You can develop communication and creative skills and work with American, British and world literature with an English minor from Carlow University. You will develop critical thinking and analytical skills highly sought by employers, and refine your writing skills.
You can adapt your learning experience to suit your academic and professional goals. Possible professions include law, teaching and professional writing.
You will be encouraged to engage with literature that intrigues you, including crime fiction, literature in translation and environmental justice literature.
This minor is open to any major. A minimum of 18 credits in English is required.
Required Courses
Chaucer
Introduction to Linguistics
Shakespeare
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.
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.
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.”
Fine tune your writing skills with a minor in Creative Writing
You will develop your creative and critical thinking skills and learn how to tell a good story with a minor in Creative Writing from Carlow University. You can adapt your learning experience to fit your academic and professional interests and cultivate your writer’s voice in workshop settings.
You will learn practical skills, such as editing and graphic design, that translate well to a variety of fields where clear communication is essential. You can focus on poetry, creative nonfiction or fiction and develop an understanding of story, narrative structure and the elements of language. You will explore great literary works and deepen your relationship with these texts through discussion and critical examination.
This minor is open to any major, requires 18 credits and can be designed to suit your academic needs.
Required Courses
Introduction to Creative Writing
Poetry I: Finding Your Voice
Fiction I: Character, Setting, and Plot
Creative Nonfiction: Description, Narration, and Dialogue
Write and inspire with a Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing
You can build on your creative skills and refine your writing technique with Carlow’s Creative Writing major. You will explore the works of great writers while deepening your relationship with these texts through critical examination.
You can workshop creative pieces with peers as well as working writers, and develop your ability to understand creative concepts like context, image and voice.
You can gain experience in editing, graphic design and other practical skills by working with “The Critical Point,” Carlow’s journal of visual and literary arts. Opportunities such as the Madwomen in the Attic writing workshops and annual anthology and the Red Dog Reading Series can help you hone public reading, critique and editing skills.
In introductory and special topics courses, you will study poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction, and learn how to critique work in a workshop setting. You can study sound, rhythm and line in poetry studies; learn the essentials of a good story while studying fiction; and focus on narration, description and dialogue if your interest is creative nonfiction.
Other courses include world literature and language.
Quick facts
Concentrate on poetry, fiction or creative nonfiction
Cultivate your writer’s voice
Intern with “The Critical Point” and the Red Dog Reading Series
Alternate degree completion options
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 Creative Writing majors
With a background in creative writing, challenging and rewarding career opportunities abound, such as becoming a copywriter, working in publishing or advertising, or freelance as an editor or writer.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for technical writers is slated to grow 7% over the next 10 years, largely driven by the expansion of scientific and technical products, as well as a need for web-based product support.
Creative writing major publishes first novel
Malcolm Randall, a junior creative writing major and forward on the basketball team at Carlow University, fulfilled that goal in the fall of 2021. On Oct. 16, his first novel, titled “Sheriff Sebastian Part 1: The Boy,” was published and available for sale on Amazon.
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
Creative writing major says connections make program unique
Creative writing major KJ Miller ’21 said Carlow’s program is unique because of the connections students make. “Each professor in the program creates a knowledgeable and familiar environment, so that you are always learning how to perfect your craft as well as be comfortable sharing your own work. You gain mentorship on a new level – not only do they want to advise you, but they want to see you succeed while giving you all of the tools you need to do so.”
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3 Keys To Mastering Storytelling In Marketing Communications
3 keys to mastering storytelling in marketing communications Tell a good story—one that somehow defines your values—the essence of who you are, and why others should care—and you’ll capture the hearts and loyalty of customers…
Technology has transformed the way we interact. The communications field, in particular, has been greatly impacted by changes in digital media and technology.
Learn to tell engaging stories with a digital storytelling degree
No matter your academic background, the ability to tell a good story across a variety of formats is essential. In the Digital Storytelling minor program, you will learn journalistic and documentary approaches to storytelling, information-gathering skills such as interviewing and research, and production of audio and visual media.
