English
“Why Literature? … It expands you in every way. It illuminates what you’re doing. It shows you possibilities you haven’t thought of. It enables you to live the lives of other people than yourself. It broadens you. It makes you more human.” – M.H. Abrams
What is English?
At its core, our English program is centered on human connection and communication. Whether it’s an appreciation of literature that broadens your thinking or the power of writing that expands your horizons, studying English will improve your critical thinking and communication skills. You will analyze and interpret literature–poetry, fiction, and drama–within its historical, cultural and social contexts and you will face questions like:
- How does literature reflect the values of its time?
- How does language shape culture and who we are?
- How do different types of writing change over time?
- Why is it important for me to develop my skills in reading, writing, analysis, critical thinking, and communication?
- How might these skills help me in a meaningful career?
The English Department at Saint Peter’s not only offers a major or minor in English literature. It also offers a minor in Theatre, a minor in Creative Writing and Publishing, and classes which apply to the minor in Film Studies. We help our students apply the skills they learn in all of our courses, through student teaching and internships in the worlds of publishing, business, and theater.
What makes English at Saint Peter’s University different?
Our Jesuit education is human-centered. Our professors not only understand the material, but they will also know your strengths and how you can connect your studies to your purpose. With a program like English, that connection is vital—something you can build on to create a very fulfilling future. It’s the best preparation for a life of impact.
We also focus on experiential learning and research opportunities. We know your education is so much more than what goes on in the classroom.
And because we have built deep professional networks in Jersey City and the region, you’re only a short distance from unique internship opportunities with industry leaders in publishing, journalism, theater, and marketing.
Potential courses you can take include:
- African American Literature
- Women in Drama
- Shakespeare from the Page to the Stage
- Literature and Pop Culture: Jane Austen
- Business, Capitalism, and World Literature
- Literature of the Black Atlantic
- The History of Film 1 & 2
- Topics in Creative Writing: Historical Fiction
- Film Noir: the Dark Side of American Film
- Literary Travels: Ireland
- Internship in Magazine Publishing
- Acting Workshop
- Live Performance Art
- Screenwriting
What can I do with an English degree?
People with strong critical thinking and communication skills are always in high demand. Employers in every organization value those who can solve problems and collaborate effectively, and those are the very skills you will develop in our English program.
Once you graduate, your ability to analyze texts, construct arguments, and communicate persuasively will prepare you for the broadest range of career and graduate school options.
You’ll be able to step confidently into any role that relies on critical and creative thinking.
Peacocks are building networks in careers such as:
- Attorney
- Author
- Editor
- Educational Administrator
- Journalist
- Librarian
- Marketing Professional
- Public Relations Specialist
- Publisher
- Speech Writer
- Technical Writer
- Teacher
- Theater Professional
An English degree from Saint Peter’s University provides a solid foundation that’s also a powerful launchpad to just about any future you see for yourself!