English

Master the power, beauty, dangers, and limits of the English language by exploring classical and contemporary works. You’ll read literature that helps you develop empathy and insight, and you'll become a critical thinker—skilled in the ways language can be used to mislead or inspire.

English majors are flexible thinkers who can unravel tangled issues and clearly communicate solutions. They make connections between the past and the present, between what is imagined and what requires action, and between themselves and others in the classroom and in the conference room at work. They know how to adapt to new circumstances and how to speak eye to eye with clients and customers.

What skills do employers desire?

A quick internet search will tell you that the skills that employers tend to desire the most in job applicants are oral and written communication skills, leadership and collaboration, the ability to work in and with a team, work ethic and self-management, adaptability, resilience, and interpersonal skills.

What skills do English majors develop?

English majors at St. John Fisher University have multiple opportunities to develop oral and written communication skills, leadership and collaboration, teamwork, adaptability, resilience, and interpersonal skills. Through coursework, interactions with local employers in community-engaged learning experiences, internships, and their research, English majors develop marketable skills for a successful career after Fisher.

Program Overview

As an English major at Fisher, you will engage your curiosity, your passion, and your intellect by exploring works of literature, oration, and visual communication. You can explore fiction, poetry, and theatrical plays and find inspiration to write your own. You can study Shakespeare or Stephen King, analyze presidential oratory or game narratives, and write analytical research or grant proposals for a local nonprofit.

In our courses, you will work with committed faculty and engaged classmates. As an English major, you will develop writing and analytical skills that are highly desired in the workforce.

Honors Option in English

The English department offers a degree with Honors in English You will complete a substantial project in literary or rhetorical criticism or creative writing and must have achieved at least a 3.50 GPA in both English courses and a 3.50 GPA overall to qualify. Specific courses and activities are required, visit the course catalog for detailed information.

Life After Fisher

Graduates of the St. John Fisher University English Department go on to roles such as:

Attorney
Banker
Marketing Manager
News Producer
Communications Specialist
Novelist
Business and Content Analyst
Web Designer
Editor
Digital Media Specialist
Nonprofit Program Administrator
Librarian

“ The English Department at Fisher features some of the best gatekeepers anyone could ask for. Whether you are a new college student or a returning adult student like me, there is no shortage of people wanting to help you grow your skills and succeed at whatever you aim to accomplish while at school and beyond! ”