Academic Programs
English – Literature
Overview
Do you love reading deeply, thinking critically, and expressing ideas with clarity and creativity? Bluefield University’s English — Literature Bachelor of Arts degree provides a rigorous, inspiring foundation in literary study and analysis, preparing you for careers in education, law, writing, publishing, and beyond.
Grounded in diverse voices and perspectives, this literature concentration invites you to examine timeless classics and contemporary works with intellectual curiosity and a thoughtful lens. You’ll explore how literature reflects humanity, culture, and social change—developing skills that matter in today’s world: close reading, strong argumentation, clear writing, and nuanced interpretation.
English – Literature Degree Opportunities
Interested in pursuing graduate study, teaching, editing, or a creative career? Our English — Literature degree equips you with the analytical and communication skills employers value. Students enjoy:
- Literature-Focused Curriculum – Engage with British, American, and world literature across genres including poetry, drama, fiction, and thematic studies.
- Critical Thinking & Communication – Courses emphasize deep analysis and expressive precision, preparing you for leadership in writing, education, law, media, and more.
- Experiential Learning – Get hands-on experience with literary projects, campus publications, and guided faculty mentorship.
Flexible Pathways – Combine your literature focus with electives or minors that enhance your professional interests.
Quick Program Details
Tuition: $420 Per Credit Hour
Next Start On-Campus: January 2027
Next Start Online: October 2026
Time to Complete: 1-4 years*
*Time to complete can be reduced with prior learning and transfer credits
Other Available Concentrations
Pre-Law
Tailored for students considering a legal career, this concentration emphasizes critical reading, persuasive writing, and ethical reasoning skills. It provides a strong foundation for law school, equipping students with the skills needed for success in legal studies and related fields.
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Writing
Focusing on developing versatile writing skills, this concentration covers creative, technical, and professional writing. Ideal for aspiring authors, journalists, or content creators, it equips students with the tools to craft compelling narratives and effective communication in various mediums.
Career Outlook
A degree in English — Literature opens doors across many fields. Graduates often pursue roles such as:
- Editor / Content Manager
- Writer / Creative Author
- Technical Writer / Communications Specialist
- Teacher / Educator
- Law / Pre-Law Preparation
- Media & Publishing Professional
Our alumni thrive in careers where critical thinking, clear expression, and narrative insight are key.
Courses & Competencies
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Total Credits: 120
For a full breakdown of each course, reference the academic catalog located in Academic Resources.
General Education Requirements
- Introduction to the Writing Process
- Fundamentals of Speech
- Biblical Perspectives
- Developing the Christian Mind
- Math/Science* (3 Credits)
- Fine Arts/Humanities* (6 Credits)
- Social/Behavioral Science* (3 Credits)
- Degree Requirements (BA or BS/BSN)* (6 Credits)
- Personal Wellness
- ESS Activity Course* (1 Credit)
- Career Pathways I & II (2 Credits)
- Career Pathways III & IV (2 Credits)
- Career Pathways V & VI (2 Credits)
*Course or requirement includes multiple options. Online offerings may differ.
Core Requirements
- Argumentative and Analytical Writing
- History of the English Language
- English Seminar
- (Choose 4)
- Literature Appreciation
- British Literature I
- British Literature II
- American Literature I
- American Literature II
- World Literature I
- World Literature II
- Literature & Healing
- The Meaning of Myth
- Literature of Quest
- Fairy Tales
- Science Fiction
- Literature and The Life of Faith
- Appalachian Literature
- Literature: The Short Story
- Literary Nonfiction: The Fourth Genre
Concentration
- Shakespeare
- Regional & Ethnic Literature
- Introduction to Creative Writing or Creative Nonfiction
- (Choose 8)
- Modern English Grammar
- Literature of Children & Adolescents
- World Literature II
- Literature & Healing
- The Meaning of Myth
- Literature of the Quest
- Fairy Tales
- Science Fiction
- Literature & The Life of Faith
- Studies in Rhetoric
- Medieval Literature
- Renaissance British Literature
- Eighteenth-Century British Literature
- Nineteenth-Century British Literature
- Nineteenth-Century American Literature
- Twentieth & Twenty-First-Century Literature
- Special Topics in Literature
Electives
Elective requirements for this program are detailed in the undergraduate catalog.