Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Theology

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Theology

Program Snapshot

Program Type

Bachelor of Arts

School

Religious and Theological Studies

Department

Explore Belief. Understand the World.

Ask Life’s Most Vital Questions

Explore religion, theology and beliefs that shape our world. Through discussion, faculty mentorship and experiential learning, you’ll examine diverse traditions, explore questions of meaning and justice, and build skills for careers in education, law, ministry and beyond.

Top Private University in the West

Why earn your Religious Studies and Theology degree at St. Edward's?

Religious Studies and Theology invites you to explore life's enduring questions in a welcoming, discussion-based community shaped by St. Edward's Holy Cross tradition. You'll examine faith, religion and principles through multiple perspectives while developing a deeper understanding of the beliefs, cultures and values that shape our world.

Engage with Leading Voices

Join nationally recognized scholars, faith leaders and experts through the university's annual lecture series. These engaging conversations explore interreligious dialogue, Catholic thought and contemporary issues, encouraging you to consider diverse perspectives and deepen your understanding of religion in today's world.

Learn Through Service

Put your learning into practice through meaningful service experiences in Austin and beyond. Whether volunteering through your courses or in co-curricular activities like Service Break Experiences, you'll build lasting relationships while gaining a deeper understanding of your community and the issues that matter most.

Grow as a Leader

Through participation in Theta Alpha Kappa (the national honor society for religious studies and theology), mentored research, and internships, you will build meaningful connections, network professionally and develop your leadership skills. You will also strengthen your faith and grow personally through retreats, peer ministry, and interfaith programs.

Put Faith into Action

Explore how faith and values can inspire meaningful change in the world around you. Through internships, volunteer opportunities and partnerships with organizations focused on social justice, you'll examine real-world issues while learning how compassion, advocacy and service can make a lasting impact. For example, be a Holy Cross Ambassador through the Holy Cross Institute and share the charism that inspired Bl. Basile Moreau.

Life as a Religious Studies and Theology major at St. Edward's University

Challenging questions are best explored together. As a Religious Studies and Theology major, you'll join a welcoming community where thoughtful discussion, reflection and diverse perspectives are part of everyday learning. Whether you're serving the community, attending guest lectures, sharing your original research with others, or engaging in conversations that continue long after class ends, you'll build meaningful relationships with classmates and faculty while gaining new perspectives on faith, values, and culture. Along the way, you'll gain a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world around you.

A Highly Successful Religious Studies and Theology Program

A Religious Studies and Theology degree from St. Edward's prepares you to think critically, engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives and lead with compassion in an increasingly interconnected world. Through community engagement, faculty mentorship, experiential learning and opportunities to explore faith, values and culture, you'll graduate ready to make a meaningful impact in your career, your community and beyond.

100%

Experiential Undergraduate Placements

As part of the St. Edward's Strategic Plan, the goal for all undergraduate students is to have 100% placement in experiential, real-world internships through the Austin Impact initiative. Religious Studies and Theology majors gain valuable experience through community organizations, nonprofits, faith-based initiatives and service opportunities that connect classroom learning with real-world impact.

Prepared

A Degree with Purpose

A Religious Studies and Theology degree prepares you for careers wherever empathy, ethical decision-making and strong communication are valued. Graduates pursue opportunities in education, nonprofit leadership, ministry, law, counseling, public service and community advocacy, while many continue their education through graduate and professional programs or seminary.

Success

Job Placement

St. Edward's Religious Studies and Theology graduates are prepared to enter today's workforce with confidence, bringing strong critical thinking, communication, cultural understanding and ethical reasoning skills to organizations and communities across a wide range of professions.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Religious Studies and Theology Degree from St. Edward's University

Upon completing the Religious Studies and Theology program, you’ll be ready to:

Conduct thorough research
Critically think and interpret complex texts
Construct a reasoned argument
Understand different perspectives

Find what you need to apply and important deadlines. When you are ready, there are three ways for you to apply to St. Edward’s:

Add St. Edward’s to your list of schools if you’re using the Common Application to save time applying to your top colleges.

If you are applying to multiple schools in Texas, you can use ApplyTexas whether you’re a Texas resident or not.

It’s easy to apply using our convenient online application.

A Religious Studies and Theology Success Story

Degree Plan

Major Requirements:
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Theology requires 30 hours of major courses. The curriculum introduces students to key facets of the study of religion and theology and our signature courses emphasize clarifying one’s values, experiential learning, and career readiness.

A few examples of courses students in this major take:

Global Religions – Understand how religion impacts beliefs and cultural practices by studying the religions of those right here in Austin and around the globe.
History of Christian Theology – From the end of the first century to the fifth century, study the development of Christian Theology and dive into the controversies over the nature of God, the divinity of Christ and the structure of the Church and its teachings.

