BA in English - Literature in Carbondale United States | Southern Illinois University Carbondale

The study of English encompasses literature while also serving as an intellectual discipline that fosters creative and critical thinking. Through both analyzing and producing literary works, we gain profound insights into human existence. We develop the ability to uncover deeper, often unspoken meanings, recognize language's dual capacity for power and playfulness, and crucially, we learn to appreciate our differences while discovering common values in our intricate social fabric.

Graduates with English degrees become interpreters and creators, educators and communicators across all professions. While this naturally leads to opportunities in education and legal fields, English majors are actually sought after by employers in all sectors who value clear communication, initiative-taking, innovative problem-solving, and independent leadership.
Combining time-honored studies with contemporary coursework. Students master critical reading and analytical writing. They develop specialized literary knowledge while gaining broad perspective. The program teaches diverse writing approaches to reveal both surface meaning and underlying messages. Specializing in literature provides exceptional groundwork for advanced academic pursuits or professional advancement.