The San Diego State University 1996-97 General Catalog on the World-Wide Web cannot be considered the official publication for the University. Please refer to the printed General Catalog

General Catalog versions and rights

[Search] This Catalog (1996-97) [Index] Table of Contents [Prev] English [Next] English Contd. [Last] Faculty and Administration

English

The Major

The study of English today encompasses a wide range of materials and approaches to ways in which both students and established writers - past and present - may use language to express feelings, convey ideas, and give aesthetic pleasure. As one of the largest English Departments in California, SDSU can offer not only historical, analytical, sociopolitical and other approaches to literature and literary theory, but a variety of creative and expository writing classes as well.

English majors take fifteen units of lower division preparatory work designed to develop writing potential and analytical reading skills. More specialized upper division study focuses on particular areas: British literature before 1800; British literature after 1800; American literature; modern literature; literary types, theory, and criticism; creative writing; or expository writing.

Students going on to the single subject credential program in English can complete most of the credential requirements through courses taken in the major.

The English minor requires twelve units of upper division study that can be tailored to individual requirements. In addition the department offers certificates in Children's Literature.

Teaching is one of the many career opportunities available to English graduates; English studies are also good preparation for radio and television broadcasting, editing, writing, politics, film and library work, journalism, criticism, advertising, public information, public relations, and technical writing.

A study by the Modern Language Association, "English: The Pre-Professional Major," shows that training in English and literature is valuable preparation for futures in law, medicine, business and federal service.

The SDSU Placement Office has found that liberal arts graduates in general have profited both in terms of job availability and compensation in a recent shift from manufacturing to service in the United States economy.

Advising

All College of Arts and Letters majors are urged to consult with their department adviser as soon as possible; they are required to meet with their department adviser within the first two semesters after declaration or change of major.