The curriculum provides extensive courses in the history of British and American literature, in Anglophone literatures from other countries, in literary theory, and in expository as well as creative writing. These diverse courses reflect the interests of students and faculty and the ever-widening area of English literary study. But the department also regards its goals as helping students become readers of literature and culture throughout their lives. The Vanderbilt in England program at the University of Leeds, the Humanities in London program, and other overseas programs offer opportunities for study and travel that enrich a student's education. The Gertrude Vanderbilt and Harold S. Vanderbilt Visiting Writers series annually sponsors public lectures, readings, and other occasions where English majors hear and meet celebrated poets, novelists, and critics.
Students pursue a broad range of interests through a flexible approach to the study of literature.
9 hours in literature before 1800 and 3 hours in Ethnic or non-Western literature. Students concentrate on developing their creative writing abilities while acquiring an overview of English literature. Admission to these courses is by the consent of the instructor. 9 hours in literature before 1800 and 3 hours in Ethnic or non-Western literature. Students design their own specialized course of study with a descriptive name, and develop a contract of courses for it.