“Literature is not exhaustible, for the sufficient and simple
reason that a single book is not. A book is not
an isolated entity: it is a narration, an axis of innumerable narrations.
One literature differs from another, either before or after it, not
so much because of the text as for the manner in which it is read.”
- Jorge
Luis Borges
The UIS English Department encourages students develop one of several concentrations through the selection of courses that suit their individual needs and interests.
English majors may pursue a conventional degree in English or American literature, or they may develop a more personalized, less traditional course of study.
Some students may wish to select courses that are especially helpful to classroom teachers, while those who are interested in careers in writing and editing may elect to enroll in any of the numerous writing courses offered by the English Department and other UIS programs.
Courses in expository writing and creative writing (novel, poetry, short story) are offered regularly.
Students who focus on writing and editing may also wish to take basic courses in other programs in order to study current issues and problems in fields that generate publication of various kinds (e.g., environmental studies, political studies, and economics).
Students interested in teaching English at the secondary level may seek Illinois state teacher certification; information on requirements for this certificate can be found on the Teacher Education link and by contacting the UIS Teacher Education Program directly.
To learn more about a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Minor in English, please select from the links in the menu on the left.
