Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching)
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
The B.A. in English (Teaching) at Fort Hays State University is tailored for students eager to explore the interplay between text and the world through various literary lenses. This program fosters intellectual virtue, cultivates thoughtful citizenship, and prepares students for professional excellence across diverse fields. Through carefully studying rhetoric, composition, linguistics, and literary analysis, students engage with the transformative power of language and its pivotal role in society.
Our curriculum celebrates the human imagination and the critical role of textual analysis and creative inquiry. Guided by a dedicated faculty, students delve into experiential learning and develop robust analytical and writing skills. These competencies are crucial for teaching, writing, editing, and beyond careers, enabling our graduates to tackle the enduring questions that shape our global community.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) at Fort Hays State University?
Our program offers a balanced approach, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical teaching skills. Our B.A. in English (Teaching) is designed to prepare students for secondary education certification, equipping them with the necessary tools to excel in educational settings. This focus on practical application sets our graduates on a clear path to becoming influential educators in their communities.
Furthermore, our curriculum encourages a deep engagement with classic and contemporary literature, fostering a broad understanding highly valued in educational and academic careers. By merging critical thinking with practical teaching experiences, our program ensures graduates are well-read and ready to apply their knowledge in classrooms.
Who is this program for?
The Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) at Fort Hays State University is ideally suited for individuals passionate about literature, writing, and the art of teaching. This program caters to diverse students with various career aspirations within and beyond education. It is designed for those who:
- Aspire to become educators at secondary or higher education levels
- Wish to improve their critical thinking and analytical skills for various professional careers
- Are interested in pursuing further studies or research in English literature
- Desire to develop a strong foundation in communication skills applicable in any field
- Aim to engage with and contribute to academic, educational, or literary communities
Learning Outcomes
The Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) at Fort Hays State University is designed to prepare students for various career paths in education, public relations, and beyond. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on teaching experiences, students develop a set of comprehensive skills that are valued in the job market. The following outcomes are central to the program, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of their chosen professions.
Enhanced Oral and Written Communication Skills
Graduates will exhibit advanced oral communication skills and the ability to write clearly and persuasively. The program emphasizes the importance of effective communication in academic and professional settings, preparing students to teach English at various grade levels and engage effectively in public relations and other communication-driven fields. Rhetoric and literary study courses foster these skills through active learning and practical application.
Deep Understanding of Literary and Cultural Contexts
Students will acquire a profound understanding of a broad spectrum of literary texts and their cultural, historical, and philosophical contexts. This extensive literary study equips students with the analytical skills to interpret and teach complex texts. The knowledge gained is applicable in teaching and fields such as law, public relations, and the film industry, where an understanding of narrative and context is indispensable.
Pedagogical Expertise in English Education
The program is tailored to prepare students for teacher certification, focusing on developing pedagogical skills applicable across educational levels. Graduates will be adept at designing curricula, assessing student learning, and applying modern academic theories and practices. This outcome ensures that our English majors are ready to make immediate and effective contributions in classrooms and educational settings upon graduation.
Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Critical thinking and the ability to analyze information are fundamental outcomes of the B.A. in English (Teaching) program. Students engage with various texts and critical theories, learning to evaluate arguments, identify biases, and develop reasoned conclusions. These skills are essential for success in any liberal arts field and prepare graduates for dynamic roles in education, research, public policy, and much more.
Real-World Applications
The B.A. in English (Teaching) prepares students for immediate entry into the educational sector, particularly in secondary schools. Our program emphasizes developing high-level analytical and communication skills crucial for teaching complex literary concepts and engaging with diverse student populations.
Students gain practical experience through teaching practicums and student-teaching assignments in natural classroom settings. These experiences are designed to build confidence and competence in instructional strategies, classroom management, and educational technology, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared for the demands of modern educational environments.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Our English program continuously integrates the latest advancements in literary studies and educational methodologies into the curriculum. This dynamic approach ensures that students are exposed to current theories and practices, preparing them for progressive roles in education and academia.
Moreover, incorporating technology in teaching and emphasizing digital literacy keeps our students ahead in a rapidly evolving educational landscape. Through innovative courses exploring digital media, online instructional strategies, and computer-assisted literary analysis, students can use cutting-edge tools effectively in their future teaching careers.
Hands-on Activities
The B.A. in English (Teaching) is rich in hands-on activities that translate theoretical knowledge into practical teaching skills. Students engage in classroom simulations, create detailed lesson plans, and participate in peer-teaching exercises. These activities are complemented by opportunities to work with local schools, allowing students to experience teaching in diverse educational settings.
Additionally, our program offers workshops and seminars led by experienced educators and scholars, providing students with insights into effective teaching practices and classroom innovation. These real-world engagements are crucial for developing the skills necessary for a successful career in education.
What You’ll Learn:
- Master vital literary theories and methodologies
- Understand the structure of the English language
- Learn pedagogical techniques for various educational levels
- Analyze and interpret texts critically
- Enhance communication skills for diverse audiences
How You’ll Learn:
- Engage with diverse literary genres and styles
- Develop critical writing and analytical skills
- Participate in peer reviews and workshops
- Experience real-world teaching scenarios
- Conduct independent and guided research
Fort Hays State University's Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) offers a robust curriculum that blends deep literary analysis with practical teaching skills. Students explore various American, British, and world literary works, enhancing their critical thinking and analytical skills. Courses in rhetoric and composition further refine students' abilities to argue and write persuasively, which are essential for teaching and professional communication.