Degree requirements

Yes. Students can concentrate in either Religious Studies or Catholic Studies as part of the major.

St. Edward’s Religious Studies and Theology majors go on to a variety of careers. Here’s a sample:

Judicial Law Clerk for Supreme Court of Texas
Literacy Tutor for AmeriCorps
Director of Campus Ministry at St. Mary’s College
Ambassador for Poverty Relief with Noonday Collection
Director of Social Justice Ministries at St. Austin Catholic Parish
Filmmaker for The Congregation of Holy Cross
Director of the Beecken Center for the School of Theology at Sewanee, The University of the South
Peace Corps Volunteers, Dominican Volunteers, Jesuit Volunteer Corps

Yes, you can minor in Religious and Theological Studies, Catholic Studies, or Jewish Studies.

Majors and minors take RELS 4350, our Signature Internship Course. Students work with their professor to determine the internship activity most fitting for them. Internships have included, for example, teaching assistantships, serving as peer ministers with Campus Ministry, working for a nonprofit organization, and undertaking a specialized practicum.

Yes. RELS majors are well prepared to go on to graduate studies in Religious Studies, Theology, Catholic Studies and Jewish Studies. Our alumni attend, for example, Harvard Divinity School, The University of Notre Dame, Yale Divinity School, The University of Chicago, Boston College, and Duke Divinity School–many receiving full tuition scholarships. RELS alumni also attend law school, medical school, and other graduate degree programs (like Museum Studies, Social Work, and Business School).

At St. Edward’s, our faculty are outstanding scholars, thought leaders, teachers and mentors who bring energy and enthusiasm to our vibrant learning community. They take pride in getting to know you, helping you achieve your goals and celebrating your successes.

View a list of our faculty members and their contact information on the Department of Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Theology webpage.

Preparing for Your Future in Religious Studies and Theology

A future in Religious Studies and Theology is built on a deeper understanding of people, cultures and the beliefs that shape our world. Whether you're pursuing a career in education, nonprofit leadership, ministry, law, counseling, public service or another field, a Religious Studies and Theology degree from St. Edward's University prepares you with the critical thinking, communication and ethical reasoning skills employers value. You'll graduate ready to launch your career or continue your education in graduate and professional school or seminary with confidence.

Making an Impact

Calista Robledo ’22 combined her interests in theology, writing and ministry at St. Edward’s, where she served in Campus Ministry and earned national recognition from the Theta Alpha Kappa honor society. She went on to pursue a Master of Divinity at Boston College, bringing together her passions for theology, creativity and service.

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Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts in Global Languages and Cultural Studies

Program Snapshot

Program Type

Bachelor of Arts

School

Languages, Literatures and Cultures

Department

Connect Across Cultures

Global Opportunities

Develop advanced language skills while exploring the cultures, histories and perspectives that shape our world. Through immersive coursework, study abroad, internships and faculty mentorship, you’ll build communication and intercultural skills for careers across fields.

Top Private University in the West

Why Earn Your Global Languages and Cultural Studies Degree at St. Edward's?

Build the language proficiency, cultural understanding and global perspective to thrive in an interconnected world. Through immersive learning, study abroad, faculty mentorship and real-world experiences, you'll develop the skills to communicate across cultures and prepare for meaningful careers at home and around the globe.

Develop Real-World Language Skills

Build advanced proficiency in one or more languages while gaining the cultural knowledge and communication skills to work confidently across borders, industries and communities. You'll strengthen your ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds through immersive coursework and hands-on learning.

Learn Beyond the Classroom

Take your education into the world through study abroad opportunities, community engagement and cultural experiences that deepen your language skills and global perspective. You'll have opportunities to learn in countries including Spain, France, Costa Rica, Japan, Italy and beyond.

Prepare for a Global Career

Whether you're interested in healthcare, international business, education, nonprofit leadership, government or graduate study, you'll graduate with the language proficiency, intercultural competence and analytical skills employers value. You can also expand your expertise through opportunities like the Advanced Spanish for Health and Helping Professions Certificate.

Life as a Global Languages and Cultural Studies Student at St. Edward's University

Language comes to life through conversation, connection and cultural exploration. As a Global Languages and Cultural Studies major, you'll strengthen your language skills through cultural events, language clubs, study abroad and community engagement. Along the way, you'll broaden your perspective, build lasting friendships and gain the confidence to communicate across cultures in meaningful ways.

A Highly Successful Global Languages and Cultural Studies Program

A Global Languages and Cultural Studies degree from St. Edward's prepares you to communicate across languages, cultures and perspectives in today's interconnected world. Through immersive learning, study abroad, internships, faculty mentorship and community engagement, you'll graduate with the language proficiency, cultural fluency and critical thinking skills to pursue careers across industries or continue your education through graduate or professional study.

