Get your college career off to a great start!
Discover the pathway that may be best for you in pursuit of an undergraduate degree at Carlow University.
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At Carlow University, the next generation of ethical leaders is already in the making.
Here, our students gain more than just a degree – they build connections, find purpose, and thrive – working in ways big and small to reshape the future. With your support, we can continue to invest in these future leaders and expand their ability to transform our world.
How You Can Support
At Carlow University, the next generation of ethical leaders is already in the making.
Here, our students gain more than just a degree – they build connections, find purpose, and thrive – working in ways big and small to reshape the future. With your support, we can continue to invest in these future leaders and expand their ability to transform our world.
How You Can SupportDevoted to Making a Difference in Students’ Lives
At Carlow, we strive to develop ethical leaders who will take compassion, mercy, and a passion for inclusivity and fairness into their classrooms. That’s why our secondary education program is designed for those who are devoted to discovering how to make a difference in the lives of their future students.
With a degree in secondary education, you can teach biology, chemistry, mathematics, social studies, or English to students in grades 7-12. After completing the program, you will have the skills needed to educate and guide your students in a safe and unbiased learning environment.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Credits Required:
128 credit hours in the major
Campus:
Oakland
Delivery:
On campus
Curriculum for Secondary Education
The number of courses in this major will vary depending on the content area for each student. Students are required to choose an area of focus from biology, chemistry, mathematics, social studies, and English. In addition to classroom work, field work and student teaching are a requirement of this major. Carlow will connect students with opportunities for both field work and student teaching. Students will be prepared to be just, merciful, and culturally responsive educators.
Quick Facts
- This program is rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy to prepare just and merciful educators who are committed to inclusivity and who are able to adapt to cultural differences.
- Through field experience, students will be well-prepared to become ethical leading educators in our region’s schools.
- Carlow University has partnerships with area school districts for field work, student teaching, and the residency program.
- This program prepares students for Pennsylvania Department of Education teaching certification.
- Opportunities for field work and student teaching can be done on campus at the Carlow University Laboratory School.
Career Opportunities
In response to a secondary education teacher shortage in Pennsylvania and across the nation, Carlow University will offer a new secondary education major for students interested in teaching biology, chemistry, mathematics, social studies, and English to children and adolescents in grades 7-12.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply:
Any time
Start Terms:
Fall and Spring
Contact Admissions
Visit admissions @carlow.edu or call 412.578.6059 if you would like to learn more about the program by scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Faculty & staff
Sean P. Freeland, PhD Assistant Professor of Education, Program Director for Secondary Education
Patricia L. McMahon, PhD Professor
MiIsha Reid, PhD Program Director and Assistant Professor of Special Education
Devoted to Making a Difference in the Lives of Students with Disabilities
Nearly 15% of public education students have special needs. And they need teachers devoted to making a positive impact on their education and their future success.
Degree:
BA in Special Education
Delivery
On-Campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer Credits:
Up to 90 credits
Curriculum for degree in special education
Carlow’s special education degree majors will embody the spirit of mercy while learning how to create effective and appropriate teaching strategies for various mental, physical, social, emotional, and behavioral disabilities in a variety of diverse settings—all the while helping to create an environment where special needs students feel safe, respected, and valued.
Quick Facts
- There are 39 total courses (29 major courses and 10 Compass Core Courses)
- Students in this program will be required to complete fieldwork hours embedded within individual courses. Those particular hours will vary depending on the course.
- Per the Pennsylvania Department of Education, students in this program must also complete a 12-week student teaching experience.
- Carlow’s BSPED Certification program provides the necessary coursework required for special education certification in Pennsylvania.(Students must meet additional requirements and apply for certification after graduation.)
BA in Special Education Career Opportunities
Most special education teachers work in public schools, teaching students with various disabilities at the preschool, elementary, middle, and high school levels. Graduates can also work in private schools, childcare services, and other institutions. Graduates of the undergraduate special education program may want to pursue a graduate certificate or master’s degree in a related field to reach their career goals or for greater upward mobility.
Carlow University’s education department currently offers a variety of M.Ed. tracks that may interest graduates of the undergraduate program. These include an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, an M.Ed. in Reading Specialist, and an M.Ed in Educational Leadership. Certificate options that may interest students include Dyslexia Teaching and Reading Specialist.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended be sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions
Apply:
Anytime
Start Terms:
Fall, Spring, and Summer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit.
Explore Your Passion and Empower Global Communities
Welcome to a unique, first-semester educational opportunity that helps you in getting to know yourself better, while helping others. The Carlow faculty have designed this immersive experience so you immediately can apply your learnings in real-world settings to make a meaningful impact. In addition to core curriculum courses that you can apply to most majors, you will spend 4 weeks abroad in Uganda.
