English

Bachelor of Arts

As an integral part of the liberal arts tradition at the heart of the University, the curriculum of the major in English develops students’ skills in effective reading, writing, listening and speaking through an emphasis upon the rich expressive and aesthetic potential of the English language.

English majors think critically, a skill valued by employers in all fields. Students will learn to analyze materials and situations and then communicate findings effectively, either verbally or in writing. The program in English is interconnected with course work in creative writing and communication studies. Majors will have the opportunity to learn and refine very specific skills, gain practical experience, and enhance their understanding of the applicability of their language and critical thinking skills to the “real” world beyond academics.

At Wheeling University, students will work towards defining literature for themselves in order to see reading as a vital activity that results in the enhancement of the human experience. The program is committed to diversity and inclusion and reinforces that commitment by helping students find their place within the larger community through texts that examine global values. Throughout the program, students will have the opportunity to hone their skills in the following areas: 1) critical thinking; 2) written communication; 3) oral communication; 4) information literacy; and 5) identification of literary elements, authors, and periods.