BA English (Literature)
Program Description
Students in the literature concentration of the BA program in English study texts and cultures from the earliest writings in English to contemporary expressions, on paper, online and out in the world. They learn to read critically, analyze representations and understand how stories work to define the human experience.
The program offers students the opportunity to engage with faculty in exploring American and British literature, critical theories and methods and interdisciplinary studies. Students choose from a broad array of courses to further explore subjects such as race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality and literary histories and traditions.
Students can gain practical experience through research, writing and internships that prepare them for an ever-expanding variety of careers. The undergraduate programs also prepare students to continue their studies in graduate and professional programs.
In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements. https://thecollege.asu.edu/concurrent-and-second-baccalaureate-degrees
Required Courses (Major Map)
What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.
At a Glance: program details
- Location: Tempe campus
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: Yes
- First Required Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
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Math Intensity:
General
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Freshman Transfer International Readmission
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.
Change of Major Requirements
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Outlook
With a degree in English, graduates' career options are virtually endless. Employers in all fields are always looking for those with strong writing and other communication skills and the ability to think critically. Some of the most common professions for English majors are in these fields:
- business
- journalism
- law
- medicine
- nonprofit community service
- professional writing and editing
- public relations
- publishing
- teaching
- web content development
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
Communications Specialist
- Growth: -2.3%
- Median Salary*: $67,120
Editor
- Growth: -7.3%
- Median Salary*: $63,400
English Professor
- Growth: 2.1%
- Median Salary*: $69,000
Freelance Writer
- Growth: -2.3%
- Median Salary*: $67,120
High School Teacher
- Growth: 3.8%
- Median Salary*: $62,870
Public Relations Specialist
- Growth: 7.2%
- Median Salary*: $62,810
Technical Writer
- Growth: 7.4%
- Median Salary*: $74,650
Translator
- Growth: 20.0%
- Median Salary*: $52,330
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Global Opportunities
Global Experience
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- englishadvising@asu.edu
- 480/965-3168