Overview
The literary studies major at Anderson University focuses on the study of literature. Students explore this discipline broadly and must take upper-division courses in British literature, American literature, and at least one other genre. The program is flexible enough to allow you to choose coursework about which you are passionate and to combine it with a complementary major or minor as you prepare to achieve your career goals in the field.
Reflecting on her own life experience, American poet, novelist and memoirist, Maya Angelou, observed, “When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young.” Students who study literature at Anderson University engage in this kind of self discovery by reading and discussing a broad range of literary works. Classes in the literary studies major are generally seminar-style experiences, designed to engage you in critical analysis of important texts and to help you find yourself among the characters, places, and experiences rendered there. As excellent preparation for graduate school or a career, these courses also train you in expository, analytical, creative and persuasive writing.
Explore the World Through Literary studies
Literary studies majors immerse themselves in literature from a variety of genres and nurture their own creativity through writing classes, participation in the university’s literary magazine, and writing conferences.
In addition to coursework and professional mentoring from the English faculty, students who major in literary studies are encouraged to pursue internship opportunities and to participate in other co-curricular experiences:
Careers
- Editing
- Technical writing
- Publishing
- Marketing and Advertising
- Government work
- Law (literary studies is an excellent foundation for law school)
Co-curricular experiences
- Membership in Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honors Society
- Publication in our Literary Arts Magazine
- Syford Poetry Contest and the Genesis Prose Contest
- Reading at Open Mic events
- Smart Moves for English Majors professional development events
- Field trips to places like the Indiana Repertory Theater
- Departmental Donut Days
- Attending writing festivals and conferences
- Tutoring in the Kissinger Academic Center for Excellence
Classes
- Shakespeare
- Studies in British Literature
- Studies in American Literature
- American Ethnic Literature
- Global Literature
- Your choice of creative writing courses
- Teaching Diversity Through Young Adult Literature
- Literary Magazine Practicum or Writing Tutor Practicum
Options
- Easily pair the 35-hour literary studies major with any other program such as business, ministry, psychology, public relations, history or political science
- Add the 15-hour literary studies minor to any other major
- Graduate with a literary studies degree in 3 years
- Add AU’s 10-month MBA to earn two degrees in just four years
OUR English FACULTY
Let’s connect during your campus visit.
English
Abigail Johnson Beaumont
Assistant Professor of English
Brandon Bruning
Visiting Professor of Composition
Peter Elliott
Associate Professor of English
Dr. Cara Miller
Director of the English Program
Deborah Miller-Fox
Dean, College of Humanities, Education, and Social & Behavioral Science
Dr. Jason Robert Parks
Associate Professor of English
Receive a curated list of programs to explore for your college career.