100%

Experiential Undergraduate Placements

As part of the St. Edward's Strategic Plan, the goal for all undergraduate students is to have 100% placement in experiential, real-world internships through the Austin Impact initiative. Global Languages and Cultural Studies majors gain valuable experience through internships, community partnerships, study abroad and organizations serving multilingual and multicultural communities.

Success

Job Placement

St. Edward's Global Languages and Cultural Studies graduates bring advanced language proficiency, cultural understanding and strong communication skills to careers in medical school, social work, communications and community engagement, content creation, management, law, higher education, translating, military, technology and fashion.

35,000+

Alumni Network

Become part of a global network of St. Edward’s graduates — connections that start in Austin and can open doors to opportunities across industries and around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Global Languages and Cultural Studies Degree from St. Edward's University

Engage with diverse cultures and languages from around the world. By studying two modern languages, you’ll enhance communication skills, cross-cultural understanding and critical thinking. Embrace the challenge and fulfillment of becoming multilingual and open doors across the hemispheres.

A few examples of courses students take in the major:

In Topics in Comparative Languages, Literatures and Cultures, better understand the world around you by sharing your own experiences as well as learning about those of your classmates.
In Multilingualism in the U.S. and Intercultural Communication, improve your communication skills, cross-cultural understanding and critical thinking.

What skills will you gain?

Upon completing the Global Languages and Cultural Studies program, you’ll be ready to…

Develop language proficiency in one or more languages, including Spanish, French, German and Japanese.
Gain intercultural communication skills and global awareness.
Critically think and communicate with those in fields such as international business, diplomacy, translation, education and more.

Find what you need to apply and important deadlines. When you are ready, there are three ways for you to apply to St. Edward’s:

Add St. Edward’s to your list of schools if you’re using the Common Application to save time applying to your top colleges.

If you are applying to multiple schools in Texas, you can use ApplyTexas whether you’re a Texas resident or not.

It’s easy to apply using our convenient online application.

A Global Languages and Cultural Studies Success Story

Major Requirements: The BA in Global Languages and Cultural Studies is a 36-hour major requiring students to choose a primary language (18 hours beginning at 2311 or higher), a secondary language (12 hours beginning at 1311 or higher), and to complete 2 required core courses (CLLC 1310, CLLC 4330) taught in English. Languages include German, French, Spanish and Japanese. Students who test out of or place beyond beginning and intermediate levels will complete the degree with approved electives.

Electives: Students who are waived from intermediate courses through the departmental placement test or who demonstrate advanced proficiency may choose to take up to 6 hours of approved electives (in English) to reach the 36-hour major requirement.

View and download the full degree plan for our Global Languages and Cultural Studies major.

View a list of our faculty members and their contact information on the Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures webpage.

Making an Impact

Jessica Gallardo ’25 brought her interest in languages, cultures and global issues to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she conducted research examining how investment from China and the United States may influence the voting behavior of African countries in the United Nations General Assembly.

Through the McNair Scholars Program, Jessica strengthened her skills as a researcher while exploring the connections among culture, international relations and communities around the world. The experience also inspired her to consider a future in academia or with an international organization such as the United Nations.

“Because of McNair, I’ve learned to ask more questions, to be more curious, to find out why things happen and how they impact vulnerable communities.”

Jessica hopes to become a professor and mentor future students, extending the same support and encouragement she received at St. Edward’s.

Learn About Admissions and Financial Aid

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design

Program Snapshot

Program Type

Bachelor of Arts

School

Department

Visual Studies

Design with Purpose

Create with Impact

Graphic design blends creativity and strategy to communicate ideas that inform, inspire and connect. At St. Edward's, you'll develop your creative voice through studio courses, portfolio-building projects and close faculty mentorship while gaining the design thinking and technical skills to launch your career with confidence.

Top Private University in the West

Why Earn Your Graphic Design Degree at St. Edward’s?

Graphic design is about more than creating beautiful visuals—it's about communicating ideas, solving problems and making meaningful connections. At St. Edward's, you'll build your creative and technical skills through collaborative studio experiences, faculty mentorship and hands-on projects that prepare you to design with purpose in today's creative industries.

Learn from Dedicated Faculty

Work alongside experienced designers and educators who are invested in your growth as both a creative professional and an individual. Small studio classes and close faculty mentorship provide personalized feedback, meaningful collaboration and the support to help you refine your creative voice.

Explore an Innovative Curriculum

Develop expertise across typography, branding, motion graphics, publishing, design history and social impact while exploring how visual communication shapes the way people interact with the world. During your senior thesis, you'll define your own creative direction and build a portfolio that reflects your interests and career goals.

