Your major will be unique—just like you.

You can major in English at many universities, but URI offers you a unique approach to the discipline. With the exception of one required course, you will build a major that grows out of your interests. Some of your courses must be at the 300- or 400-level, and some will explore certain historical periods—but you will design your own curriculum within these guidelines. If you discover a special interest in poetry or fiction or 19th century literature, you can take additional courses in those areas, and, if you like, you can take up to three courses in creative writing. It’s your choice.

You will work with the best.

Your professors are the people you want to study with if your goal is to cultivate your abilities as a critical thinker and a creative writer. You will work one-on-one with prize-winning scholars and writers, who have won some of the country’s most prestigious awards. Your professors are experienced, enthusiastic, and energetic teachers, who have earned national and international reputations for their work. And they are the ones who will challenge you, encourage your interests, offer you guidance, and support your goals.

You can expand your possibilities.

The English major is 36 credits (nine courses), and can easily be completed in two years. So if you choose, you can acquire a solid background in English as well as a genuinely broad experience in other disciplines. This can take the form of a double major—more than doubling your career options. Other choices include adding a minor in another area of interest or exploring a wide range of elective courses.

You will gain invaluable career skills.

English is a major with great career versatility. Why? Because a major in English equips you with the kind of reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that any employer will value. The range of possibilities is extensive: Some of our graduates are professional writers and editors, others have gone on to successful careers in politics, law, and advertising, and to varied positions in both the non-profit and corporate sectors, while others have become educators in schools and in universities.