Ignite your passion for words and discover how they can be used to tell stories in a multiscreen world.

Welcome to the Department of English and Modern Languages at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore! Our program embraces the diversity of academic and career opportunities available throughout the world for students interested in careers in writing, media production, publishing, strategic communication, law, government, speechwriting, politics, and more.

We offer three unique undergraduate degrees and four minors that will help you develop into a skilled and effective communicator, writer, producer, English language teacher, and critical thinker. Our diverse programs have the resources and expert guidance to help you achieve your career goals. When you join the Department of English and Modern Languages at UMES, you’ll take engaging courses taught by leading scholars and professionals in their fields who prioritize their students’ success, both academically and professionally. Thanks to our small class sizes, you’ll have many chances to collaborate with your peers on projects and presentations using our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment as you earn your degree in Teaching English or Digital Media Studies.

Programs

Are you interested in education but wonder how to become an English teacher who inspires their students to read and write? Maybe you want to start your own production company and promote diversity and inclusion within media? We’ve created programs that will help you build a strong foundation in the skills and knowledge to become an expert and leader in whichever field you choose to pursue.

Undergraduate programs:

• Bachelor of Arts in English
• Bachelor of Arts in English Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Studies

Minor programs:

• Digital Media Studies Minor
• English Minor
• Foreign Language Minor
• Spanish Minor

View course descriptions for the Department of English and Modern Languages.

Student Life

When you join the Department of English and Modern Languages at UMES, you’ll become a vital member of our growing family of students, faculty, and alumni who are committed to helping each other grow personally and professionally every day. We offer many organizations that let you gain real-world experience while building networks of other creators and teachers.

Students interested in radio can join Hawk Radio, our student-run radio station. Want to share your thoughts on current events, sports, and campus life? How about your favorite musicians and artists? Our modern facilities provide you with sophisticated technology and equipment to reach audiences and keep your fellow Hawks informed. Students interested in becoming a teacher of English can share their love of reading and words with their audience in creative and fun ways through the power of Hawk Radio.

Do you have the acting bug? Maybe you’d like to strengthen your communication and public speaking skills in a fun, lighthearted atmosphere? Our Drama Society provides an open and inviting way to act, produce, make friends, and develop a well-rounded confidence in yourself. Whether you want to become a teacher of English or a radio host, the skills you’ll gain on the stage can translate to success in many different fields and career environments. We also offer a university-wide reading experience through our Just One Book series. This program promotes the cross-campus, cross-disciplinary exploration of a book across various classes and multiple writing experiences. There’s no better way to understand how others read and approach literature than joining our book series as you earn your degree in Teaching English.

Learn More about Paying for UMES

When you decide to earn a degree in Teaching English or in Digital Media, you make an investment in yourself and those who you will positively impact with your teaching and stories. That’s why the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and the Department of English and Modern Languages invest in you through various scholarships and work study opportunities to help you pay for your education.

Students in the Department of English and Modern Languages are eligible to apply for many scholarships and grants. Here are just some of the many funding opportunities:

• Chesapeake Associated Press Broadcasters Association
• National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
• Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for Study Abroad
• Radio Television Digital News Association
• National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) scholarships

All UMES students can also apply for need- and non-need-based grants to help pay for tuition—including the federal Pell Grant, Maryland State Grants, and UMES-specific grants. To be considered for federal, state, and institutional grant funds, you must first complete the FAFSA.

Available Careers

When you graduate with your degree in Teaching English, Modern Languages, or Digital Media Studies from UMES, you’ll have the expertise to excel in many different career paths in nearly every major industry.

Our students are also exceptionally prepared to stand out in graduate programs in fields such as English, creative writing, linguistics, filmmaking, radio and broadcasting, and so much more. With their advanced degrees, our students go on to become inspiring teachers of English and media personalities across Maryland and the country.

Corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies are all looking for employees who can communicate effectively, represent their brand to diverse audiences, and teach others how to be successful communicators. That’s why graduates from the Department of English and Modern Languages continue on to rewarding careers in a many different positions, including:

• English language teacher
• Writer/author
• Editor
• Public relations specialist
• Content manager/strategist
• Educator
• Copywriter
• News anchor
• Radio show host

Employment in media and communications is expected to grow by 6 percent by 2031, adding about 68,600 new jobs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics (BLS). These positions will need to be filled by skilled communicators like you. K–12 teachers can expect employment growth of about 5 percent by 2031, according to the BLS. Now is a great time to prepare for a career as a teacher of English in public or private schools.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to become an English language teacher? Are you called to step into the production booth and share your story and others’ stories with the world? If so, join the Department of English and Modern Languages at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and soar above and beyond as a Hawk.