Dec 12, 2024  
2010-2011 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2010-2011 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

English Literature - Major


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Students in the literature major pursue courses that provide a broad foundation in the history of literature in English as well as in-depth study of particular periods, genres, and styles. Core courses in British, American, and world literature provide knowledge of the literary tradition, in addition to skill in literary and cultural analysis and criticism. Electives focusing on a wide range of literary topics enable students to learn much more about the historical periods and cultural contexts from which literature has come, and the ways in which it has influenced our understanding of the world in which we live.

Students who elect to pursue teacher certification through the English education program receive special instruction in teaching methods and philosophy through the English department (in addition to their required coursework in the education department). In order to be eligible for the Professional Semester (student teaching), students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7.

English Literature Core


All English Literature majors are required to take the Introduction to Literary Studies, one Survey course in each of three areas (British, American, and World Literature), and the Senior Seminar.

Electives


In addition to the five required courses listed above, English Literature majors select five electives, at least four of which must be at the upper-level (300-400), including at least one course in each of the three areas, British, American, and World Literature.

English Literature Elective Courses


English Literature Senior Experience


The Senior Experience in Literature is the culminating experience of our major, and is required for graduation.  It is intended to enable students to demonstrate their mastery of their major field, and their ability to make connections between study in the major and work in the liberal arts core curriculum.  All Senior Experience projects will involve a significant research component, and a presentation of that research; beyond that, projects will vary according to student interest and the focus of the Senior Seminar, to which the Senior Experience is attached.

Sample Program for English Major - Literature Track


Freshman Year


  • Modern Foreign Language Credits: 6
  • Math and Science Perspectives I Credits: 7
  • Other Perspectives I Credits: 9
As well as:

Sophomore Year


  • Perspectives I Credits: 9
  • Math or Science Perspectives II Credits: 3
  • Other Perspectives II Credits: 6
As well as:

Junior Year


  • Upper Division English Credits: 12
  • Perspectives II Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Electives Credits: 9
  • Electives Credits: 6

Senior Year


  • Upper Division English Literature Credits: 3
  • Electives Credits: 24
As well as:

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