Mar 28, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

English Pathway Guide


Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.

Preparation for Transfer as an English Major


The following sequences are suggested courses to take in your semesters prior to transferring to SMU as an English major. For students attending a Texas public community college or university, Texas Common Course Numbers (TCCNS) are listed.  If you are transferring from a college or university outside of Texas, click on the SMU course for a course description which may be used to select/compare courses at your current institution.

UC listings refer to SMU’s University Curriculum, which all undergraduates are required to complete. Refer to the University Curriculum Transfer Guide for a list of courses satisfying UC components. Interactive equivalency guides organized by transfer institution are available on the Transfer and Transition Services’ website.

Save all of your course syllabi! 

B.A. in English or B.A. in English - Creative Writing Specialization


Semester II


Semester III


Semester IV


Note


*The second language requirement may be satisfied by (1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, (2) placing out of four terms of a world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or (3) being literate in a native language other than English.

The Department of English


The Department of English  is dedicated to the study of the English language and literature. Like all forms of art, written creations give us direct access to what it means to be human in all its complexity and mystery. Our committed faculty of teachers and scholars, poets and novelists cover literary productions from the first flowerings of poetry in Old English to the most recent creative work. Whether classes involve the analysis of Shakespeare’s plays or the writing of fiction and poetry, our teachers help students to think and write with clarity and grace as they prepare to work in a world where communication has become the signature endeavor of our world. Our undergraduate majors and minors will enter the arenas of government, law, business, public service, the arts, education, and every other field, mindful of the importance of language and imagination in effecting change. At the same time, the graduate students in our Ph.D. program are being prepared to join faculties at the best universities in the world.

English Department Events


The English department hosts a variety of events throughout the year focused on literature and faculty/student research.

SMU Lit Fest celebrates the literary community at SMU.  During Lit Fest, an array of readings, receptions, book signings and performances celebrating the work of poets, novelists and students is presented.

The Doctoral Lecture series features presentations by our graduate students who are finishing dissertations.  In these 30-minute presentations, Ph.D. candidates outline the scope of their dissertation projects. Students, faculty and members of the public are invited to attend.

Majoring or Minoring in English


The English Major  requires a minimum of 33 semester hours of English courses, including no more than 12 hours at the 2000-level and below (with no more than 3 of these hours at the 1000- level) and at least 12 hours of 4000-level literature courses.

The English Major with Creative Writing Specialization  has the same requirements as the English major but students specializing in creative writing must take at least 12 hours in creative writing courses, which take the place of all the elective hours in a 33-hour major. Those wishing to complete the major in 33 hours will need to fulfill all four historical requirements with 4000-level literature courses.  However, students are encouraged to take additional elective hours in writing courses as well as in other courses.

The English Minor  requires a minimum of 15 semester hours, including no more than 6 hours below the 3000-level.

Teacher Preparation Program in English


In conjunction with the Department of Teaching and Learning  in the Simmons School of Education and Human Development, the English Department supports pathways in its major which lead to secondary teacher certification.

Preparing for a Smooth Transfer


A seamless transfer to SMU and the English program requires planning. This guide is designed to assist you in planning your transition. Transfer students who take time to prepare for their move to SMU are some of our most successful students. The following are a few important points to remember:

  • The second language requirement of the University Curriculum  may be satisfied by 1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, 2) placing out of four terms of world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or 3) being literate in a native language other than English.
  • SMU accepts AP scores of 4 or 5.
  • Work on the University Curriculum  prior to transfer is highly encouraged.
  • Compare Course Descriptions found in SMU’s University Catalog to course descriptions at your current institution to maximize your awarded transfer credits. 
  • For additional information on the English major, visit our department homepage or call 214-768-2945.
  • For more information about transferring to SMU, click here or call 214-768-3417.

SMU Degree


A degree from SMU is typically comprised of a minimum of 122 hours, 60 of which must be completed through SMU, 42 of which must be in courses at the 3000 and higher levels. Components of the degree include:

  • Courses in your major.
  • Courses required for the University Curriculum (UC) .  
  • Elective courses.  These electives may also be used to add a second major or minor. 

The University Curriculum (UC)


The University Curriculum (UC) is required of all undergraduate students and consists of three main components: 

  1. Foundations - 6 hours of Discernment and Discourse courses, 3 hours of Quantitative Foundation courses, 2 hours of Personal Responsibility and Wellness courses, proficiency in a second language and 3 hours of a Ways of Knowing course (offered only at SMU)
  2. Breadth and Depth - 7 Breadth and 3 Depth courses which may double count with majors and minors
  3. Proficiencies and Experiences - 6 Proficiencies and Experiences requirements, met through Breadth and Depth coursework or approved, noncredit activities.

Apply Now!


Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.