Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching)

Bachelor's

Hours: 120 On-Campus Online

About

The B.A. in English (Teaching) at Fort Hays State University is designed for students interested in exploring the relationship between literature and the world through diverse critical perspectives. The program promotes intellectual growth, thoughtful citizenship, and professional readiness across a range of careers.

Through focused study in rhetoric, composition, linguistics, and literary analysis, students engage with the transformative power of language and its impact on society. The curriculum emphasizes the value of imagination, textual analysis, and creative inquiry. Guided by dedicated faculty, students gain hands-on learning experiences and develop strong analytical and writing skills—essential for careers in teaching, writing, editing, and more. Graduates are well-prepared to address the enduring questions that shape our global community.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) at Fort Hays State University?

Our B.A. in English (Teaching) offers a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills, specifically designed to prepare students for secondary education certification. This focus on real-world application equips graduates with the tools needed to succeed in educational settings and become impactful educators in their communities.

The curriculum also promotes deep engagement with both classic and contemporary literature, fostering a broad literary foundation highly valued in academic and teaching careers. By combining critical thinking with hands-on teaching experience, the program ensures graduates are not only well-read but also ready to apply their knowledge effectively in the classroom.

Who is this program for?

The Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) is ideal for individuals with a passion for literature, writing, and teaching. This program supports a wide range of students with diverse career goals, both within and beyond the field of education. It is especially well-suited 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 B.A. in English (Teaching) at FHSU prepares students for diverse career paths in education, public relations, and related fields. Through rigorous coursework and practical teaching experiences, students build a strong, versatile skill set valued across the job market. The following key outcomes ensure graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen professions.

Enhanced Oral and Written Communication Skills

Graduates will demonstrate strong oral communication and the ability to write clearly and persuasively. The program emphasizes effective communication in both academic and professional settings, preparing students to teach English at various grade levels and succeed in fields such as public relations. Courses in rhetoric and literary studies develop these skills through active learning and real-world application.

Deep Understanding of Literary and Cultural Contexts

Students will develop a strong understanding of a wide range of literary texts and their cultural, historical, and philosophical contexts. This in-depth study sharpens analytical skills essential for interpreting and teaching complex works. The ability to understand narrative and context is also valuable in careers such as law, public relations, and the film industry.

Pedagogical Expertise in English Education

This program prepares students for teacher certification by developing effective pedagogical skills across educational levels. Graduates will be skilled in curriculum design, student assessment, and the application of current educational theories and practices. As a result, they are well-prepared to make meaningful, immediate contributions in classrooms and other educational settings.

Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills

The B.A. in English (Teaching) program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical reasoning as core outcomes. Students engage with diverse texts and critical theories, learning to evaluate arguments, recognize bias, and form well-reasoned conclusions. These skills are vital across liberal arts fields and prepare graduates for dynamic careers in education, research, public policy, and beyond.

Real-World Applications

The B.A. in English (Teaching) prepares students for immediate entry into the education field, particularly at the secondary school level. The program emphasizes advanced analytical and communication skills essential for teaching complex literary concepts and working effectively with diverse student populations.

Through teaching practicums and student-teaching placements in real classroom settings, students gain valuable hands-on experience. These opportunities help build confidence and competence in instructional strategies, classroom management, and educational technology, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for today’s educational challenges.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University actively incorporates the latest developments in literary studies and educational methodologies, ensuring students stay current with evolving theories and practices. This forward-thinking approach prepares graduates for impactful roles in education and academia.

The curriculum also emphasizes digital literacy and the integration of technology in teaching. Through innovative courses in digital media, online instruction, and computer-assisted literary analysis, students gain the skills to effectively use modern tools in their future classrooms.

Hands-on Activities

The B.A. in English (Teaching) emphasizes hands-on learning that transforms theory into practical teaching skills. Students participate in classroom simulations, develop detailed lesson plans, and engage in peer-teaching exercises. They also gain valuable experience working with local schools, exposing them to diverse educational environments.

The program includes workshops and seminars led by experienced educators and scholars, offering insights into effective teaching methods and classroom innovation. These real-world experiences are essential for building the skills needed 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

Courses

The Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines in-depth literary analysis with practical teaching skills. Students study American, British, and world literature, sharpening their critical thinking and analytical abilities. Courses in rhetoric and composition further enhance their skills in persuasive writing and argumentation, essential for both teaching and professional communication.

The program extends beyond theory, featuring specialized pedagogy courses focused on effective teaching methods, curriculum development, and modern educational technologies. These courses prepare students to meet the demands of diverse, technology-driven classrooms, equipping them with the skills to design 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.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared to enter a diverse and dynamic job market. With skills spanning literary analysis to teaching methods, the program opens doors to a variety of career paths. Potential opportunities for graduates include:

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 $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/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.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the B.A. in English (Teaching), giving students extra options to customize their education according to their career aspirations:

FAQ

What can I expect to learn in the Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching) program at Fort Hays State University?

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.

How does the teaching concentration differ from other concentrations within the B.A. in English degree?

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.

What career options are available for the Bachelor of Arts in English (Teaching)?

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.

Are there opportunities for practical teaching experience within the program?

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.

How does the program prepare students for the evolving demands of modern education?

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.

Information about the Department of English and Modern Languages

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.

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English Education

Bachelor's

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