshops — creative writing and professional/technical writing practicum to develop craft and editorial skills.
• Capstone and electives — senior seminar or thesis project and elective options such as digital humanities, literature and film, or environmental literature.
• Experiential learning — internship opportunities with local publishers, media outlets, cultural organisations and on-campus writing centres.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a completed secondary education qualification or equivalent recognised by the university, along with a transcript showing strong performance in humanities and writing-based courses. Typical documentation includes high school records and any college-level coursework or test credits; mature applicants and transfer students are considered on an individual basis.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or previous study in English. Some programme tracks or scholarships may have additional requirements such as a writing sample or portfolio for creative writing concentrations.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with skills in critical thinking, research, persuasive writing and communication that are widely applicable across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Editing and publishing for trade publishers, academic presses and digital platforms.
• Content strategy, marketing, public relations and communications roles in public and private organisations.
• Teaching at primary and secondary levels (often requiring additional certification), literacy and tutoring roles, and academic support services.
• Technical writing, grant writing and proposal development for businesses, non-profits and government.
• Further study, including master's and doctoral programmes in literature, creative writing, law school, library and information science, or professional programmes.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers an English programme grounded in both traditional literary study and contemporary, applied skills. The university's location in an active regional capital provides students with easy access to internships, cultural institutions, local media and a growing creative community. Small seminar-style classes allow close faculty mentorship, and opportunities for collaborative projects, undergraduate research and community-engaged learning help prepare students for workplace expectations or graduate study.

Students benefit from campus resources such as writing centres, career services and extracurricular literary activities that support professional development and creative practice. The programme's flexible elective options let students tailor their degree toward creative, pedagogical or professional outcomes.