English majors typically take the following courses in the fall semester of their first year:
First-Year Experience Learning Community Courses
We will register you in these courses.
- Philosophy (PHIL 201)
- English Composition (ENG 101) OR Theology (TRS 201)
Why am I taking these classes? Honors students take equivalent honors courses.
Major and Elective Courses
You will need to choose and register for these courses.
- The History of English Literature I (ENG 231)
- A foreign language (see below)
- A liberal arts foundations course; a course toward a minor, certificate, or other focus area; or a free elective
Language Placement
Your major requires you to complete the study of a foreign language through the intermediate level. Please consult the Modern Languages and Greek & Latin websites to see what languages are offered. If you have previously studied a foreign language and are interested in continuing with that same language, or if you can demonstrate fluency in a foreign language, you should complete the language placement exam.
About Your First Semester Courses
Students interested in pursuing the English major should use the first year of study to lay a broad liberal arts foundation in the arts and sciences. The more broadly students have studied, the better prepared they will be for the major. The Learning Community courses will assist students to sharpen their writing skills, to think more deeply and broadly about the foundations of their intellectual and spiritual heritage, and to begin making connections among the various kinds of knowledge. Students will reflect on what it means to be human and how to pursue the good life.
While you are not required to take English Literature courses in the first semester, English 231 is the normal 'gateway' to the major. English 235 is also a good introductory-level literature course that counts toward the English major.
We strongly recommend beginning or continuing your study of a foreign language.
For your fifth course, you can take a liberal arts elective or a free elective course in a subject of your interest. Or, you may wish to begin study in a secondary subject area, perhaps for a minor or certificate.
To learn more about the English major, consult the English Department’s website.
Know which courses you want? Get registered.