English - American Literature

English majors develop advanced skills in writing and critical interpretation that are valued by employers in a number of fields. They have established careers in law, medicine, entertainment, communications, information technology, journalism, speech writing, government, publishing and teaching.

All English majors acquire a broad background in literature in English taking courses that stress literary history, literary genres and the achievements of individual authors. Depending upon their particular interests, majors may also pursue a concentration in Writing and Rhetoric. The Writing and Rhetoric concentration includes courses in both creative writing and rhetoric/composition. Creative writing courses focus on the writing of poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Rhetoric and composition courses focus on the professional, intellectual, academic, historical and theoretical dimensions of writing.