Create in Professional Studios

Bring your ideas to life using interdisciplinary creative spaces, including Mac labs, photography studios, publishing and production labs, animation facilities and specialized printmaking and fabrication equipment. You'll gain hands-on experience with the tools and technologies used throughout today's creative industries.

Build Real-World Experience

Apply your design skills beyond the classroom by contributing to campus publications like Hilltop Views, Arete and The Sorin Oak Review, collaborating on creative projects and developing work that addresses real audiences and meaningful challenges. Along the way, you'll strengthen your portfolio while gaining practical experience employers value.

Life as a Graphic Design Student at St. Edward's University

Great design doesn't happen in isolation. As a Graphic Design major, you'll join a collaborative studio community where creativity, feedback and experimentation are part of the design process. Through Command G, the program's student organization, studio visits, workshops and connections with Austin's creative community, you'll build relationships with classmates, faculty, alumni and industry professionals. Along the way, you'll build a professional portfolio, gain real-world experience through internships and graduate with the confidence to pursue a creative career.

A Highly Successful Graphic Design Program

A Graphic Design degree from St. Edward's combines creative exploration with real-world experiences that prepare you for today's evolving creative industries. Through studio courses, internships, portfolio development, close faculty mentorship and connections to Austin's vibrant creative community, you'll graduate ready to launch your career, build your own creative practice or continue your education with confidence.

100%

Experiential Undergraduate Placements

As part of the St. Edward's Strategic Plan, the goal for all undergraduate students is to have 100% placement in experiential, real-world internships through the Austin Impact initiative. Graphic Design majors gain valuable experience through internships, client-based projects and creative partnerships with businesses, nonprofits and organizations throughout Austin.

Top Careers

Creative Pathways

A Graphic Design degree prepares you for careers where creativity, visual communication and problem-solving come together. Graduates pursue opportunities in graphic design, branding, advertising, publishing, motion graphics, digital marketing, creative direction and entrepreneurship, while many continue their education through graduate programs.

35,000+

Global Alumni Network

Graduate as part of a global St. Edward’s alumni network that starts in Austin and reaches around the world. Build relationships that can support your career as you pursue opportunities in healthcare organizations, businesses and communities wherever your path takes you.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Graphic Design Degree from St. Edward's University

Students in the Graphic Design program will focus on developing their own voice as a graphic designer, defining your own trajectory in design.

A few examples of courses students take in the major:

In Interactive Design, explore design issues unique to user-centered interaction in digital media. Examine a range of formal and conceptual issues, including user interface, organization, narrative, motion, time and sound.
In Social Design, explores issues of responsibility and how designers participate, shape and criticize the world around us.

What skills will you gain?

Discover your style by studying image making, typography and experimentation.
Understand the evolution of art by focusing on design history and social impact.
Define your own practice as designers and focus on an area of personal interest—everything from branding to digital product design and entrepreneurship.

Find what you need to apply and important deadlines. When you are ready, there are three ways for you to apply to St. Edward’s:

Add St. Edward’s to your list of schools if you’re using the Common Application to save time applying to your top colleges.

If you are applying to multiple schools in Texas, you can use ApplyTexas whether you’re a Texas resident or not.

It’s easy to apply using our convenient online application.

A Graphic Design Success Story

The BA in Graphic Design requires 49 hours of graphic design major courses, which include a combination of introductory coursework, visual studies, art, and graphic design.

General Education Requirements: The Graphic Design degree requires 57 hours of general education courses that students complete over four years in addition to their major courses and electives.

View and download the full degree plan for our Graphic Design major.

Graphic Design majors go on to a variety of careers and graduate schools from St. Edward’s. Here’s a sample.

Designer at FODA Studio, an award-winning boutique design agency based in Austin.
UX/UI designer at USAA design office, an in-house agency creating digital products serving the military community.
Senior Product Designer at the New York Times.
Founder of GNDR SHREDR, a Portland-based screenprinting shop and design studio focusing on queer skating culture.
Digital creative designer at James Avery Artisan Jewelry, a Texas-based, family-owned company that specializes in designing hand-crafted jewelry.
Graphic Designer for Texas Senate.
Senior Interaction Designer at frog, a global design consultancy.
Founder of SeaLab, a digital product design agency.
Graphic Designer at Houston First Corporation, the official Destination Management Organization for Houston.
Art director at The Barbarian Group, a New York-based advertising agency working on global brands.

View a list of our faculty members and their contact information on the Department of Visual Studies webpage.

Preparing for Your Future in Graphic Design

A future in Graphic Design is built on creativity, collaboration and the ability to communicate ideas through thoughtful visual design. Whether you're pursuing a career in branding, advertising, publishing, digital marketing, motion graphics, entrepreneurship or another creative field, a Graphic Design degree from St. Edward's University prepares you with the creative thinking, technical expertise and communication skills employers value. You'll graduate ready to launch your career or continue your education in graduate school with confidence.