Quick facts
- Experience campus living and a structured self-reflection learning program focused on reinvigorating your passions and your purpose in life
- Serve alongside your peers, through service-learning projects in the fields of education, healthcare and more
- Benefit from onsite counseling to help you discover and process your strengths, interests and skills throughout your experience
- Minister to the needs of Ugandans, igniting your global perspective of the ways in which you can best serve yourself and the world around you
Your Discovery Program experience
On-campus discovery and preparation
You will begin your self-discovery living on Carlow University’s charming, urban campus in the heart of Pittsburgh’s exciting Oakland area.
- First semester courses can be applied to most Carlow undergraduate majors.
- You will be part of a living/learning community on campus during your first semester.
- Service-learning projects will occur locally and internationally.
- A residency fee, billed by Carlow, includes round-trip travel on major U.S. carriers, accommodations, meals, activities, and project materials.
- Financial aid and scholarships may be available for eligible students.
Get Your College Career Off to a Great Start
If you are interested in the Discovery Program, complete this form or contact Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke, at slorourke@carlow.edu or +1 (412) 578-2054.
Service Learning in Uganda (30 days)
Apply what you learned, sharpen your problem-solving skills and make positive contributions through service and volunteer opportunities at Ugandan schools and health care clinics.
One of your guides and mentors abroad will be Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke. She has led study abroad programs for decades and is committed to helping you become immersed in the Ugandan culture with amazing moments and adventures. Alongside Susan will be a counselor available to students, both are trained in healthy relationships, stress management practices and study-abroad protocols.
Serve, Learn & Volunteer
- Volunteer (provide tutoring and engage in fun learning activities) at Noah’s Ark School for Children with Disabilities in Entebbe
- Participate in service projects (plant orchards and tend to school gardens) for Bright Kids Uganda on Lake Victoria Island
- Serve (provide instruction and adapt learning materials for children with disabilities) at Silver Memorial Inclusive Community Learning Center (SMILE) in Opucet
- Assist with vision assessments and distribution of donated eye glasses for seniors and school children
Meet a New Culture
- Hear inspiring life stories from locals, young and old; learn about their history including the effects of living as a British colony and subsequent years of conflict
- Become familiar with local customs and their challenges
- Interact with people living in remote villages without access to electricity, clean water, phones or computers
- Prepare, taste and eat authentic Ugandan food
Take amazing adventures
- Visit the source of the Nile River and go white water rafting
- Take a hike to the tallest waterfall in eastern Africa, Sipi Falls
- Observe animals in their natural habitat on a three-day safari
- Visit Chimpanzee Island
An impactful experience
“I would go back and serve in Uganda in a heartbeat. I wish I had more time there. It had a huge impact on my life after returning and loved the opportunity to be able to have an impact on the lives of those there.”
– Kaylee Goblesky, Carlow University Nursing student
Get Your College Career Off to a Great Start
If you are interested in the Discovery Program, complete this form or contact Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke, at slorourke@carlow.edu or +1 (412) 578-2054.
Program Director
Susan O’Rourke, EdD
Global Center Director
Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke has been working in Uganda for 10 years (since 2012). She has personally selected the comfortable and secure living facilities for the Uganda service-learning program and prearranged secure transportation through established partners in Uganda. Dr. O’Rourke has developed experiential learning and service projects through established partnerships and non-government organizations (NGOs).
Partners such as:
- Noah’s Ark School for Children with Disabilities
- Bright Kids Uganda
- Silver Memorial Inclusive Community Learning Center (SMILE)
- Prime Tower Primary School
Contact the Discovery Program
If you are interested in the Discovery program, and have questions, email us or give us a call. We’re here to help!
Learn how children grow and evolve
You will develop a scientific approach to the study of human behavior and experience in Carlow University’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program. As a Child Development Psychology major, you will investigate the biological, behavioral, emotional, cognitive and social factors that shape how humans grow and change. This concentration is helpful if you wish to pursue employment or graduate training in developmental psychology, counseling and fields in which additional knowledge of children’s growth and development is helpful.
By the end of the program, you will be ready to enter training in social service and mental health programs in areas such as therapeutic activities, rehabilitation, casework, child care work and service coordination.
The program provides a foundation for graduate study in psychology and counseling but can be a path to other careers. You can go on to law school or graduate school or work in business, education or other fields.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
BA Psychology curriculum
In the Child Development Psychology major you must satisfy the regular requirements for the major and complete at least 9 credits in human development. You can complete an internship at a local facility or conduct field research.
