Literature and Writing

Program Information

The major in English at California State University Channel Islands approaches the study of Literature, Writing and Criticism in an interdisciplinary context. Students develop a sound foundation in all three areas. They develop analytical and critical skills as well as the ability to explore, organize, and articulate ideas through writing. Literature and language are significant cultural phenomena that shape and are shaped by particular contexts; therefore, this program addresses the historical and cultural significance of the English language, literature written in English, and other literatures in translation.

Course work in the English: Literature and Writing program is completed in three areas:

Foundation courses provide the tools for intellectual discussion of materials.
Interdisciplinary courses provide connections with different ideas, approaches and ways of knowing.
The required sequence provides in-depth investigation in a specialized field of Multicultural Literature, Writing or Education.

In addition, the student may choose to pursue an emphasis in Creative Writing , Multicultural Literature, English Education Preparation, or a Certificate in Technical Writing..

English majors will keep a portfolio of work produced in their required courses and electives. The student will work closely with his or her advisor in developing the portfolio, which will be reviewed by the instructor as a prerequisite to the Capstone. The program offers an informational session each semester prior to the Portfolio deadline.

PROGRAMS/DEGREES OFFERED

CAREERS

The B.A. in English prepares students for graduate programs in English, Linguistics, Comparative Literature, Creative Writing, Journalism, and Secondary

Education. English majors, trained in logical thinking, interpretative reading, and effective writing also do very well on the LSAT exams for law schools. The major is excellent preparation for a variety of creative professions such as: editor for a publishing company, book agent, magazine editor, newspaper reporter, teacher of English abroad, freelance magazine writer, script reader, speech writer, advertising copy writer, and director of communications for businesses.