DEPARTMENT of ENGLISH
English MAJOR
You have a passion for words—writing them, reading them, allowing them to capture your imagination and shape your views. As an English major, you analyze and interpret narrative and poetry, building a sophisticated understanding of these art forms in all of their cultural expressions.
When you major in English, you join a community of learners who confidently express thoughtful, unique perspectives. You assert yourself amicably in a communal forum and work well with others. Conferences, presentations and other events give you the opportunity to share your research and writing and to make connections with literary professionals.
What to expect
In the first two years of the program, you explore the foundations of reading, writing and critical thinking. Classes are a mixture of discussion and lecture, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions. This format builds toward interactive, seminar-style classes in your third and fourth years, where you present on topics of your choice to classmates and your professors. These formal sessions give you the opportunity to show your mastery of a specific topic.
As you progress through the program, you learn to produce analysis and opinion that is clear, original and persuasive. You become a confident creator, and sometimes co-creator, of analysis and ideas. Class discussion provides you with perspectives that drive your writing. By the time you enter your fourth year, you have discovered your unique voice, writing insightful and cogent arguments and analysis. You are comfortable presenting your ideas thoughtfully and respectfully to a group of peers.
Courses and requirements
This major is open to students in the Bachelor of Arts. Courses for your major are only one component of the degree requirements you need to graduate. You must complete the courses and requirements outlined in the academic calendar for the year you declare your major/minor or the year you are accepted into an honours program.
Academic advisors in the Faculty of Arts and Science have prepared resources to help you understand how your major/minor fits within overall degree coursework. Consult the academic planning information to choose and enrol in courses and complete the major/minor declaration process.