Courtney Reese '23
“I chose to pursue an English degree for a couple of reasons. I want to become an English teacher and share my passion and love of literature with my future students. I have always loved English during my time as a student. Throughout my high school days, I loved the creativity it allows an individual. King has offered me a chance to share my passion. Through my time thus far, I have learned to become a better writer, taking literature classes that have fueled my passion for reading while allowing me to explore content I never dreamt about, and most important, faculty that have helped to guide and support me. My professors have been simply amazing. With the help and guidance of my professors, I have become a better student, and have learned to be a better person.”
English Program Overview
“I am not solitary whilst I read and write, though nobody is with me.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
If you love to read, would like to become a better writer, and would like to sharpen your critical thinking and communication skills, then the English major is for you. But the major is much more than just reading and writing. You will find space and encouragement to examine the relationship between faith and culture and, in response, to consider your purpose and vocation.
The English Department at King values the written word, with its power to inform, delight, and transform. By practicing writing, speaking, analysis, research, and problem solving, you will learn to communicate more effectively, to relate to others more fully, and to engage the world more deeply. And through internships in fields like editing, advertising, and library science and study abroad like the Oregon Extension, our UK Study Abroad, and the King Italy Excursion, you can experience firsthand what you have read.
Our department is close-knit and vibrant. We share meals together, attend local plays and movies, have Christmas and Spring parties, go on weekend trips to the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, VA, and much more. We also run a local chapter of the National English Honor Society, Sigma Tau Delta.
In Fall 2016, the English Department debuted an undergraduate journal, The Holston, that showcases poetry, prose, and photography from the King community. English majors serve as Editors for the publication, which means you can take part in shaping this publication. The Holston strives to illustrate the powerful nature of community and the world in which we live. The quality of submissions and the hand-drawn cover (featuring a different artist each year) demonstrate the importance of the arts to the King community.
This program is offered both on campus and online.
What can I do with an English major?
As an English major, you will be well-equipped to enter any field that requires critical thinking and solid speaking, reading, and writing skills. You could become a teacher, a writer, a journalist, an attorney, an actor, a librarian, a marketing or communication director—to name only a few. Or, if you want to pursue graduate school, we will help prepare you to further your study.
English Coursework
- To view all required courses for a BA in English, click here.
- To view all required courses for a Minor in English, click here.
- For English course descriptions, click here.
Technology Requirement
Laptop computer with Microsoft Office 365, wireless and webcam capability is required. Microsoft Office 365 is available to all King students to load on the PC or Mac and is accessible at Office.com using their King University credentials.