Deepen your analytical reading, writing and critical thinking skills
In the English program, you’ll study the major authors, works, genres and literary movements in the British and American traditions, approaching these texts both analytically and historically. As an English major, you’ll develop your skills in analysis, interpretation and writing by studying British and American literatures, as well as important works in English from around the world.
With concentrations in either Literary Studies or Creative Writing, our program provides English majors with a well-rounded education where you’ll develop critical and creative thinking skills by examining texts analytically, historically and from multiple points of view. You’ll also develop a unique voice, express yourself clearly in speaking and writing, and become an articulate interpreter and contributor to your culture.
The English department also offers minors in both Literary Studies and Creative Writing. If you are interested in becoming a teacher, the English department partners with the College of Education to award teaching degrees.
The department has two graduate creative writing programs. The MA in Writing and Publishing combines the study of writing craft in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction with courses in literature and language as well as professionalization courses in publishing or teaching pedagogy. Advanced creative writers interested in completing a book under the close guidance of a thesis advisor can apply for admission to the competitive MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing program. Applicants from both outside and inside the MAWP can apply to the MFA, and all courses taken in the MAWP can apply toward the MFA.
Our BA/MA combined degree program (sometimes called a 3+1 program), gives English undergraduate majors the opportunity to take graduate courses in the MA in Writing and Publishing program during their final year in the BA program. This program, which you apply to in the last quarter of your junior year, will allow you to complete both the bachelor’s degree and the MA in Writing and Publishing in as few as five years.
We also offer the 3+3 BA/JD Program, which allows high-achieving first-year undergraduate students to be admitted simultaneously to the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (LAS) and the College of Law (LAW). You’ll complete your first three years in LAS and your final three years in LAW.