Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises reading across historical periods and genres, the study of language and rhetoric, and sustained practice in writing. Core modules typically include surveys of British and American literature, literary theory and criticism, research methods in the humanities, and courses in advanced composition. Students choose electives from areas such as Shakespeare, nineteenth-century and modernist literature, contemporary fiction, multicultural and postcolonial literatures, gender and sexuality studies, and film and media studies.

Practical skills courses focus on professional and creative writing: technical writing, editing, creative writing workshops (poetry and fiction), and digital rhetoric. Students often complete a senior capstone or honours thesis that combines independent research with methodological training. The curriculum is delivered through a mix of lectures, small seminars, close-reading workshops, peer-reviewed writing assignments, and collaborative projects.

• Literary surveys (British and American)
• Literary theory and critical approaches
• Creative writing workshops and portfolio development
• Rhetoric, composition, and professional writing
• Electives in film, media, gender studies, and cultural studies
• Research methods and a senior capstone or thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma (or equivalent) with preparation in English and the humanities. Admissions consider academic transcript, writing samples or portfolios where requested, and a personal statement demonstrating interest in literature and writing. Transfer applicants should present college-level coursework and transcripts for evaluation.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised testing or approved institutional pathways. Applicants planning to teach in K–12 settings should be aware that additional state certification is required beyond the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates leave the programme with strong skills in critical analysis, written and oral communication, research, and information literacy—qualities valued across many sectors. Common career paths include publishing and editing, journalism, content strategy and digital communications, marketing and public relations, technical and professional writing, and nonprofit or cultural-sector work. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in English, creative writing, education (with certification), library and information science, or law.

Students benefit from internship opportunities with local media, cultural institutions and businesses in the region, and from campus resources that support resume building and employer connections. The degree is designed to be both vocationally relevant and a firm foundation for further academic study.

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley offers a liberal-arts environment with small seminars and accessible faculty who are active teachers and scholars. The English programme provides opportunities to work closely with professors on research and creative projects, and to publish or contribute to student-run journals and campus media.

Students can take advantage of internships and professional placements in the West Michigan region, study-abroad options to deepen literary and cultural perspectives, and campus centres that support writing and career development. The department emphasises experiential learning, practical writing experience, and preparation for a range of careers or graduate study.

Support services such as advising, writing labs, and career counselling help students shape a personalised programme of study and transition from degree to employment or further study.