Quick facts
- Dig deeper in the study of children’s growth
- Collaborate with faculty on research
- Gain real-world career experience with an internship
Alternate degree completion options
3-Year Degree
Finish your bachelor’s degree in three years by following a 3-year academic plan. Courses are taken across fall, spring and summer terms with summer courses completely online. When applying, indicate your interest in the 3-Year Degree option.
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Child Development Psychology major
Jobs you might consider with a Child Development Psychology major are child psychologist, career counselor, psychiatric technician, rehabilitation specialist or case manager. As noted on CareerProfiles.com, these jobs require skills a bachelor’s degree in Psychology provides, such as the ability to evaluate the needs of a client, keep accurate and organized records, express empathy and compassion, and work toward the best interests of clients.
Employment of psychologists is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job prospects should be best for those who have a doctoral degree in an applied specialty.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
A well-rounded college experience
Psychology major Morgan Mattie ’21 liked the amount of care and respect shown by Carlow advisors. “I never felt like just another student to them, they always had my best interest in mind and knew me well enough to help me make the best decisions for me. The psychology program is so well-rounded and really helps you understand not only psychology as a whole, but also your specific track.”
Psychology faculty
Clara M. Cheng, PhD Interim Associate Dean of Faculty Professional Development; Director of Undergraduate Psychology Program; Professor
Patricia Jameson, PhD, NBCCH Associate Professor
Jennifer K. Roth, PhD Professor of Psychology, Counseling, Criminology and Behavioral Neuroscience
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Understand human behavior and create real change: Psychology major
Are you curious about why people behave the way they do? Do you want to learn about factors that lead to racism? Are you interested in understanding mental health challenges how to treat them? As a Psychology major at Carlow, you will gain broad-based knowledge in human behavior and experience from a scientific perspective by exploring research methodology and critical analysis in various fields of psychology, such as counseling, developmental, cognitive, social and biological psychology. In addition, the Psychology program at Carlow offers optional concentrations in counseling, crisis and trauma, and child development for those interested in a deeper dive into those areas of interest.
By the time you graduate from Carlow’s Psychology degree program, you will be ready to enter training in social service and mental health programs in areas such as therapeutic activities, rehabilitation, casework, child care work and service coordination. In addition, the Psychology degree program provides a solid foundation for graduate study in psychology and counseling, and can serve as a path to other careers, such as law, business, education or other fields.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Bachelor’s in Psychology curriculum
The bachelor’s in Psychology program requires 34 credits in psychology plus 9 credits in supplemental coursework in English and Communication. Psychology coursework includes Introduction to Psychology, Lifespan Development, and upper-level courses in Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Personality Theory, and Biological Bases of Behavior. In addition, you are trained in statistics and research methods via a three-course sequence. A series of “Designing Your Life” courses help you prepare for careers in psychology and beyond, culminating in a senior capstone course that integrates different knowledge you have gained in psychology. A variety of elective courses allow you to explore your own areas of interest, such as Forensic Psychology, Psychology of Women, Abnormal Psychology, and more. You may also opt for an internship experience in a local facility or conduct faculty-led research. In addition, you may choose one or more concentrations in, counseling, crisis and trauma, and child development.
Concentrations
Counseling
This track will acquaint you with pre-professional-level counselor training and professional knowledge and skills needed ot help people in a variety of social service and mental health settings. You will satisfy the regular requirements for the psychology major plus complete at least 12 credits in counseling, such as. Introduction to Counseling, Family Counseling, Substance Abuse Counseling, and more. This concentration cannot currently be completed online.
Child Development
In the Child Development concentration, you will investigate the biological, behavioral, emotional, cognitive and social factors that shape how humans grow and change. This concentration is helpful if you wish to pursue employment or graduate training in developmental psychology, counseling and fields in which additional knowledge of children’s growth and development is helpful. You will satisfy the regular requirements for the psychology major plus complete at least 9 credits in human development, such as Child Psychology, Adolescent Psychology, Children’s Play, Parenting, and more. This concentration can be completed online asynchronously.
Crisis and Trauma
The Crisis and Trauma track will acquaint you with pre-professional-level trauma and crisis counselor training and provide a solid foundation in theory and research pertaining to crisis, abuse and trauma. You’ll focus on crisis assessment, intervention and management and study specific issues such as child abuse prevention and treatment, partner violence and the impact of trauma on individuals and families as well. You will satisfy the regular requirements for the psychology major plus complete at least 12 credits in crisis and trauma, such as Impact of Trauma, Crisis Intervention, Grief and Loss Across the Lifespan, and more. This concentration can be completed online; some classes are offered in an online synchronous format.
