English, BA

Overview

The English major at Yeshiva College offers students a rich and immersive exploration of literature, writing, and critical thought. Through courses spanning classical Greece, medieval Europe, Victorian Britain, and contemporary global literature, students engage deeply with diverse cultures and historical periods. The curriculum emphasizes both analytical and creative development, helping students become articulate thinkers and compelling writers. From poetry and fiction to film and digital media, the program encourages students to explore a wide range of genres and forms, fostering a nuanced understanding of human expression and achievement.

In addition to Major Core Courses, students in the English major may choose one area of focus either Creative Writing or Literary Studies. Students taking the Creative Writing focus develop the ability to express themselves with clarity and power, as well as becoming familiar with a range of contemporary approaches to texts and cultures. Students taking the Literary Studies focus encounter literary works from a range of culture and time periods, learn different approaches to the analysis of those works, and develop analytically and creatively as writers and thinkers.

Degree Requirements

To earn the Bachelor of Arts in English, students must complete a minimum of 128 credits including major requirements, Yeshiva College Core/General Education and Jewish Studies requirements, and elective courses as needed.

Major Requirements (33 credits)

Core Courses

ENG 2010Interpreting Texts

3

ENG 3005Advanced Seminar

3

ENG 4001Senior Colloquium

3

Electives

Complete 24 credits of English elective courses
See optional areas of focus below.

English Literature focus:

-Only two of these electives may be courses numbered ENG 1000-1099
-Only two may be creative writing courses numbered ENG 1300-1899
-At least two English courses numbered 2011-3999 must focus on the two categories listed below 1) Pre 1700 Period (Medieval to Early Modern Literature & Culture) British Literature 2) 1700-1900 period (18th - 19th Century Literature and Culture)

Creative Writing focus:

Literary Studies Electives
Complete three ENG courses outside ENG 1300-1899
Note: only two of these electives may be General Education Core courses numbered ENG 1000-1099

Creative Writing Electives
Complete five ENG courses from ENG 1300-1899.
 

Media Studies focus:

Complete four ENG courses meeting the following criteria:

Complete one course from Historical category

Complete one course from Topics, Methods category

Complete one course from either Historical category or Topics, Methods category

Complete one course from Creative Writing, Historical category or Topics, Methods category

Required

Complete five ENG courses in Media Studies

Complete one ENG course as open elective