English: Literature and Language Major (ELLJ)

A minimum of 36 hours is required for this major.

1. Required Entry-level Course (4 hours)

ENGL 1100 - Literary Interpretation Credits: 4 hours

2. Required Courses (20 to 24 hours)

E. Advanced courses (6-8 hours):

At least two additional courses at the 5000-level in literature or the English language. Courses used to satisfy requirements 2.A., 2.B., or 2.C. may not be counted for this requirement.

3. Elective Courses (12-15 hours)

At least four courses from the 2000-5000 level. Courses used to satisfy requirements 2.A., 2.B., or 2.C., 2.D., or 2.E. may not be counted for this requirement.

4. Foreign Language

The Foreign Language requirement for English majors is determined by the College of Arts and Sciences. Students should contact an advisor in that unit for specifics.

Accelerated BA/MA program

Students in this major are eligible for the English department’s accelerated BA/MA program in English. Interested students should consult WMU’s Graduate Catalog and, in their sophomore or early junior year, contact the Director of Graduate Studies for more information on this accelerated degree program.

English Teaching Track

This sequence of courses can be taken in coordination with any WMU English major or minor program. Successful completion will prepare the student to enter the WMU Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification program. The sequence does not in itself lead to certification.

Completing this sequence and meeting the grade and external requirement typically results in automatic admission to the WMU Post-Baccalaureate Teaching Certification Program.

Grade Requirement

GPA of 3.0 or better cumulative in English courses.

External Requirement

Successfully pass the Michigan Test of Teacher Certification - English (002).

Required Courses

ENGL 2790 - Introduction to English Education Credits: 3 hours
- (Recommended to be taken during the 1st year at (WMU)
- An introduction to the responsibilities, aspirations, and professional knowledge of secondary English language arts teachers.

ENGL 4810 - Teaching English Language Arts in the Secondary School Credits: 4 hours
- A study of the key methods and theories of teaching English language arts that includes readings, practice, and of pedagogy in writing, literature, and reading in the middle and secondary school.

Note for students: Both of these courses will apply to your English major or minor.

Required Content Knowledge

In order to meet Michigan teacher certification standards, candidates entering the post-baccalaureate teaching program are expected to have experience in multiple areas of English language arts. While satisfying your requirements in your chosen English major, you should choose at least one course in each of the following areas. Recommended courses are listed. As you complete your English major or minor, you should work with your advisor to include these courses in your course plan. Courses taken at other institutions may be reviewed by the English Department undergraduate advising staff upon request.