B.A. in Biology
Whittier College, located in Whittier, California, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in ...
B.A. in English
Whittier, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in English at Whittier College provides a comprehensive exploration of literary traditions, critical theories, and various forms of writing. Students develop advanced skills in close reading, analytical thinking, persuasive argumentation, and creative composition. The program offers three distinct areas of emphasis: Literature, Creative Writing, and a combined approach, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and future aspirations. Regardless of emphasis, the core of the program lies in fostering intellectual curiosity, fostering a nuanced understanding of culture, and developing strong communication abilities.
Curriculum: The English curriculum is designed to provide a broad yet rigorous foundation in literary studies and writing. All English majors typically begin with foundational courses like a 100-level English course and ENGL 210: Critical Procedures, which introduces key analytical frameworks. A crucial common element is ENGL 313: Editing and Publishing Emerging Media, reflecting the program's forward-thinking approach to communication. Students then delve into specific genres (Fiction, Poetry, Drama) and historical periods (pre-1900 and post-1900 literature). For the Literature emphasis, the focus remains on in-depth literary analysis. The Creative Writing emphasis incorporates multiple creative writing workshops across genres, fostering practical writing skills. The program culminates in a Senior Seminar (ENGL 410), providing a capstone experience where students engage in advanced research and critical analysis. The overall curriculum emphasizes flexibility, allowing students to explore various literary periods, genres, and cultural contexts.
Research Focus: Research and scholarly inquiry are central to the English program at Whittier College. Students are encouraged to engage in in-depth literary analysis, critical theory application, and independent research projects. The Senior Seminar (ENGL 410) serves as a capstone experience where students conduct significant research and produce original scholarly work. Opportunities for student research and presentation are available through the annual Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (URSCA) conference, where English majors often present their literary analyses or creative writing projects. Faculty expertise spans diverse areas, including poetry, creative writing, translation, American and Asian-American literature, Shakespeare, early modern studies, and critical theory, providing rich avenues for collaborative research with professors.
Industry Engagement: While an English degree is a classic liberal art, Whittier College ensures its B.A. in English prepares students for professional success through practical skills and industry-relevant experiences. The curriculum's focus on critical thinking, persuasive writing, and effective communication are highly valued across numerous sectors. The course ENGL 313: Editing and Publishing Emerging Media directly connects students with contemporary communication practices. The college's Center for Career and Professional Development actively supports students in securing internships in fields like publishing, journalism, marketing, public relations, and non-profit organizations. Whittier also offers opportunities for advanced English majors interested in teaching to gain classroom experience, providing valuable resume-building practical exposure. Alumni often find success in fields requiring strong communication and analytical skills, such as law, education, and various creative industries.
Global Perspective: A global perspective is intrinsically woven into Whittier College's English program, reflecting the interconnectedness of literary traditions and global cultures. Courses explore literature from diverse regions and historical periods, fostering a nuanced understanding of global narratives and cultural expressions. The college strongly encourages and supports study abroad opportunities, with the Global Poet Scholarship providing financial assistance for students to immerse themselves in literature and culture in foreign countries. English professors have led trips to locations such as England, Mexico, Greece, and Italy, allowing students to experience literary heritage and cultural contexts firsthand. This international exposure significantly broadens students' understanding of the global landscape of literature and communication.
Location
Whittier, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 53019
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 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 105.
Whittier College offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for international students to help make a high-quality education affordable and accessible. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and other talents while supporting diversity and global engagement on campus.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students are eligible for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are awarded automatically upon admission consideration or through separate applications.
International Student Academic Scholarships: Whittier College provides dedicated academic scholarships for international applicants, which recognize outstanding academic records from students worldwide. These awards typically range from partial to substantial tuition reductions and are renewable each year based on satisfactory academic performance.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While international students do not qualify for federal financial aid, Whittier College offers some need-based assistance through institutional funds. International applicants must submit a financial aid application along with supporting documents to be considered for these awards.
Specialized and Departmental Scholarships: Certain departments and programs at Whittier may have specific scholarships for international students who demonstrate excellence or interest in particular fields, such as business, sciences, or the arts. These awards encourage students to pursue their academic passions with financial support.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English from Whittier College equips graduates with a highly versatile and in-demand skillset, rooted in critical thinking, sophisticated communication, and a nuanced understanding of narrative and human experience. This strong liberal arts foundation prepares alumni not only for careers directly related to literature and writing, but also for diverse professional paths that value analytical prowess and compelling expression.
Editor/Copy Editor/Proofreader: This is a classic and direct fit for English majors. Graduates ensure clarity, accuracy, grammar, and style in various written materials, from books and magazines to digital content and corporate reports. They often work in publishing houses, media companies, or as freelancers.
Content Writer/Content Strategist: In the digital age, the ability to create engaging and effective written content is paramount. English graduates excel at developing blog posts, website copy, articles, and marketing materials, often managing content calendars and shaping a brand's voice for online platforms.
Marketing & Communications Specialist: The persuasive writing and analytical skills honed in an English degree are highly valued in marketing and public relations. Graduates can craft compelling advertisements, press releases, social media campaigns, and internal communications, helping organizations convey their messages effectively.
Journalist/Reporter: English majors possess the research, interviewing, and writing skills essential for journalism. They can pursue careers in print, broadcast, or digital media, reporting on news, features, and investigations across various beats.
Technical Writer: For those who can translate complex information into clear, concise, and user-friendly instructions, technical writing is a strong option. English graduates create manuals, online help guides, and documentation for software, products, and services across diverse industries.
Teacher (K-12 or Higher Education): Many English graduates find fulfilling careers in education, teaching literature, writing, and grammar at elementary, middle, or high school levels. With further graduate study, they can also become college professors.
Grant Writer/Fundraiser: Non-profit organizations heavily rely on strong written proposals to secure funding. English majors excel at articulating an organization's mission and impact persuasively, making them ideal for grant writing and fundraising roles.
Librarian/Archivist (with further education): While requiring a Master's degree in Library Science, an English B.A. provides an excellent foundation. These roles involve organizing, preserving, and providing access to information and cultural resources, utilizing strong research and analytical skills.
Paralegal/Legal Assistant (with potential for Law School): The rigorous textual analysis, argumentation, and research skills developed in an English program are highly transferable to the legal field. Many English majors pursue law school, but can also work as paralegals, assisting attorneys with legal research, document drafting, and case preparation.
Human Resources Specialist: English graduates' understanding of human behavior, communication, and interpersonal dynamics makes them well-suited for HR roles. They can contribute to employee relations, talent acquisition, training development, and fostering effective communication within organizations.
