English

The Department of English in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Memphis offers an enriching online Bachelor of Arts in English. This 120-credit hour program includes 60 hours of general education, 27 hours within the major, and the remaining hours in elective credits. Students can complete this degree entirely online with a focus on either African American Literature or Professional Writing. Through the core curriculum, English majors will explore the rich landscape of American literature, examining how early voices and cultural movements have shaped the narratives that continue to influence us today. They will delve into the craft of fiction, studying the techniques behind short stories, novellas, and novels to understand what makes these forms so engaging. Advanced composition courses will refine their writing skills, emphasizing the clear expression of complex ideas. Students will also trace the evolution of the English language, learning how it developed from a modest dialect into a major global language. Additionally, they will hone their persuasive writing abilities, mastering how to construct arguments that are both compelling and well-supported by evidence.

Concentration in African American Literature: Students who choose the African American Literature concentration engage in courses that emphasize close analytical reading skills and critical thinking. This concentration prepares students for a variety of careers, including teaching at all educational levels. The skills acquired in this concentration are also valuable in roles such as social media manager, where critical reading and creativity are essential, or in the medical humanities, enhancing applications to medical schools by providing a humanistic perspective.

Concentration in Professional Writing: The Professional Writing concentration focuses on communication skills vital for dynamic fields such as business, publishing, and technology. Students learn advanced writing techniques, making them suitable for roles like technical writer, where clear and precise language is critical, or grant writer, where storytelling skills are needed to secure funding. This concentration also prepares students for careers in public relations, where compelling storytelling can capture media attention.

Graduates of the B.A. in English program from the University of Memphis are equipped with versatile skills that open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Their expertise in critical reading, writing, and analysis makes them well-suited for roles in teaching, law, communication, and beyond. Whether pursuing a career as an English teacher, ESL instructor, or lawyer, graduates benefit from a deep immersion in literature and seminar-style learning that sharpens their ability to analyze complex texts and craft compelling narratives.

The program’s emphasis on advanced communication skills prepares graduates for dynamic roles in publishing, public relations, advertising, and media. English majors excel in positions like copywriting, editing, and technical writing, where the ability to convey ideas clearly and persuasively is paramount. Their critical insights also make them strong candidates for careers in social media and content management, where creativity and strategic thinking are essential for managing content and engaging audiences.

In addition to traditional paths, English majors find their skills highly applicable in fields such as medical humanities, human resources, and fundraising. Their understanding of human experiences adds a unique perspective to medical school applications, while their precision in language serves well in drafting policies, training materials, and persuasive grant proposals. Ultimately, the online B.A. in English fosters a foundation for lifelong engagement, personal growth, and professional success across diverse industries.