Bachelor of Arts in English
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English in the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) at the University of the Incarnate Word prepares students for success in a diverse array of professional fields and advanced degrees and launches them on a course for a lifetime of learning and intellectual curiosity.
Why English?
Journalism, writing and editing, publishing, communications, teaching, marketing, advertising, public relations, law, non-profit administration -- the professional options for graduates with a B.A. in English are seemingly countless. In fact, there are few fields for which an English degree isn’t extremely useful. Throughout the English degree program, students develop an analytical eye, a profound understanding of language and its varied uses, and the ability to craft clear and logically argued writing. These are foundations for success in any profession. Many English graduates also pursue graduate degrees prior to beginning a career.
English Curriculum
The B.A. in English degree from UIW is a 121-degree hour program that invites students to explore the interplay of language and imagination and their role in the shaping of culture through careful examination of text, audience and author. The skills that students learn in English classes are not found elsewhere in that they focus on abstract critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare them for an increasingly complex and demanding world.
UIW students learn from exceptional faculty who have a wide range of expertise. Students study in smaller class sizes and can expect thought-provoking courses that challenge them to read and write about the world. They engage in the study of literature and the theoretical underpinnings of multiple readings, and become immersed in composition as a process and an art. Advanced courses in Rhetoric and Technical Communication focus on practical applications to daily life and business.
Creative Writing Emphasis
UIW’s thriving Creative Writing emphasis prepares students for MFA programs and professional opportunities. Students can choose from a wide variety of courses in Professional and Technical Communication, Literary Analysis, and Creative Writing that can be tailored to complement a student’s other interests.
UIW students are encouraged to study abroad to foster personal growth, increase career aspects and provide experiential learning that isn’t available elsewhere. UIW Study Abroad offers students more than 140 study abroad locations around the world, two campuses in Mexico and countless faculty-led programs. UIW’s Study Abroad program promotes the Mission of UIW by developing enlightened citizens engaged in the human condition across the world. Study Abroad programs offer UIW students the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures while gaining new perspectives.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Virtual Study Abroad (VSA) programs are now available with select UIW Sister Schools.
Careers in English
UIW English majors and minors have made careers in business, writing and editing, teaching, educational administration, law, diplomatic and social services, technical communication, and TESOL (Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language). Graduates of UIW’s B.A. in English program pursue careers in the Peace Corps, for university presses, teachers, university faculty and more. For postsecondary teachers, who typically have a doctoral or professional degree, the projected growth rate between 2019 and 2029 is 9%, above the 4% average of other occupations.