Ohio Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature major at Ohio Wesleyan emphasises close reading, interpretive skill and effective communication. You will study literature from a range of historical periods, genres and cultural traditions alongside courses in language, rhetoric and writing. Typical course themes include British and American literature, world and postcolonial literatures, literary theory and criticism, the history of the English language, and courses in composition and rhetoric.

Structure and typical modules

• Introductory seminars: small, discussion-based courses that introduce critical methods and close reading.
• Period surveys: sections on medieval, early modern, nineteenth-century and contemporary literature.
• Theory and methods: courses in literary theory, critical approaches and research methods.
• Language studies: the history of English, sociolinguistics and courses that connect language study to literature.
• Creative and professional writing: workshops in fiction, poetry or creative nonfiction and classes in writing for the professions.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: film and media studies, gender studies, digital humanities and cultural studies.
• Capstone experience: an advanced seminar, honours thesis or extended research project supervised by faculty.

Students are encouraged to combine the major with internships, teaching practica, or study abroad; many courses include a strong emphasis on research, presentations and portfolio development.

Entry requirements

Ohio Wesleyan typically looks for applicants with a strong college-preparatory secondary-school record that includes substantial coursework in English and writing. Competitive candidates demonstrate solid grades across a broad curriculum, evidence of analytical and written work, and engagement in extracurricular activities such as student publications, debate, theatre or community service.

Applicants submit standard application materials; the Admissions office can provide specific guidance about testing policies and portfolio submissions for students with significant creative writing or research experience. Transfer students should expect to provide college transcripts and syllabi for prior coursework to determine transfer credit toward the major.

Career prospects

An English degree from Ohio Wesleyan prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value writing, analysis and communication. Typical pathways include teaching and education, publishing and editing, journalism and communications, marketing and public relations, law and public policy, non-profit and advocacy work, and roles in cultural institutions such as museums and libraries.

Graduates also pursue advanced study in literature, creative writing, law, education and other graduate programmes. The curriculum’s focus on research, argumentation and clear expression is specifically useful for careers that require critical thinking, project management and persuasive writing.

Why study at Ohio Wesleyan University

• Small classes and faculty mentorship: OWU’s liberal arts environment offers small seminars and close advising, allowing sustained mentorship for research projects and capstones.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: collaborations across departments and access to special collections, theatre and media resources enable creative and cross-disciplinary work.
• Undergraduate research and teaching experience: students can pursue honours work, present at conferences, assist in faculty research or gain classroom experience through teaching practica.
• Experiential learning: the university supports internships, community partnerships and study-abroad programmes that complement classroom study and build professional experience.
• Career support: dedicated career services and alumni networks help translate literary skills into career pathways, internships and graduate study opportunities.