You can discuss what you are most passionate about by creating digital content such as videos, podcasts and feature stories. With the school-wide emphasis on social justice, Carlow University encourages stories that shine light on marginalized groups and individuals.
This minor is open to any major. A minimum of 18 credits is required.
Required Courses
Introduction to Media & Society
Writing for Media
Media Criticism
Digital Storytelling
2 media production courses
Grow your skills in organizational communications
You will set yourself up for career success and master highly sought-after skills in business management with a corporate communications degree from Carlow University.
In the Organizational Management degree program, you will learn corporate principles of strategic planning and interpersonal skills, organizational communication and media relations in a corporate setting.
With a unique combination of courses from Carlow’s communication and business management programs, you will gain hands-on learning experiences and cultivate valuable leadership skills.
The Organizational Management degree curriculum takes an interdisciplinary approach, offering courses from both the communication and business management programs. You can adapt your learning experience to suit your interests while cultivating career-ready knowledge and leadership skills through courses in interpersonal communication and corporate principles of strategic planning.
Quick facts
Acquire a wide range of skills and the ability to adapt to fast-paced environments
Tailor your learning experience to your specific interests
Benefit from a 99% job placement rate
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 PR and corporate communications
Program graduates have a 99% job placement rate. Students go on to work for private and public companies, health care organizations, nonprofits and government agencies. Career opportunities include human services, marketing communications, event planning, philanthropy and public relations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, employment for public relations managers is slated to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, faster than average. These professionals are essential for organizations’ maintenance of public image.
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
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FROM OUR BLOG
3 Keys To Mastering Storytelling In Marketing Communications
3 keys to mastering storytelling in marketing communications Tell a good story—one that somehow defines your values—the essence of who you are, and why others should care—and you’ll capture the hearts and loyalty of customers…
Technology has transformed the way we interact. The communications field, in particular, has been greatly impacted by changes in digital media and technology.
Understand the power of media with a Bachelor’s in Communication Digital Media degree
From marketing to grassroots social movements, a well-crafted message is key. With a Digital Media degree from Carlow University, you will learn the art of strategic messaging and its place in the big picture.
You will learn to develop and critique messages and hone the skills needed for written, oral and digital communication, as well as gain experience in marketing, social media and public relations.
With an emphasis on social justice, the Digital Media degree builds a strong foundation in strategic communication for advocacy, boosting the well-being of marginalized groups. You will learn how to develop digital stories about critical issues, including gender and racial equity, immigration, and public health.
You will master the elements and software of digital media to deliver your message clearly, concisely and widely through courses such as Digital Storytelling, Mass Media Society and Communication Ethics.
With an emphasis on social justice, the Digital Media degree provides the opportunity to engage with interest-specific coursework and extracurricular activities.
Additional hands-on experience is available on campus. Through the Youth Media Advocacy Project, you can work with middle and high school students to develop communication advocacy campaigns. You can also get involved with “The Carlow Chronicle,” a student-run newspaper, and its sister podcast, as well as a webcast.
Quick facts
Develop and employ strategic communication for advocacy
Grow your understanding of critical issues such as gender, race and class
Explore digital media and what it takes to create a digital message
Refine your communication skills in the Youth Media Advocacy Project or the student-run newspaper
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 Digital Media
Armed with a digital media degree, you’ll find a wide range of career opportunities, including advertising, public relations, and sports and other media.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, though employment for writers and authors is expected to decline 2% from 2019 to 2029, employment for public relations managers is expected to grow 9%.
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
Find your voice.
Carlow Young Laureate Chanessa Schuler appreciated how the university’s Youth Media Advocacy Projects helped her reach a fulfilling career in media. “What I learned about Carlow is that it is very much connected to the outside community. I appreciated that the school saw me for who I was and not just as a student, that I was part of a larger institution and that I mattered.”
