Benedictine University

What you'll study

The programme offers a balance of historical and thematic study of literature, practical writing experience, and theoretical approaches to language and culture. Students read and analyse texts from a range of periods and places, study literary theory and criticism, and practise argumentative, creative and professional writing.

• Core literature courses — surveys in British and American literature, periods courses (such as Medieval, Renaissance, Romantic, Victorian, Modernist and Contemporary).
• Thematic and genre courses — Shakespeare, poetry, drama, the novel, global literatures and specialised seminars on topics such as gender, race, and media.
• Critical methods and theory — introduction to literary theory, rhetoric and critical approaches used in scholarly interpretation.
• Writing and composition — advanced academic writing, technical and professional writing, and options in creative writing (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction).
• Linguistics and language studies — elective courses in syntax, sociolinguistics, and the history of the English language.
• Capstone and experiential learning — senior seminar, independent study or practicum; opportunities for internships with local organisations, editing projects, and community-engaged literacy work.

The degree is structured to include general education requirements alongside the major sequence, and students may choose electives or minors to tailor the degree to interests such as education, communications, history, or business.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Benedictine University considers academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation as part of the application. Typical entrants present a strong record in English, humanities and writing-intensive courses.

• Undergraduate admissions — secondary school completion with transcripts; competitive academic standing is expected.
• Transfer students — college transcripts and course descriptions for credit evaluation; transfer students often need to meet residency requirements for the major.
• International students — academic credential evaluation and proof of English language proficiency where applicable (for example recognised tests or institutional evidence of English instruction).
• Additional materials — some applicants, especially those interested in creative writing, may be invited to submit writing samples or a portfolio.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in English Language and Literature develop strong analytical, research and communication skills that are applicable across many sectors. The degree can lead directly to employment or serve as preparation for graduate and professional programmes.

• Publishing and editing — roles in editorial work, copyediting, production and literary agencies.
• Writing and content — careers in journalism, content creation, digital media, technical writing and communications.
• Education — classroom teaching at various levels (often requiring additional teacher certification), tutoring, curriculum development and literacy education.
• Law, business and public service — the programme’s emphasis on argumentation and close reading is useful preparation for law school, public policy, and roles in administration or non-profit organisations.
• Graduate study — pathways to MA or PhD programmes in literature, creative writing, linguistics, or professional degrees in law, library science or business.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University combines a small-campus liberal arts environment with connections to the wider metropolitan area, allowing students to benefit from close faculty mentoring and practical internship opportunities. The English programme emphasises personalised instruction, offering small seminars, one-to-one mentorship for writing projects, and faculty-led research.

• Small class sizes and faculty access — opportunities for sustained mentorship, independent study and participation in departmental events.
• Practical experience — internship placements, editorial and community literacy projects, and connections to regional publishers and cultural organisations.
• Support services — writing centre, career services and advising to help students refine portfolios, prepare for graduate study, or pursue professional pathways.
• Liberal arts context — a curriculum grounded in critical thinking and ethical inquiry consistent with the university’s liberal arts mission, with options to combine the major with complementary minors or certificates.