The universe is made of stories,
not of atoms.
(Muriel Rukeyser)
Language is a gift. Writing, speaking, reading, analyzing—these activities enrich and influence our lives in countless ways. At Union, you’ll discover the power of language—and how you can harness it yourself.
Knowing the intricacies of language means knowing how to reach people effectively. As an English major, you’ll read and respond to audiences, interpret literature with a discerning eye and create your own eloquent writing.
By taking a mix of classes in journalism, public relations, composition and literature, you’ll learn how to make a difference through creative communication.
Why study English?
- Learn critical thinking, organization and communication skills that are foundational for any successful organization.
- Become a skilled writer and speaker.
- A degree in English is excellent preparation for law school.
Union helped me by providing thorough development of communication skills. My degree emphasis was in writing and speaking, and I use those skills every day as a professional. Being able to communicate effectively is paramount in navigating my work in secondary education, and it’s a fundamental skill that is helpful in any professional field. Life is complex because of the intersection of personalities; if we understand and can work with people, we can be successful.
2006 graduate, now a leadership consultant in Orlando, Florida
Find the personal attention you need to become a great writer and critical thinker.
Writing stimulates the mind, which is why Union aims to refine that skill with real-world experience. No other Adventist college emphasizes publishing and development of writing skills more than Union, which means our professors will help you get your work out there before you graduate.
The range of writing classes you’ll take—from Magazine Writing to Technical Writing and Grant Proposals to Creative Writing—will give you the chance to submit your articles for publication, write grant proposals for real projects and collaborate with others who appreciate the craft.
Why study at Union Adventist University?
- Small class sizes allow for more personal interaction with professors who care about your success.
- The Writing Studio provides peer consulting, idea exploration and great tools to improve your writing and public speaking.
- Union's Board of Trustee Writing Awards provide a way to showcase quality writing and earn cash awards.
I use my writing skills every day, whether I’m talking to current clients, advertising to prospective clients, answering interview questions, describing my work on my website, posting on social media, or drafting a manuscript. Through it all, my college writing classes have proven invaluable. My time as HumanTies alumni publication editor also helped tremendously, as I got to dip my toes into the business of publishing.
2015 graduate, now an illustrator and designer for children's books at Albert Whitman & Company and freelancer.
Your career options
Writer and Author
Develop written content for various types of media, including advertisements; books; magazines; movie, play, and television scripts; and blogs.
Job outlook
4% growth (average)
Median pay
$74,000
Editor
Plan, review, and revise content for publication.
Job outlook
No change
Median pay
$75,000
Technical Writer
Prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily.
Job outlook
7% growth (average)
Median pay
$80,000