• 540-767-6585
How to Apply
How to Apply

The Bachelor Of Arts In English From Mary Baldwin University

Discover Your Unique Voice and Perspective

The ability to think critically, communicate effectively and understand diverse perspectives is invaluable. Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English at Mary Baldwin University empowers you to explore literature, hone your writing skills and engage with cultural narratives that shape our society.

Mary Baldwin’s English program offers a comprehensive curriculum that fosters intellectual growth and personal development. Our small class sizes and dedicated faculty provide personalized attention, ensuring that you are not just a number but a valued member of our academic community.

Why Study English at Mary Baldwin?

At Mary Baldwin University, students in our Bachelor of Arts in English program benefit from:

  • Small class sizes. Engage closely with professors and peers, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
  • Diverse coursework. Explore a wide range of literary works, including those that reflect global and diverse perspectives.
  • Cross-disciplinary opportunities. Combine your English studies with minors such as Creative Writing and Professional Writing to tailor your education to your interests.
  • Experiential learning. Participate in internships with the university’s online literary magazine, Outrageous Fortune, tutor in the writing center, or serve as a teaching assistant.
  • Study Abroad Programs: Join the Virginia Program at Oxford University, a six-week summer program focusing on the literature, history and culture of late 16th and 17th century England.
  • Shakespeare and Performance Studies: Take advantage of Staunton’s renowned Blackfriars Playhouse and consider applying to our Shakespeare and Performance master’s program.

Our program is designed to cultivate critical reading and writing skills, preparing you for a variety of careers or advanced studies.

Curriculum Highlights

As an English major at Mary Baldwin, you’ll develop:

  • Analytical skills: Interpret and critique literary texts from various genres and periods.
  • Writing proficiency: Master different writing styles, from creative to professional writing.
  • Cultural awareness: Understand and appreciate literature from diverse cultures and perspectives.

Courses in the BA in English program include:

  • Women’s Writing: Promotes understanding of gender and sexuality in culture.
  • Children’s and Young Adult Literature: Empowers students wishing to pursue a career in education.
  • Nature in America: Explores representation of nature in American literature and the visual arts.
  • Courses in Renaissance literature: They intersect with the MBU Shakespeare and Performance program and the cultural life of the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton (home of the American Shakespeare Center). 
  • Courses in African American literature and the “Poetics of Hip-Hop”: These courses reflect the diversity of our campus and the cultural centrality of Black Americans.

Our curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals.

Potential Careers

Graduates of Mary Baldwin’s English program are well-prepared for careers such as:

  • Writer or Editor
  • Teacher or Educator
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Marketing Coordinator
  • Copywriter

An English degree equips you with versatile skills applicable to numerous professions.

Admissions Requirements

No application fee is required for undergraduate students. The BA in English is offered both online and on-campus. The Online Admissions Office reviews applications and renders an admission decision within three business days. More information on admission requirements for online students can be found here: https://catalog.marybaldwin.edu/mbu-online-undergraduate-admission

  • All undergraduate degree programs require a high school diploma or some college experience.
  • Students with no prior college experience who have a cumulative GPA of 2.6 on their high school transcript are automatically accepted into MBU Online pending they have no academic, disciplinary, or criminal issues.
  • Students below 2.6 will be sent to a review by the MBU Online Committee to evaluate if the student can be offered conditional admission, “special student status” or would be denied admission to the University.
  • Students applying for an undergraduate degree program with some college experience:  
  • Students with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on their most recent college transcripts are automatically accepted into MBU Online pending they have no academic, disciplinary or criminal issues.
  • Students with a 1.7 to 2.0 could be offered conditional admission to the University pending approval by committee.
  • Students with a 1.7 or lower will be sent to a review by the MBU online admissions committee to evaluate if the student can be offered “special student status” or would be denied admission to the University.
  • Undergraduate students are not required to provide a personal statement or resume for admission.
  • Proof of English proficiency: Fluent in written and spoken English. Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following with the minimum score noted: Duolingo, 130; IELTS, 7.0; TOEFL, 98.

Ready to Find Out More about MBU Online Degree Programs?

If you have questions, reach out to discuss your goals and explore how this program aligns with them. Our admissions team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way – from selecting your degree and completing your application to preparing for your first day of class.

We’re excited about the opportunity to help you take the next step in your academic journey.