B.A. in English Degree Sheet
About the Program
The Bachelor of Arts in English is a 120-hour-credit program that primarily focuses on the study of writing and culture, including courses in U.S., British, and World literatures; rhetoric and composition studies; critical theory; film and cultural studies; and creative writing. UHD’s English classes are small enough for students to receive individual attention from our award-winning scholar-teachers who are devoted to interactive learning and each student’s academic success. Students who complete the degree program graduate with a portfolio of original research and writing on authors, genres, and literary movements from a diverse array of historical periods and cultural contexts.
Along with the classic BA in English degree, which encourages a joy in reading while guiding students in the discussion and interpretation of fiction, poetry, drama, memoir, essays, and other texts, the degree offers three optional concentrations:
- Creative Writing immerses students in the art and craft of poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, and literary translation in workshops.
- Film Studies brings students into a deeper understanding of how we look at narrative, documentary, and avant-garde cinema from around the world, the late-19th century to the present
- English Education orients students towards a future of teaching in the classroom. This degree plan includes certification to teach at the secondary level in the state of Texas.
Though not mandatory, students have the option of choosing a minor (minimum of 18 hours) in such fields as: history, philosophy, art, technical communication, social sciences, or any other area of interest that will further specialize their programs.
Affiliated Student Organizations
The Bayou Review is a literary magazine published by students at the University of Houston-Downtown. With the goal of showcasing the work of creative writers and visual artists at UHD, the magazine gives students the opportunity to gain invaluable career experience as both editors and publishers.
Dateline: Downtown is a student-run UHD publication dedicated to maintaining truth and integrity within the University. Since its founding in 1982, it has covered a wide range of issues, including those affecting the student body, faculty, administration, and student organizations of UHD. For more information, contact editordatelinedowntown@gmail.com.
Sigma Tau Delta–Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter is the UHD-chapter of the International English Honors Society, designed to empower students interested in literature, culture, and intellectual camaraderie. For membership information, contact Dr. Jillian Hill at hillj@uhd.edu.
Career Options
A Bachelor of Arts in English prepares graduates for a variety of careers:
- Graduate Study*
- Grant Writer, Editor, Copywriter
- Human Relations
- Journalist, Reporter
- Librarian
- Middle School, High School Teacher
- Media Relations Specialist
- Nonprofit Management
- Social and Community Services