Majors & Minors

Creative Writing (Major, minor)

Creative writing combines liberal-arts studies with a focus on creative expression (fiction, poetry, plays and screenplays) to enable students to develop their creative and intellectual capabilities to prepare for a variety of professional employment opportunities. Besides encouraging students to sharpen their abilities within their choice of genres, the major is designed to develop critical thinking and communication, organization, interpersonal, computer and research skills in a context of multicultural awareness. The program includes academic courses with literary models to stimulate writing, workshops, individual mentoring and advice on publishing venues. It also promotes diversity in student course selection, not only within the department but also in other disciplines, ensuring flexibility in academic study and career preparation as a complement to conceiving and completing creative works. Learn more ...

Language Arts Education (Major)

Language arts education, one of the four majors offered in the Department of English, is part of the Center for Teacher Education in the College of Arts and Sciences. The teacher-education program is certified by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), a national accrediting body for schools, colleges and departments of education. In addition to their English studies, students in language arts education complete an approved program of coursework, field experiences, and other requirements leading to the application for an initial Provisional Ohio Teaching License for grades 7-12. Other coursework includes general education classes as well as professional education instruction in culture and schooling, adolescent development, exceptional learners, technology, curriculum, classroom strategies, methods of teaching, and more. Candidates also spend time throughout the program in local classrooms, completing professional-experience requirements. Learn more ...

Literature (Major, minor)

Literature, one of the four majors offered in the Department of English, is designed to prepare majors for professional life and graduate school by combining a solid preparation in literature, critical theory and language, with opportunities for real-world experience. Courses include survey, period and specialized courses in American, British and world literatures; single-author courses such as Chaucer and Shakespeare; and critical theory and language. Besides this solid background in literature curriculum, the program offers exciting professional experiences on departmental and University publications. The Senior Seminar capstone project provides majors an opportunity to explore a topic of their own choosing and to enhance their research, writing and professional skills. Literature, as a humanities discipline, hones critical thinking and writing skills and prepares students in a wide variety of culture areas. Learn more ...

Professional Writing (Major, minor)

Professional writing, one of the four majors offered in the Department of English, offers a practical option for those interested in a career of English. This versatile major trains students to work as writers and editors in a variety of professional settings. Articulate writers are needed in public relations, advertising, editing, screenwriting, online writing, science writing, magazine writing, technical writing, publishing, cultural criticism and more. Learn more ...

A course of study in English is a challenging and rewarding experience. In addition to offering a background in various topics including literature, language, and professional and creative writing, an English degree provides students with the critical-thinking and rhetorical skills necessary for success. No matter your ultimate career path, the ability to communicate clearly is invaluable.

Ohio Northern's English graduates can become successful teachers, writers, editors, and business professionals. Additionally, English is an excellent preparation for advanced degrees, including law, business and, of course, literature and creative writing. However, the versitality of an English degree provides graduates the opportunity to choose from a large variety of careers to discover whichever one best matches his/her passion.