Quick facts
- Collaborate with faculty on research
- Complete an internship at a local facility
- Start taking Master’s courses as an undergraduate and earn a graduate degree faster for less money
Alternate degree completion options
Online Degree
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
3-Year Degree
Finish your bachelor’s degree in three years by following a 3-year academic plan. Courses are taken across fall, spring and summer terms with summer courses completely online. When applying, indicate your interest in the 3-Year Degree option.
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for bachelor’s in Psychology
Jobs you might consider with a bachelor’s in psychology are milieu therapist, career counselor, psychiatric technician, rehabilitation specialist, case manager, university student affairs or admissions counselor. As noted on CareerProfiles.com, these jobs require skills a bachelor’s in psychology provides, such as the ability to evaluate the needs of a client, keep accurate and organized records, express empathy and compassion, and work toward the best interests of clients.
Employment of psychologists is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job prospects should be best for those who have a doctoral degree in an applied specialty.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Psychology faculty
Clara M. Cheng, PhD Interim Associate Dean of Faculty Professional Development; Director of Undergraduate Psychology Program; Professor
Patricia Jameson, PhD, NBCCH Associate Professor
Jennifer K. Roth, PhD Professor of Psychology, Counseling, Criminology and Behavioral Neuroscience
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Understand why people break the law and the reasons for their behavior
With a bachelor’s in Criminology, you will learn the nature of crime and the effectiveness and fairness of society’s efforts to prevent and control it.
You will engage in a cross-disciplinary approach to the study of crime, offenders and victims, as well as the agencies, laws, policies and processes of the criminal justice system. You will train to become an agent of change by developing critical thinking skills through problem-based learning in order to impact the fields relevant to criminology professionals regardless of setting.
A psychology concentration is embedded within the program to ensure that you have the knowledge relevant to direct-practice professions in the field. This emphasis on psychology will help you develop an awareness of the critical role mental health plays in criminal behavior.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Criminology major curriculum
Carlow University’s major in Criminology focuses on prevention and remediation strategies. Notable courses include Crime and Mental Health and Race, Class and Justice.
Quick facts
- Pair studies with additional minors in Pre-Law, Counseling, or Crisis and Trauma
- Enjoy flexible options for degree completion for non-traditional students and those outside of the region
- Benefit from internship opportunities
Alternate degree completion options
Online Degree
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
3-Year Degree
Finish your bachelor’s degree in three years by following a 3-year academic plan. Courses are taken across fall, spring and summer terms with summer courses completely online. When applying, indicate your interest in the 3-Year Degree option.
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Criminology graduates
Criminology graduates are prepared for careers in local, federal and international law enforcement, adult and juvenile corrections and probation, and prevention and rehabilitation services. Many students pursue psychology and criminal justice-related graduate programs and law school.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Criminology faculty
Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Department Chair, Program Director of MA in Psychology and MS in Criminology & Criminal Justice
Mary C. Burke, PhD Professor, Program Director
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Create an individualized course of study
If you’re creative and independent and you’re interested in an interdisciplinary approach to your studies and future career, Carlow’s Liberal Studies major is an ideal option for you. In this program, you will work with an advisor and engage with guided studies to create your own major, adapting your learning experience to your academic and professional goals. You will choose three minors in separate programs to cultivate in-depth knowledge in those areas of study.
The Liberal Studies major is also an excellent choice if you are interested in studying at the graduate level, especially if you have aspirations that require in-depth knowledge of more than one area.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Liberal Studies major curriculum
Two of your chosen minors must be in liberal arts programs, such as humanities, art or women’s studies; one may be in a professional studies program such as accounting, business management or human resources. You may also choose three liberal arts areas of study. At the end of the program, you will complete a thesis that reflects your program outcomes.
Quick facts
- Adapt your learning experience to suit your academic and professional interests
- Prepare yourself for graduate-level studies with an interdisciplinary education
- Cultivate analytical and critical thinking skills, which are highly sought after by employers
Career opportunities for Liberal Studies majors
Career opportunities with a Liberal Studies degree include marketing and communications and sales. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for advertising, promotions and marketing managers is slated to increase 6% over the next 10 years, largely driven by organizations’ need to expand their market footholds.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Forge your own path. Become the person you are meant to be.
You can take the time to explore your personal and academic interests in an adaptable learning experience with a General Studies degree. Created with working people and students who have changed majors in mind, the major is grounded in the liberal arts.
As you adapt your studies to your interests and goals, you will gain a progressive depth of knowledge in a specialized area of study, becoming adept at integrative thinking and “thinking outside the box.”
