COURSE CURRICULUM

The English program at Queen’s University is structured to provide students with a comprehensive and progressively challenging study of literature, criticism, and theory over four years. In the first year, students complete 6.0 units of 100-level courses (ENGL 100), establishing a foundation in literary analysis, reading, and writing. In the second year, students typically complete 18.0 to 21.0 units, including 6.0 units of ENGL 200, 3.0 units of ENGL 290, and an additional 9.0 to 12.0 units of English courses, allowing for exploration of diverse literary periods and genres. The department also recommends that English majors take courses in literary theory and criticism, such as ENGL 292 (6.0 units) or the sequence of ENGL 296 and 297 (3.0 units each), to develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of interpretive frameworks. In the third year, students complete 18.0 units of 300-level courses, engaging in more advanced analysis, research, and discussion, often focusing on specialized topics or periods. The fourth year emphasizes 15.0 units of 400-level courses, complemented by any remaining option units at the 200 level or above, offering intensive seminars and opportunities for independent study, research projects, and in-depth exploration of literary and critical topics. This progression ensures students graduate with strong analytical, interpretive, and communication skills, well-prepared for diverse career paths or graduate study.