With an English major, you’ll experience and create great literature, preparing you for numerous career pathways.
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Connect with a counselor
They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in English, you'll both explore great literature and create it, all while cultivating these skills useful in any career.
Literary analysis and research
You’ll gain proficiency in literary analysis, research methods, and interpreting texts within various contexts. These skills will prepare you for careers in academia, publishing, and more.
Communication and writing skills
You'll enhance your ability to communicate effectively through various forms of writing, including blogs, personal essays, technical writing, op-eds, and more. And you’ll improve your skills in presenting, editing, and literary critique.
Publishing and revision
You'll learn the techniques of literary craft and the process of revision, preparing you for careers in publishing, editing, and other fields that require strong writing and critical thinking abilities.
Critical and creative thinking
You'll develop the intellectual capacity for critical thought and creative problem-solving, equipping you with the analytical skills needed for a wide range of careers.
Aesthetic and moral development
You’ll cultivate an appreciation for beauty and an understanding of ethical action, fostering both emotional and moral capacities that will enrich your personal and professional life.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
Study abroad
You’ll have the chance to study abroad over a full semester, January session, spring break, and summer. The January Textura trip and the Travel Writing trip are favorites among English and journalism students at Bethel. You may also explore off-campus programs in New York City and Los Angeles.
Internships
Write for area newspapers like the Minneapolis Star Tribune and the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Or learn the ropes at publishing houses like Redleaf Press, Believers Press, Bethany House Publishers, Coffee House Press, and more.
Build your portfolio
Hone your writing skills through Bethel’s award-winning student newspaper, literary journal, award-winning Textura magazine project, the Johnson Center for Journalism and Communication, or help students at Mayfield Elementary in St. Paul create the Maxfield Times.
Real-world impact
What can I do with an English degree?
By majoring in English, you’ll be equipped with a wide range of writing, critical thinking, and analysis skills that will forge the foundation for your career. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped with these skills for a life of purpose in numerous roles.
Media
With creative communications skills, you’ll be prepared for writing and editing roles at newspapers, magazines, publishing houses, and online media outlets.
Education
If you’re interested in teaching, you can add an education degree. You can also pursue a graduate degree in teaching or doctoral programs to become a principal or administrator.
Technology
You’ll be equipped to jump into a career as a web developer, content designer, or technical writer.
Graduate school
No matter your career path, you’ll be prepared to follow in the footsteps of graduates who have studied at prestigious schools.
Skills for any field
With strong communication and writing skills, you can apply your background to almost any field including journalism, marketing, missions, law, and more.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success. Professors are accessible and usually have an open-door policy so you can stop by with questions.
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
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