Areas of Knowledge Central to the B.A. in English
The following areas of knowledge are central to the undergraduate degree in English:
- knowledge of canonical and noncanonical works of English and American literature;
- awareness of the general outlines of the history of British and American literature;
- awareness of literary theories, including knowledge of recent theoretical developments; and
- awareness of the social and historical contexts in which the traditions developed.
In addition, students completing the degree in English are expected to acquire:
- the ability to analyze literary texts;
- the ability to interpret texts on the basis of such analysis;
- the ability to relate analyses and interpretations of different texts to one another; and
- the ability to communicate such interpretations competently in written form.
The following areas of knowledge are central to the undergraduate degree in creative writing:
- a knowledge of literary works, including the genres of fiction, poetry, playwriting, and screenwriting, and the major texts of contemporary writers;
- a knowledge of literary history, including the origins and development of genres, major writers of the past, and the role of the writer in society; and
- a knowledge of literary analysis, including theories of literary composition and critical theory.
In addition, students completing the degree in creative writing are expected to acquire:
- the ability to write in different poetic modes and styles;
- the ability to write in various fictive styles; and
- the ability to evaluate other students' written work.