Our Programs
As an English major at UW-River Falls, you’ll have the opportunity to find your passion and hone your skills through diverse and versatile class offerings. We offer emphases in literature, creative writing, professional writing or English education.
English Major
As an English major, you’ll have the opportunity to find your passion and hone your skills through diverse and versatile class offerings. We offer emphases in education, literature, creative writing and professional writing.
- Creative Writing Emphasis: Develop your storytelling skills in fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction while honing your unique voice.
- English Education (Secondary) Emphasis: Prepare for a rewarding career teaching English at the secondary level with a strong foundation in literature and pedagogy.
- Literature Emphasis: Engage with diverse literary traditions, analyze great works and sharpen your critical thinking skills.
- Professional Writing Emphasis: Gain practical writing skills for careers in business, technical communication, media and digital content creation.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
The TESOL majors, minors and graduate programs in the English Department are designed for both native and nonnative speakers of English. Graduates in these programs are prepared to teach English to speakers of other languages in the United States and in other countries.
Students take courses in language acquisition, theory and practice of teaching English as a second or foreign language, pedagogical grammar, linguistics and cultural studies. Some of these programs enable students to acquire certification in teaching English as a second language in grades K-12.
Minors
Creative Writing (Minor)
The creative writing minor is a preparation for writing for personal pleasure as well as for publication. This minor can be taken in combination with an English major.
English Language Arts (Minor)
The English language arts minor provides students with a strong foundation in language, literacy and communication. It is ideal for those interested in education, writing and public engagement, helping to develop skills in critical reading, effective writing and language analysis. This minor can only be taken with an education major.
English Literature (Minor)
The English literature minor prepares students to be broadly educated, culturally and historically, and skilled in thinking critically, researching and writing. The degree prepares students for jobs in business, government and nonprofit organizations, journalism and publishing.
Professional Writing (Minor)
The professional writing minor prepares students to write for business, industry and government. In addition to English courses, students take options ranging from graphic design to desktop publishing. This minor can be taken in combination with an English major.
