Archive · 3 Jun 2025
BA English Programs Decline Amid Shifting Student Interests
BA English programs are becoming less popular in some colleges because fewer students are signing up.
This is happening because students want courses that promise good jobs and high salaries.
The old English courses, focused on classic books, aren't as attractive anymore.
Some colleges are changing their programs to include skills like writing for ads or exploring how literature relates to modern issues.
However, some people think that studying English literature still teaches important skills like critical thinking, even if it doesn't always lead to a specific job right away.
Colleges are dropping BA English courses due to poor enrollment.
Students are now looking for courses with guaranteed job options and higher pay.
Traditional BA English degrees are seen as having limited career prospects.
Some colleges are reinventing BA English courses with skill-based elements and modern topics.
There is a trend towards 'MBAfication' and 'vocationalisation' of courses.
- Who
- Colleges under the University of Madras, professors, students, and university bodies are involved.
- What
- Several colleges are dropping or modifying their BA English programs due to low enrollment and changing student interests.
- When
- The changes are taking place for the 2025-26 academic year, with a declining trend over the past decade.
- Where
- Primarily in colleges under the University of Madras and other institutions across the country
- Why
- Declining enrollment and perceived limited career options are driving colleges to drop BA English programs.
Reformers
Traditionalists
Value Proposition
Reformers
BA English courses don't guarantee high-paying jobs or quick ROI. They are seen as less valuable in the current market.
Traditionalists
BA English courses are valuable as they help students foster critical thinking, question social structures, and accumulate knowledge.
Relevance
Reformers
Many students are not into reading and are not keen on the old tomes.
Traditionalists
Courses have evolved to make them more relevant by adding skill-based elements like advertising, journalism, and travel writing.
- Colleges Dropping BA English
- 13 arts and science colleges
- Course Changes Effective
- 2025-26 academic year
- Enrollment in Past Two Years
- Single digits
- Sanctioned Strength
- 70 seats
- College with Modified Courses
- Madras Presidency College
- Main focus
- BA English courses