English

Major | Minor

ApplyRequest InfoVisit

Why Study English at Goshen College?

Student in writing class

At Goshen College, you’ll immerse yourself in the power of language—reading great literature, crafting compelling stories, and sharpening your writing and critical thinking skills. Whether you’re passionate about creative writing, literature, education, or journalism, you’ll join a vibrant community of readers and writers who support your growth.

You’ll read widely, explore diverse perspectives, and learn to communicate with clarity and impact. With small classes and one-on-one faculty mentoring, you’ll receive personalized guidance and the flexibility to tailor your studies to your interests. Whether you dream of writing a novel, teaching English, advocating for social change, or pursuing graduate studies, this program gives you the skills to turn your passion into purpose.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in grad school or service within a year
  • 50%
    of students study abroad through our SST program

    Career Paths

    An English degree from Goshen College prepares you for careers in:

    • Writing and Editing
    • Publishing
    • Journalism
    • Teaching
    • Law
    • Public Relations
    • Nonprofit Leadership
    • Graduate Studies

    Our graduates work as authors, teachers, editors, attorneys, publicists, grant writers, and more.

    Credits and Requirements

    The English major and minor include a flexible curriculum with course offerings in literature, writing, and interdisciplinary studies.

    course catalog

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    Gain real-world experience by contributing to campus publications like The Record (student newspaper), Pinchpenny Press (student literary chapbooks), and Red Cents (literary arts journal). If you’re a creative writer, you’ll have opportunities to present your work at public readings. You can also intern at local publications, work as a writing mentor, , and participate in writing contests.

    Scholarships

    As an English major or minor, you may qualify for merit-based scholarships.

    Explore more of our scholarships

    Facilities & Resources

    Study and collaborate in the Harold and Wilma Good Library, featuring modern learning spaces and extensive digital resources.

    Faculty

    All Faculty
      All Faculty

      Ready to get started?

      ApplyRequest InfoVisit

      Related majors & minors

      All Majors & Minors

      • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

        As a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll gain the skills and cultural understanding needed to support English language learners in classrooms and communities, both locally and globally.

      • Undecided

        Choosing to be undecided means being intentional about finding a path that’s right for you.

      • Writing

        As a writing major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll hone your voice and develop the confidence to write with purpose, clarity, and creativity.

        All Majors & Minors