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      • Physical Therapy Endowed Scholarship
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      • Edward R. Frick Accounting Scholarship
      • Shapley Accounting Scholarship
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      • Folwell Scholarship
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  • Bachelor of Arts in English
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English Degrees

Gain versatile skills with a BA in English

Our BA in English merges literary exploration with practical skill-building. Craft narratives, analyze texts, and communicate effectively across fields. Join us for a world of possibilities.

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Build your future with a BA in English

In the English program, you will gain experience in critical reading, writing, and professional communication.

  • Literature

    Bachelor of Arts in English
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  • Creative Writing

    Bachelor of Arts in English
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BA in English overview

Our English degree program offers versatile career pathways in writing, information science, law, and education. Through foundational courses, you’ll hone reading and writing skills applicable across disciplines. Our curriculum is designed for both career advancement and personal growth. Graduates excel as educators, information specialists, and influential writers, shaping policies in various industries. Our faculty are actively engaged in literature, creative writing, and professional fields; we provide guidance and support to ensure your success both academically and professionally.

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93%

of students believe that the instruction in courses related to their major is excellent

96%

of faculty are usually available after class and during office hours

Potential career paths for a BA in English

Your experience at SAU is up to you and your goals. Your chosen major can help you leverage your interests to build the skills you need to excel in whatever career inspires you.

  • Literature

    • Author
    • Librarian 
    • Book publicist
    • Literary agent
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  • Creative Writing

    • Editor
    • Technical writer
    • Grant writer
    • Scriptwriter
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What you’ll learn in your English program

As an English student, you’ll start with foundational courses building essential skills in literary analysis, creative writing, and professional communication. Specialized coursework deepens expertise, guiding towards proficiency and culminating projects.

Core skills you’ll learn in the English program

  • Explore methods of literary analysis and critical writing across genres, preparing for scholarly engagement.
  • Survey American literature from a wide range of eras and cultural backgrounds.
  • Learn to create clear, user-friendly technical documents, with attention to international audiences.
  • Participate in student-centered workshops with a focus on poetry and fiction.
  • Gain supervised professional writing experience. Includes journaling, reflective paper, and portfolio submission.

Sample courses in the English program

CLASS CODE CLASS TITLE CREDITS
ENGL 200 Introduction to Literary Study 3 credits
ENGL 210 American Literature 3 credits
ENGL 218 Technical Writing 3 credits
ENGL 317 Creative Writing Workshop 3 credits
ENGL 400 Writing Internship 1-6 credits

View course catalog

How much does an English degree cost?

The total cost of your BA in English will depend on your major, scholarships and finances, transfer credits, and other factors. 

  • Part-time tuition: 1–11 semester credits, per semester credit: $1,156
  • Full-time tuition: 12–18 semester credits, per year: $37,833
  • Other: 19 or more semester credits, per semester credit: $1,156

Find detailed tuition information and cost scenarios for each specialization:

Literature
Creative writing

Get an estimate of how much BA in English will cost

Use our Net Price Calculator to get an estimate of how much your degree will cost. Get my estimate.

Reduce your tuition by up to $24k

Every student is awarded a scholarship based on their GPA. St. Ambrose University recognizes and rewards students for their academic performance.

Explore scholarships

Housing and meal plans for English students

When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet your needs. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone.

Freshman housing

For incoming freshmen, on-campus residence halls provide a convenient college experience. Living among peers creates a sense of community and support, helping new students transition smoothly into university life. View freshman dorms.

 Transfer & upperclassmen housing

As students progress through their academic journey, they have the option to transition to apartment-style living. These accommodations offer more independence while still being located conveniently close to campus facilities and resources. View upperclassmen dorms.

Meal plans

St. Ambrose offers flexible meal plan options to accommodate various preferences and schedules. Whether you're looking for full dining hall access or a smaller meal plan for occasional use, there's a choice that suits your needs. View available meal plans.

 

What are the BA in English admission requirements?

Applicants to the English program must provide the following information for admission:

  • Applicants must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
  • Applicants must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
  • Applicants must provide an official high school transcript

Apply now

St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.

See all of SAU’s accreditations

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Visit St. Ambrose

Experience our vibrant campus firsthand. Schedule a visit to explore our facilities, meet faculty, and discover your future at St. Ambrose University.

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Why earn an English degree from SAU?

Our program cultivates graduates who shape society for the better. SAU graduates are equipped with the practical tools they need to lead in all areas of English.

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Experienced faculty

Faculty mold ethical communicators cultivating creativity and critical thinking.

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Industry-aligned curriculum

Our curriculum is designed to make sure graduates possess skills employers are seeking.

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English Education program

Our English for Secondary Education program is available for students interested in teaching English.

News and events at SAU

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Spring Commencement Ceremony

Join us for our Spring Commencement Ceremony to celebrate Spring 2025 degree recipients.

Read more

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Christ the King Chapel.

Catholic higher education - an asset for Iowa and Iowans

Private higher education makes a positive difference all across Iowa, and Catholic institutions offer a supportive environment to learn and grow.

Read more

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Founders of Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom to receive Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award

The 2023 Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award will be given to Sheryl Olitzky and Atiya Aftab.

Read more

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Become who you are meant to be

With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.

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