Many students find that an English minor enriches their study of another field such as foreign language, history or journalism. Some students majoring in the sciences have chosen an English minor to give themselves an undergraduate education that balances the sciences and humanities. All classes in the English department are kept small. First-year sections enroll no more than 18 students, sophomore and upper division courses no more than 25. All majors take two special topics seminars in which enrollment is restricted to 12-15.
Faculty keep regular office hours and frequently meet with students.
The University's recently expanded library and academic computing center facilitate student research and the writing of papers. The English major and minor both emphasize the study of literature, but the department offers varied opportunities for involvement in creative writing, including three regular courses, independent study courses, interaction with distinguished writers who regularly visit campus and a literary magazine called The Messenger . There are also regular courses for students interested in advanced composition topics, such as nature writing, style and writing and technology. And the department s honors program allows highly motivated students, through the writing of an honors thesis, to do extensive, guided research on topics of their own choosing. Career Opportunities Students majoring in English at the University go on to careers in business, public relations, advertising, teaching and law.