University of San Diego

What you'll study

The English programme combines study of literary traditions with training in rhetoric, composition and, where chosen, creative writing. Core study typically includes survey courses in British, American and world literatures, instruction in literary theory and criticism, and courses in research methods and advanced composition. Students may take modules such as:

• Introduction to Literary Studies and Close Reading
• Major Authors and Periods (for example: Shakespeare, Romanticism, Victorian literature, Modernism)
• American Literature and Ethnic/Minority Literatures
• World and Postcolonial Literatures
• Literary Theory and Critical Approaches
• Rhetoric, Argumentation and Public Writing
• Creative Writing workshops in poetry, fiction and non-fiction
• Genre studies (drama, poetry, prose, graphic narratives)
• Digital Humanities, editing and textual scholarship
• Capstone seminar or senior thesis/project

The degree is typically structured around general education requirements, a set of required core courses in the major, and elective options that allow specialisation in areas such as creative writing, literary studies, cultural studies, or rhetoric and composition. Upper-level seminars and a capstone project or thesis give students experience in independent research and advanced writing.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical entry standards include a strong academic record with evidence of proficiency in reading and writing. For applicants from the UK, successful candidates normally present strong A-level grades or equivalent qualifications; for International Baccalaureate applicants a competitive full diploma score is expected. For applicants from the United States, a competitive high school GPA is required.

Many programmes value demonstrated interest in literature and writing; applicants may strengthen their application with a portfolio of writing, a personal statement that articulates academic interests, and letters of recommendation. Applicants for whom English is not a first language are normally required to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or institutional evidence of prior instruction in English.

The university may consider standardised test scores (SAT or ACT) where submitted, but admissions policies on testing can vary; check the university admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in English Language and Literature develop transferable skills in critical analysis, research, written and oral communication, and creative problem-solving. Common career paths include:

• Publishing and editorial roles (editing, copyediting, production)
• Journalism, content creation and communications
• Marketing, public relations and social media strategy
• Education and teaching (often following a teacher-preparation programme or additional certification)
• Law, public policy and graduate study in humanities or social sciences
• Non-profit management, advocacy and community outreach
• Creative careers such as writing, screenwriting or freelance authorship

Many graduates also proceed to postgraduate study—MA programmes in literature, creative writing or humanities, or professional programmes in law, business or education—where the degree’s emphasis on writing and critical thinking is highly valued.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a liberal arts environment rooted in a Catholic intellectual tradition that emphasises ethical inquiry and global engagement. The English department provides small seminar-style classes, opportunities for close faculty mentoring, and access to interdisciplinary courses across the humanities. Students benefit from a campus positioned within a major coastal city, which provides cultural institutions, internship opportunities with local publishers, media organisations and educational institutions, and community-engaged learning experiences.

Additionally, the programme encourages experiential learning through writing centres, student publications, readings and workshops, and opportunities to present research or creative work. These features help students build a strong portfolio and professional network while completing a rigorous liberal arts degree.