English

Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Language

Explore the power of language and storytelling through literature that spans from classic works to contemporary voices. Along the way, you'll strengthen your skills in critical thinking, persuasive writing and problem-solving while learning how language shapes culture, communication and change. You'll be part of a supportive academic community that encourages you to explore your interests and grow as a communicator. Graduates go on to careers in publishing, media, education, law and the creative industries.
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Points of pride

9 of 10

Broncos are employed quickly, working in their fields in jobs they like

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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98%

of Broncos had instructors who made them excited about learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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22 trips abroad

led by College of Arts and Sciences' faculty in 17 countries across the world

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Pursue a B.A in Literature and Language

Investigate literature and language from Renaissance poetry to contemporary fiction while discovering how communication shapes culture, identity and society. Through small classes and support from expert faculty, you'll strengthen your skills in textual analysis, persuasive writing, creative thinking and research. You'll explore different perspectives, make connections across disciplines and develop a deeper understanding of how language influences the world around you. Internships, creative workshops and study abroad experiences let you apply your learning beyond the classroom while building confidence and real-world experience. You'll graduate prepared for careers in publishing, journalism, marketing, law, education and public relations.
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What you'll learn

You'll build a foundation in literary history, critical analysis and effective communication through courses spanning literature, language, genre and theory. From medieval poetry and Renaissance drama to modern fiction, you'll learn to interpret complex texts while strengthening your skills in close reading and persuasive writing. You'll explore how literature reflects and responds to the ideas, cultures and experiences that shape our world. Along the way, you'll develop communication and problem-solving skills that prepare you for careers in education, law, publishing, communications and graduate study.

Where you'll be after graduation

A literature and language degree from WMU prepares you for a wide range of careers and continued academic study. You'll graduate with skills in writing, research, critical thinking and communication, valued in fields like technical writing, marketing, communications and freelance work. Many graduates also continue their education through master's or doctoral programs in areas like education, law, instructional design and library science.
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What others have achieved

English graduates build successful careers and academic pathways by applying their strong writing, research, and critical thinking skills across fields.  

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Accomplished writing alumni return to WMU for Frostic Reading Series

Natalie Giarratano, Monica McFawn and Kristian O'Hare will read from their works at 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, in Rooms 157-159 of the Bernhard Center as part of the Fall 2014 Gwen Frostic Reading Series.

Making the most of your learning experience

At Western Michigan, experiential learning shapes your time in the English program, from internships and campus involvement to project-based learning. These opportunities let you apply your skills in real-world settings while building confidence and a stronger portfolio. Faculty mentors help guide you along the way, connecting coursework to opportunities that match your interests and goals. By graduation, you'll have practical experience to draw on, whether you're entering the workforce or continuing your education.
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What scholarships are available for a Literature and Language degree?

WMU is committed to making your education affordable. Institutional and college-level scholarships are available to eligible students, and the English department offers dedicated scholarships for English majors. Connect with the Office of Student Financial Aid to explore what you qualify for.
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Frequently asked questions

A degree in literature and language opens doors to careers in publishing, writing, education, law, marketing, public relations and more. The critical thinking and communication skills you build are valued across nearly every field. 

Yes—literature and language students take part in internships, creative workshops, campus involvement and study abroad experiences. These opportunities let you apply your skills in real-world settings while building a portfolio and professional experience before graduation. 

Yes—WMU offers institutional and college-level scholarships to help make your education affordable, and the English department has additional scholarships specifically for English majors. Connect with the Office of Student Financial Aid to explore what you qualify for. 

No extra hoops to jump through — if you're admitted to WMU, you're eligible to pursue this degree. We do encourage you to declare your major by your sophomore year so you can make the most of your time, build relationships with faculty early and stay on track for graduation. 

Both degrees build strong writing and communication skills, but they take different angles. Literature and language focuses on reading, interpreting and analyzing texts, from Renaissance poetry to contemporary fiction, and is a great fit if you love exploring how stories and language shape culture and ideas. Rhetoric and writing studies is more practice- and production-focused, centering on how writing creates change and meaning in the real world, with practical work in areas like technical writing, web content, grant writing and copywriting.