Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

This programme provides a balance of literary study, language analysis, and practice in writing and rhetoric. Core study typically includes survey courses in British, American and world literature; thematic and period-focused seminars (for example Victorian, modernist, contemporary); and courses in literary theory and criticism. Students also study language and linguistics topics such as syntax, phonetics, and sociolinguistics, and take courses in rhetoric, composition, and professional writing.

Programme features commonly include a choice of modules or electives in creative writing (fiction, poetry), digital humanities and textual analysis, film and literature, and specialised seminars on topics such as gender and literature, race and literature, or postcolonial studies. A senior capstone, practicum or honours thesis gives undergraduates the opportunity to undertake a sustained research or creative project under faculty supervision. Practical elements — including internships, work placements, and public-facing writing projects — are built into the curriculum to develop professional skills.

Typical module themes

• Introduction to Literary Studies and Critical Methods
• Surveys of British and American Literature
• World and Comparative Literature
• Literary Theory and Criticism
• English Linguistics and Language Structure
• Rhetoric, Composition and Professional Writing
• Creative Writing Workshop
• Senior Seminar or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary-school diploma or equivalent with a college-preparatory background that includes strong coursework in English. Admissions decisions take into account high-school academic record, letters of recommendation, and personal statement or writing sample when requested. Where applicable, transfer applicants should submit official college transcripts; credits are evaluated individually.

The university's standard policies on standardised testing and international qualifications apply — prospective students should consult AUM admissions for current guidance on test submission, English-language proficiency requirements for non-native speakers, and documentation for international credentials.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in English Language and Literature have versatile communication, analytical and research skills valued across sectors. Common career destinations include secondary education (often following teacher certification), publishing and editorial roles, journalism, public relations and communications, copywriting and content strategy, and roles in cultural organisations or museums.

Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in literature, linguistics, creative writing, law, library and information science, or education. Internships and campus career services at AUM help students gain experience in local media, nonprofit organisations, government communications and businesses in the Montgomery region, aiding the transition into the workforce.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a campus environment with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty, which supports close mentoring and opportunities for undergraduate research and creative work. The Department of English typically emphasises experiential learning through internships, public readings, and community partnerships that connect students to Montgomery’s cultural and civic organisations.

Students benefit from campus resources such as writing support centres, career services, and opportunities to present work or publish in undergraduate journals. Study-abroad options, practicum placements, and cross-disciplinary electives allow students to tailor the degree to academic or professional goals while building the communication skills employers seek.