The End of the English Major

The article titled "The End of the English Major" in the New Yorker discusses the declining popularity of the English major in universities across the United States. The author explores possible reasons for the decline, such as the perception of the major as impractical and the increasing focus on STEM fields. The article also examines the potential consequences of the decline, including the impact on the humanities and liberal arts education. Additionally, the author discusses the future of the English major and the potential for it to adapt and evolve in response to changing times. Overall, the article reflects on the importance of the English major and the need to ensure its continued relevance in the 21st century.

Importance of the English major

The English major is important for several reasons. First, it is a crucial component of a liberal arts education, which seeks to provide students with a well-rounded education in various fields, including the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The study of English literature and language provides students with an understanding of the complexities of human experience and the cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape it.

Second, the English major cultivates important skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication. Through close reading, interpretation, and analysis of literary texts, students develop their ability to think critically and engage with complex ideas. They also learn how to communicate their ideas effectively in writing, a skill that is essential for success in many careers.

Third, the English major provides students with a foundation for a range of careers in fields such as education, journalism, publishing, law, and business. The skills developed through the study of English literature and language, such as critical thinking, analysis, and effective communication, are highly valued in many professional settings.

Finally, the study of English literature and language is important for personal growth and enrichment. It exposes students to diverse perspectives and ideas, expands their cultural horizons, and encourages them to engage with the world around them in meaningful ways.

Statistics on the declining enrollment in English programs

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of students graduating with an English degree has been steadily declining over the past decade. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of bachelor's degrees awarded in English and literature decreased by 20%.

A survey by the Modern Language Association (MLA) found that from 2013 to 2019, enrollments in English programs declined by 25% in public institutions and 22% in private institutions. Additionally, the percentage of students earning bachelor's degrees in English dropped from 3.9% to 2.8% during the same period.

The MLA survey also found that the decline in English enrollments was part of a broader trend across the humanities. Enrollments in languages other than English declined by 22%, while history, philosophy, and religious studies saw declines of 18%, 20%, and 21%, respectively. Meanwhile, enrollments in STEM fields have increased significantly over the same period.

Possible reasons for the decline, such as the perception of the major as impractical or the increasing focus on STEM fields

There are several possible reasons for the decline in enrollment in English programs:

Perception of the major as impractical: Some students and parents may view the English major as impractical, with limited career prospects and earning potential compared to majors in STEM fields or business. This perception can discourage students from pursuing the major.

Increasing focus on STEM fields: As the demand for STEM skills grows in the job market, some students may prioritize majors in these fields over humanities and liberal arts programs. This trend may be further fueled by the perception that STEM fields offer better job prospects and earning potential.

Decline in funding for humanities: Some universities have reduced funding for humanities and liberal arts programs in favor of programs with a more direct connection to job skills or economic development.

Changes in the way people read and consume literature: As technology changes the way people read and consume literature, some students may view traditional literary analysis as outdated or irrelevant.

Lack of diversity in English programs: Some students and faculty have criticized English programs for being too focused on canonical works by white, male authors and neglecting the contributions of writers from diverse backgrounds.

These factors, individually or in combination, may contribute to the decline in enrollment in English programs.

The potential impact on the humanities and liberal arts education

The decline in enrollment in English programs and other humanities and liberal arts programs could have a significant impact on these fields and on higher education more broadly.

Reduced funding and resources: As enrollment in humanities programs declines, universities may reduce funding and resources for these programs, leading to cuts in faculty positions, course offerings, and research opportunities.

Limited perspectives: A decline in enrollment could lead to a lack of diversity in perspectives within the humanities, as fewer students pursue degrees in these fields and fewer voices contribute to scholarly discussions and debates.

Narrower curriculum: Reduced resources and funding could lead to a narrower curriculum within humanities programs, with fewer courses and less emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to scholarship.

Limited understanding of the human experience: The humanities are critical for understanding the complexities of the human experience and the cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape it. A decline in enrollment in humanities programs could limit our ability to understand and appreciate the diverse experiences of individuals and societies.

Negative impact on democracy: A reduced emphasis on the humanities and liberal arts could have negative consequences for democracy. These fields are critical for developing informed and engaged citizens who are able to think critically and engage with complex ideas, issues, and values.

Overall, a decline in enrollment in English programs and other humanities and liberal arts programs could have far-reaching consequences for higher education and society as a whole.

The role of universities and educators in promoting the value of the English major

Universities and educators can play an important role in promoting the value of the English major and humanities and liberal arts education more broadly. Here are some ways they can do so:

Emphasize the relevance of the English major: Educators can emphasize the practical applications of the skills developed through the study of English literature and language. This can include highlighting the transferable skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication, that are valued by employers in a range of fields.

Offer interdisciplinary programs: Many universities are offering interdisciplinary programs that combine humanities and liberal arts with STEM fields, business, or other disciplines. This can help to show students how the skills developed in the humanities can be applied in a variety of contexts.

Highlight the diversity of perspectives: Educators can emphasize the importance of diversity in literature and language, and how the study of these fields can broaden students' perspectives and enhance their understanding of diverse experiences and cultures.

Encourage research and publication: Faculty can encourage students to conduct original research, and provide opportunities for students to publish their work. This can help students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, while also contributing to the scholarship in the field.

Connect with alumni: Universities can connect current students with alumni who have pursued careers in fields related to English and humanities. This can help students to see the variety of career paths available to them, and provide networking opportunities.

By promoting the value of the English major and humanities and liberal arts education, universities and educators can help to reverse the decline in enrollment and ensure that these fields continue to thrive and contribute to a well-rounded education.