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
General studies curriculum
The General Studies major is student-directed, with the oversight of an advisor. You will choose a study focus and take a minimum of 12 credits in one discipline, but will be able to branch out further in your interests. For example, you could study the plays of Shakespeare in one course, economic theory in another and biblical interpretation in yet another.
At the end of the program, you will develop a project that demonstrates integrative thinking and proficiency in chosen areas.
Quick facts
- Adapt your learning experience to your personal interests
- Take advantage of a learning experience designed with curious people in mind
- Cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills
Career opportunities for General Studies
Cultivating critical thinking and analytical skills enables students to find success in a range of careers, including nonprofit and human services agencies, entertainment and media.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Earn a Bachelor’s degree in Communication while focusing on your social change interests
You have seen the world change so much in such a short amount of time: climate change, human rights violations and wealth inequality, to name a few. You feel the need to help. With our social change degree, you can explore critical social justice issues and learn the communication skills necessary for social advocacy work.
This communication degree can be tailored to your specific interests in social justice, positioning you to make a difference and create change at the local, state and federal levels.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Social advocacy curriculum
The social advocacy curriculum includes in-person and online courses. In addition to your communication courses, political science and social work courses are included in the curriculum to help you develop your understanding of how communication relates to social policy and advocacy. You will have the opportunity to focus your social change degree on specific interest areas including poverty, education equality and health care.
With access to Carlow’s Hopkins Communication Lab, you will gain critical learning experiences, develop and practice professional presentations, and perform research.
Hands-on experience includes the Youth Media Advocacy Project, an organization that empowers middle and high school students in the community to develop communication advocacy campaigns.
Quick facts
- Courses offered in-person and online for a hybrid model
- Focus on your social justice interests
- Access to our communications lab
- Hands-on experience with the Youth Media Advocacy Project
Career opportunities for communications
Students with a communications degree can work in an array of media and communication occupations such as a public relations specialist, a reporter or specialized areas of communications outreach for an organization.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in media and communications occupations is projected to grow four percent from 2019 to 2029. The public relations specialists job market is expected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029. This growth is largely driven by organizations’ need to develop their public image.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admission.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Communication faculty
Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Department Chair, Program Director of MA in Psychology and MS in Criminology & Criminal Justice
Mary C. Burke, PhD Professor, Program Director
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Learn to read critically, think clearly, communicate effectively and write persuasively
As an English major, you will build an understanding of British, American and world literature, significant writers, and writing strategies. You can also focus on areas of interest through electives that can lead to a minor or double major.
You will develop effective communication, critical reading and thinking skills and learn advanced analytical research methods, preparing for a variety of professions that rely on those skills such as law, teaching and professional writing.
You can gain publication and presentation experience through Sigma Tau Delta, the English honor society, as well as editorial experience with “The Critical Point,” Carlow’s journal of visual and literary arts, and the Carlow University newspaper.
Degree:
Bachelor of Art
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
English degree curriculum
The English major curriculum focuses on timeless literary works and writers who address today’s major issues. Course options include Peace/Justice Themes in American Literature, Shakespeare in the 21st Century, Literature in Translation, Myths and Monsters, and Visions of Social Change. Other courses cover genres such as the American novel, Romantic or Early Modern women writers, and contemporary issues in poetry, drama and prose by modern British authors. A Writing for Social Media internship is also available.
Quick facts
- Establish a strong foundation in British, American and world literature
- Develop practical skills that are highly sought after in professional environments
- Gain valuable professional experience through publication or conference participation, editorial opportunities and internships
Understand literature in an online world
English and Liberal Studies double major Caitlin McDonough ’21 is grateful for the attention students receive from faculty in the English program. “I experienced the timelessness of literature through new perspectives, and I learned how to grow and market my writing skills for an increasingly online world.”
Alternate degree completion option
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for English majors
Employers seek candidates with critical and creative thinking skills; this provides English majors unique opportunities beyond their field of study, including public relations and social media management. Many English graduates use their writing skills in business or nonprofit settings.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for public relations specialists is expected to increase 7% over the next 10 years.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Experience a well-rounded education
English major Madeline Longmore ’22 said Carlow has exceeded her expectations since the moment she enrolled. “The small community has allowed me to be seen as a person instead of another number in a large lecture hall. The English literature program has exposed me to a wide range of artists and historical perspectives. The English professors have made diversity and intersectionality a basis for all their curriculum. I have learned more than literature; I have experienced bodies of work that connect our past to our present.”
English faculty
Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Department Chair, Program Director of MA in Psychology and MS in Criminology & Criminal Justice
Mary C. Burke, PhD Professor, Program Director
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
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Carlow University prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator, Jackie smith at jmsmith@carlow.edu or 412-578-6050.
