The mission of the English Department is to provide students with the knowledge and critical thinking, reading, and writing skills needed to engage in creative, evidence-based problem solving, effective communication, and responsible action within a diverse community and a rapidly changing world.?

Through curricular and co-curricular activities, students gain an understanding of the historical developments in language, rhetoric, and literature, a sensitivity for language and the art and craft of creative and expository writing, and appreciation for applying a diversity of perspectives and multi-disciplinary approaches, and the ability to collaborate with and serve the good of the community.

Students can prepare for teaching careers by completing BS degrees in Teaching Communication Arts and Literature or Teaching English as a Second Language. ?Students interested in going on to graduate or professional schools, or pursuing careers in publishing, non-profit organizations, or various businesses with communications-related positions can select from majors that focus on literature, writing, or applied linguistics. ?Students may select minors in creative writing, professional writing, literature, TESOL, or film studies to complement any major offered at WSU. ?Students are invited to meet with advisors to receive advice about program selection and making progress through their academic program.