Programs in English language and literature focus on the spoken and written traditions of the British Empire and its colonies, including the U.S. and Canada. Students learn the history and structure of the English language. They also learn about the cultures of English-speaking peoples. They study folklore and writing.

Charles Dickens. Jane Austen. William Shakespeare. Mark Twain. Louisa May Alcott. Herman Melville. Toni Morrison. Ralph Ellison. These are just a few of the writers whose books you can read as part of an English language and literature program. You can study the classics, from American greats such as "Huckleberry Finn" and "Moby Dick" to famous British novels such as "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Pride and Prejudice." You can read medieval works such as "Beowulf" and "Canterbury Tales" and modern novels such as "Beloved" and "Lolita." And who can forget the great plays of Shakespeare?

Many book lovers choose to get a degree in English because you get to read many different works of literature, including novels, short stories, essays, and poems. However, perhaps the best thing about this program is that while you are studying the English language, you are also learning about different cultures and historical periods. You are always asking, why did this writer write this? What was going on in the world around her? In addition, you also study how the English language developed and changed. Overall, you develop sophisticated skills in writing, critical thinking, and analysis.

English majors acquire strong skills in writing, editing, and proofreading. Graduates can express ideas with clarity, creativity, and economy. They can apply critical thinking, write effective reports, and share concepts easily with others. For these reasons, graduates compete well for most jobs that require four-year degrees. They also qualify for fifth-year master's degree programs in teacher education.

Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in English. Most two-year colleges offer the first two years of study. Students can often transfer these credits to a four-year school. Master's degrees typically take five or six years of full-time study after high school. Doctoral degree programs typically take three to five years after the master's degree. You will need a doctoral degree if you want to teach college or direct research programs.

English majors may choose to focus on any of the following concentrations:

• American Literature
• English Linguistics
• English Literature
• Film Studies
• Folklore
• Literary Criticism
• Literature of Ethnic Minorities
• Writing