The student majoring in English is a critical thinker who studies literature, language and culture as a means of understanding individual experience and society. Those drawn to this major enjoy reading, writing and communicating ideas through well-supported analyses and dialogue. Because our program emphasizes interpretation, discussion, reflection and writing, our students develop skills that are valuable in a variety of professions ranging from business to teaching. Critical awareness of the world and adeptness in oral and written communication provide English majors with a lasting basis for professional success and a fulfilling life. This program promotes academic excellence and the ability to apply understanding in the larger world. Dynamic classes and the success of our alumni in a wide variety of fields demonstrate the relevance of our programs to the diverse and changing society.

What be done with an English degree? The answer is just about anything. Our graduates are professors, reporters, graduate students, lawyers, social media professionals, writers, editors, teachers and more. The ability to read, comprehend and communicate ideas is essential in any career. English majors are attractive to employers because they can adapt and learn a variety of job skills quickly. Our students are prepared for careers in business and industry, government and health agencies, management and engineering. The choices are endless.

• Year 1: During your first year as a Fontbonne student, you’ll build a multi-faceted understanding of the language arts.
• Years 2 and 3: You’ll combine academic and professional knowledge with increasing sophistication.
• Year 4: During your last year, you’ll bridge the gap between theory and practice as you complete your original research or writing project in Senior Synthesis as an English major and embark upon student teaching.

Students majoring in English have the option of adding certification to teach high school and/or middle school. Students adding teacher certification pursue their interest in literature and writing while acquiring the foundation and teaching tools needed to succeed in the classroom. They have a “home base” in the English department, while receiving advisement and mentorship in both the English and education departments. Fontbonne University is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and is preparing for the AAQEP Quality Assurance Review in spring 2023. AAQEP is recognized by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (MoDESE) by agreement and in support of quality assurance, continuous improvement, and innovation in educator preparation.

At Fontbonne, your classes are geared to allow you to take a deeper dive into your literary interests while providing the foundation and teaching tools you need to succeed in the classroom.

• Develop a background in literature and language, as well as strong skills in classroom management and knowledge of educational philosophy.
• Have a “home base” in the English department, while receiving advisement and mentorship in both the English and education departments.
• Student teach your senior year, and receive preparation and guidance from seasoned education professionals focused on preparing you for any challenges you’ll face in the classroom.
• Join Sigma Tau Delta, Fontbonne’s chapter of the national English honor society.