BA in English in Harrisonburg United States | James Madison University

The heart of English studies at JMU lies in discovering our world and ourselves through language. For centuries, gifted authors, poets, dramatists, and essayists have harnessed the potency of eloquent expression to motivate, convince, provoke thought, evoke compassion, delight, astonish, and broaden our comprehension—frequently accomplishing multiple effects simultaneously.
JMU equips students to become discerning yet appreciative consumers and producers of language, written works, and concepts, emphasizing the profound connection between literary arts and human experience. An English degree can serve as a foundation for advanced academic pursuits, legal education, teaching careers, or various professions requiring linguistic expertise: media, reporting, corporate communications, television, public service, charitable organizations, marketing, and commerce.
The English program provides all learners, regardless of career aspirations, with the chance to engage deeply with global literary traditions. Analyzing literature and scholarly critiques sharpens analytical abilities, composition skills, and verbal communication while fostering appreciation for diverse viewpoints that prove valuable in both professional and private spheres. The curriculum encompasses American, British, and international works, spanning classical to modern eras, including cultural examinations, gender studies, imaginative writing, cinema studies, and language analysis.