Department of English and Writing

Faculty: Associate Professor Dooghan, Chair; Dana Professors Mathews, Morrill; Professors Ochshorn, Putnam; Associate Professors Dawson, Hollist, Letter, Reamer, Tillman, Whiteside; Assistant Professors Elliot, Fryett, Hinton, Hovanec, Kanjilal, Lakoff, Lauro, McIlvain, McIntosh, Mollmann, Nelson, Overaa, Palmer, Restrepo, Waggoner, Wollenberg.

The major in English acquaints students with historical and contemporary literary traditions in courses that enhance reading, writing and interpretive skills. The department fosters the ability to enjoy and understand literature and cultivates the knowledge and sensitivity needed to explore great texts — from ancient literature through film and multimedia forms.

The major in writing educates students in the art and craft of written communication, combining liberal arts ideals with practical, real-world applications. Students in the program can concentrate on creative writing (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and other imaginative forms) and/or professional and technical writing.

The Department of English and Writing also participates in the New Media Production interdisciplinary program that focuses on designing and creating applications for interactive media, mobile platforms and the Internet for both commercial and artistic intent.

English and writing majors engage both breadth and depth of study of literary traditions, and students extend their knowledge through study of multi-ethnic literature, oral traditions, avant-garde and countercultural expression, and major contemporary voices and practices in creative and professional writing.

Courses taken as part of a student’s designated major in the Department of English and Writing may not be used to satisfy requirements for the general curriculum distribution.