Making an Impact

When the 2024 total solar eclipse passed over Central Texas, Associate Professor of Graphic Design Jimmy Luu turned the historic event into a creative challenge for his students. In his Risograph Workshop, students designed eclipse-inspired calendars, magazines, glasses, packaging and other original pieces while gaining hands-on experience with specialized risograph printing.

Their work traveled beyond the classroom to Riso Rama, an independent publishing event in Corpus Christi, where students exhibited and successfully auctioned their designs, with proceeds benefiting the St. Edward’s Graphic Design student organization. One student’s “Eclipse Gum” packaging even caught the attention of Miau Editions, an independent press based in Mexico City.

The project gave students the opportunity to experiment with a distinctive design process, respond creatively to a cultural moment and share their work with a broader creative community.

Learn About Admissions and Financial Aid

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts in English Literature

Program Snapshot

Program Type

Bachelor of Arts

School

Department

Communication

Read Deeply. Think Critically.

Shape the Conversation

Explore literature, writing and language while building analytical, communication and creative problem-solving skills. Through faculty mentorship, discussion and writing across genres, you’ll learn to think critically and prepare for careers across industries and fields.

Top Private University in the West

Why Earn Your English Literature Degree at St. Edward’s?

The best way to study literature and writing is to experience them firsthand. At St. Edward's, you'll connect with visiting authors, attend live performances, publish your work, study abroad and complete internships that turn your passion for reading and writing into real-world experience. Every opportunity helps you grow as a thinker, writer and communicator—preparing you for wherever your story leads next.

Gain Professional Experience

Put your writing, research and critical thinking skills to work through internships with publishers, nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, literary centers and communications teams. Recent students have gained experience with organizations including the Harry Ransom Center, Badgerdog, Annie's List and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Study Beyond the Classroom

Study literature, creative writing and culture from a global perspective through St. Edward's partner universities in Ireland, Scotland and England. Expand your understanding of language, storytelling and diverse perspectives while experiencing life abroad.

Pursue Your Passion

Explore the authors, ideas and literary movements that inspire you through faculty-mentored research. Present your work at the Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression or at professional conferences, building the confidence and experience to stand out after graduation.

Prepare for What's Next

An English Literature degree prepares you for careers wherever strong communication, critical thinking and creativity are essential. Graduates pursue opportunities in publishing, marketing, communications, education, law, nonprofit leadership, public relations, government and graduate study.

Life as an English Literature Student at St. Edward's University

Great stories begin with great conversations. As an English Literature major, you'll join a community that values curiosity, creativity and collaboration. Beyond the classroom, you can gain hands-on publishing experience by writing, editing or designing for student publications, including The Sorin Oak Review, Arete, Hilltop Views and B. Hooved. Along the way, you'll build your portfolio, develop professional skills and connect with classmates who share your passion for language, literature and ideas.

A Highly Successful English Literature Program

An English Literature degree from St. Edward's combines the timeless study of literature with hands-on experiences that prepare you for what's next. Through internships, undergraduate research, close faculty mentorship and opportunities across Austin's vibrant literary, nonprofit and creative communities, you'll graduate ready for a wide range of careers, graduate study and meaningful work.

100%

Experiential Undergraduate Placements

As part of the St. Edward's Strategic Plan, the goal for all undergraduate students is to have 100% placement in experiential, real-world internships through the Austin Impact initiative. English Literature majors gain valuable experience with healthcare organizations, schools, nonprofits, businesses and community partners throughout Austin.

Career Paths

A Versatile Degree

An English Literature degree prepares you for careers wherever strong communication, critical thinking and creativity are valued. Graduates pursue opportunities in publishing, marketing, communications, education, law, nonprofit leadership, public relations, government and the arts, while many continue their education through graduate and professional programs.

Success

Job Placement

St. Edward's English Literature graduates are prepared to enter today's workforce with confidence, bringing strong writing, research, analytical thinking and communication skills to careers in publishing, education, marketing, nonprofit organizations, law and many other fields.

Frequently Asked Questions about an English Literature Degree from St. Edward's University

What You Will Learn

Learn to analyze literature alongside professors who share your passion for the printed page and develop a global mindset by studying a diverse range of authors from different cultures and communities.

Students in the English Literature major choose one of two specializations, while building a broad foundation in American and British literature from a variety of periods.

The General Specialization offers literature electives that appeal to more specific interests like Native American Literature, Literature of Crime and Punishment, Uncanny Literature, and Science and Fiction.
The Creative Writing Specialization guides students through Poetry and Fiction workshops, Writing for Stage and Screen, Fantastical Fiction and Creative Nonfiction.

