English & Foreign Languages at Waynesburg University

Majoring in English at Waynesburg University provides academic foundation, hands-on experience, and personalized programs and guidance. The program will help you improve reading and writing skills that can be used in all academic fields and professions. You will be able to read literature in a way that improves your perception of the world around you and develop skills needed to teach English or to write professionally. The English program is also an excellent foundation for graduate study in writing, literature, law, and non-for-profit service.

The objectives of the English program are:

• to improve reading and writing skills that can be used in all academic areas and professions;
  
• to introduce students to strategies for reading literature that can help them to become more perceptive;
  
• to guide students to a knowledge of the interrelations between reading and writing;
  
• to give students the depth and breadth of knowledge which will enable them to teach in this field;
  
• to advance skills in professional writing, expository writing, creative writing, and research;
  
• and to prepare students for graduate studies.

Students majoring in English can choose between three tracks: literature, creative writing, or professional writing. Secondary Education is offered with either the literature or the creative writing track. Each track is designed to meet the goals established above and to allow students a program that meets their individual interests.

Students have the opportunity to choose a minor area of study or to craft a personalized program in concert with their academic advisor. For example, those interested in pursuing study in the area of faith and religion can minor in Biblical and Ministry Studies and choose the appropriate courses from the literature, creative writing, and writing menus. Students interested in service to the community can minor in Service Leadership. Or, a personalized plan can be created based upon the student’s English track and his/her future interests.

At Waynesburg you will benefit from the small classroom experience taught by full-time faculty, personalized advising from caring professors and guidance in career planning. The Department of English also offers you an environment where religious beliefs are open to discussion and where you are encouraged to explore what you believe.