General English Option
With its emphases on interpretive skills, creativity, and writing, the General English Option provides a foundation for careers in such fields as publishing, public relations, communication, government and law, as well as a strong basis for graduate education.
Creative Writing Option
Emphasizing original works of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and hybrid genres, the Creative Writing Option provides aspiring authors with a literary foundation in the craft of writing and revising original work, as well as practical skills in editing and publishing in traditional and new media formats.
Secondary Education Option
The Secondary Education Option prepares students to meet the requirements, as established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, to be certified for the Instructional I Certificate in Communication/English.The following requirements for entry to the Secondary Education Option are in addition to those for entrance to the ENGCL major: (1) Students must have a cumulative grade-point average to meet or exceed the state's required minimum GPA of 3.0. (2) In addition the students must have a grade of "C" or better in six credits of college-level mathematics (MATH or STAT prefixes), three credits of college-level English literature, and three credits of English composition.
Candidates must provide evidence of taking the PAPA (Pre-Service Academic Performance Assessment) and submit their scores for the three modules in Reading, Writing and Mathematics.
Associated Academic Programs
- Minor in Writing
- Minor in Communications
- Master of Arts in Humanities
- Certification Program in Secondary Education: English
Pre-Major Work Requirement
Future teachers must be familiar with the characteristics of learners from different backgrounds. Therefore, students applying to enter Penn State Harrisburg’s Secondary Education Certification Programs are expected to have previously completed experience working with secondary-age (ages 12-18) learners. Having prior work experience with secondary-age learners promotes an understanding of teaching and learning processes, contributes to sound decision-making about academic and career goals, and helps prepare educators for their work with diverse learners.
Review the full requirements and complete the form in the PDF listed below.
This page is not a part of the official Penn State University Bulletin.
