English Minor

Students who minor in English study literature and other forms of verbal expression, literary history and criticism, critical theory, linguistics, and creative writing. Courses offered by the department explore a wide range of discourses written in English, from around the globe, as well as from Britain and America, including poetry, drama, fiction, film, popular culture, and electronic media.

Students begin their studies, ideally in their sophomore year, with the department's methods course (ENGL 3001W), then progress to taking Shakespeare (ENGL 3007 or a department-approved Shakespeare course) and a historical foundation course. In addition, students choose at least two English elective courses (6 to 8 credits of 3xxx or higher in ENGL or ENGW). The methods course, ENGL 3001W, provides minors with skills in close and critical reading, the background in history and culture, and multiple approaches to literary works that will guide their continued studies. Shakespeare and the historical foundation course situate literary works in historical, cultural, and theoretical perspective.