Stories shape the world. And the way we see it.
Studying English at CMU invites you to slow down and notice more than just the story. It's also about observing how a story is told, how a sentence moves, how words help us understand people we'll never meet. In this program, you'll read deeply, write honestly, and think critically alongside classmates and professors who believe literature matters.
You'll explore fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction from different times, places and perspectives. And you'll learn that studying English isn't about having the right answer, it's about asking good questions and paying close attention.
Here, you'll grow as a reader and a writer, but also as a person: someone who notices beauty, values empathy, and sees language as a way to connect with others.
Why Study English at CMU?
Stories help us understand people and ourselves.
Literature opens windows into other lives and sometimes reflects our own. The texts you'll read will challenge, comfort, surprise, and change you.
Attentive reading leads to powerful writing.
You'll learn to write with clarity and creativity, whether you're crafting a story, making a case, or finding your voice.
Language has power.
Words shape how we think, how we see the world, and how we relate to one another. Studying English helps you recognize that power and use it well.
English invites big questions and deeper thinking.
In small, discussion-based classes, you'll practice close reading and thoughtful analysis alongside professors who value your insights.
It's not just practical, it's personal.
English graduates take their skills into all kinds of careers, but they also leave with something deeper: a thoughtful, curious way of engaging with the world.
Major in Communications and English Through the Four-Year Bachelor of Arts
At CMU, Communications and Media blends hands-on skill building with thoughtful storytelling. You'll learn how to write clearly, speak persuasively, design intentionally, and work across formats—audio, video, digital, and print. Along the way, you'll read writers like Homer, Shakespeare, Austen, and Atwood—not just to study them, but to see what they can teach us about meaning, message, and audience today. Whether you're creating a short film, producing a podcast, or pitching a campaign, this program helps you grow as a communicator who's ready to think critically, create boldly, and connect with real people in a noisy world.
What Makes English at CMU Distinct?
A culture of care and curiosity.
At CMU, you're more than a number. Professors take time to get to know you, your ideas, your writing, your questions, and support your growth every step of the way.
A learning environment where your voice matters.
Classes are small, interactive, and full of discussion. You won't just sit and listen, you'll ask questions, share ideas, and learn from the perspectives of others. Professors care about what you think.
Literature that connects.
Your readings will often cross into philosophy, theology, film, or cultural studies, because stories don't live in silos. If you're someone who sees everything as connected, you'll feel at home here.
Real experience with books and publishing.
Learn how to set type on a traditional printing press, work with the CMU Press on manuscript editing and book design, or get involved in campus publications like Soul in Paraphrase and The Doxa.
A place where your voice matters.
Whether you're participating in a classroom discussion or editing a manuscript, you'll be invited to contribute. You don't have to have it all figured out; you just have to be willing to engage.
Careers in English
What can you do with an English degree from CMU? A lot. If you care about people, stories, communication, or culture, English gives you the tools to think critically and express yourself clearly. You will gain skills that open doors in almost any field.
Here are just some of the ways CMU grads put their English degree to work:
Tell stories that make a difference.
Write for newspapers, magazines, not-for-profits, or online publications. Work in journalism, podcasting, or creative writing.
Teach, guide, and mentor others.
Become a teacher, librarian, academic advisor, or writing coach—locally or internationally. Many grads pursue education degrees and teach in schools across Canada and beyond.
Shape policy, systems, and culture.
In public service, law, or advocacy, English grads help shape ideas and policies through research, communication, and analysis.
Create meaningful communications.
Use your writing and storytelling skills to shape content that informs, inspires, or moves people to action. Whether it's marketing, public relations, social media, or content creation, your ability to write with clarity and nuance is a major asset in any communications-focused role.
Support communities with care and creativity.
Many English grads work in not-for-profits, spiritual care, or social services, where strong communication, empathy, and critical thinking are essential.
Pursue further study.
Graduates go on to study English literature, creative writing, education, theology, law, journalism, library science, and more.
Note: Some careers may require additional certifications or graduate studies.
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL)
Put your love of language to work while you're still a student. In the English program, you'll have opportunities to connect classroom learning with hands-on experience:
- Be a part of all aspects of the publishing process by supporting CMU Press with editing, marketing, or book design.
- Help your peers grow as a Writing Fellow. Mentor fellow students to grow in their own writing by collaborating with a faculty member as a Writing Fellow.
- Apply your communication skills in a placement with a local publisher, school, not-for-profit, or writing mentor.
- Set type and print by hand on CMU's traditional printing press, allowing you to learn where words come from, literally.
- Write and publish your own work in Soul in Paraphrase (CMU's literary magazine) or The Doxa (student newspaper).
Whether you're refining a manuscript, copy editing for a publication, or helping someone craft a better sentence, you'll leave CMU with experience that matters.
Mission and Vision
Mission
English at CMU equips students to read deeply, write clearly, and think critically about the world through the lens of literature. The program fosters curiosity, creativity, empathy, and a strong sense of voice. It prepares students to contribute meaningfully on whatever path they choose.
Vision
We believe stories help us understand others, discover ourselves, and imagine new possibilities. English at CMU is a space where ideas are explored with care, language is treated with respect, and students are invited to grow in their writing, their thinking, and their way of being in the world.
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Student Stories
Viewbook
As CMU is a member of Universities Canada, students can be assured that the program will meet the highest regulatory requirements for work in a range of contexts across Canada.
"At CMU, I have learned more than I imagined possible. I've been challenged and pushed to think of things that never entered my mind before and because of this, I am much more knowledgeable about myself, and the world around me."
– Emilie Roussis ('18)
English Stories
Alumnus explores the relationship between art and commerce in daring new novel
CMU alumna wins international writing competition with short story
On Speaking Truth to Power: reflections from an English student working in Communications
