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The English Education Program at Mars Hill College is part of the English major described in the college catalog:

The department offers a major program broad enough to provide a sound basis in literature (British, American, and world), in writing (critical, professional, and creative), and in the history and structure of the English language. The curriculum is designed to develop a variety of skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, computer use, and research. The goals are breadth and depth of learning, development of aesthetic awareness, and preparation for graduate study or for careers in teaching, writing, and other professions.

The goals of the English Education Program are to insure that candidates:
1. Know and understand the English language, the reading process, and the written and oral composing processes.
2. Know and understand a diverse range of historical and contemporary literatures.
3. Understand the range, impact and influence of technology, print and non-print media in constructing meaning.
4. Use effective strategies and techniques in teaching English Language Arts.
5. Foster in students an awareness and appreciation of culture.
6. Recognize commonalities and differences with the classroom and can accommodate areas of exceptionality in learning.

Candidates who successfully complete the English Education Program will demonstrate that they have met the core standards, the diversity standards, and the technology standards, which have been approved by the NC Department of Public Instruction. In addition, candidates will meet the following standards for 9-12 English Teachers.

Content Area Knowledge.
They will demonstrate that they know and understand:
•the English language, its history and usage
•the reading process, including reading theory and critical approaches to literature
•oral and written composing processes, including composition theory and the creative use of media and technology
•a diverse range of historical and contemporary literatures, with special attention to works by members of under-represented groups and to literature for young adults.

Professional Knowledge.
They will demonstrate that they can:
•use electronic resources for print and non-print media
•use effective strategies and techniques in teaching English Language Arts
•evaluate and select materials for teaching that represent an interdisciplinary approach and are appropriate to a range of students' ages, abilities, and interest
•use assessment as an integral part of English Language Arts instruction and learning
•use instruction that promotes understanding of varied uses and purposes for language.

Professional Values and Ethics.
They will demonstrate appropriate professional dispositions such as:
•personal and professional integrity
•familiarity with public schools and professional organization (e.g. NCTE)
•appreciation for the importance of diversity and ways to encourage respect for diverse cultures and dialects in an English Language Arts classroom
•recognition of commonalities and differences within the classroom
•understanding of the special needs of exceptional learners.