For Majors
Major Requirements (pre-Fall 2023)
Requirements for undergraduate majors who declared prior to Fall 2023
Major Requirements
Requirements for undergraduate students who declared in Fall 2023 or later
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Students who major in English learn to think and write critically about the many cultural forms—manuscripts, printed books, film, digital media—that shape the modern world. They are taught to be intellectually creative, to be skilled in media literacy and textual analysis, and to communicate ideas effectively and elegantly. English majors work closely with faculty, developing historical depth and breadth across a variety of national and global literatures. Through a range of opportunities, from the major specializations to the honors program to the Arnhold research program, they build a portfolio of research and writing that speaks to important social questions in community with scholars and peers.
Planning to Major in English? We’ve got you covered. Follow your interests and create a customizable coursework plan.
LOWER DIVISION REQUIREMENTS
One Course: English 10-50 | One Course: English 10-50
UPPER DIVISION REQUIREMENTS
- Historical Requirements
Elective: pre-1500 | Elective: 1500-1700 | Elective: 1700-1900 | Elective: Post-1900
2. Subject Requirements
Elective: Literature and the Social | Elective: Form, Media, Expression
Elective: Regions, Borders, Worlds | Literature Across Disciplines
CHOOSE YOUR OWN TOPICS
English 197AA-ZZ
Upper Division Elective | Upper Division Elective | Upper Division Elective
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
Do you have a research question that you would like to investigate beyond your ordinary coursework? The Arnhold Undergraduate Research Fellows Program offers guidance to English majors as they pursue their research goals. Fellows receive one-on-one, mentoring, workshops and panels tailored to careers in research, and have the opportunity to showcase their research.
Would you like to undertake advanced literary research? Are you considering a graduate degree in literary studies? The Honors Program in English provides the opportunity for qualified majors to write a substantial, sustained piece of critical or creative writing and graduate with “Distinction in the Major.” Find out more here.
(Last updated 11/4/2026)