English
http://www.montana.edu/english/
Department of English
The English curriculum at Montana State University is a rich and challenging program taught by faculty who are highly qualified as scholars and teachers of literature, writing, and language, as well as winners of many awards for teaching excellence and scholarly achievement.
Students in English are expected to become skilled readers and writers through the study of language and literature. The program encourages students in the pleasures of rigorous, thoughtful reading, writing, and thinking. Students will gain knowledge of literature from various cultures and eras, especially British and American literatures, both canonical and emergent; demonstrate an understanding of critical approaches to the study of literature; and become aware of the relationship between culture and literary studies. Students in the teaching option in addition will learn about methods of teaching English and give promise of excellence in secondary teaching.
As a strong pre-professional major, English prepares students for entry into a number of graduate fields, including English, law, and library science, as well as for careers in teaching, journalism, public relations, management, and technical or professional writing.
Undergraduate Studies in English
The curriculum leading to the Bachelor of Arts in English provides the student three options:
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The English Teaching Option is designed for students who wish to become licensed to teach English in grades 5-12. Students take a sequence of six English Education courses, while also fulfilling requirements in literature, writing, and education more generally. Students in this option study how identities, languages, place, and curriculum intersect. The option emphasizes teaching and learning through a sociocultural lens and values youth as creators of knowledge. The Teacher Education Program provides admission information regarding the program, Student Teaching, Licensure, Professional Expectations and more.
- The Literature Option is designed for students wishing to specialize in the study of literature, which helps people solve problems, think clearly, support ideas with evidence, and understand the ways texts both circulate in and constitute cultures and communities. It provides students with a strong foundation to build on through on-the-job career training and advancement or additional specialized education. A 21-credit Literature Minor offers a flexible way for students to take courses on subjects ranging from traditional offerings in American and British national literatures as well as upper division courses in specific authors, topics, and genres along with Literary Criticism, African American Literature, and Women and Literature.
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The Writing Option is designed for students seeking to study and practice writing, rhetoric, and rhetorical theory in a range of contexts. This option prepares students for future professions and informs and enriches their personal and civic lives. Courses include those in rhetoric, technical communications, professional writing, rhetorical theory, and creative writing. A 21-credit Writing Minor offers a flexible way for students to take courses on subjects ranging from creative non-fiction and magazine editing to science writing and public rhetoric to complement other majors.
The Department of English also offers minors in Writing and Literature and many courses that satisfy University core requirements.
Opportunities for Internships, Independent Studies and Undergraduate Research are available for students to enhance their academic career and gain valuable real world experience.
- Information About Internships and Internship FAQS
- Information About Independent Studies
- Information About Undergraduate Research
Graduate Studies in English
Through the Graduate School, the English Department offers two Masters of Arts (MA) graduate programs: an MA in English and an MA in English Education (MAEE). Advanced English coursework is also available for teachers seeking graduate credits for dual enrollment licensure.
In both MA programs, students develop close mentoring relationships with faculty members and pursue research and writing on their chosen topic of inquiry. Graduate courses stretch across the areas of English: writing, literacies, place, and the teaching and learning of literature. The Graduate School strives to foster an environment that produces outstanding graduate scholars who contribute new ideas and knowledge using creative and innovative approaches to solve challenges in an evolving world. In conjunction with the Department of English, the Graduate School enriches the graduate student experience by providing excellent service, timely oversight, and relentless advocacy for student success.