Immerse yourself in a journey where your voice matters. Siena’s English program connects you with inspiring mentors, hands-on experiences, and the skills to turn your passion for storytelling into a successful career.
| program Type | Department | School |
| Undergraduate Major, Education Track, Undergraduate Minor | English | School of Liberal Arts |
In Siena's English program, you don’t just read stories—you become part of one. Here, your learning journey is all about you. Our discussion-based classes dive deep into literature, film, criticism, and writing, allowing you to explore diverse topics and voices that broaden your perspective.
Imagine engaging with works that span history, genres, and cultures—works that challenge and inspire you. Our professors aren’t just lecturers; they’re mentors who know your name, listen to your ideas, and encourage you to think critically, solve problems collaboratively, and articulate your thoughts confidently.
Our most popular courses are far from typical. From “The Horror Novel” to “The Vampire,” and “Rhetoric(s) of Hip-Hop Culture,” you’ll find classes that captivate and challenge you. Interested in social justice? Explore “Women, Gender, and Trauma in Literature.” Passionate about storytelling? Try “Writing Short Fiction.” Our Honors seminars offer a chance to collaborate closely with faculty, while the capstone course, "English in the World," helps you articulate how your degree prepares you for life after graduation.
At Siena, your education doesn’t stop in the classroom. Most of our English majors take advantage of internships with organizations like Cengage Learning, the Times Union, or HerCampus. If you’re on the English-Adolescence Education path, you’ll gain hands-on experience in real classrooms, preparing you to teach with confidence. You’ll have opportunities to engage in community-based learning, conduct research alongside faculty mentors, and explore diverse career paths.
As soon as freshman year, you can submit your original work for the college newspaper, work on our yearbook, and write for Siena’s Pendragon literary magazine.
"When I was a student I had the privilege to work with Dr.Draucker, one of my biggest role models at Siena, where we researched two topics that we are both passionate about: classical music and women. Because of this incredible experience, we were fortunate enough to go to the National Women's Studies Association conference in Baltimore, MD to showcase this research alongside so many like-minded individuals who share the same passions. Overall, this experience and opportunity inspired me and solidified my dream to pursue a PhD. in women, gender, and sexuality studies in the future." Sofia Bock '24
Hannah Smith '25 wrote more than 5,000 words during a five-day writing intensive course in Scotland. She loves to write almost as much as she loves to read. She has a giant bookcase in her bedroom filled with more than one hundred books and novels that span nearly every genre. Her dream job is to work in publishing, but first, she wanted to sharpen her own voice. The quality time with Scottish Highland cows was just a bonus.
Siena’s English degree is more than a collection of courses. It is a launchpad to success. Graduates build careers in education, journalism, business, law, marketing, technology, and more. Alumni hold titles such as Attorney, Communications Manager, and Educational Director, and have built careers at organizations like the Times Union, Women’s Wear Daily, International Literary Properties, the Colonie Chamber of Commerce, the Archdiocese of New York, Wilson Elser, General Dynamics Mission Systems, the New York State Department of Financial Services, and Plough.
Yes. An English degree develops skills in writing, communication, research, critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving that can be applied across many careers. English graduates can pursue careers in education, publishing, law, communications, marketing, media, business, and other fields. Siena's English program allows students to develop these skills while exploring literature, language, and creative writing.
An English degree can prepare you for careers in writing, publishing, editing, communications, marketing, journalism, education, public relations, law, and more. The ability to research information, communicate clearly, analyze complex ideas, and write effectively is valuable across industries.
English graduates can pursue jobs such as writer, editor, copywriter, content creator, communications specialist, journalist, publishing professional, marketing professional, teacher, and technical writer. Some graduates also use an English degree as preparation for law school, graduate school, or careers in business and public service.
English majors develop skills in reading, writing, research, critical analysis, communication, and interpretation. At Siena, students study literature and language while developing the ability to analyze complex ideas, construct arguments, communicate effectively, and write for different audiences. Students interested in creative writing can also develop their skills through dedicated creative writing coursework.
No. Teaching is one possible career path, but English graduates work in many fields. Writing, research, critical thinking, and communication skills can be applied to careers in publishing, law, marketing, public relations, journalism, business, government, nonprofit organizations, and more.
English students build practical experience through internships, independent research, creative projects, campus publications, and other opportunities to apply their writing and communication skills outside the classroom. These experiences help students build portfolios and develop professional connections before graduation.
Unlike larger schools where you might be just a number, Siena offers a personalized, student-centered experience. You'll work closely with award-winning professors in small classes, often taking multiple courses with the same instructor who understands your goals and strengths. This level of connection doesn’t just happen anywhere—it’s what makes Siena special. Here, you’re not just preparing for a career; you're gaining the confidence, experience, and network to succeed in any field you choose.
