The literature concentration offers students an opportunity to explore literature from around the world, concentrating on the direct experience of fiction, drama, and poetry. A sequence of core survey courses focuses on the history and development of Western literature from its beginnings in the Hebrew and Greek eras through the 21st Century, placing authors and their works within a historical and cultural context. A wide range of upper division electives provides more depth in the study of special topics, genres, major authors and individual periods of literature as well as in regional and ethnically diverse literatures. Most courses will require ever-increasing levels of individual research. Students will study and practice analysis and criticism and should improve their writing abilities.
Students who complete this concentration should have a solid foundation in the history of literature, a mature insight into various authors and major works, and a personal confidence in their ability to write, to criticize, and to evaluate literature. The concentration not only provides a solid foundation for students who plan to continue the study of literature, but also prepares students well for law, medicine, business, and other graduate programs. Perhaps even more important, students who engage in the study of literature develop an awareness and appreciation for human values, and a life-long enjoyment of good literature.
Bachelor of Arts in English with Teacher Licensure
The English with Teaching Licensure track is designed especially for prospective teachers. This special curriculum supplements the core requirements of the concentration in literature or creative writing, to prepare students in the broad range of areas expected of English teachers, including literature, composition, and the history of the English language. This program has rigorous requirements, and planning ahead is wise. Student teaching, the senior thesis, and comprehensive exams all converge in the senior year, along with other courses that may be needed outside the major. Students who undertake this path need to work closely with their advisors to ensure their success.
Declaration of Major or Minor
Students can declare their major or minor online.
Students may minor in English by completing 20 hours of courses, including LIT 240, 8 hours from LIT 324, 334 or 335, and 8 additional hours of LIT at the 300-400 level.
Critical Perspectives Series
