English Literature
The English Literature program at Northwestern University invites students into a deep and expansive study of literary texts, cultural movements, and critical theory. This four-year Bachelor of Arts degree emphasizes close reading, analytical writing, and historical awareness, offering students a rich understanding of how literature shapes and reflects the world. From canonical works to contemporary voices, students explore a wide range of genres, authors, and traditions while engaging with questions of identity, language, power, and representation. Through this exploration, students develop critical thinking, interpretive precision, and scholarly independence, which form the foundation for advanced literary analysis and broader cultural literacy.
The curriculum is structured to foster both historical breadth and thematic depth. Students begin with surveys in British, American, and global literatures, followed by upper-level seminars that focus on specific periods, authors, or theoretical frameworks. Alongside textual study, the program integrates cultural criticism, feminist theory, postcolonial thought, and narrative studies to give students a versatile and nuanced lens through which to view literature. Faculty mentorship, writing-intensive coursework, and opportunities for independent research contribute to an intellectually rigorous yet creatively stimulating academic environment. By graduation, students have developed the skills to read critically, argue persuasively, and engage thoughtfully, preparing them for meaningful careers or graduate study in a wide array of fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: English Literature
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Literature
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Literary Foundations and Analytical Skills
• Introduction to Literary Theory and Criticism
• Survey of British Literature I
• Academic Writing and Argumentation
• Global Perspectives in Literature
Year 2 – Genre, History, and Narrative
• American Literature: Origins to 1900
• Poetry and Poetics or the Novel Form
• Literary Research Methods
• Shakespeare and Early Modern Drama
Year 3 – Specialized Study and Theoretical Inquiry
• Postcolonial Literature and Cultural Identity
• Gender and Sexuality in Literary Texts
• Modernism and the 20th Century
• Seminar in Critical Theory
Year 4 – Capstone, Research, and Interdisciplinary Approaches
• Senior Seminar in English Literature
• Independent Study or Honors Thesis
• Literature and Philosophy or Media Studies
• Seminar: Literature in the Digital Age
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the English Literature program enter the professional world with a set of flexible and valuable skills that make them highly competitive across industries. Many pursue careers in publishing, journalism, education, public relations, or arts and cultural organizations, where their ability to craft compelling narratives and interpret complex material is essential. Others find roles in law, marketing, communications, or nonprofit work, using their research and writing abilities to advocate, inform, or influence. The program also provides excellent preparation for graduate studies in literature, creative writing, media studies, or interdisciplinary humanities. With their strong foundation in critical analysis, persuasive communication, and cultural literacy, English Literature graduates are equipped to thrive in roles that demand intellectual agility and thoughtful engagement with the human experience.
Why Choose This Program
Northwestern’s English Literature program offers an intellectually rich environment for students who are passionate about reading, writing, and understanding the cultural forces behind storytelling. With access to accomplished faculty, small seminar-style courses, and a campus culture that values creativity and dialogue, students are encouraged to develop their voice and engage with diverse literary traditions. The program fosters cross-disciplinary exploration, allowing students to connect literature with fields like history, philosophy, political science, or media studies. Opportunities for undergraduate research, writing fellowships, and literary journal work further enhance the academic experience. Whether preparing for graduate school or a professional path, students leave with analytical clarity, expressive strength, and interpretive depth, making this program an ideal choice for those who seek to think critically and communicate meaningfully in a rapidly evolving world.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
