English
Kellie Bond, Chair; Terrie Aamodt, Karen Clausen-Brown, Susan Gardner, Ronald Jolliffe, Daniel Lamberton, Cynthia Westerbeck.
In its general studies courses, the department aims to enhance the student's ability to use language. The writing courses give instruction in clear, effective writing, and the literature courses address significant and enduring issues that lead to a broad understanding of human experience.
The major in English provides a foundation for careers that emphasize critical thinking and skillful communication. English majors frequently work in non-profit and corporate communication, grant writing, education, journalism, digital and print publishing, library science, and government. The major is also a strong preparation for law, business, medicine, and the social and behavioral sciences. These and other professions place a high value on the ability to read intelligently, to write clearly, and to understand human experience. The student can choose electives in the major to provide an emphasis in writing or literature as desired.
The minor in English is a valuable way for students in any major to polish their writing skills or to enrich themselves through literature. It is especially useful to students who plan a career in teaching.