English Department Mission Statement

The mission of the English Department at North Dakota State University is to inspire an appreciation for the English language and its literatures, and to cultivate its effective use in creative expression and day-to-day life. We offer three minors, a BA degree in English, a BS in English Education (in cooperation with the School of Education) an MA in English and a Ph.D. in English: Practical Writing. Please explore this web site to get more information about these degrees.

Staying current with trends in the field and meeting our student needs, the faculty of the English department is transforming our traditional English curriculum into an English Studies curriculum. This change gives students opportunities to explore such subjects as British, American, and World literature; rhetoric, composition, literacy acquisition; professional writing; creative writing; and linguistics.

• Rooted in the liberal arts and humanities, the study of literature fosters creative and critical abilities, promotes multiculturalism and tolerance in a globalized world, and fosters understanding of cultural, historical, ethical, aesthetic, and linguistic forces that shape our lives
• Effective writing makes social and professional engagement possible. The study of rhetoric, composition, literacy, and professional writing enhances facilities in writing, communication, and technology much valued by local communities, industry, and organizations.
• Creative writing merges an interest in literary studies with the art of writing, providing a hands-on experience of literature, encouraging students to create literary texts in a variety of media and genres, and emphasizing the power of the individual to respond to human experience in a changing world.
• The study of linguistics cultivates an appreciation for the English language, its history, conventions, structures, and uses.

We expect our graduate program to continue its growth. We have proposed a Ph. D. in English Studies. It awaits the State Board of Higher Educationbs approval. That program will reflect our current interests in the broad range of English studies and will place special emphasis on pedagogy, technology, and writing. This degree will prepare students for successful careers as college teachers and researchers or as writers and communicators in government, organizations, and industry.