The Department of English & Modern Languages at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore plays a pivotal role in advancing the university’s strategic priorities through its comprehensive programs and initiatives.
Academic Excellence and Innovation
In alignment with UMES’ commitment to academic excellence and innovation, the department offers three Bachelor of Arts degrees: English, English with a concentration in English Education, and Digital Media Studies. We also offer four minors: English, Digital Media Studies, Spanish, and Foreign Languages. These programs are meticulously designed to equip students with the critical knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a complex world, thereby fostering leadership in traditional and innovative sectors.
Access, Affordability, and Achievement
Understanding the financial challenges that students may face, UMES and the department invest in various scholarships and work-study opportunities. These different types of financial aid are aimed at helping students fund their education, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic achievement.
Workforce and Economic Development
The department’s curriculum is tailored to meet the evolving demands of the workforce. By offering programs in traditional literary and education fields as well as emerging creative and technology-driven fields, the department prepares students for careers in professional and creative writing, public relations, publishing, radio, television, journalism, social media, and other digital outlets. This alignment with industry needs contributes to regional economic development by supplying a skilled workforce.
Research and Community Engagement
The Department of English, Modern Languages, and Digital Media Studies at UMES actively fosters research and community engagement through various initiatives. Faculty members contribute to humanities and communications research by participating in professional associations such as the Modern Language Association and the [communications association???], enhancing the department’s academic profile.
Students are encouraged to engage in writing and media projects that connect them with the community. For instance, under the guidance of faculty, students have participated in events that integrate interdisciplinary studies with community engagement, amplifying student voices within the local area.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The department fosters a climate of equity by offering programs that promote diversity and inclusion. Courses such as Afrofuturism and The Novel East and West expose students to a variety of literary traditions, enhancing cultural awareness and sensitivity.
The Department of English & Modern Languages, along with our Digital Media Studies program, exemplify a strong alignment with the university’s strategic priorities. Through our dedication to academic excellence, financial accessibility, workforce readiness, community engagement, and inclusivity, the department significantly contributes to the realization of UMES’ mission and goals.
