English Major – BA | University of the Pacific

Think critically. Communicate clearly. Stand out professionally.

University of the Pacific’s English and writing professions degree prepares you for a career that emphasizes critical thinking and writing. Graduates become teachers, enter business, government service, law, medicine or earn master's degrees.

You can choose from a wide variety of courses in creative writing, professional writing, literature, interdisciplinary studies and language. The program is flexible, so you can double major or minor in English and writing if you’re committed to a different academic major.

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Versatile writing skills

At Pacific, English majors learn to think critically, write powerfully and analyze ideas with precision. You can focus on creative writing, professional writing, linguistics, multimedia storytelling or literature in context. You’ll graduate with the tools to craft strong arguments and adapt your writing for many careers and audiences.

Calliope magazine

Calliope is Pacific's award-winning literary and arts magazine that offers you first-hand publishing experience. Produced by Pacific’s Humanities Center, the magazine allows you to collaborate with other English and art students under the mentorship of professors from both fields to write, edit and design the annual publication.

Three-year English major option

You have the option to earn your bachelor's degree in three years. Do your part to stay on track, and you could shave a year off your undergraduate work. That means significant savings on tuition and you get a jumpstart on your career.

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Courtney Lehmann, English Department Professor

SEAMUS HEANEY FELLOWSHIP

Study Poetry in Ireland

Angel Zhong '23 studied in Ireland the summer before her senior year after receiving the Seamus Heaney Fellowship for International Study. The donation for the experiential learning opportunity came from Stockton accountant Ned Leiba, who studied under Heaney and wanted Pacific students to have a similar life-changing experience.

Two scholarships are offered to Pacific students each summer. Students submit their own poems along with their applications.

Learn more about Angel's experience

Success after Pacific

Writing for tech

Pacific English grad Kim Austin ’90 initially considered careers as a park ranger, teacher and magazine writer. As a student, she combined her English studies with computer science and geology. This blend of writing and technical skills propelled her to a successful tech career as a content strategist at Cisco, Oracle and Five9. Austin now advises students interested in content writing.

Learn more about Kim

Teaching Credential Track

While meeting the requirements for the English major, students can also meet the requirements for a “single subject teaching credential,” which allows them to teach English at the secondary school level.

The English Department’s adviser for students interested in this option is Professor Cynthia Dobbs. Students considering teaching English at the secondary school level can reach out to Professor Dobbs at cdobbs@pacific.edu.

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