- 2280: Writing for Business
- 2300: 19th Century Short Fiction
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This course focuses on the emergence and development of short American fiction throughout the nineteenth century, emphasizing the social and cultural work of literary forms. Diverse writers are featured, such as Irving, Fern, Hawthorne, Poe, Johnston Schoolcraft, Watkins Harper, Twain, Jewett, London, Za, and others.
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- 2300: Contempory American Darma
- In this course, we will focus on American plays written and performed in the last 80 years. These plays represent the diversity of Contemporary American Drama. Although written by American dramatists, many of these plays have been performed all over the world and have received critical acclaim for their staging, innovation, cultural relevance, and intellectual depth.
English
Develop skills in critical reading, writing, and research to prepare you to compete in the 21st century workforce.
Do you have a thirst for knowledge and a desire to investigate social, historical and cultural trends and movements? Are you passionate about digging deep into literary works to interpret nuances and draw conclusions? The B.A. in English will arm you with the skills that employers are looking for in the 21st century job market.
As a student, you will work with a diverse group of highly experienced faculty who will continually challenge you with coursework that enhances your communication, critical thinking and research skills. You’ll discover how to collaborate with others to understand complex issues and solve problems as well as how to conduct independent research and convey your conclusions logically and persuasively.
As a result, you will formulate new ways of thinking, reading and writing that will continue to evolve throughout your life.
Your skills in writing and literary editing will culminate during your capstone experience, when you delve into a specific area of interest and produce a professional work of original research and scholarship suitable for publication.
With these valuable skills in hand, you will graduate ready to enter a wide variety of fulfilling professions and make meaningful contributions to the world around you.
If you're interested in teaching English, the Literature program parallels English Education programs, making certification easy if you decide to teach in middle or secondary schools.
When you enroll in our B.A. in English program, you'll explore literary genres, movements and periods, from ancient to modern times. You'll learn to think critically, discuss articulately, communicate clearly and reap the rewards that come from understanding the value and functions of creative expression in our world.
This program is for you if...
- Have a passion for exploring literary works and their impact on society and culture.
- Wish to develop critical thinking and communication skills through the study of literature.
- Are considering careers in teaching, writing, or fields that value analytical skills.
- Seek a versatile degree with opportunities in publishing, education, libraries, and beyond.
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120 Credits for BA
What You'll Study
In the English program, you may focus your coursework in writing or literary and cultural studies, or you may choose to build your own B.A. program from a combination of courses in professional writing, literature, creative writing, and linguistics. Because courses are offered in a variety of formats, you can combine on-campus and online courses to build a flexible schedule. This allows you to easily participate in athletics, student organizations, and other co-curricular activities. The English program brings together a diverse faculty with broad expertise that covers a more extensive vision of the traditions and future of English Studies than is commonly available. Our faculty have an average of 15-20 years of classroom teaching experience, and they work closely with students to help them achieve their goals.
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| English, BA | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This Location |
| Concentrations | Campuses | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Literary and Cultural Studies | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Not Offered At This Location |
| Writing | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
Upcoming Courses
Fall 2026
- 3250: Research Writing
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For majors in all disciplines. Students choose and research a topic of interest within their discipline and learn how to conduct research, write a review of literature, create and analyze questionnaires, interpret data, and present findings.
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- 3300: Jane Austen
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This course focuses on Jane Austen's writing both as texts of their time and as texts celebrated, adopted, and adapted in the modern world.
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- 3321: Young Adult Literature
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Literature for Young Adults is a reading intensive course, intended for people who plan to teach in secondary English settings, and for those discerning readers who are interested in young adult literature as a significant genre worthy of serious study.
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How You'll Learn
The English program is offered on multiple campuses in a blended format. A blended degree combines traditional in-person courses with flexible, online educational experiences.
Unlocking English Through Reading and Writing at PennWest
What can you do with a degree in English? For Emily and Madison, the interest in studying English came from a love of the language, reading and writing. With their degree, the pair looks to achieve careers in education, public relations and writing.
What You'll Become
Graduates of PennWest’s B.A. in English report being well-prepared for graduate and pre-professional programs, as well as for employment in a variety of fields.
Career Paths
- Educational instruction and library occupations
- Public Relations Specialists and Managers
- Marketing Specialists and Managers
- Art, design, entertainment, sports and media
- Office and administrative support operations
- Business and financial operations
- Positions in law and government
Brian Roberts
When Clarion English professor Dr. Brian Roberts ’91 decided to pay tribute to his heritage and how he became who he is, he did it in the way that he knows best – the written word.
How We'll Help You Succeed
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credits of advanced coursework build skills in specific topics.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.