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English

Harness the power of words.

At Alma, our English program prioritizes helping you develop as a creative and critical thinker. To earn your bachelor’s degree in English, you will: 

  • Survey formative works from the American and British canons – from Shakespeare and Chaucer to Toni Morrison and Don DeLillo.
  • Craft your own poetry, prose or nonfiction writing.
  • Take at least one foreign language class to study the sounds, structure and beauty of a language different from your own.

At A Glance

  • 12:1
    Student-to-faculty ratio
  • 18
    Average class size

Possible Careers

B2B Account Manager
Ryan Kraklau, 2015 | The New York Times
English Teacher
Faina Polt, 2009 | Laurel School
Vice President
Laurie DeYoung, 2004 | King Media
Performing Arts Teacher
Isabelle Moore, 2014 | Mercy High School Farmington Hills
Professor of English
Matthew Pifer, 1992 | Husson University
9th-Grade English Teacher
Brandt Ayoub, 2011 | Bremen High School Corporation

Harness the power of words.

At Alma, our English program prioritizes helping you develop as a creative and critical thinker. To earn your bachelor’s degree in English, you will: 

  • Survey formative works from the American and British canons – from Shakespeare and Chaucer to Toni Morrison and Don DeLillo.
  • Craft your own poetry, prose or nonfiction writing.
  • Take at least one foreign language class to study the sounds, structure and beauty of a language different from your own.

Explore

Student & Alumni Spotlights

No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.

The English department is one of my favorite aspects of Alma. My professors and academic adviser are so kind and always eager to help with anything.

Alivia Giles `24

The English department is one of my favorite aspects of Alma. My professors and academic adviser are so kind and always eager to help with anything.

Alivia Giles `24

Get to Know English

Meet the Faculty

Our faculty have diverse expertise in literature, rhetoric, composition and creative and professional writing. Learn about your professors.

The Alma Venture

Dream it, learn it, do it. Through our Venture program, you can design a unique, hands-on learning experience at home or abroad. Find out more about the Alma Venture.

Explore the Curriculum

Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.

Read. Write. Expand your horizons.

Reading enables us to understand how others think, feel and live. It unlocks alternative viewpoints and fosters empathy and understanding. And it provides a window into various places, periods and cultures. 

Similarly, writing allows us to express ourselves, articulate ideas and evoke emotion. As an English major, you’ll learn to persuade, dissect and analyze. You’ll also compose and workshop your own poetry and prose. 

You’ll have opportunities to get outside of the classroom, too. In our Spring Term courses, students travel to locations like England and Greece to investigate literature’s role in shaping modern and ancient societies. 

What You Need to Know

A major in English is an excellent foundation for a wide range of occupations. Our alumni find roles in publishing, journalism, copywriting, education and public relations. Others use the critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills gained at Alma to forge careers in business or finance.  

Our department has a stellar track record of placing our students in graduate-level programs. Plus, since Alma recently launched an M.F.A. in creative writing program, you may find your next step right here on campus!  

Student Opportunities

Have any questions?

Contact us today for more information on this program and more.

English Chair

Michael Selmon
(989) 463-7201
selmon@alma.edu

Admissions

Admissions Office
800-321-ALMA
admissions@alma.edu