Why Study English Here?

Our students understand that literatures and languages shape people's perceptions, influence culture, and have revolutionary impact. In our program, you'll develop a strong foundation in liberal arts as you build core skills in critical reading, writing, research, and analysis.

We offer three majors that allow you to focus on your interests while completing a core English curriculum. Our talented faculty members specialize in a broad range of topics and frequently mentor students on independent projects. Classes are small and highly engaged, and our close-knit students hold regular social events and volunteer activities in several student organizations.

As an English student at Virginia Tech, you'll leave college with more than a prescribed survey of lecture courses. You'll leave with the confidence to think critically and adapt, giving you the skills to succeed in whatever industry you choose.

Beyond the Classroom

Our programs offer lots of opportunities for you to enrich your education, both inside and outside of class.

Faculty You'll Love

Our faculty includes acclaimed authors and experts in creative writing, rhetoric, literature, linguistics, and digital writing. Their work and research is exemplary. They have built a reputation among students for being approachable and engaging. Our large and growing research portfolio covers everything from gender and critical theory to modern literature, poetic expression, to innovations in communication technology.

Careers and Internships for Your Future

While some of our majors do choose to teach after graduation, most enter other fields, including business, law, technology, politics, and public policy. Recent graduates have found personal and professional success as marketers, designers, lawyers, teachers, technical writers, and authors.

Scholarships and Awards

In addition to scholarships offered by the university and the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, we offer departmental scholarships for students in all three of our majors and a scholarship specifically for those planning to study abroad.

Undergraduate Research

Students interested in exploring their own writing projects and research questions have access to our expert faculty and literary collections. We also host a symposium for undergraduate research where we showcase the variety of writing, research, and other content created by our students.

Study Abroad

Study abroad opportunities offer an extraordinary learning experience. Our programs immerse students in Shakespeare's London and the 21st century's finest literature. Virginia Tech also sponsors several study abroad opportunities that may complement your program of study.

Exciting Student Organizations

All of our programs provide opportunities for students to get involved beyond the classroom. Our student organizations include the English Club, Creative Writing Club, VT Linguistics Club, Sigma Tau Delta, and the English graduate student organization.