Bachelor of Arts
English
English majors gain an in-depth, analytical understanding of the works of individual authors and genres, as well as broad literary movements.
Is This Program for Me?
Do you love to read, write, and explore big ideas through language, literature, and film? Are you curious about different cultures and passionate about storytelling?
Whether you dream of becoming a writer, lawyer, editor, educator, or filmmaker, an English degree from Samford offers the critical tools and versatile skillset to help you succeed in a wide range of fields.
Samford’s English Major is ideal for students who are:
- Curious – Engage with diverse perspectives, texts, and global traditions
- Creative – Passionate about writing, storytelling, and artistic expression
- Analytical – Skilled at interpreting literature, film, and complex concepts
- Communicative – Ready to craft compelling arguments and narratives
- Literary-minded – Drawn to the power of words, culture, and communication
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s English program is a community where literature, film, and ideas come alive. Our faculty foster meaningful academic and personal growth, while helping students prepare for impactful careers.
Dedicated Faculty & Personalized Support
Professors mentor students inside and outside the classroom, offering guidance in academics, writing, and career planning.
Exceptional Internship Placements
English majors apply their skills in real-world settings—publishing, media, nonprofits, corporate communication, and more.
Generous Scholarships and Fellowships
Many students receive funding for academic work and prestigious summer programs in literature, film, or creative writing.
Career-Ready Skill Development
Emphasis on writing, editing, and communication ensures graduates are prepared to lead in dynamic, people-focused industries.
Shape Your Academic Journey
Samford English majors craft a dynamic educational path that combines traditional literary study with contemporary creative and analytical pursuits. Students may choose from two concentrations:
Creative Writing Concentration
The concentration in creative writing combines a foundation in the study of English literature with a strong component in writing poetry, short fiction, and literary nonfiction.
Film Studies Concentration
The English major with a concentration in film studies combines a foundation in the study of English literature with a strong film studies component.
Creative Writing Concentration
The concentration in creative writing combines a foundation in the study of English literature with a strong component in writing poetry, short fiction, and literary nonfiction. Students will learn the history and theory of literary forms alongside the craft of writing. Because the study of creative writing requires extensive reading, creative writing students should expect in-depth study of genres and pivotal literary movements. However, the cornerstone of the creative writing education is the craft-based workshop, small classes where student work is considered along with the work of proven masters.
In the spring semester of the senior year, students will demonstrate their skills by writing a creative-writing thesis in a specific genre. Because a creative writing education requires some degree of native ability, all prospective creative writing students must audition by writing sample. Students will be notified by mail of the results of the auditions. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 for admission to the program. Once admitted into the program, students must earn a C- or better in all core concentration courses.
Film Studies Concentration
The English major with a concentration in film studies combines a foundation in the study of English literature with a strong film studies component. While studying a fundamental literary subject such as Shakespeare, students will learn about the history of cinema and the contributions of influential auteurs, as well as the complex dynamics between film and literature.
Students will also have the opportunity to perform in-depth studies of important genres and pivotal movements or nationalities. The study of film necessarily includes reading films critically, researching current scholarship, and writing original arguments. In the spring semester of their senior year, students will demonstrate their knowledge by writing a thesis that features film exclusively or combines film and literature.
Prepare to Succeed
English majors graduate with highly transferable, marketable skills: persuasive communication, critical thinking, research, and project management. These capabilities empower them to succeed in diverse industries.
Internship Opportunities
- Publishing & Media: Southern Living, Oxmoor House, Over the Mountain Journal
- Nonprofits: Make-A-Wish Foundation, Alabama Possible, Women’s Missionary Union
- Business: EBSCO Industries, Daxco, Bassmasters
- Education & Engagement: Alabama Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
- Film: Documentarian T.N. Mohan
Career Opportunities
- Publishing, editing, and professional writing
- Film, media, and content creation
- Nonprofit, community, and advocacy work
- Law, education, and ministry
- Healthcare communications and ethics
- Corporate communications and leadership roles
