The faculty in the Department of English at Troy University deliver an English major, an English minor (with specialization in literature or creative writing), and a graduate-level TESOL concentration (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) as part of the Master of Education program.
Graduates of any of the English Department's programs will develop a foundation for advanced, graduate-level study in English or for the teaching profession. The B.A. program will provide the background needed for work in such fields as law, theology, philosophy, medicine (in conjunction with preparation in science and mathematics), library science, communications, media technologies, and business. The graduate-level concentration in TESOL provides the background for the teaching of ESL/EFL (English as a Second Language/English as a Foreign Language) or for further graduate work in TESOL/Applied Linguistics.
Prepare to influence future generations as an English teacher in Alabama and beyond with a bachelor's degree in English/language arts education from Troy University.
English Teaching Degree
The purpose of the English minor with emphasis in literature is to provide Troy University's students with an academic program in which they can develop their knowledge and appreciation of English and American literature, build a systematic knowledge of the language and its history, and augment their skills in writing formal English.
English Minor, Literature Emphasis
The English minor with emphasis in creative writing focuses on the practical skills of producing creative texts and also of finding publishers for texts. Creative writing courses at Troy University are taught as workshops by practicing writers.
English Minor, Creative Writing Emphasis
Students may choose TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) as a minor with their major or choose the TESOL minor within the Interdisciplinary Major.
English Minor, TESOL EmphasisSigma Tau Delta, International English Honor Society, was founded in 1924. The Society strives to
Advisor: Dr. Theresa M. Johnson tmjohnson@troy.edu
In the digital age, strong writing skills are more important than ever. Once the domain of a single office expert, effective written communication is essential for everyone in today's global economy. An English major or minor equips graduates with the skills demanded by careers in media, public relations, advertising, government, and beyond—fields where "Excellent Written and Oral Communication Skills" are more than a buzzphrase—they're a requirement.
The Hall-Waters Prize is a prestigious literary award presented by Troy University to individuals who have significantly contributed to Southern heritage and culture through history, literature, or the arts. Endowed by TROY alumnus Dr. Wade Hall in memory of his parents, Wade Hall Sr. and Sarah Elizabeth Waters Hall, the prize honors excellence in Southern writing and cultural preservation. It is awarded regularly and includes a public ceremony, often featuring readings or discussions with the honoree. Notable past recipients include U.S. Rep. John Lewis, authors Pat Conroy and Natasha Trethewey, and poet Terrance Hayes.
In 2025, the award was presented to Jennifer Horne, an award-winning poet and former
Poet Laureate of Alabama, recognizing her contributions to Southern literature.
Learn More
Award-winning author and former Poet Laureate of Alabama Jennifer Horne received Troy University's Hall-Waters Prize on April 25.
Read More