English, BA
The Bachelor of Arts degree in English is designed to lead students into greater appreciation for excellent writing and enhanced skill in written communication. As students read widely and probingly, they gain an appreciation for the range of human experience and expression found in literature. A well-structured program sampling the masterpieces of Western and non-Western literature, especially those written in English, gives valuable preparation for anyone preparing to work with people. In addition, studies in the history of the English language and in the grammatical structure of English allow the students an expanded understanding of some of the literary and linguistic changes that have occurred. Through the process of exploring these various areas, students are challenged to develop their own writing skills, both in analyzing these writers and in capturing their own ideas and experiences in words.
The specific course requirements in sophomore, junior, and senior level English courses are designed to accomplish three goals:
- Provide a solid base of understanding of major literary works written in English and the complexity of ideas expressed in them.
- Provide a scholarly understanding of the structures of the English language.
- Provide the skills needed to use written English effectively.
