Because an English degree helps students develop important research and critical-thinking skills, they are prepared for a range of careers. Our graduates are working in fields as diverse as writing, marketing, teaching, law, and television. Many English majors go on to pursue careers in law or political science, both writing-intensive options.

The English Department empowers Buffalo State students to harness the power of words to achieve academic and career success. 

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Degrees Offered

English, B.A.: Ignite your passion for literature, language, and writing with the Bachelor of Arts in English. Buffalo State English students engage with faculty who are dedicated to your academic and professional success. Students who graduate with a B.A. in English develop a broad understanding of literature, cultural criticism, and writing.

English, M.A.: Designed for flexibility, the program allows you to tailor your studies to your interests while building a strong foundation across the major areas of English. You'll deepen your expertise through focused coursework, refine your analytical and communication skills, and engage with faculty who are dedicated to your academic and professional success.

English Literature Combined Pathways (B.A. and M.A.): Get a head start on your graduate education through the combined bachelor's/master's pathway in English. Up to 12 credits of designated master’s courses are incorporated into the bachelor’s degree program and will count toward both the bachelor’s degree and the master’s degree.

Writing, B.A.: The program is intended for students interested in the advanced study and practice of writing. The writing degree program enables the development of skills in creative, professional, technical, journalistic, and literary writing.

 

Therese Deutschlander
"An English degree allowed me the flexibility to thrive in the career of my choice because you can do anything with it. I now have the job of my dreams, and my English degree had a large role in making that possible. If you don’t know what you want to do, get an English degree! It gives you the skills to do just about anything.”
Therese Deutschlander Owner of Thin Ice on Elmwood
English department faculty standing on building steps

Learn from Our Dedicated Faculty

Our renowned faculty are experts in a wide variety of literary forms. The department is well known for maintaining a nurturing and intellectually vital environment among students, faculty, and the larger literary community.

Meet Us!

Caroline Hagood headshot
“I was able to do such incredible, hands-on work. Dr. Ali asked me to co-write a paper with him, and we were published together. Dr. Ramos recommended me for a literature conference, and Dr. Ryan was so inspiring. I remember at the end of a women’s poetry class, we all stood on our desks to honor her like Robin Williams’s students in Dead Poets Society.”
Caroline Hagood Author, Educator, Alumna

Below are just a few job titles that English program graduates hold: 

  • Author
  • Book Buyer/Agent
  • Copywriter
  • Editor
  • English Teacher (K-12)
  • English Professor (University) 
  • Grant Writer
  • Insurance Report Writer

 

  • Journalist
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Librarian
  • Lobbyist
  • Marketing Content Writer 
  • Medical Writer
  • Public Relations Agent

 

  • Publisher
  • Screenwriter
  • Speechwriter
  • TV Reporter/Anchor
  • Technical Writer
  • Technology or Business Writer
  • Web Content Writer 

 

Elm Leaves Journal 
Buffalo State's renowned literary journal since 1948. An international literary journal, publishing work from authors across the globe. The journal's editing and publication are tied to one of Buffalo State's own publishing courses.

Internship Opportunities
Because Buffalo State is located in New York State's second-largest city, students have access to all the city offers. Our students intern at local literary organizations and publishers.

Portrait is the Student Literary Arts Journal at Buffalo State. Portrait, at its core, aims to provide our student body with an outlet to express themselves and share their art, whether visual, literary, or somewhere in between.

Student Research and Creativity Conference (SRCC)
Allows students to present their preliminary and completed research and creative activities in a student-friendly and supportive environment. This annual event is one of Buffalo State’s great traditions.