English Language and Literature

Overview

Programs in English language and literature focus on the English language, including its history and structure. They also look at the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.

English language and literature programs include topics such as:

Literary analysis
Period and genre studies
Author studies
Literary criticism
Regional and oral traditions

Concentrations

In English language and literature programs, students may be able to specialize in:

American literature
Canadian literature
British and Commonwealth literature
Theatre literature

Schools

Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in English language and literature. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.

Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in English language and literature. They are sometimes offered as part of a broad English program. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

Many universities offer graduate degrees in English language and literature. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

American Literature and History
Creative Writing
English Composition
English Literature
Journalism
Second Language

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
Graduate Record Exam (GRE) Literature in English
Undergraduate degree or significant course work in English
Personal statement
Academic writing sample
Letters of recommendation

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically offers course work in the following:

American Literature
British Novels
Civilization and Cultural History
Drama
English Composition and Rhetoric
Ethnic Literature
Folkloric Traditions
Literary Criticism and Theory
Medieval Literature
Modern American and British Literature
Renaissance Literature and Poetry
Shakespeare's Plays
Women Writers
World Literature

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate study in English language and literature typically includes:

Required courses
Thesis (master's degree)
Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

If you want to transfer credits to a four-year program or attend graduate school, you should plan your courses carefully with your college advisor.

This program offers adequate preparation for graduate study in many fields. For example, an undergraduate degree in English can prepare you for graduate study in business, community service, journalism, human resources, law, public administration, social work, and teaching. Many people choose to continue studying in the field, concentrating on creative writing, composition and rhetoric, or specific areas of literature.

English language and literature programs often offer a broad selection of courses. For example, you can take courses on African writers, environmental essays, creative writing, or film analysis, to name a few.