English majors receive the Bachelor of Arts degree and choose from two distinct concentrations in Literature or Writing. In addition, the department also offers a Theatre Arts major also leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree. Students may earn provisional teaching licenses under the Literature/Secondary Education concentration. Non‑majors also may include in their programs one or more of the department’s three minors: Literature, Theatre, and Writing. Department courses afford opportunities for developing the crucial skills of analysis, synthesis, comprehensive and critical reading, extended and incisive writing, and clear thinking. In addition, English study provides, through rigorous analysis of major literary works, a unique experience in recognizing, evaluating, and articulating human values, motives, and qualities. Offerings in Theatre and Writing encourage students to develop their talents in theatrical performance and creative writing.

Westfield State University offers students a fully-equipped professional theater, access to the campus television and radio station, a weekly college newspaper, the latest computer equipment, and a literary magazine publishing outstanding student writing. A popular and successful feature in the department is its internship program whereby students gain valuable on‑the‑job experience with television and radio stations, newspapers, a professional theater, business organizations, and social services agencies.

Recent graduates majoring in English have accepted positions as teachers, reporters and editors, television staff members, theater directors, and corporate public relations officers. Some graduates have entered management training programs; others have gone on to graduate or professional schools.

Practicum

Of special interest to English majors is the ENGL 0380 - Practicum in English , the counterpart to student teaching for students who intend to apply the English major in a variety of occupational settings. Through the Practicum, seniors can earn 3‑12 college credits for on or off‑campus work experience. Such experiences are often the beginning of life-time vocational decisions and an added resource to help compete in the job search.

Programs

• English, Literature Concentration, B.A.
• English, Teacher of English Licensure (5-8, 8-12), B.A.
• English, Writing Concentration, B.A.
• Film Studies Minor
• Literature Minor
• Theatre Arts, Design/Technology Track, B.A.
• Theatre Arts, Performance Track, B.A.
• Theatre Arts, Theatre Studies Track, B.A.
• Theatre Minor
• Writing Minor

Courses

• THEA 0359 - Acting for Film and Television
• THEA 0360 - Theatre Production
• THEA 0362 - Research Seminar in Theatre
• THEA 0368 - Directing II
• THEA 0380 - Professional Theatre Seminar
• THEA 0389 - Scene Design
• THEA 0390 - Lighting Design
• THEA 0398 - Internship in Theatre
• THEA 0399 - Independent Study