Hi all, I'm a junior from Virginia and I'm set on majoring in English. I'd love to go to a college here in Virginia. I'm struggling to determine which colleges have good programs though. Can anyone tell me which colleges in Virginia are especially good for English majors?
Certainly! There are several colleges in Virginia that have highly-regarded English programs.
University of Virginia (UVA): UVA's Department of English offers several choices for areas of concentration, including Literary and Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, and Medieval and Renaissance Studies. Many English majors from UVA have gone on to pursue careers in law, education, journalism, and more.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): VCU offers an English degree with concentrations in Literary Studies, Writing, and Secondary Education. They also have a broad curriculum that provides a solid grounding in written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and various forms of literary expression.
College of William & Mary: At William & Mary, the Department of English offers a vast range of courses in various periods and genres. The department is particularly noteworthy for its strong emphasis on research and critical analysis. Graduates often pursue further academic study or careers in fields ranging from law to business to education.
James Madison University (JMU): The Department of English at JMU emphasizes an education that is comprehensive, diverse, and dynamic. It offers numerous opportunities for honing in on particular interests, with various clusters inside the major such as Creative Writing, British Literature, and American Literature.
Christopher Newport University (CNU): CNU has a rigorous English program known for producing well-rounded individuals who excel in the skill of critical thought. Their unique curriculum includes offerings in classic literature, contemporary works, and the theory and practice of writing.
Each school has its own unique strengths, so be sure to visit the colleges and speak with faculty in their English departments if you're able. It will also be helpful to consider other factors that are important to you in a college, such as class size, student-faculty ratio, location, study abroad opportunities and extracurricular offerings. Good luck with your decision-making process!
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