Chair: L. Staley
Department Site
The Department of English and Creative Writing offers courses in two programs of study: (1) literature written in the English language, and (2) English with an emphasis in creative writing. Students may pursue majors and minors in either area.
An English major develops students’ ability to use language effectively and enhances their critical and analytical skills by making them aware of the social and historical context in which writing, in any of its forms, is produced. English study provides an excellent basis for professional programs in law, journalism, publishing, and business as well as for graduate study in literature, creative writing, or the theater.
Students pursuing one of the majors in the department — in English or in English with an emphasis in creative writing — take courses in specified categories described in detail below. There is considerable choice from among the courses that fulfill these requirements, and students should discuss their programs with an adviser in planning a major. English courses also serve as electives for students in other programs. Normally 200-level courses are for first-year and sophomore students; 300-level courses, for sophomores, juniors, and seniors; and 400-level courses, for juniors and seniors. There are a few specified prerequisites for individual courses.
Writing is an important component of coursework. First-year students take English courses because they want to take a course in literature, because they wish to explore English as a possible area of major for their degree, or because they are interested in the program in creative writing.
Students majoring in English literature, as well as those majoring in English with an emphasis in creative writing, are required to take two survey courses (ENGL 200, ENGL 201, ENGL 202), three 300-level courses from the three historical periods, a 400-level seminar, and three electives at any level. For more information about the major and minor, see the department site linked above.