Illinois State University United States

General English (B.A.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The General English (B.A.) at Illinois State University offers you a comprehensive exploration of literature, language, and rhetoric, equipping you with essential analytical and communication skills. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about understanding the power of language and its impact across diverse cultures and historical periods. You will delve into fields such as American literature, global literature, and linguistics, developing a critical perspective on texts and communication strategies. This program fosters a deep appreciation for the written word and its role in shaping society.

You will study this Bachelor of Arts degree full-time on campus over four years, engaging with a curriculum that requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, including 40 senior-level hours. Your studies will involve a blend of core English courses, major electives in areas like rhetoric and advanced writing, and foreign language study. Throughout your degree, you will have opportunities to explore university-wide electives and specialized AMALI courses. You will graduate with a versatile skill set, prepared for a wide range of careers in fields such as publishing, technical writing, education, or further graduate study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in English studies, encompassing foundational writing and literature courses, advanced electives in language, linguistics, rhetoric, and global literature. Students will also fulfill general education requirements and explore diverse subjects through university-wide electives. The curriculum is structured to build critical thinking and analytical skills across various literary and linguistic domains.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (13-14 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
ENG 100
ENG 102
Foreign language course 111-level or University-wide elective
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15-16 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
American or British Literature major elective
Foreign language course 112-level or University-wide elective
General Education course
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

Advanced Writing major elective
Language & Linguistics major elective
B.A. language
General Education course
General Education course

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

American or British Literature major elective
Global literature/US Ethnic Writers elective
Rhetoric major elective
General Education course
IDEAS course or University wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (14 credit hours)

University-wide elective
English major elective
General Education course
General Education course
AMALI course or University wide elective

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

English major elective
Additional English major elective
General Education course
Senior-level University wide elective
Senior-level University wide elective

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

Additional Senior English major elective
General Education course
Senior-level University wide elective
Senior-level University wide elective
Senior-level University wide elective

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 300
Additional Senior English major elective
Senior-level University wide elective
Senior-level University wide elective
Senior-level University wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsDefense & Military SecurityEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesIntelligence & InvestigationsPolice & Public SafetyVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Chicago Public Schools

Illinois State University

Institute of Translation and Interpreting

National Language Service Corps (NLSC)

Why Study General English (B.A.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about General English (B.A.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can choose from several tests. Minimum scores include Duolingo: 105, TOEFL: 79, IELTS: 6.5, and PTE: 53.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as technical communicators, creative writers, educators, or linguists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The English Studies major covers interdisciplinary fields such as literature and cultural studies, and technical communications. Students also build strong skills in writing and critical reading while collaborating on research projects with faculty experts.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The General English (B.A.) program accepts new students in January, May, and August. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot for your desired intake month.
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