English

Read and learn from the great writers of the past and present as you explore the fascinating twists and turns of literary history. In the English language and literature program at Gordon College, you will encounter cultures that are different from your own through the study of English, American, and world literatures. Practical skills, you ask? You’ll develop your ability to write with precision and imagination, adapt your writing to reach specific audiences, construct persuasive arguments, and pay close attention to texts.

COURSES FACULTY OUTCOMES

CHOOSE A CONCENTRATION

Creative Writing concentration Professional Writing concentration (and minor)

Why study English language and literature at Gordon?

Since the seventeenth century, numerous writers have called the North Shore of Boston home, and Gordon is close to many locations of inspiration for lovers of literature and writing—the Emily Dickinson Museum, Edith Wharton’s home, and Walden Pond, just to name a few. English faculty often organize group trips to attend lectures and other events in the historic Greater Boston area. Interested in creative writing or professional writing? Gordon’s robust programs will enable you to discover and develop your written voice.

What careers can I pursue with an English major?

The foundational skills you develop as an English major will equip you for further studies in graduate or professional programs, and will set you up for success in a wide range of careers, including:

Creative writing (M.F.A. program)
Education
Law
Marketing
Business
Publishing

Learn more about jobs and internships or hear from recent grads.

Experiential learning in English language and literature

Submit your writing to one of Gordon’s on-campus publications, or join one of their editing committees—including the Idiom (literary and arts journal), the Vox Populi (alternative news and feature writing), and The Tartan (student newspaper). Maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA in the major and 3.0 GPA overall to make yourself eligible for membership in Alpha Upsilon Omega (the Gordon chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society), as well as for departmental honors in English. The latter involves working closely with a faculty advisor to develop an independent study with a substantial research project in literature or creative writing, culminating in a written honors thesis.

The English Department regularly hosts events to extend your learning beyond the classroom, including the Five Ponds Creative Writing Festival and the Princemere Writers Series, featuring talks and readings by experienced authors.