Learn to read carefully, write critically, think creatively, and conduct research independently in our English (BA) program. Students in the major study literature and other cultural products written in English, and develop their critical and aesthetic understanding through research and writing. As a student in this program, you will broaden your intellectual horizons through an introduction to literature from a range of historical periods and countries around the world, and analyze language, history, race, and gender to better understand the representations at the heart of our rapidly changing world. Our English majors interpret and analyze literary texts from a minimum of three different genres–poetry, film, and fiction–while cultivating their professional writing skills. These advanced writing and thinking skills support careers in teaching, publishing, law, film, journalism, the arts, communications, mental health, and business. The English Major requires a minimum of 36 credits or 12 courses, including one course required of all students, ENGL 300: Critical Approaches to English. The 12 courses taken must include: At least five courses in literature; At least one pre-1700 course, one pre-1800 course, one pre-1900 course, and one post-1900 course; At least one course in three out of the following four genres: poetry, fiction, drama, film; At least one course in each of the following areas: international issues, ethnic studies, women’s and gender studies, class issues. Film Studies: Students with a Film Studies Concentration must complete four film-focused workshops for a total of 12 credits.
