The Department of English at Samford University cultivates knowledge of literary and cinematic traditions that have shaped modern societies. Through the study of texts in the English language—whether in literature courses or in the film studies or creative writing concentrations—we foster intellectual curiosity and autonomy in our students, equipping them with the professional skills of interpretation and analysis, critical thinking, persuasive writing and speaking, information literacy, and project management. We are devoted to student success.

Brit Blalock
Thanks to the guidance of top-notch professors and the encouragement of fellow English students, I was able to take my education to the next level. My English degree also helped prepare me for success in the workplace by refining my abilities as a precise and creative communicator. --Brit Blalock, 2012 Pushcart Prize nominee, 2020 "Women Who Shape the State" honoree

Our teaching emphasizes an appreciation for diverse perspectives on the world, instilling in our students the core values of empathy and tolerance. Our graduates embody a passion for lifelong learning founded on the conviction that inquiry is the soul of a civil society.

Brad Busbee
Contact me to learn more about our robust Film Studies track, directed by Dr. Wright; our exciting Creative Writing concentration; our large number of awards and scholarships; our opportunities for international travel, particularly to London; and our internship opportunities in Birmingham.
M. Brad Busbee, Associate Professor and Chair, Department of English

Internships

Internships allow students to transfer and adapt the skills they’ve learned in the classroom into professional contexts that equip them for real-world settings after graduation.

Internships allow students to:

  • Assess various career paths
  • Prepare for future job searches
  • Practice critical thinking and communication skills
  • Adapt writing, editing, and research skills for a professional setting
  • Work as part of a team and experience a range of group dynamics
  • Demonstrate professionalism and recognize areas needing polish
  • Receive criticism and feedback on professional tasks
  • Network with potential employers
  • Develop contacts for future job searches

Recent internship partners include:

  • 1504—independent film and story production company 
  • American Heart Association
  • Alabama Poverty Project, Blueprints College Access Initiative
  • Bass Ltd (Bassmasters)
  • Birmingham City Schools
  • Birmingham Holocaust Educational Center
  • CBS 42 WIAT
  • Cobbs Allen—risk management agency
  • The Christian Family Publication, Inc.
  • Country Living magazine, Hearst Publishing
  • Daxco
  • District Office of Congressman Gary Palmer
  • Ebsco Industries
  • Fit and Well magazine
  • The Freedom Center: Public Policy Institute
  • Good Grit magazine
  • Harrell and Harrell, LLC
  • Healthy Travel magazine
  • Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association
  • Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (HICA)
  • John Maxwell Company
  • Lincoln Archives at the National Library and the Library of Congress
  • Longfellow House—Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site
  • Noble Education Initiative
  • Over the Mountain Journal
  • Oxmoor House Books
  • Petway, French, & Ford LLP
  • Southeast Restoration—business development
  • Stockholm Network
  • Southern Living magazine
  • TAB Media Group
  • Wallace Community College—writing center and podcast creation
  • The Washington Center
  • Women’s Missionary Union—Missions Mosaic and other publications
  • Woodlawn Innovation Network

Employers

Are you a local business or organization in search of a high-quality intern with advanced writing, communication, analytical and research skills? Samford English majors can add value to your business, gain valuable job experience for themselves and earn credit towards their degree through Samford's English Department internship program. Our students have completed successful internships in a range of fields, nationally and locally (see above).

To advertise your internship to English majors, please send a detailed description (scope, hours, location, start date, paid/unpaid, and application requirements) to the department c/o Jill Everette. We will distribute it to our students, direct them to submit application materials to you, and facilitate academic credit for the student chosen. You may also direct any questions to internship supervisor Brad Busbee.

English Matters Newsletter+

News

Photo King Lear–Benjamin West {{PD-US}}
April 13 Event To Explore Literary, Philosophical Significance of King Lear
The event will feature student readings of the play and lectures by retiring professors Steven Epley and Dennis Sansom.