English

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Chairperson: Dr. Robert Perrin
Department Office: Root Hall, room A-266
Website: http://web.indstate.edu/english/
E-mail: English@indstate.edu

The study of English develops essential skills for professional success and personal fulfillment: an understanding of language and its functions in society; fluency in written communication, in both practical and artistic applications; and a critical appreciation of literary works from diverse time periods and cultures. The most common career paths for English majors are writing, editing, and publishing; advertising and public relations; business administration and management; technical writing; and teaching at middle school, high school, or college levels. A major or minor in English is also an excellent choice for students considering graduate or professional study in the humanities, law, or business. The Department of English’s internship program can provide students with valuable preprofessional experience and job placement opportunities, and the option to study abroad can enhance students’ academic and cultural experiences.

In support of interdisciplinary studies, the Department of English participates in the African and African American Studies Program, the Honors Program, the International Studies Program, and the Women’s Studies Program. For all students in the University, the Department of English offers General Education courses in writing, literature, language, and folklore.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Degrees Offered

The Department of English offers majors in English and English teaching, and minors in English and creative writing. English and English teaching majors may choose to earn the bachelor of science or the bachelor of arts degree. Candidates for either degree must complete the University requirement of a minimum of 124 semester hours of credit, including General Education course work, as well as the requirements for the major. Candidates for a bachelor of arts degree must also complete two years, or the equivalent, of a foreign language. A minor is recommended but not required for English and English teaching majors.

The English liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a wide range of literature, from international classics to contemporary multicultural American texts. Enhanced writing skills, critical thinking, and an individually tailored humanistic education with a preprofessional focus are the special features of the English liberal arts major or minor. The English teaching curriculum combines the study of literature, writing, and language to provide a comprehensive knowledge of content and teaching methods for future teachers of English or language arts at middle school or high school levels. The creative writing minor allows students to focus on the craft of writing poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or drama.

Departmental Opportunities

The Department of English assigns faculty academic advisors to English majors and minors whose areas of specialization match the students’ areas of interest. In addition to providing academic support, advisors serve as a source of departmental information for students regarding scholarships and awards, organizations, and activities. Throughout the academic year, the department hosts a number of lectures by visiting scholars through the Schick Lecture Series, as well as monthly presentations by faculty and students through the Landini Memorial Seminars. Student organizations sponsored by the Department of English include the Student Advisory Committee, Sigma Tau Delta, and the Arion Creative Writing Club, which publishes Tonic, a student-generated journal of creative writing. Facilities maintained by the Department of English for student research and activities include the Writing Center, a computer classroom, and a student lounge, all located on the second floor of Root Hall.

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