B.A. in English

The B.A. in English program at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) offers students a comprehensive exploration of literature, language, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Curriculum: The curriculum includes foundational courses in literature across genres and periods, language studies, composition, and literary theory. Students explore diverse literary traditions, engage in close textual analysis, and develop writing proficiency through creative and academic writing workshops. Elective options allow students to specialize in areas such as Shakespearean studies, American literature, world literature, cultural studies, rhetoric, or creative writing. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating digital humanities, film studies, and interdisciplinary studies into the curriculum.

Research Focus: UMBC encourages research in English studies through faculty-led projects, undergraduate research opportunities, and collaboration with literary journals and conferences. Students engage in research on literary analysis, critical theory, cultural criticism, digital humanities, and creative writing. Research projects explore topics such as narrative techniques, socio-political contexts in literature, gender and identity in texts, and the intersection of literature with other disciplines. Research opportunities enhance students' analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and scholarly inquiry, preparing them for graduate study or careers in education, publishing, or cultural industries.

Industry Engagement: The program fosters industry engagement through internships, writing workshops, and partnerships with publishing houses, media organizations, non-profit arts organizations, and educational institutions. Students gain practical experience in editing, publishing, journalism, digital media, and literary arts administration. Industry connections provide pathways to careers as editors, content writers, communications specialists, educators, and cultural program coordinators. Graduates contribute to literary communities, promote literary arts initiatives, and advocate for diverse voices in literature and media.

Global Perspective: UMBC's B.A. in English program integrates a global perspective by studying literature from diverse cultural contexts, exploring translation studies, postcolonial literature, global literatures in English, and comparative literature. Courses examine global issues, transnational identities, and cross-cultural dialogue through literary texts. Opportunities for study abroad programs, international exchange partnerships, and cross-cultural research projects expand students' understanding of global literary traditions, linguistic diversity, and interconnected literary landscapes.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC).

International Student Scholarships: UMBC offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students to support their educational expenses. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. They are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. 

UMBC Merit Scholarships: UMBC offers merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement. The selection process for these scholarships is competitive, and students are typically considered based on their application materials, including academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

Departmental Scholarships: Various departments and academic programs at UMBC may offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective fields. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and target students who demonstrate exceptional abilities and potential in a particular area of study. International students are advised to inquire with their intended department or program about any available scholarships or funding opportunities.

External Scholarships: International students studying at UMBC may also be eligible for external scholarships provided by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. These scholarships can be based on various criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, or specific fields of study. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities in their home countries or through international scholarship databases.

Fulbright Scholarships: UMBC participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students from over 160 countries. The Fulbright scholarships support graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships at UMBC. Eligibility criteria and application processes for Fulbright scholarships may vary depending on the student's home country. Interested international students can contact the Fulbright Commission or Embassy in their home country for more information.

Global Ambassador Scholarships: UMBC's Global Ambassador Scholarships are designed for international students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding on campus. These scholarships provide financial support and an opportunity for international students to engage in outreach activities, cultural programs, and campus initiatives that promote global perspectives and intercultural exchange.

International Education Foundation (IEF) Scholarships: The International Education Foundation offers scholarships to international students studying at UMBC. These scholarships are aimed at supporting students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. The IEF scholarships are awarded based on a competitive application process, and students are required to submit an essay and letters of recommendation.

It is important for international students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents for each scholarship opportunity.

Graduates of UMBC's B.A. in English program possess versatile skills in critical thinking, communication, research, and cultural analysis, preparing them for diverse career opportunities across various industries.

Writer/Author: Many graduates pursue careers as writers or authors, producing creative works such as novels, short stories, poetry, or non-fiction books. Writers may work independently as freelancers or staff writers for publishing houses, media companies, or content agencies. They collaborate with editors, literary agents, and publishers to develop manuscripts, conduct research, and revise drafts for publication.

Editor/Content Editor: Some graduates specialize as editors, responsible for reviewing and refining written content for clarity, style, and grammatical accuracy. Editors work for publishing houses, magazines, newspapers, websites, and corporate communications departments. They collaborate with writers, proofreaders, and graphic designers to ensure content meets editorial guidelines, resonates with target audiences, and aligns with publication objectives.

Technical Writer: Graduates may pursue careers as technical writers, creating instructional manuals, user guides, training materials, and technical documentation for software companies, healthcare organizations, engineering firms, and government agencies. Technical writers simplify complex information, conduct research, and collaborate with subject matter experts to develop user-friendly content that educates and informs end-users.

Communications Specialist/Public Relations (PR) Specialist: Some graduates specialize in communications or public relations (PR), developing communication strategies, press releases, media kits, and promotional materials for businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions. Communications specialists manage media relations, social media campaigns, and corporate branding initiatives to enhance public perception and engage stakeholders.

Content Strategist/Digital Content Manager: Graduates may pursue careers as content strategists or digital content managers, overseeing content creation, distribution, and optimization for websites, blogs, social media platforms, and digital marketing campaigns. Content strategists analyze audience demographics, conduct SEO research, and collaborate with marketing teams to develop engaging content that drives traffic, enhances brand visibility, and achieves business objectives.

Educator/Teacher: Many graduates pursue careers in education as teachers, instructors, or professors at secondary schools, community colleges, or universities. Educators teach literature, composition, creative writing, and language arts, inspire students to appreciate literary works, and cultivate critical thinking and writing skills. They create lesson plans, assess student performance, and mentor aspiring writers and scholars.

Non-Profit Administrator/Cultural Program Coordinator: Some graduates work in non-profit organizations or cultural institutions as administrators, program coordinators, or outreach coordinators. They manage literary arts programs, community engagement initiatives, and educational workshops that promote literacy, cultural diversity, and creative expression. Non-profit administrators secure funding, develop partnerships, and advocate for arts education and literary advocacy in local communities.

Further Education and Research: Graduates interested in advancing their careers may pursue further education through master's or doctoral programs in English literature, creative writing, journalism, communication studies, or related fields. Advanced degrees offer opportunities for roles in academic research, publishing, editing, literary criticism, and cultural studies. Graduates may conduct research on literary theory, cultural criticism, media studies, or digital humanities, contributing to scholarly publications and academic discourse.