English

Degrees Granted
BA, Minor
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Location
Garden City
School
College of Arts & Sciences
Request Info
Apply Now

Awaken your imagination and sharpen your communication skills by becoming a part of our thriving literary community with a bachelor’s degree in English from Adelphi.

Why Earn Your BA in English?

A degree in English can give you the skills you need to thrive in a wide variety of careers. You will sharpen your writing and English skills through literary analysis and academic study of important English literature.

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
Outcomes Report

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.

Learn more about the minor in English

Exceptional Hands-On Learning

Dive headfirst into the literary world. Study with leading poets, essayists and novelists. Take advantage of opportunities for hands-on work experience. Adelphi English majors have interned at:

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.)

English BA Program Info

Courses & Requirements
Search All Courses
Plan of Study for the BA in Creative Writing
Plan of Study for the BA in Literature
Plan of Study for the Minor in English

English Major Application Requirements

To apply for this English degree program, submit the appropriate application requirements:

Admissions
First-year students
Transfer students
International students

Transformative Educational Opportunities

All undergraduate English majors 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

Related Programs

Adolescent/Childhood Education - STEP Accelerated 5-Year Program (BA/BS + MA)
Communications (BA, Minor)
Art History (BA, Minor)

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
Niche
Niche.com ranked Adelphi University in the Top 9% of Best Value Colleges in America, Top 12% of Best Colleges for Nursing in America, and Top 10% of Best College Locations in America. Ranked a Top College
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
The 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
Times Higher Education
Adelphi ranked in the top 4 percent of universities in the nation by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, receiving the highest scores in academic reputation and international outlook. Global Recognition
Lahney Preston-Matto (She/Her)
Professor, Interim Chair
College of Arts and Sciences, English
Contact
E-mail
prestonmatto@adelphi.edu
Phone Number
516.877.4037
Fax
516.877.4038
Location
Harvey Hall 216

Admissions

Office of Enrollment Management
Contact
E-mail
admissions@adelphi.edu
Phone Number
516.877.3050
Fax
516.877.3039
More Info
Website
Location
Nexus Building First Floor
Hours
Connect
Search Menu