Languages and Literature
Overview
The Department of Languages and Literature at Virginia State University is committed to academic excellence and cultural enrichment through the study of language, literature, and writing. the department offers diverse courses and programs in English, World Languages, Drama, Speech, and Interdisciplinary Humanities to prepare students for professions in media, education, law, public service, and other fields. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts in English with concentrations in African American/Africana Literature, Literatures of the World, Creative Writing, Linguistics, Professional Writing, and Secondary Education, which may lead to a teaching endorsement. The Department offers Minors in Africana Studies, Drama, English, Film Studies, French, Spanish, Digital Humanities, Hip-Hop Studies, and Writing. Students engage with a broad spectrum of literary texts, rhetorical strategies, and linguistic traditions while cultivating strong analytical, creative, and communication skills. The department’s curriculum emphasizes the transformative power of language to shape human experience, promote social justice, and reflect diverse perspectives across time and cultures. Through innovative coursework, research opportunities, and community engagement, the department nurtures intellectual curiosity, global competence, and a lifelong appreciation for the written and spoken word.
Mission
The mission of the Department of Languages and Literature at Virginia State University is to empower students with the linguistic, literary, and critical tools necessary for thoughtful inquiry, effective communication, advanced scholarship, and engaged citizenship in a global society. Anchored in the liberal arts tradition and the university’s commitment to academic excellence and cultural diversity, the department promotes the study of English, World Languages, and Interdisciplinary Humanities as pathways to intellectual growth, ethical reasoning, and social responsibility. Guided by principles of inclusivity, scholarly rigor, and creative expression, the department fosters a learning environment where students explore the richness of language and literature across historical, cultural, and national boundaries.
Degree Highlights
Pursuing a degree in the Department of Languages and Literature at Virginia State University offers students a transformative academic experience rooted in critical inquiry, cultural exploration, and real-world application. Our programs equip students with essential 21st-century skills that are in high demand across a wide range of professional fields.
Graduates from our department are prepared to excel in diverse careers, including:
- Education and Teaching (K–12 and Higher Education)
- Journalism, Publishing, and Editing
- Law and Legal Studies
- Human Services
- Public Relations and Communications
- Government and Public Policy
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- Content Creation and Media Production
- Graduate and Professional Studies
Unique Learning Experiences
- Small Class Sizes & Mentorship
- Interdisciplinary Approach
- Study Abroad & Language Immersion
- Internships & Community Engagement
- Student Organizations, Publications & Literary Events
Technical & Transferable Skills Acquired
- Advanced Writing and Research Proficiency
- Critical and Creative Thinking
- Verbal and Written Communication
- Cultural Literacy and Global Awareness
- Analytical Reasoning and Argumentation
- Language Proficiency and Translation
- Media and Digital Literacy
A degree from the Department of Languages and Literature empowers students not only with academic knowledge but also with the adaptability, insight, and communication skills needed to thrive in today’s evolving professional landscape. Our graduates leave prepared to lead, teach, advocate, and innovate across communities and industries.
The Department of Languages and Literature at Virginia State University is committed to achieving the following academic, professional, and community-centered goals:
- Promote Academic Excellence
- Enhance Communication Skills
- Foster Cultural and Global Awareness
- Support Professional and Career Development
- Encourage Research and Creative Expression
- Advance Language Proficiency
- Strengthen Community and Civic Engagement
- Support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Integrate Technology and Innovation
- Cultivate a Supportive Academic Environment
Major
BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA) IN ENGLISH
The Bachelor of Arts in English at Virginia State University offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their academic experience. With 42 hours of unrestricted electives, students can easily pursue concentrations in African American/African Literature, Literatures of the World, Creative Writing, Linguistics, Professional Writing, and Secondary Education.
Multiple minors in Africana Studies, Drama, French, Spanish, English, Writing, Digital Humanities, Film Studies in Literature, and Hip Hop studies, preparing them for diverse careers in education, writing, law, public service, and more.
MINORS
With additional coursework and study of at least 18 hours of unrestricted electives, students can easily pursue multiple minors in the Department of Languages and Literature preparing them for diverse careers in education, writing, law, public service, and more. The following minors are available to students:
- English
- Africana Studies
- Creative Writing
- Hip Hop Studies
- Spanish
- Drama
- Professional Writing
- Digital Humanities
- Film Studies in Literature
One Twenty-One Journal
Virginia State University's online journal, One Twenty-One, is dedicated to the publication of creative work by HBCU students. Visit One Twenty-One Online
View the current issue:
Current Issue, Issue 4: The Resurgence
Department of Languages and Literature
Dr. Latorial Faison
Department Chair and Assistant Professor of English
Room: Colson 300 T
Phone: 804-524-5159
lfaison@vsu.edu
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A Publication of Alpha Delta Upsilon Chapter
fo Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society
Virginia State University
Department of Languages & Literature