College of Arts and Humanities
English Language Arts Teaching
Bachelor of Arts | Major
English Language Arts Teaching, BA
English Language Arts Teaching program embraces your passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of your future students.
With a focus on critical thinking, effective communication, and culturally responsive teaching, you will gain the skills and knowledge essential to inspire and engage students from all walks of life. Build confidence and expertise in fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment through a blend of traditional classes, faculty mentoring, and student teaching. By pursuing this degree, you will be taking an important step toward shaping the minds of future generations and making an impact on your community.
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English Department
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What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | English Department Website
Core Courses
- ENG 222 - Multicultural Literature for Teachers
- ENG 302 - Poetry and Poetics
- ENG 303 - Principles of English Studies
- ENG 320 - English Grammar
- ENG 363 - Shakespeare
- ENG 420 - English Linguistics
- ENG 422 - Teaching Young Adult Literature
- ENG 430 - Teaching Writing in the Secondary School
- ENG 488 - Teaching Portfolio
- ENG 492 - Practicum
Literary Forms
- ENG 380 - Studies in Drama
- ENG 453 - Studies in Fiction
- ENG 454 - Studies in Creative Nonfiction
- ENG 455 - Studies in Poetry
Literature and History
- ENG 371 - Literature and History I
- ENG 372 - Literature and History II
- ENG 373 - Literature and History III
- ENG 374 - Literature and History IV
Writing
- ENG 263 - Introduction to Creative Writing
- ENG 264 - Introduction to Creative Writing and the Environment
- ENG 265 - Introduction to Creative Writing as “Mindfulness, Health and Well-Being”
- ENG 364 - Fiction Writing
- ENG 365 - Poetry Writing
- ENG 366 - Creative Nonfiction Writing
Critical Studies
- ENG 415 - Critical Studies in American Literature
- ENG 417 - Critical Studies in World Literature
- ENG 419 - Critical Studies in British Literature
Literature and Culture
- ENG 329 - Cultural Studies in Literature
- ENG 330 - African American Literature
- ENG 331 - Latina/o Literature
- ENG 332 - American Indian Literature
- ENG 333 - Asian American Literature and Cultures
- ENG 335 - Women’s Literature
- ENG 336 - Race and Literature
- ENG 337 - LGBTQ2IA+ Literatures and Cultures
- ENG 347 - Global Perspectives in Literature
Meaningful Difference
Inspire the next generation of students, by focusing on teaching essentials like pedagogy, classroom management, curriculum development, and assessment strategies.
Career Opportunities
Work as an instructional designer or pursue an advanced degree in addition to teaching.
"American Feelings"
In this class we'll study the history of social identities and inequalities in 19th century America and how expressions of feeling or disaffection work to reshape gender roles and racial formation.
Evidence-Based Instruction
Our majors practice evidence-based instruction and implementing curriculum materials and methods modeled by teachers in culturally diverse middle, junior, and high schools across the nation.
Apply
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Financial Aid
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Student Life
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Scholarships
The English Department awards thousands of dollars of scholarships each year.
Student to Professor Ratio
Small class sizes ensure that you will receive personalized attention from faculty and staff.
Experience
Work in classrooms alongside teacher practitioners who mentor prospective teachers and model the creation of culturally responsive, engaging language arts classrooms.
Why Study English at Central?
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and a collaborative learning environment, led by faculty who are recognized for their expertise and commitment to student success
- You will acquire versatile, in-demand skills that are critical across a wide range of industries, preparing you for a successful and dynamic career path.
- We offer flexible class options to accommodate diverse schedules and learning preferences, making it easier for you to balance your education with other commitments.
Career Pathways
Teaching at secondary school level
Teaching at community-college and university level
Teaching English to speakers of other languages
Secondary school administration
Commitment to a Sustainable World
Central Washington is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. CWU English programs embed sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.
Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.