Published:
Faculty members from the theater and English departments will each lead a trip to the United Kingdom: one for English literature in York and the other for theater in London.
English
Awaken your imagination and sharpen your communication skills by becoming a part of our thriving literary community.
Why Earn Your BA in English?
English majors enjoy successful careers as teachers, lawyers, publishers, editors, librarians, engineers, doctors, lawyers, writers, ad executives, administrators, social media managers, academics, journalists, web producers and more.
Why Major in English at Adelphi?
- Receive personal attention in small, seminar-style classes and individualize your education through meaningful extracurricular enrichment.
- Learn from leading scholars and authors who are nationally recognized for their writing and research.
- Develop the intellectual tools to launch the career of your choice, whether you’re interested in writing—fiction, nonfiction, poetry or playwriting—or any other pursuit.
What Can You Do with a Degree in English?
English majors enjoy successful careers as teachers, lawyers, publishers, editors, librarians, engineers, doctors, writers, ad executives, administrators, social media managers, academics, journalists and web producers.
92%*
* based on Adelphi University Career Outcomes Survey: Class of 2022
of our baccalaureate graduates say that Adelphi University increased their intellectual curiosity, ability and potential
based on Adelphi University Career Outcomes Survey: Class of 2022
As an English major, assignments often involved critical analysis and interpretation of works of literature. I often analyzed works through a disability lens, which allowed me to dive deep into my own personal experiences as a disabled woman, as well as to learn more about how disability influences my understanding of the world.
Emily Ladau ’13
BA in English
Minor in English
The minor in English is an excellent pairing with any major at Adelphi. Enhance your future prospects by gaining the communication and critical assessment skills valued by graduate schools and employers alike.
Exceptional Hands-On Learning
Dive headfirst into the literary world and take advantage of a wide range of opportunities from hands-on work experiences to engaging with leading writers. Adelphi students have interned at:
- Founding Footsteps
- Hannacroix Press
- Peace Corps
- PEN America
- Rural & Migrant Ministry Inc.
- Walt Whitman House
- W. W. Norton and Company
As part of our commitment to fostering a tight-knit literary community, the English program often hosts diverse literary voices—both emerging and established—for readings and talkbacks. Past visiting writers include:
- Amy Hempel
- Alice Hoffman ’73, ’02 (Hon.)
- Mark Jarman
- Tayari Jones
- Tracy K. Smith
- Jacqueline Woodson ’16 (Hon.)
Program Info
Application Requirements
To apply for this program, submit the appropriate application requirements:
Transformative Educational Opportunities
All undergraduate students have the opportunity to apply for the following programs to expand their educational landscape:
- The Honors College – fostering intellectual perspectives and critical skills
- Levermore Global Scholars – preparing students to become global thinkers and leaders
- Study Abroad – providing opportunities to experience another culture and see the world from a new perspective
Awards & Recognition
Wall Street Journal/College Pulse
Adelphi is the highest-ranked university on Long Island in the 2025 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse Best Colleges. It also ranks #7 in New York, with outstanding scores for student outcomes including graduation rate and salary impact.
Ranked one of the best
U.S. News & World Report
Adelphi University has been named a Best College among National Universities for seven consecutive years. Adelphi remains the top-ranked private university on Long Island.
A Best College
Colleges of Distinction: Career Development
Adelphi University has been recognized as a Career Development college for the exceptional way in which our institution is equipping students with the skills to succeed in their lifelong career journey.
Expert Career Guidance
Princeton Review
The Princeton Review has ranked Adelphi University among the Best Northeastern Colleges based on academic offerings and career preparation for students, campus policies, initiatives and activities.
Best Northeastern College
Colleges of Distinction: Equity & Inclusion
Adelphi has been honored for initiatives to become an increasingly welcoming, inclusive community for students and faculty.
Top Ranked in Equity & Inclusion
Lahney Preston-Matto
(She/Her)
Location
Harvey Hall 216
Location
Nexus Building First Floor
Hours
Connect