Bachelor of Arts - English

Program Description

The study of English literature is important both for the understanding of particular literary texts and for the insight it provides into how one interprets the world and their place in it. English helps students develop skills in research, analysis, critical thinking, interpretation, and persuasive writing. While the curriculum focuses on literary study, students are encouraged to develop an appreciation for the English language, which will prove invaluable not only in their studies, but in any future career or profession.

First-year English courses offer students an introduction to different approaches to reading and writing about literature, using texts from a range of genres and time periods. In second year, students choose from courses focusing on: • introduction to literary periods

• Shakespeare • Canadian literature • American literature

Third-year courses expand on second-year choices, including studies in: • British literature in different periods • Canadian and American literature • gender and literature • postcolonial literature • dramatic literature • creative writing • film, genre, and cultural studies

In fourth year, students will be able to pursue “selected topics” courses, which allow them to pursue special interests, either through the particular courses offered that year or through individual study and research under the supervision of a faculty member.