BA in English - Concentration in Creative Writing

In this program, students will undertake a course of study designed to develop knowledge in literary trends, themes, and genres as well as skills in critical interpretation and written communication. In advanced courses, students will investigate the structure, style, intellectual content, historical significance, and cultural context of the literature produced in Great Britain and the United States as well as Anglophone literature from around the world. This extensive textual study will foster appreciation of diverse cultural values and of the means by which culture is transmitted through language. The English faculty has designed the curriculum in the firm belief that acquiring cultural knowledge and strengthening skills in research, analysis, and communication are not only intellectually rewarding but also valuable to students with a variety of goals, such as pursuing graduate degrees in English literature and language; teaching English in secondary schools or in foreign countries; pursuing careers in professions such as law, medicine, technology, or business; working in any field for which cultural awareness and strong analytical, interpretive, research, and writing skills are desired. Students interested in this concentration follow a curriculum that complements the study of literature with four workshops that provide exposure to and further practice in a variety of genres in creative writing. As English major, students have a wide and exciting selection of careers. English majors are trained to write well, to organize ideas in a logical way, and to develop arguments. They can analyze complex information, research, and critically read and observe. With these skills, students can work for book publishers, hospitals, television networks, advertising firms, and the government. Employers, graduate schools, and professional schools often seek out well-rounded English majors because they are versatile, able to utilize their training as writers, thinkers, editors, and teachers in fields such as medicine, law, business, media, and public service.