Radford University establishes new School of Writing, Language and Literature

Radford University is enhancing its academic offerings with the creation of the School of Writing, Language and Literature. This new school, housed within the College of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences (CHBS), merges the Department of English and the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, streamlining resources and creating greater collaboration between disciplines. The new school aims to strengthen academic programs, provide a unified vision for writing, language, and literature studies, and ensure robust leadership for faculty and students alike. 

“This reorganization is a natural evolution of our shared commitment to providing transformative educational experiences,” said Jeffery Aspelmeier, Interim Dean of the College of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences. “By bringing these two departments together, we are creating a dynamic, interdisciplinary academic environment where students can develop the skills and perspectives necessary for success.” 
 
The idea for the school emerged after a series of discussions in 2023 among faculty in both departments. These conversations highlighted the benefits of uniting two closely related disciplines, including opportunities for enhanced curriculum development, greater collaboration in research, and streamlined administration. 

The new school will be led by Paige Horst, Ph.D. who previously served as chair of the Department of English and as chair of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures. 

The School of Writing, Language and Literature will offer five degree programs: 

• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in English 
• Master of Arts/Master of Science in English 
• Master of Science in English Education 
• Graduate Certificate in Professional Writing 
• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Foreign Languages and Literatures 

Students and faculty in these programs will remain in Hemphill Hall, where the departments are currently based. Also, no changes will be made to course offerings. 

The university also sees this reorganization as an opportunity to improve operational efficiency. By consolidating administrative functions, Radford anticipates annual cost savings of $4,000, which will be reinvested to support faculty and student initiatives. 

“This new structure allows us to amplify the strengths of both departments while honoring their historical contributions to language and culture at Radford University and beyond,” Horst said. “Our faculty are excited to work together in an interdisciplinary and cross-cultural  framework to better serve our students and create innovative pathways for learning.” 

With this reorganization, Radford University underscores its commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of higher education while staying true to its mission of fostering creative and critical thinking, cultural understanding, and purpose-driven education.