Students

English Students at Commencement

English at Cal Poly

 

An English major or minor is valuable preparation for any career in which critical thinking, nuanced analysis, and clear communication are essential. Many of our majors pursue graduate study in English, education, creative writing, or law; the major provides an excellent foundation for all of these fields.

First and foremost, however, students of English are humanists, deeply concerned about the welfare of others. Through imaginatively inhabiting the worlds writers create, English students gain empathy, respect and perspective, habits of mind that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Highly qualified Cal Poly English majors can apply for our Blended B.A. + M.A. in English -- the only English program of its kind in the CSU--to finish both degrees in five years.


Programs, Certifications, and Degree Focus

The English Department offers many different options for students to focus their Cal Poly career on their strengths and career goals. To learn more about any of the programs or certificates below, just click on the title or feel free to contact the English Department office.

 

Senior Project Information 

All Cal Poly students are required to complete a Senior Project in order to graduate. The university and the English Department understand these projects to be a meaningful capstone that allows students to both showcase and extend what they have learned in the major to produce a significant, original text or experience. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination, and the Department's Senior Project Resources are designed to help you make the most of this endeavor.


Where can this major take me?

These are just some of the career directions that our students can take. Students can learn more about where English can take their career on our Careers page and about networking opportunites with department alumni through our Career Connections Program. 

Writing / Editing:

  • Creative writing
  • Journalism
  • Freelance writing

Technical Communication:

  • Technical writing and editing
  • Science and medical writing
  • Grant and proposal writing

Publishing:

  • Editing
  • Advertising / sales
  • Circulation
  • Production
  • Publicity
  • Marketing
  • Promotion

Advertising and Public Relations:

  • Creative services
  • Account management
  • Media
  • Writing / editing
  • Media relations
  • Social media
  • Fundraising

Related Content