Uncover the Power of Words
Literary Studies Major
Join your literary studies major peers in a pursuit of what F. Scott Fitzgerald says is the beauty of literature: “You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you’re not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong.”
Tomorrow's critical thinkers are starting right here.
Cultivate a deeper appreciation for storytelling by exploring the interplay of language, context, and identity.
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 LITERARY STUDIES MAJOR
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)
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
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
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 three years
- Add AU’s 10-month MBA to earn two degrees in just four years
The Anderson You
You have unique interests and skills that set you apart. Explore the free My College Career Quiz to receive a personalized list of majors selected just for you. We’ve taken out the guessing work. Come find the Anderson you.