As an English major or minor, you will learn to think critically and write well. You will study great works of literature, ranging from ancient poetry to twenty-first century fiction, and you will learn to express your ideas in clear, precise language.
Many BHSU English majors become highly-successful high school and middle school teachers. Others go into writing, editing, publishing, advertising, public relations, or journalism. Still others continue their education in English graduate programs, law school, and other professional programs.
We encourage all BHSU students to become involved in readings and lectures sponsored by the English program. We also invite submissions to the Bellman Awards for outstanding undergraduate writing and to our creative publication, which is sponsored by Three Peaks Review.
A talented, diverse, and experienced group of faculty who are committed to student success
Many options for English majors, including Writing Concentrations and Professional Writing Certificates
Multiple opportunities outside of the classroom, including writing competitions and Three Peaks Review
Paid work experience as a consultant in the BHSU Writing Center
The English major delivers a broad study of literature and culture in Britain, America, and beyond, but also provides students with the freedom to choose electives and intensive seminars that fit their interests and passions.
In 2016, The Wall Street Journal’s report on the NACE findings, noted that “those with degrees in English and in foreign languages brought home bigger paychecks, with starting salaries rising 14.3% and 13.6% respectively,” and that “behind the numbers is a growing desire among employers for hires with strong communication skills.”
English Education Placement is at 100% for those seeking employment after graduation.
English majors have the opportunity to apply to become student researchers for the Veterans Legacy Program.
Students have the opportunity to pursue internships at regional organizations such as Matthews Opera House and Sanford Lab.
Students are eligible for paid positions as writing consultants in the Writing Center.
THE CREATIVE WRITING MINOR: this 18-credit minor provides students interested in the field of creative writing a comprehensive plan of study and training, both in genre and form and technique. Students also have the opportunity to publish their creative writing and/or work on the editorial board of Three Peaks Review, BHSU’s student-run literary journal.
*Current students, please refer to the DegreeWorks Dashboard in MyBHSU to confirm your major requirements.
English majors are trained for diverse careers:
» Advertising Executive
» Author
» Bookstore Manager
» Columnist
» Communications Director
» Copywriter
» Creative Writer
» Editor
» Entertainment Agent
» Entrepreneur
» Grant & Proposal Writer
» Journalist
» Librarian
» PR Specialist
» Publisher
» Sales
» Social Media Manager
» Teacher
» Technical Writer
» Translator
Open to all students at BHSU, this campus organization (formally known as English Club) provides students with the chance to run or contribute to BHSU’s literary journal. Contact Matthew.Bauman@BHSU.edu to learn how to become involved.
BELLMAN AWARDSThe Bellman Awards for Excellence in Undergraduate Writing is a competition open to any student who has a passion for writing. Awards are given in three categories: Composition, Literature, and General Writing. All submissions must be work produced at BHSU during the respective academic year. To learn more visit the Bellman Awards page.
WRITING RESOURCESBHSU is proud to offer services for students who need assistance with their writing. The Writing Center is open during the fall and spring semester. Assistance is available during every step of writing. Whether students need help with their outlines, original ideas, or simple revision, the Writing Center has it all. The goals of the Writing center are to: Enable students to compose more fluently Assist students in writing and revising their work Assist students with further development of your critical thinking skills Help students become stronger and more diverse writers Acquaint students with the conventions and expectations of academic writing Walk-ins are welcome as space allows. To make an appointment visit BHSU.edu/WritingCenter. The Writing Center is located on the first floor of the E.Y. Berry Library and is open various times Monday-Friday, and Sunday.
Currently working on her Masters in Education in Technology and Customized Learning, Wenk said, “I would choose BHSU’s ENGL department because all the professors are fantastic. They have different teaching styles and give learners the opportunity to explore some different areas of interest. I know that they were also working to get more diversity within their teaching materials, which was awesome.”
Matthew Bauman
Senior Lecturer, Creative Writing
Matthew.Bauman@BHSU.edu
Phone: 605-642-1272
College of Liberal Arts, English
Black Hills State University
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Spearfish, SD, USA 57799
1200 University Street
Spearfish, SD
57799-9502
Phone: 605.642.6131
Fax: 605.642.6254
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