COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in English at St. Joseph's University, New York requires students to complete a total of 39 credits in the major, in addition to the 3-credit course Writing for Effective Communication. The program is structured to provide both breadth and depth in literary studies, ensuring students engage with a wide range of historical periods and cultural perspectives. As part of the major requirements, students must take at least one course in English Renaissance literature, one in Medieval literature before 1500, and one focused on literature from traditionally marginalized cultures, promoting a diverse and comprehensive understanding of literary traditions.Students are also required to complete five elective courses, two of which must be at the 400-level or higher (excluding the Senior Thesis), ensuring advanced academic engagement and specialization. The curriculum includes key departmental courses such as Introduction to Reading Literature Critically, Survey of British Literature I, and Survey in American Literature from Beginnings to 1865, which provide foundational knowledge in literary analysis and historical context.Further requirements include Scholarly Writing about Literature, which must be completed by the end of the junior year and focuses on advanced research and writing skills. The program culminates in the Senior Thesis, a capstone project that allows students to conduct in-depth literary research and demonstrate their analytical and critical abilities. Overall, the program prepares students with strong reading, writing, and analytical skills applicable to a wide range of careers and graduate studies.