Columbia University

What you'll study

The English Language and Literature programme at Columbia concentrates on the study of literary texts in their historical, cultural and theoretical contexts while emphasising advanced skills in close reading, research and written argument. Coursework typically includes surveys of British and American literature, world and postcolonial literatures, literary theory and criticism, and specialised seminars on topics such as Shakespeare, modern and contemporary fiction, poetry, drama, and digital humanities approaches to literature.

Students follow a mix of required departmental seminars and elective modules that allow thematic or period-based concentration. Independent research is encouraged through upper-level seminars and a capstone option — many students undertake a substantial research paper or senior thesis under faculty supervision. Opportunities for creative writing, translation studies, theatre history, and interdisciplinary courses with departments such as Comparative Literature, History, Film Studies, and the School of the Arts further broaden the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Columbia seeks applicants with strong secondary-school academic records and a demonstrated interest in reading, writing and critical thinking. Typical applicants present rigorous coursework in humanities and strong performance across a broad academic programme. Admissions decisions also consider letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and any submitted writing sample or portfolio where requested.

International applicants must meet Columbia's requirements for secondary credentials and demonstrate proficiency in English; evidence of engagement with literature — through coursework, independent reading, extracurricular activities, or writing — strengthens an application. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college-level performance and the fit of prior coursework with departmental expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in English Language and Literature pursue a wide range of careers that value analytical thinking and strong communication. Common destinations include publishing, editing, journalism, public relations, content strategy, and digital media. Many alumni move into education (often after additional teacher training), law and policy, nonprofit or cultural-sector roles, and marketing or corporate communications.

The programme also prepares students for further academic study — master’s and doctoral programmes in literature, theory and related humanities fields — as well as professional degrees such as law or journalism. Columbia's location and alumni network provide plentiful internship and networking opportunities that support entry into these fields.

Why study at Columbia University

Columbia combines a strong English department with the intellectual breadth of its Core Curriculum, giving students sustained exposure to foundational texts alongside specialised literary study. Faculty include scholars working across historical periods and theoretical approaches, and small seminar formats enable close mentorship and collaborative research.

Situated in New York City, Columbia offers exceptional access to cultural institutions, publishing houses, theatres and media organisations for internships and experiential learning. Library resources — including extensive special collections — and cross-registration possibilities across divisions make Columbia an attractive place for students seeking a rigorous, interdisciplinary education in literature.