Our program goes beyond theory. It includes specialized pedagogy courses focusing on practical teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and modern educational technologies. These courses are designed to prepare students for the challenges of teaching English in today's diverse and digital classrooms. They equip our students with the tools to develop and implement effective educational strategies and assessments.
ENG 497: Young Adult Literature
This course is a study of literature and reading materials appropriate for middle and high school students.
ENG 648: Theories of Rhetoric and Composition
This course is an intensive study of classical and modern rhetoric theories and their application to composition practices and pedagogy.
ENG 415: Techniques of Teaching English
In this course, special attention is given to theme evaluation, unit construction, and current techniques and materials for addressing students of diverse abilities.
Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) from Fort Hays State University are well-prepared to enter a diverse and dynamic job market. The program's comprehensive skills range from literary analysis to teaching techniques, opening various career paths. Here are some potential career opportunities for graduates:
Secondary School English Teacher
Graduates can become English teachers in middle schools and high schools, where they will use their knowledge of literature and writing to inspire and educate the next generation. This role involves creating and implementing engaging lesson plans, assessing student progress, and preparing students for college-level English studies.
Curriculum Developer
With their strong background in literature and pedagogy, graduates are well-suited to work as curriculum developers. These professionals design educational materials and curricula for schools and academic publishers, ensuring that content is educationally sound and aligned with learning standards.
Educational Consultant
Graduates may become educational consultants, advising schools, educational organizations, and parents on best English education practices, curriculum choices, and teaching methodologies. This role often involves staying up to date with academic trends and policy changes.
Academic Administrator
Those interested in the operational aspects of education might pursue careers in academic administration. These positions could include department heads, program coordinators, or administrative roles at educational institutions, where they can influence educational policy and practice.
Professional Writer or Editor
Leveraging their strong writing and analytical skills, graduates can enter the field of writing and editing. Opportunities exist in publishing houses, magazines, online media, and freelance writing, where they can utilize their mastery of the English language and literary analysis to produce or refine written content.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,961.90* (on-campus) or $3,859.95* (online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online graduate tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the B.A. in English (Teaching), providing students with additional opportunities to tailor their educational experiences to their specific career goals:
- M.A. in English
- B.A. in English (Literature)
- B.A. in English (Writing)
- M.S. in Instructional Technology (Instructional Design)
- M.S. in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement)
The program offers a comprehensive study of American, British, and world literature and intensive writing and rhetoric training. Students also learn educational methodologies specific to teaching English, preparing them to teach at various academic levels.
The Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) focuses on pedagogical skills and curriculum development necessary for a career in education. Unlike literature or writing concentrations, which focus on content creation and literary analysis, the teaching concentration integrates these elements with practical teaching techniques and strategies.
Graduates can pursue careers as secondary school English teachers, educational consultants, curriculum developers, or academic administrators. The program’s comprehensive training also prepares students for further study in graduate education programs.
Yes, the B.A. in English (Teaching) program includes practicum opportunities and student-teaching assignments that allow students to gain hands-on experience in natural classroom settings. These experiences are crucial for developing effective teaching practices and classroom management skills.
The curriculum incorporates the latest educational technologies and methodologies, preparing students to teach in digital and diverse learning environments. Courses focus on modern pedagogical theories and include digital literacy and multimedia tools training, ensuring graduates are equipped to meet contemporary educational challenges.
Department Information
The Department of English and Modern Languages at FHSU offers students a robust education that blends critical thinking, writing versatility, and foreign language proficiency. With degrees in English and Modern Languages, students can choose concentrations in teaching, writing, literature, or foreign languages. The department's programs are designed to equip students with the adaptability, creativity, and leadership skills necessary to excel in various career fields. Whether you aim to pursue a career in education, business, or international relations, the combination of literary knowledge and language fluency will enhance your marketability in an increasingly globalized world.
Students in this department have the opportunity to engage in unique extracurricular activities, including service-learning projects, working on award-winning publications, and participating in language and cultural events. The department's dual-degree options, such as Nursing/Spanish and Business/Spanish, provide additional flexibility and broaden career opportunities. With dedicated faculty and a supportive learning environment, students will gain the essential skills to thrive in their chosen fields and contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Sigma Tau Delta: The English student society at FHSU, promoting interest in literature and writing, with opportunities for leadership, academic recognition, and attending national conventions.
- Lines from the Middle of Nowhere: An award-winning literary and arts journal showcasing our students' talents. Get involved as part of the editorial board or submit your work for consideration.
- Hispanic Dance Sessions: Sponsored by the Spanish Club, these sessions promote Hispanic culture through dance, open to all students and the community.
- Tertulia: An opportunity for students to practice Spanish in a relaxed environment with peers, faculty, and community members.
- Hispanic Film Festival: Experience Hispanic culture through film, with events that showcase issues relevant to the Hispanic world.
- Spanish Club: Organizes cultural events, fundraisers, and activities related to Hispanic culture, such as salsa parties and dance sessions.
- Bachelors
- On-Campus
- Online
