Undergraduate

English

The ability to articulate complex ideas is essential to any career.

English major and minor

By studying literature, literary theory, and expository and creative writing, Simpson English majors develop their sensitivity to language, form, and ideas.

The study of literature and the practice of writing will hone your critical thinking and communication skills—skills that will provide you with great flexibility when choosing a profession. Reading narratives that have shaped humanity and learning about the political and social contexts that influenced them will provide you with tools to forge your ideas and values.

More on the major

From studying Shakespeare’s influence to discovering Toni Morrison’s power, the world is open to you. As an English major, you will learn to interpret the expression of others, craft your arguments, and communicate your creative thoughts and ideas.

Majors in English acquire a foundation in the traditions of English and American literature, creative writing, and literary theory. Elective coursework encourages them to explore in greater detail those writers, periods, and topics that best meet their aims and interests while developing critical and imaginative thinking, writing, and analysis skills.

44 credit hours are required for the major.

Note: English 106 does not count toward the English major.

More on the minor

With an English minor, you will explore American and British literature, practice creative writing, and learn how literature has impacted culture and society throughout history. All courses are taught by professors who are passionate about their craft. Minors in English acquire an acquaintance with English and American literature traditions, creative writing, and literary theory. Advanced elective coursework encourages them to explore their interests and develop critical and imaginative thinking, writing, and analysis skills.

24 credit hours are required for the minor.

Note: English 106 does not count toward the English minor.

 

View major course requirements

View minor course requirements

 

Why Simpson College for English?

What Can You Do With An English Degree?

Any field that demands writing talent and communication skills—in short, all of them—is open to employing English majors. Our graduates have gone on to successful careers as writers, editors, communications specialists, ministers, lawyers, and teachers. And there are many other options.

 

This Is What Success Looks Like

I use the things I learned in literature and humanities every day to be the Swiss army knife my company needs me to be.

Brady Spangenberg '04

Redefining The Career Path

Read This Story

Advice to Future Students: 'Try Everything'

Briana Stoever '18

The sky is the limit if you allow yourself to just try.

Briana Stoever '18

"I loved the individual attention the professors could give students..."

Briana Stoever '18

Internships Can Change Your Future

The marketing communications and event planning manager for the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce had a different career in mind before discovering her passion.

Baillee Furst '20

"My internships helped shape who I am"

Read This Story

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Opportunities & experiences

Internships

Publish your own work

Network with other writers

Midwest Undergraduate Conference in the Humanities (MUCH)

Sigma Tau Delta Honor Society

SC Honors Program

Get involved in English Department

From studying abroad to writing for the literary magazine, you will discover a variety of opportunities as an English major

Sequel

Study Abroad

May Term

Poets & Writers Series

Events and Book Clubs

Meet Our Faculty

JJ Butts

JJ Butts

  • Faculty Chair
  • Department Chair of Literature, Language, and Culture
  • Professor of English
Cory Harrigan

CoryAnne Harrigan

  • Interim Academic Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs
  • Professor of English
  • Division B Head