English

Do you love stories? Are you passionate about self-expression? Do compelling stories help you make sense of what you experience? If so, then you should major in English at Alverno. We offer courses in three tracks — literary studies, film studies, and creative studies in writing — so you can engage with others and make sense of the world through reading, writing and film.

The professional world demands creative thinkers and strong communicators. As an Alverno English major, you’ll be ready for a creative and fulfilling career in law, education, media, marketing, web development and more!

The Alverno difference

At Alverno, we’re small by design. This allows you to receive one-on-one guidance from a full-time Alverno English faculty member throughout your coursework and career planning. Because we know who you are, we curate learning to meet your individual needs, connect you with people in the field, and help you set personal goals. You are not just a student to us; you are a lifetime member of the Alverno community.

We believe it’s essential to learn by doing, so you will build your skills as a reader, writer and creative communicator through a hands-on digital portfolio process that includes publication and production possibilities in the college’s online literary publication.

Our students are highly sought-after by employers. You’ll impress with your sophisticated communication style, high level of analysis and advanced critical thinking — all part of Alverno’s strong ability-based curriculum. These skills will get you ready for success.

“Alverno has challenged me to become my best self and to be open to new ideas. I look forward to graduation because I know that I have learned the skills I needed to go into the world and make a difference.”

— Glorivee, English major

Coursework

All Alverno students must complete 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. As an English major, you can build your program of study to match your professional goals and personal passions. Courses in our three tracks — literary studies, film studies or creative studies in writing — include such topics as creative writing, film adaptations of fiction, Oprah’s books, and writing for publication.

Field education

Take advantage of our Milwaukee location to find an exciting internship opportunity. Our students have interned at such organizations as: WTMJ 4’s The Morning Blend, Harley Davidson, The Shepherd Express, Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Milwaukee Magazine, Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and the Milwaukee International Film Festival.

Career opportunities

English graduates are ready to put their creative thinking and strong communication abilities to work. Whether your professional goals are in publishing, marketing, media, business, journalism, technical writing or teaching, our program offers a rigorous foundation upon which you can build your career. A degree in English can also lead to success in graduate and professional schools.

Admission requirements

Your first step is to apply for admission to Alverno by completing the free application at alverno.edu/apply. You should mark your intended major as English.

For your first two years at Alverno, you’ll be matched with a professional academic advisor who gets to know you and guides you through your education, helping you chart your path and register for classes. As a junior, you’ll be paired with a faculty advisor who will support your success to graduation.