English B.A. / Minor
Read widely, write boldly, and learn to make your voice heard the way you want it to be heard.
Manhattan University's English program pairs a broad foundation in world literature with hands-on writing, research, and publishing. You will learn from award-winning scholar-teachers in small classes, meet prizewinning authors through the Major Author Reading Series, and develop the analytical and creative skills that open doors across industries, minutes from Manhattan.
This program is part of English, World Languages and Literatures
This program is part of Modern Languages & Literatures
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study English at Manhattan University?
At Manhattan University, English is a living, social pursuit. You argue over books in seminars and long after class, meet prizewinning authors through the Major Author Reading Series, publish your work in campus magazines, and make New York City part of your education. Guided by faculty who are both accomplished scholars and committed mentors, you graduate able to read closely, write persuasively, and think for yourself, ready for whatever comes next.
Academics
Curriculum & Courses
Explore courses that build a foundation in world literature and let you specialize across theory, writing, global perspectives, and author and genre studies. The major is 30 credits at the 300 level, including two foundational courses and six distribution courses you choose across the program's five areas.
To view the whole curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
- African American Literature
- Contemporary Literary Theory
- Environmental Literature and Ecocriticism
- Introduction to Literary Study
- Postcolonial Literature
- New York City, Modernity, and Postmodernity
- Senior Seminar
- Shakespeare: Comedies, Histories, and Hamlet
- Studies in Creative Writing: Fiction Workshop
- The Little Magazine: Contemporary Literary Publishing
English Minors
English Minor: A 15-credit, 300-level sequence anchored by Introduction to Literary Study, plus electives spanning the program's areas of study.
English Minor for Business Students: A dedicated track for O'Malley School of Business students that adds only two English courses beyond existing degree requirements, including Business Communication and Literature & Business, sharpening the writing and critical-thinking skills employers value.
Why Study in New York City
New York City is one of the world's great literary capitals, and at Manhattan University, it becomes an extension of your classroom. Course by course, you move out into the city: experiencing world-class theater, tracing the city's literary imagination in courses like New York City, Modernity, and Postmodernity, and working hands-on with rare books and archives across the five boroughs. You meet acclaimed writers, attend readings and film screenings on campus and beyond, and build connections with the publishers, cultural institutions, and media organizations that make New York the center of literary life. Set minutes from Manhattan, the program turns the city's bookstores, stages, and newsrooms into places to learn, create, and launch a career.
Potential Careers
English majors and minors graduate as versatile, skilled communicators who apply their training across nearly every industry. Manhattan University alumni have built careers in writing and publishing, entertainment, education, law, nonprofit and healthcare, and creative roles in business.
- Account Executive
- Admissions Counselor
- Attorney
- Communications Director
- Copywriter
- Creative Director
- Development Coordinator
- Instructional Designer
- Librarian
- Marketing Manager
- Project Manager
- Public Defender
- Publicist
- Research Analyst
- Strategy Manager
- Educator
- Television Producer
- Writer
Learn From Award-Winning Scholar-Teachers
Manhattan University's English faculty are accomplished scholars and writers with expertise across literary and writing studies, and they are wholly devoted to the classroom. In small classes, they come to know you by name, leading lively discussion and collaborating with students on research that often leads to journal publications and conference presentations. You will also get to know them beyond the seminar, through readings, the Major Author Reading Series, and informal gatherings like English Night.
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information for Manhattan University
Start Your Journey in English
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.