What Skills You'll Gain

Upon completing the English Literature program, you’ll be ready to…

Analyze American and British literature across multiple time periods.
Confidently meet teaching-education requirements to teach English in Texas.
Write a screenplay with new worlds and developed characters.
Use critical thinking to understand elaborate texts for various audiences and purposes.
Creatively and effectively communicate complex messages for appropriate audiences.
Implement research methods to successfully construct and introduce an idea or argument.

Find what you need to apply and important deadlines. When you are ready, there are three ways for you to apply to St. Edward’s:

Add St. Edward’s to your list of schools if you’re using the Common Application to save time applying to your top colleges.

If you are applying to multiple schools in Texas, you can use ApplyTexas whether you’re a Texas resident or not.

It’s easy to apply using our convenient online application.

A St. Edward's Success Story

Major Requirements: The Bachelor of Arts with a major in English Literature requires 42 hours of core coursework, providing a strong foundation in literary history and analysis and many elective options. Students choose additional electives from one of three specializations: General Literature, Creative Writing, and Language Arts for Teachers.

General Education Requirements: The English literature degree requires an average of 38-44 hours of general education courses that students complete over four years in addition to their major courses and electives.

View the full degree plan for our English Literature major.

See the most current Undergraduate Bulletin for the complete list of courses required and course descriptions for this major.

Students in this specialization gain a broad foundation in American and British literature from a variety of periods, and also take literature electives that appeal to more specific interests.

Major Requirements: 42 hours of English Literature major courses are required.

View the full degree plan for the English Literature - General major (PDF).

A few examples of electives in the General specialization have included:

Native American Literature
Literature of Crime and Punishment
Science and Fiction
"Radicals and Revolutionaries" in Literature
Uncanny Literature
Literature of Love

See the most current Undergraduate Bulletin for the complete list of courses required and course descriptions for this specialization.

English Literature with a Creative Writing Specialization

The Creative Writing specialization also offers a broad foundation in American and British literature from multiple periods, but allows students to take electives in creative writing.

Major Requirements: 42 hours of English Literature major courses, 9 hours of which are concentrated on creative writing.

View the full degree plan for English Literature with a Creative Writing Specialization (PDF).

A few examples of Creative Writing electives within the Literature major have included:

Poetry and Fiction workshops
Writing for Stage and Screen
Fantastical Fiction
Creative Nonfiction

See the most current Undergraduate Bulletin for the complete list of courses required and course descriptions for this specialization.

The English Literature minor makes an excellent pairing with nearly any other major. Recently, for instance, students have paired the English Literature minor with majors in Video Game Development, Criminal Justice, Biology, Communication, Business, and many others. Talk to any of our English Literature professors to figure out how to make this minor work for you.

Required Courses

Students who wish to earn an English Literature minor must take the following coursework, totaling 18 hours.

Introduction to Literary Studies: ENGL 2300 – 3 hours

Select three hours from the following courses.

American Literature I: ENGL 2301 – 3 hours
American Literature II: ENGL 2302 – 3 hours
British Literature I: ENGL 2322 – 3 hours
British Literature II: ENGL 2323 – 3 hours

Select three additional hours from any 2000-level ENGL course.

English Literature Elective: ENGL 2300 – 3 hours

Select nine additional upper-division hours of elective courses.

English Literature Elective (three times): ENGL 3300+ – 9 hours

See the most current Undergraduate Bulletin for the complete list of courses required and course descriptions for this major.

English Literature students can go into a wide range of careers, across industries and sectors, such as:

Publishing
Marketing
Communications
Public Relations
Education
Journalism & Media
Law
Nonprofit Leadership
Government & Public Service
Human Resources
Content Strategy
Graduate & Professional School

Yes. With our Accelerated Graduate Pathways, you can complete your BA English Literature and one of six master’s degrees in as little as five years, saving time and money. See details and requirements.

Success coaches and academic advisors guide you through undergraduate and graduate courses to maximize benefits.

View a list of our faculty members and their contact information on the Department of English webpage.

Preparing for Your Future in English Literature

A future in English Literature is built on the ability to think critically, communicate clearly and understand the power of language and ideas. Whether you're pursuing a career in publishing, marketing, communications, education, law, nonprofit leadership or another field, an English Literature degree from St. Edward's University prepares you with the writing, research and analytical skills employers value. You'll graduate ready to launch your career or continue your education in graduate or professional school with confidence.

Sam McFarland in front of the Paramount Theater

Making an Impact

Meet the students, alumni and faculty shaping the future through writing, storytelling, education, publishing, communications and community leadership. Their experiences show how a degree from St. Edward's University prepares graduates to think critically, communicate with purpose and make a meaningful impact wherever their careers take them.

