Bachelor of Arts in English

Admissions & Aid College of Arts and Sciences
A shelf at Clark Library on the University of Portland campus that contains copies of Geoffrey Chaucer books such as the Canterbury Tales and other works

Bachelor of Arts in English

What Will I Learn in the English Major?

Transform your passion for literature into a powerful force for change in the bachelor of arts (BA) in English degree program at University of Portland. The bachelor’s in English leads you to think critically, read texts closely, write with clarity and purpose, and understand the power language has to shape every aspect of our world.

Your study of various texts and your experiences writing across all genres ensure you will have a deep knowledge of history, human character, and social and religious traditions. Through engaging coursework and hands-on learning, you’ll develop your craft and share your voice among UP’s diverse community of scholars and faculty who are centered on your success.

English Courses

The English major features a curriculum that, through extensive reading and discussion, develops both academic and creative writing competencies, an understanding of language, and a critical engagement with literature.

In consultation with your advisor, you decide upon a program of study best suited to your interests, academic goals, and professional aspirations. This includes selecting from major-specific courses in topics like film and literature, satire, drama, cultures of food, Shakespeare, American or international literature, and writing workshops across poetry, screenwriting, fiction, and nonfiction.

A senior capstone seminar challenges you to apply the core skills you’ve gained throughout the English bachelor’s degree program, culminating in a research project portfolio that demonstrates the breadth of your knowledge.

Degree Requirements

University Core

Rooted in Catholic scholarship and Holy Cross ideals, UP’s Core Curriculum emphasizes developing analytical abilities through interdisciplinary engagement, critical thinking, and ethical awareness. The 40-credit liberal arts coursework strengthens the foundation of the English major, shaping you into a professional with the knowledge and vision to make a difference in the world.

The Core

Loading...

More than a Degree

The UP community is committed to mentoring you and providing a supportive, experiential learning environment that fosters your personal growth and success.

A red rocky outcrop frames the left edge of the image, with a blue sky takes up the majority of the image. A yellow circle and white text are overlaid on the blue sky.

Writers Magazine

As an English major, you have the opportunity to take an active role in the annual student-published Writers Magazine, which contains a collection of student-submitted fiction, essays, visual art, photography, and poetry.

Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society Logo

Sigma Tau Delta

University of Portland’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the English National Honor Society, provides eligible students with publishing, internship, and networking opportunities.

A close up image of the hands of a priest holding the outstretched hands of a congregant during a blessing of hands ceremony at the Chapel of Christ the teacher at the University of Portland.

Holy Cross Informed Education

Guided by UP’s Holy Cross values, our program emphasizes academic excellence alongside ethical engagement with literature and language. You'll learn to analyze texts through multiple lenses, understanding how stories can challenge perspectives, build empathy, and inspire positive change. Our faculty don't just teach literature—they mentor you in using your skills to address societal issues and work for the greater good.

The UP Difference

See what defines a University of Portland education.

Sunlight filters through large trees onto a grassy campus area, with academic buildings and landscaped greenery in the background. Three students sit on a blanket talking and smiling.

#

“Regional Universities – West” by U.S. News & World Report

:1

Student-Faculty Ratio

A close-up image of a University of Portland english professor smiling in the classroom during a lecture, a seated student is visible in the blurred background.
Two UP students with long brown hair smile for a posed picture holding signs that say thank you. Trees and a university building are in the background.

%

of Students Receive Financial Aid or Scholarships

English Student Spotlight

"During my first year at UP, I had no clue what I would do with my English degree, but through the next few years of exploring the English Department and all that campus had to offer, I found a space for myself as a writer and grew more confident in my skills. The English Department supported me in so many avenues – working as a writing assistant, a contributor and editor for the English newsletter, and as a reporter and editor for our student newspaper, The Beacon. Without guidance from faculty and staff within the English Department, I would have never been able to explore all these interests. I found myself immersed in the field of journalism and was given countless opportunities to develop my voice and decide how I wanted to use it. I’m so grateful for my time and connections at UP, since they became the foundation for my career as a journalist."

Chiara Profenna ‘23, reporter for The Oregonian

Careers and Outcomes

Your study of classic and current literary texts, intensive analytical reading, varied forms of writing, and research methods enable you to face real-world challenges head-on with confidence and a cultured perspective. You’ll find yourself well-prepared for a range of careers, graduate studies, or life-altering volunteer experiences in programs such as Holy Cross Associates, Jesuit Volunteers, Teach for America, and the Peace Corps.

Jobs with an English Major

The versatile skill set you gain from the English major makes it an ideal stepping stone to a range of rewarding careers in business and nonprofit organizations in roles such as:

  • Content manager
  • Copywriter
  • Editor
  • Marketing strategist
  • Public relations specialist
  • Teacher
  • Technical writer

Graduate Studies

By completing a BA in English, you can pursue graduate degree programs across an array of disciplines like humanities, creative writing, business, communication, and education or enter law school.

Alumni Employers

Graduates of our English major stand out to employers through their multidisciplinary skills, boldness in problem-solving, and deeply rooted ethical values, leading to career opportunities in diverse organizations such as:

  • Jesuit High School
  • Portland Monthly
  • Allison Worldwide Consulting
  • Colorado’s 4th Judicial District
  • Curinos
  • Depaul USA
  • Dreamworks
  • Epiq
  • The Oregonian

Related Degrees

A bright modern classroom filled with students listens to a lecture being given by a History professor at the University of Portland.

BA in History

A close-up image of stack of philosophy books and a ceramic mug on the lectern during a class at the University of Portland.

BA in Philosophy

Two University of Portland students sit at a table conversing with a member of the Blanchet House non-profit as Christmas decorations are being hung in the background

BA in Communication

Harness the Power of Language

In a world where clear communication and critical thinking are more valuable than ever, an English bachelor’s degree from UP opens doors to countless opportunities to use language to create positive change.

Apply Visit Request Information