Why Choose an English Major?
English majors “connect the dots” between what’s written on the page about human interactions and the diverse geographical, social, and spiritual contexts that create cultures. Their own writing — creative and analytical — responds to what they read and observe in real time, as well as what they study about literary history, popular culture traditions, and folklore.
Earning an English degree broadens horizons and prepares students for fulfilling careers in any industry.
A Rewarding Experience at Dominican University
If you love language and want real-world skills that’ll take you to new heights, you’ll find pursuing an English major at Dominican University a rewarding experience.
Your love of literature, writing, and self-exploration will find full expression in Dominican University’s English program. Our courses help you develop communication and critical thinking skills that can be applied in any career, while also enhancing your creativity, self-expression, confidence, and imagination.
A Comprehensive and Versatile Education
As an English major, you’ll become well-versed in “the best that has been thought and said” in literature while simultaneously developing:
- Self-knowledge
- Critical thinking skills
- Analytical abilities
You’ll study writing and language both as an art form and as an expression of significant thought, gaining cultural knowledge and a lively appreciation for some of the greatest works in English literature.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
At Dominican University, we provide numerous opportunities to engage with your studies in meaningful ways:
- Writing Practicum: Senior students tutor their peers in our Academic Success Center through this hands-on course.
- Senior Seminar: Each year’s Senior Seminar students present papers in a mini-conference, showcasing their research and writing skills.
As part of our English program, you’ll be an active and visible member of the university community throughout your time here.
Engage Beyond the Classroom
College life isn’t just about academics. At Dominican University, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore your extracurricular interests through clubs and societies:
- The Booklings: A club for students from all majors who enjoy reading for pleasure.
- Verbal Asylum: A student club that organizes one or two spoken-word events each year, drawing large audiences.
- Sigma Tau Delta: Eligible students may be inducted into this international English honor society, recognizing excellence in English studies.
Join Our Passionate Community
Studying English at Dominican University is more than just earning a degree; it’s about engaging deeply with language, literature, and self-expression in a supportive and vibrant community.
Explore our English program and see how Dominican University can help you turn your love for literature and writing into a fulfilling career and enriching university experience.
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Equipping you with core skills that are in demand in every professional field
The highest levels of personal support
Staff who are committed to your success
The finest small-university athletic program in the region
A spirited campus environment
Close proximity to New York City and three major airports
The Dominican Difference
“It doesn’t matter who you are, it doesn’t matter what sport you play, or what club you’re in, everyone in this school is a family and we all love to live together and be a part of this campus.”
Jonathan Brown ’14
15k+
Alumni
76
Full-time Faculty
17
Miles from NYC
100% of First Time
Full-Time Freshman Receive Financial Aid
Job Opportunities
With an English major, you’ll be a valuable employee in many industries.
However, these are some of the most common jobs for graduates with an English degree:
- Copywriter
- Editorial Assistant
- English Teacher (including English as a foreign language teacher)
- Lexicographer
- Journalist
- Tutor
- Copy-editor
- Proofreader
- Content Manager
- Content Writer
- Social Media Manager
What You’ll Learn
Our curriculum has core requirements in grammar, expository, and research writing, and features multiple courses in creative writing. All students study a range of literature: key writers and diverse views (British/American/World) from ancient to contemporary eras. If you choose to major in English at Dominican University, you’ll also have the opportunity to select minors in diverse fields to complement your developing skills and special vocational interests. Our literature courses include individual and group oral presentations that combine analytical skills in reading, research, and writing. These essential skills will ready you for a variety of careers, but you may also choose an additional discipline to accompany your English program. For example, many English majors jointly pursue teacher education, with certification in childhood, childhood/early childhood, or adolescence levels. Selected English majors also get the opportunity to do an internship for the annual literary/arts magazine, Bang & Whimper.
Degree Details
Department Staff
Ellen E. Dolgin
Office: (845) 848-4008
Location: Casey Hall English Annex
Robert Stauffer, Ph.D.
Office: (845) 848-4105
Location: Casey Hall 19
Kathleen Hickey
Office: (845) 848-4009
Location: Casey Hall 19
Tanya Radford
Office: (845) 848-4044
Location: Casey Hall 19
James Reitter
Office: (845) 848-4014
Location: Casey Hall 19