Learn About Admissions and Financial Aid

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Program Snapshot

Program Type

Bachelor of Arts

School

Department

Communication

Strategic Communication

Ideas Meet Impact

Master the art of storytelling, strategic thinking and effective communication. Through hands-on experiences, you'll learn to craft compelling messages, build meaningful connections and prepare for careers in media, public relations, marketing, corporate communications and beyond.

Top Private University in the West

Why earn your Communication degree at St. Edward’s?

Located in the heart of Austin, there are ample opportunities to gain hands-on experience and apply your communication skills. Our faculty creatively integrate their scholarly research, public engagement, and expertise in communication with a wide range of interests and disciplines in their work with students.

Faculty Mentorship

Guidance Beyond the Classroom

At St. Edward's, you'll work closely with faculty who know your goals and challenge you to grow. Their mentorship, industry insight and personalized support help you develop the confidence and experience to thrive after graduation.

Career Outcomes

Skills That Open Doors

Strong communication skills are among the most sought-after by employers. Combined with a supportive alumni network and hands-on experience, you'll graduate ready to lead conversations, solve problems and build meaningful careers in virtually any field.

Networking Opportunities

Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)

The Public Relations Student Society of America is all about making connections. Our PRSSA chapter provides out-of-the-classroom experiences that give students enhanced knowledge of the public relations field. Members have access to exclusive internships and job postings, networking events with local professionals, personalized agency and corporation tours and fun social events.

Academic Excellence

Lambda Pi Eta (LPH)

Lambda Pi Eta is the National Communication Association’s official honor society at four-year colleges and universities. With more than 450 active chapters nationwide, LPH recognizes, fosters and rewards scholastic achievement, stimulates interest in the field of communication, and promotes professional development and interest in graduate studies among communication majors.

Life as a Communication Student at St. Edward's University

Communication is about more than learning to speak and write—it's about connecting with people and making an impact. At St. Edward's, you'll collaborate with classmates, learn from supportive faculty and gain hands-on experience through media projects, presentations, internships and community partnerships. From campus to the city of Austin, you'll develop the skills, confidence and professional network to launch your career.

A Highly Successful Communication Program

Austin is home to global brands, innovative startups, nonprofits, media organizations and public agencies—all seeking talented communicators. Through internships, Career Treks, faculty expertise and industry connections, St. Edward's Communication students graduate ready to turn ideas into impact wherever their careers take them.

100%

Experiential Undergraduate Placements

As part of the St. Edward's Strategic Plan, the goal for all undergraduate students is to have 100% placement in experiential, real-world internships, as part of the Austin Impact initiative.

Top 10

Career Opportunities

Communication is one of the most versatile and in-demand majors at St. Edward's University. Graduates use their skills to tell stories, build brands and engage audiences across industries including media, marketing, public relations, business, government and nonprofit organizations.

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Become part of a global network of St. Edward’s graduates — connections that start in Austin and can open doors to opportunities across industries and around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Communication Degree from St. Edward's University

What Will You Learn?

As a Communication major, you’ll begin by studying the principles of communication, but you’ll also become adept at applying them — so you can take your skills to a Fortune 500 company, fledgling nonprofit or buzzing startup.

A few examples of courses students take in the major:

In Public Relations for Nonprofit Organizations, you’ll learn the public relations process by creating your own project for an Austin client.
In Communication and Popular Culture, you’ll analyze a pop-culture event occurring in the Austin community.
In Rhetoric and Public Memory, you’ll study monuments and memorials around campus and around Austin. You’ll analyze what they communicate about the population’s values and power structure.

What skills will you gain?

Upon completing the Communication program, you’ll be ready to…

Gain the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Participate actively in the communication revolution, wielding the power of narrative to navigate the complexities of the modern world and drive positive change.
Listen and speak effectively, embrace multiple viewpoints, and discover shared values.
Understand human connections and relationships.
Analyze persuasive communication’s role in driving positive change by examining impactful speeches, influences and media trends in public relations and advertising.
Use persuasive techniques, message crafting and audience analysis to navigate our interconnected world.
Critically examine language, imagery, symbols and media’s influence in shaping perception and societal change through critical media studies.
Actively shape contemporary discourse and communication practices.

What do our graduates do?

Communication majors go on to a variety of careers (PDF) and graduate schools from St. Edward’s. Here’s a sample:

Launched a growing nonprofit for hearing and vision screenings
Landed the prestigious Alfred Fleishman Diversity Fellowship at FleishmanHillard
Emmy Award winner for coverage of a Pittsburgh water main break that grew into a water crisis
Technical writer at leading employment search engine and Austin company Indeed
Director of Marketing and Communications for a Bay Area nonprofit
Broker for a real estate investment firm
Created a cancer foundation to provide financial support to families impacted by cancer
Co-wrote and co-directed a film which earned a Grand Jury award at SXSW
Movie prop master in New York City
Law school graduate
Marketing executive in the music industry

Find what you need to apply and important deadlines. When you are ready, there are three ways for you to apply to St. Edward’s:

Add St. Edward’s to your list of schools if you’re using the Common Application to save time applying to your top colleges.

