COURSE CURRICULUM

The English major with a Concentration in Writing is designed to develop advanced skills in literary analysis, creative expression, professional communication, and critical thinking through a flexible curriculum that combines foundational literary studies with intensive writing practice. The 21-credit English Core introduces students to major literary concepts, genres, and cultural traditions through courses such as Studies in Literature and Literature of a Moment, which provide historical and thematic context for understanding literature across periods and cultures. Students also complete a genre-focused course in areas such as drama, graphic novels, science fiction, short stories, popular lyrics, narrative structures in games, or video games as literature, reflecting the program’s broad and contemporary approach to storytelling and media studies. Cultural and social awareness is strengthened through coursework focused on diverse voices and perspectives, including African-American literature, immigrant literature, women’s literature, queer drama and performance, and Irish literature. Writing development is a central focus of the program, with students selecting advanced writing courses in business and technical writing, narrative nonfiction, poetry, fiction, essay workshops, and creative writing to refine both practical and artistic communication skills. Students also complete a course focused on a major literary figure or literary tradition, such as Shakespeare or the works of Poe, Hawthorne, and Melville, further strengthening analytical and interpretive abilities. The required English Capstone course serves as the culminating academic experience, allowing students to integrate research, writing, and literary analysis into an advanced project. The Writing concentration requires five additional upper-level writing courses, providing deeper specialization in creative, technical, or professional writing, while an internship course may substitute for one writing course to provide practical industry experience. Students also complete 45 credits of free electives, offering significant flexibility to explore additional academic interests or complementary career-focused subjects. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in writing, publishing, media, communications, marketing, education, public relations, and related creative or professional fields, while also providing strong preparation for graduate study.