Literature and Criticism
The English & Communication department offers a bachelor of arts degree and a minor in English with a concentration in literature & criticism. Pursue your interest in literature by choosing literature and criticism as a concentration in the English major or as a minor. You'll learn to:
- read and think critically
- engage with literature—and the world—thoughtfully and analytically
- identify and analyze formal literary genres and schools of literary criticism
- communicate effectively through literary analysis, persuasive argument, critical exposition, and presentation
Our award-winning faculty members specialize in a wide and diverse range of fields such as creative nonfiction, drama, fiction, poetry, world and British literature, and many more.
The skills you'll develop as an English major are essential in today's competitive job market and can lead to rewarding careers in communications, editing, freelance writing, grants writing, journalism, public relations, publishing, teaching, technical writing, screenwriting, and many other fields. You'll also be prepared for graduate study across many disciplines, such as creative and professional writing, education, law, and library/information science.
Major in English: Literature & Criticism concentration
Develop your analytical skills as you consider literary texts, language, and the creation of meaning. Hone your ability to critically engage literature through oral, written, and web-produced assignments.
Minor in English: Literature & Criticism
Consider a minor in English to improve your writing, communications, and critical thinking skills: all qualities that employers value highly.
Course descriptions, schedules and requirements
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English literature and criticism mean starting salary:
$47,600
NACE Data Collection of Class of 2022 Undergraduate Alumni
Research
UMassD advantages
- Publish your work in Corridors, an e-journal of student essays; Dart, a pop-culture magazine; or Temper, a literary review
- Pursue internships in communications, editing, journalism, professional writing, publishing, and more
- Join the Literary Society, write for The Torch student newspaper, or DJ on WUMD 89.3FM
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Expand your opportunities
- Accelerated Master's Program: Earn your master's degree with only one additional year of study. Juniors and seniors are eligible to apply.
- MA in Professional Writing & Communication: Develop your professional skills in diverse areas of writing such as technical writing, web authoring, journalism, public relations, and creative writing.
- Graduate certificate in Professional Writing & Communication: develop professional writing skills that focus on specific settings, situations, and communities.
Study online
Online & Continuing Education at UMass Dartmouth offers a Bachelor of Arts English degree with a Literature & Criticism option.