The English Studies major
consists of a common core of 41 credits designed to prepare students for advanced study in one of four concentrations: Literature, Linguistics, Writing, and Secondary Education Language Arts (for students preparing to teach English at the middle or high school levels). In addition, we offer minors in literature, writing, and linguistics a certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). Our goal is to give our students broad exposure to all areas of the English language.
Through our literature classes, students learn about major literary works and figures of various eras and nationalities, and become well versed in various theories of criticism. Writing classes have students refine research and writing skills and become conversant with composition history and theory. Linguistics classes develop an understanding of the nature, history, and structure of language.
In addition to our strong course offerings, we boast an energetic, talented, and committed faculty. Our core of thirteen faculty members all hold doctorates in their areas of expertise. We are proud of our faculty's commitment to their students and professional specialties.
Graduates of the English Studies program
enjoy a variety of professional opportunities. Past graduates have gone on to graduate school, law school, into publishing, technical writing, and the one-year WOU Masters in Teaching program (MAT), as well as a variety of jobs in any career that requires strong writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills.
Sample Four-Year Graduation Plan
Meet Our Students
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Contact
English Studies Department Chair
Literature/Linguistics/Writing
Lars Söderlund
(503) 838-8325 | fax: 503-838-8056
email: soderlundl@wou.edu
BELL 309
