Mason’s English degree is not a conventional one. As an English major, you can study the poetry of Milton and learn to write digital poetry. You can specialize in Renaissance literature or modern world literature. You can take courses on the folklore of Mexico or the films of Bollywood. You can learn about traditional rhetorical strategies and how they have been adopted to the internet age.

Mason’s English department combines the advantages of a large research institution with the personal attention of a small college. Because we will teach you to read critically and write carefully, our classes are uniquely small for a university our size. You will develop these important skills not just by reading traditional texts, but also through the use of technologies such as blogs, wikis, and multimedia production.

You will be able to develop close relationships with faculty who are committed to their students and recognized experts in their fields.

As an English major, you will have the skills necessary for any profession – teaching, journalism, creative writing, law, management, and more.

Opportunities

All students have opportunities for research, global-engagement, public service, and career preparation.

• If you excel in the classroom, apply to the English honors program. Work closely with a professor on a research project of your own. Read more >>
• Pursue  the accelerated master’s program in linguistics. Read more >>
• Take English courses for credit through a study abroad with Mason’s Center for Global Education.
• Complete licensure to teach English in the public schools. Read more >>
• Gain valuable career experiences through an internship in technical writing at places such as: 
• Smithsonian Institution or Library of Congress
• Folger Shakespeare Library
• Falls Church News Press or the Entertainment Industry Council
• Read more about internships >>