A book's pages flipping over in a library.

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and Literature (5-12)

The Communication Arts and Literature (5-12) Major focuses on reading and writing. As a teacher, you’ll introduce students to the many ways people the world over communicate through literature. In addition to being prepared to teach communication arts and literature, you’ll gain communication skills to help advance your career.

Why Study Communication Arts and Literature Education at St. Thomas?

In four years, you’ll earn your bachelor’s degree and licensure to teach in grades 5-12. Our expert faculty are practitioners who are closely connected with the K-12 classroom in diverse settings. They will help you become the inspiring teacher you want to be.

You’ll graduate with:

  • A BA degree with a double major in education and communication arts and literature.
  • Excellent leadership skills.
  • The knowledge and skills to have a positive impact on students in the K-12 classroom.
  • A supportive network of fellow students, alumni and faculty that will inspire and sustain you throughout your career.
  • A deep understanding of the education system in Minnesota.

Program Overview

  • Course Requirements
  • Four-Year Plan
  • Degree Awarded
  • Mentored Clinical Practice
  • Course Requirements

    Your coursework will include education classes in curriculum and instruction, along with extensive field experience and student teaching.

    Four-Year Plan

    Our faculty are here to develop your four-year plan catered to your personal and professional goals.

    Degree Awarded

    BA in Education with a licensure in Communication Arts and Literature (5-12).

    Mentored Clinical Practice

    Your teaching experience begins as early as your first education course. We support you as you develop your teaching skills. Throughout your student teaching, you’ll have regularly scheduled seminars with faculty and peers. The mentorship you receive will ensure your student teaching experience meets your needs and facilitates your growth, both personally and professionally.

    Course Requirements

    Course Requirements

    Your coursework will include education classes in curriculum and instruction, along with extensive field experience and student teaching.

    Four-Year Plan

    Four-Year Plan

    Our faculty are here to develop your four-year plan catered to your personal and professional goals.

    Degree Awarded

    Degree Awarded

    BA in Education with a licensure in Communication Arts and Literature (5-12).

    Mentored Clinical Practice

    Mentored Clinical Practice

    Your teaching experience begins as early as your first education course. We support you as you develop your teaching skills. Throughout your student teaching, you’ll have regularly scheduled seminars with faculty and peers. The mentorship you receive will ensure your student teaching experience meets your needs and facilitates your growth, both personally and professionally.
    Teacher and student interacting in front of the computer.

    Possible Careers

    • High School Teacher: English, Communications, Creative Writing, Journalism
    • Middle School Teacher: English, Communications, Creative Writing, Journalism
    • Debate Coach

    Quick Facts

    95%

    of our elementary and secondary teacher candidates pass rates on the Basic Skills and Pedagogy licensure exams on the first try.

    4

    Complete your BA with licensure in four years.

    8

    Tommies have been named Minnesota Teacher of the year since 2000.

    Debbie Monson, Professor in the Center for Engineering Education, teaches STEM education techniques during a School of Education class in Opus Hall in Minneapolis.

    Field Experience

    Diverse field experiences in public, private, parochial and charter schools where we have deep relationships help you gain confidence in your teaching.
    Crafting supplies on a shelf at Nativity of Our Lord School in St. Paul during a STEM class.

    Student Teaching

    Your teaching experience begins as early as your first education course. By the time you graduate you’ll have completed one year of supervised and supported student teaching.

    Take the Next Step

    best-value-logo-2022-transparent.pngThere is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.