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Bachelor of Arts in English Literature

The Bachelor of Arts in English Literature at University of Redlands will foster students' love of literature through rigorous examination of texts, challenging discussion, thoughtful writing, and training in different theoretical approaches. 

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Arts

Program Types

Undergraduate

Mode of Study

On Campus

Department

English

What is an English literature degree?

The English literature degree involves the study of literature, language, and writing where you will explore various texts like novels, poems, plays, and essays to learn to analyze and interpret them critically. You will be encouraged to engage in original research that will develop your writing through coursework and independent projects tailored to your interests. This interdisciplinary program integrates other fields of study like history, philosophy, and cultural studies to offer a broader context for literary analysis. Beyond the study of literature, your development in writing, research, and communication will prepare you for careers in many professional fields.

Why should you major in English literature at Redlands?

The English Literature program at Redlands offers a diverse curriculum that covers different literary periods, genres, and cultures to provide a well-rounded education in English literature and language. Our experienced faculty known for their passion for literature and dedication to teaching and mentoring, combined with small, intimate class sizes, will allow you to receive personalized attention and support. To gain an international perspective, you will have the opportunity to participate in semester-long study away programs around the world to immerse yourself in literature and culture. This program will prepare you for diverse career paths, fostering critical thinking, analysis, and effective communication skills that are highly valued in fields like as education, law, business, and media.

Classes you'll take

To view specific classes, program requirements, and coursework information, visit the current university catalog.

Methods of Literary Study

Complete ALL of the following courses:

  • ENGL201 - Textual Studies: Reading and Interpretation
  • ENGL202 - Textual Studies: Research and Writing
  • ENGL420 - Senior Seminar in Literature

There are three core courses required for the English major: two taken at the sophomore level and one in the Fall of senior year.

English Electives

Complete at least 8 courses in the following course sets:

  • English 100-level
  • OR English 200-level
  • OR English 300-level
  • OR English 400-level

In addition to the three core courses, majors will complete eight elective courses: up to three lower-division literature courses (100-200 level) and a minimum of four upper-division literature courses (300 level). Subject to departmental approval, upper-division literature courses in World Languages may be counted toward the major. Subject to departmental approval, Johnston seminars in literature may be counted toward the major.

Why should you minor in English literature at Redlands?

The English minor will broaden your literary education and will consist of reading everything from novels to plays and works in between. Through a minimum of 24 credits to satisfy the minor requirement, you will take part in deep discussions around these works and literary theory. 

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current university catalog

English Minor Core

Complete ALL of the following courses:

  • ENGL201 - Textual Studies: Reading and Interpretation
  • ENGL202 - Textual Studies: Research and Writing

English Minor Electives

Complete at least 4 courses in the following course sets:

  • English 100-level
  • OR English 200-level
  • OR English 300-level
  • OR English 400-level

Four additional literature courses, three of which are at the 300-level. Please consult with a departmental advisor or the department chair in choosing these classes.

Undergraduate application deadlines
Spring 2025
November 1, 2024*
Fall 2025 - First Year
November 15, 2024 - Early Action
Fall 2025 - First Year
January 15, 2025 - Regular Decision*
Fall 2025 - Transfer
March 1, 2025 - Regular Decision*
Note
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline based on capacity.
Apply Now

What you’ll learn

Interpret textual details and ambiguities, employing a vocabulary of literary terms, theories, and/or critical methods.
Find, evaluate and cite secondary sources, using accurate MLA writing style conventions.
Place an argument in conversation with the ideas of other critics and theorists.
Formulate a research question and locate it within an interpretive context, such as aesthetic, cultural, ethico-political, historical, intertextual, or social.
View catalog to learn more

What you’ll learn

Mutiple media - English and literature library image

Graduates pursue careers as

Cultivating a love for literature and language in students through engaging and thoughtful instruction.
Crafting effective messaging and content for internal and external communications.
Creating clear, concise documentation and manuals to make complex information accessible.
Refining and enhancing written content for clarity, coherence, and impact.

Graduates pursue careers as

Mutiple media - Liberal arts undergraduate students at graduation
100 %

of University of Redlands B.A. in English Literature graduates have successful outcomes within six months of graduation.

First Year Destination Survey, 2023

9 out of 10 ( 91 %)

Alumni shared they gained critical thinking skills from their degree.

NACM Alumni Career Mobility, 2022

Top 10

Best Universities in the West

U.S. News & World Report, 2023

Career Prep

The University of Redlands offers many ways to prepare you for life after graduation.

Visit career prep page

Want to know more?

Get in touch with our admissions team.

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