3 Keys To Mastering Storytelling In Marketing Communications
3 keys to mastering storytelling in marketing communications Tell a good story—one that somehow defines your values—the essence of who you are, and why others should care—and you’ll capture the hearts and loyalty of customers…
Technology has transformed the way we interact. The communications field, in particular, has been greatly impacted by changes in digital media and technology.
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.
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.
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
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
3 Keys To Mastering Storytelling In Marketing Communications
3 keys to mastering storytelling in marketing communications Tell a good story—one that somehow defines your values—the essence of who you are, and why others should care—and you’ll capture the hearts and loyalty of customers…
Technology has transformed the way we interact. The communications field, in particular, has been greatly impacted by changes in digital media and technology.
One skill set, highly sought by employers, crosses all academic disciplines at Carlow University: communication. The Communication minor program of studies will teach you how to build and maintain relationships across diverse cultures and groups, and cultivate leadership and team-building skills.
The Communication minor is ideal for students interested in counseling, health professions, business and other fields where interpersonal communication is essential. With an emphasis on working with others, courses will help you build written and digital communication skills.
The Communication minor can be customized to your interests and needs, and is open to any major. A minimum of 18 credits is required (6 credits must be 200 level or higher; 9 credits must be completed at Carlow University).
Required Courses
Interpersonal/Relational Seminar
Persuasion
4 communication elective courses
Prepare for a dynamic field with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications degree
Be the voice of change for a community, help market a business or product, or become a business leader with a communications degree from Carlow University. You’ll develop the tools you need to communicate effectively through oral, written and multimedia outlets. Gain practical, real-world experiences by collaborating with Carlow multimedia artists, writing for our student-run newspaper or announcing Carlow Celtic sporting events. If you have a specific focus in mind we offer tracks, including organizational management, advocacy and social change, and digital media.
As a communication major, you have the opportunity to not only reach your audience but your personal goals, too. Our Communication alumni remain connected to the program as a strong professional network for any communication graduate.
Quick facts
Develop skills valued by employers
Specialize your studies with program-specific tracks (organizational management, advocacy and social justice, digital media)
Get hands-on experience with the student-run newspaper and the sports radio program
Classroom and real-world practice help you hone problem-solving, team-building and critical thinking skills, all highly sought after by employers. In the Hopkins Communication Lab, you can practice professional presentations and perform research. Student tutors can help you master your public speaking skills.
10:1
student to faculty ratio
Choose a communication track that is right for you
As a communication major you can choose the general track or specialize your studies to better fit your career goals. In each track, you will access hands-on learning opportunities, such as developing your news writing and research skills by working with “The Carlow Chronicle,” a student-run newspaper, and polishing your broadcasting skills with “Carlow Sports Talk.”
Advocacy and Social Justice
Focus on communication and social justice preparing you to make a difference and create change at the local, state, and federal levels
Digital Media
Concentrate on crafting messages across multiple platforms, like social media and gain experience in marketing and public relations
Organizational Management
Focus on business communications, including media relations and the principles of strategic planning
Liberal Arts advantage
As a Carlow University student, you have the opportunity to pursue a well-rounded liberal arts education full of career-readiness pathways including our honors program, internships, service-learning, study abroad and research.
The Carlow Compass is our general education curriculum that allows you to develop your knowledge and skills as you discover what you want to study or pursue as a career.
Career opportunities for communication majors are projected to increase 4%* as organizations in every industry continually need communication professionals to create, edit and deliver information through multiple platforms.
Work in the arts, entertainment, sports, business and government industries
Hold job titles like content creator, announcer, editor, translator, reporter, journalist or author
We help you get to where you want to be Our Office of Career Development offers one-on-one services including job search help and internship programs.
Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Haley Chiusano ’22, a communication major, was very impressed with the helpful atmosphere at Carlow. “I have learned so much (at Carlow). The professors are so knowledgeable and the coursework is very fair. It pushes me to be a good student, while also allowing me to have time for other things such as volleyball and my job.”
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.