If you are applying to multiple schools in Texas, you can use ApplyTexas whether you’re a Texas resident or not.

It’s easy to apply using our convenient online application.

A Communication Success Story

Degree Plan

Major Requirements: Bachelor of Arts with a major in Communication requires 45 hours of major courses. Students complete five “core” communication courses, totaling 15 hours. Students will also choose from one of four concentrations totaling 30 hours.

Public Relations and Advertising
Relational Communication
Critical Media Studies
Communication Influence and Diversity

General Education Requirements: The Communication degree requires 43 hours of general education courses that students complete over four years in addition to their major courses and electives.

View and download the full degree plan for our Communication major (PDF).

The Communication minor is designed as a broad-based introduction to the discipline of Communication as well as an opportunity for students to explore—in more depth—a specific concentration. Students who wish to earn a Communication minor must take the following coursework, totaling 18 hours.

Required Courses

Introduction to Communication – COMM 1306
Interpersonal Communication – COMM 2312

Elective Courses

Choose 12 elective hours in communication; at least nine of these hours must be level 3000 or higher.

Are you a current student? Contact your advisor for next steps in declaring your major or minor.

Health Communication Minor

The Communication department offers a minor in Health Communication. For more information, please view the Health Communication minor webpage.

Careers

Communication majors go on to a variety of careers (PDF) and graduate schools from St. Edward’s. Here’s a sample:

Launched a growing nonprofit for hearing and vision screenings
Landed the prestigious Alfred Fleishman Diversity Fellowship at FleishmanHillard
Emmy Award winner for coverage of a Pittsburgh water main break that grew into a water crisis
Technical writer at leading employment search engine and Austin company Indeed
Director of Marketing and Communications for a Bay Area nonprofit
Broker for a real estate investment firm
Created a cancer foundation to provide financial support to families impacted by cancer
Co-wrote and co-directed a film which earned a Grand Jury award at SXSW
Movie prop master in New York City
Law school graduate
Marketing executive in the music industry

Student Organizations

Get involved with student productions in whatever medium interests you most.

Hilltop Views, the weekly student newspaper, is published both in print and online. Student journalists report news from the campus and greater Austin community. You can get involved as early as your freshman year as a writer, editor, photographer or designer.
Sorin Oak Review is a literary magazine that showcases the poetry, prose and artwork of St. Edward’s students. Working on the editorial staff is a great way to gain experience in project management and the practical details of putting together a publication.
Arete is a student-produced academic journal that publishes student-written research, nonfiction essays and commentary. Editors choose from among the dozens of submissions to create a cohesive journal that represents a variety of perspectives.
New Literati publishes both creative and academic work.
B. Hooved is the student humor journal, inspired by our Hilltopper goat mascot.
Topper Radio is the student-run radio station.
Topper Studios is the digital media club. Members are involved in creating podcasts, YouTube channels, short films, music videos and comedy sketches, and helping their fellow students produce digital content. Students in Topper Studios also frequently make promotional videos for other clubs at St. Edward’s.

The Digital Media Center in the Munday Library is a resource for creating your own content and learning new skills. Here, you can produce and edit videos, podcasts and visual design projects with the help of your fellow students. The lab is equipped with top-of-the-line computers running the latest software including the Adobe Creative Suite. It also has a group editing/podcasting room, a green screen room and a “whisper room” used for voiceovers. If you are skilled at software, hardware repair, graphic design or video editing, you can apply to work in the lab as a digital media specialist.

Yes. With our Accelerated Graduate Pathways, you can complete your BA in Communication and master’s degree in as little as five years, saving time and money. See details and requirements.

Success coaches and academic advisors guide you through undergraduate and graduate courses to maximize benefits. Learn about all of our Accelerate Graduate Pathway

View a list of our faculty members and their contact information on the Department of Communication webpage.

Preparing for Your Future in Communication

A future in communication is a future built on connection, creativity and influence. Whether you're informing audiences, shaping brands, leading organizations or advocating for meaningful change, a Communication degree from St. Edward's prepares you to communicate with purpose and make an impact wherever your career leads.

Making an Impact

Meet the students, alumni and faculty shaping the future of communication at St. Edward's University. Whether they're crafting compelling stories, building brands, engaging communities or leading meaningful conversations, their experiences show how a St. Edward's education prepares graduates to make an impact wherever their careers take them.

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