English Program Requirements

The English Language and Literature program leading to the baccalaureate degree gives the student a firm background and skills in reading, writing, and criticism—tools that are vital for effective work in many segments of society. The program also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in a number of disciplines. The major immerses the student in the cultural wealth of literature written in or translated into English.

The major offers tracks in language and literature or writing. Applicants should have compiled a minimum GPA of 2.5 overall, and 2.7 in English courses.

Language and Literature Track

Course Requirements:

Credit Requirements
Total specified credits: 61 credits
Core plus elective credits: 63 credits
Graduation total: 124 credits
  • Communication 105: Public Speaking
  • Writing 213: Advanced Exposition
  • English 218 & 219: American Literature I & II
  • English 220 & 221: English Literature Survey I & II
  • English 235: Shakespeare
  • One additional 300-Level English course
  • English 320: The English Language
  • Four additional 300-Level English or Humanities courses
  • English 499: English Major Capstone Project

Supporting Requirements:

  • Concentration area: Four courses to be chosen from one area other than the major (two courses at the 200-level or higher; two courses at the 300-level or higher). The chosen area must be approved by the program advisor. 12 credits total.
  • Religion (upper level): 6 credits
  • Technology Component: Computer Science 105, or approved internship or independent work

Writing Track

Course Requirements:

Credit Requirements
Total specified credits: 61 credits
Core plus elective credits: 63 credits
Graduation total: 124 credits
  • Communication 105: Public Speaking
  • English 220 & 221: English Literature Survey I & II
  • English 218 & 219: American Literature I & II
  • Writing 211: Creative Writing and Writing 213: Advanced Exposition
  • Either Writing 212: Creative Nonfiction Writing or Writing 311: Advanced Creative Writing
  • English 235: Shakespeare
  • English 320: The English Language
  • Two additional 300-level English or Humanities courses
  • English 490 & 491: Senior Writing Project*

Supporting Requirements:

  • Concentration area: Four courses to be chosen from one area other than the major (two courses at the 200-level or higher; two courses at the 300-level or higher). The chosen area must be approved by the program advisor. 12 credits total.
  • Religion (upper level): 6 credits
  • Technology Component: Computer Science 105, or approved internship or independent work

* The senior writing project involves a major effort in some area of writing to be produced under the supervision of an advisor. The project could include a collection of short fiction, poems, or essays, critical analysis, a segment of a novel or play, or some other project that reflects the student’s best focused efforts in writing. The project involves the student over a two-term period of the senior year.