English Major

English

Why Study English at U of G?

You will discover that the English program is more than just reading books! It helps you understand people better through popular stories, modern poems, ideas and tales from around the world. Uncover how stories from the past shape today’s world and help us learn important lessons from books, movies and media.  

In class, you will develop skills like understanding different cultures, being aware of social issues, and connecting with others emotionally. You will become great at reading critically, analyzing texts and communicating your ideas clearly. Plus, you will learn how to do research and write effectively. It is all about exploring new worlds through words!

 Read about the Human Experience

Explore stories that cover friendships, romance, survival, social justice, hope, loneliness and more. Dive into different times and perspectives to understand what it means to be human.

 Enhance Your Writing Skills

Learn how to craft compelling stories, develop characters, and connect emotionally with your readers. Become a skilled writer by adding a Creative Writing minor.

 Expand Your Written Cultural Knowledge

Join lively discussions and lectures exploring genres and styles from around the world and throughout history. Build your understanding of global cultures and perspectives through exciting seminars.

To see all courses offered in the English program, visit our Academic Calendar.

Careers for English Majors

Graduates of the English program can embark on exciting career paths where their skills in communication, critical thinking and creativity are highly valued. If you are passionate about education, you could become a teacher and inspire the next generation. You can also find roles in public relations, editing, publishing, and even digital media, adapting your skills to various industries. Regardless of your career path, the skills and experience derived from the English program will prepare you for the future. Graduates can go on to Master in English or earn a PhD in Literary Studies.

Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:

  • Advertising copywriter
  • English teacher
  • Publisher/editor
  • Content/Social Media Manager
  • Librarian
  • Technical Writer
A headshot of Sophia, an English student
Guelph's English program is designed for you to tailor your education toward your own personal interests and growth, so you are sure to graduate with exceptional skills as well as knowledge and experience in the areas you love. I thoroughly enjoyed many of the core courses (Intro, Critical Practices, Social Change, Form and Value) as well as some more niche ones (Cosplay Cultural Studies). I've been able to explore my own personal interest by enrolling in an independent study for my final year, while also broadening my horizons to writers and movements which I never would have thought to read. 

Sophia De Goey, Undergraduate Student
English

Rebecca Buckle, an English alumni
I am now a published poet, an award-winning essayist, and a short-listed screenwriter in an international screenplay competition. I have developed a website portfolio that now displays my various works and am continuing to pursue my creative endeavors with numerous projects. In addition to my story writing, I have also revived previous studies in programming and video games, merging my technical and creative talents to now being able to develop a narrative-heavy video game, which is currently projected for a demo release in the upcoming months. The University of Guelph's English program allowed me to prepare for these accomplishments.

Rebecca Buckle, Alumni
English

Discover More Options

Students considering English may also be interested in Creative Writing, Theatre Studies, History, or the Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree, and other programs.

Admission Requirements

Explore admission requirements for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students. Start your journey today!

Scholarships & Bursaries

We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.

Explore Scholarships & Financial Aid

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