English
Department of English
Administration
Chair: Deborah Dean
Department Information and Advisement Contact:
4138 JFSB
801-422-4938
english@byu.edu
Advisement Center:
1041 JFSB
801-422-3541
liberalarts@byu.edu
Admission to Degree Program
All degree programs in the Department of English are open enrollment. However, special limitations apply for English teaching majors.
The Discipline
The English major provides a detailed knowledge of the English language and of literature written in English. English majors approach language and literature as a source of knowledge and aesthetic pleasure, a mode of encountering and evaluating diverse minds and attitudes, a vehicle for art and action, a means of historical understanding, and a source of spiritual insight. English majors use writing as their primary means (1) of knowing, understanding, and evaluating their experience and their reading and (2) of sharing their insight with others. In keeping with the long-standing ideals of a liberal arts education, the English Department aims to cultivate in its students those foundational skills in writing, awareness, and judgment upon which lives of wisdom, service, and an ever increasing love for learning might be built.
Career Opportunities
English is a diverse major with emphases in both creative and professional writing, English education, literature, and media and cultural studies. Because of these different “tracks” through the major, students can tailor their academic path based on individual interest while gaining core competencies across the curriculum. English majors equip themselves with portable and durable abilities that translate into recognizable professional value. Whether planning to pursue graduate study, or starting a career after graduation, English majors stand out as strong communicators who can make sense of complex information and navigate nuanced cultural contexts. The major supports an “English Plus” program that includes a variety of study abroad options, on- and off-campus internships, and other professional development opportunities which students can integrate with their course of study. English graduates find success in a variety of fields because of their foundational training in careful thinking and analysis, deep reading, and critical and creative writing. This training gives them an enduring competitive advantage, especially when supplemented with internships, pre-professional minors, or other work experiences. Our graduates have gone on to careers as marketing managers, researchers, heads of operations, UX designers, teachers, editors, and writers. To see where some of our BYU English graduates have found success, visit our English at Work page.
Graduation Requirements
To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:
The University Core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education.
At least 30 credit hours must be earned in residence on the BYU campus in Provo as an admitted day student
A minimum of 120 credit hours
A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office
Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.
Graduate Programs Available
This department also offers graduate degree programs. For more information, see Graduate Studies.
