Department: English

Language is one of the most powerful tools at the disposal of educated men and women. English is the discipline where students encounter works of fiction, poetry, and drama that unlock the richest potentialities of language. Students are also afforded a range of opportunities for developing their own writing to the fullest: critical essays on literature in a variety of courses, workshops in creative writing (poetry, fiction, and nonfiction), and the art of the essay. Language is also approached through linguistics, the history of English, and global English. With advanced training in English increasingly necessary for business and professional careers, this course of study is universally recognized as an ideal "preprofessional major"---one that opens career possibilities in such fields as law, publishing, teaching, and community service.