University of Rochester

What you'll study

The English major combines survey courses, thematic and period modules, and small-seminar work to develop interpretive, research and communication skills. The curriculum typically spans British and American literatures, world literature in translation, literary theory and criticism, and elective specialisms such as modernism, Renaissance literature, contemporary fiction, poetry, and drama.

• Core skills and methods: close reading, textual analysis, argumentation, research methods and advanced academic writing.
• Representative modules: Introduction to Literary Studies, Shakespeare and Early Drama, Nineteenth-Century Fiction, Twentieth-Century American Literature, Literary Theory, Contemporary Poetry, Postcolonial Literature, and Film and Visual Culture.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: creative writing workshops, digital humanities, gender and sexuality studies, medieval studies, and courses that cross-list with history, philosophy, theatre and media studies.
• Capstone experience: advanced seminars or a senior thesis/project that emphasise original research, extended critical argument or creative production under faculty supervision.
• Learning environment: a mix of lectures, small seminars, one-on-one meetings with faculty and opportunities for undergraduate research using the university’s libraries and special collections.

Typical degree structure

The BA in English is organised across four years, with lower-division courses providing foundations in literary history and methods, and upper-division seminars and electives allowing concentration and sustained research. Students may combine the major with minors, language study or a second major, and can take advantage of study-abroad or internship opportunities.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Rochester’s undergraduate programmes is competitive. Prospective English majors should demonstrate strong secondary-school performance and preparation in reading and writing. Applications are made through the university’s standard undergraduate admissions process.

• Academic profile: successful applicants typically present rigorous coursework in humanities and English-language subjects; preparation that shows analytical reading and sustained writing is valued.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement or essays, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation are important; a writing sample may be requested or recommended for applicants specialised in creative writing or intending early admission to advanced seminars.
• International applicants: should provide qualifications equivalent to U.S. secondary credentials and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways where required.
• Transfers: transfer applicants are evaluated on college-level work completed, with potential credit awarded toward major or elective requirements depending on course content.

Career prospects

An English degree from the University of Rochester prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value critical thinking, communication and research. Many alumni move into professions in publishing, editing, journalism, communications, marketing and public relations. Others pursue teaching (often followed by certification programmes), law, library science, or work in cultural institutions such as museums and archives.

• Graduate study: the major also provides solid preparation for postgraduate study in literature, creative writing, cultural studies, education, law and other professional degrees.
• Practical experience: students commonly gain workplace skills through internships with local media, publishing houses, nonprofit organisations, and university research projects.

Why study at University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers an English programme that combines the resources of a research university with a strong liberal-arts focus. The Rochester Curriculum emphasises intellectual breadth and depth, allowing students flexibility to shape their programme while maintaining rigorous training in writing and analysis.

• Faculty and research: access to faculty who are active scholars in a range of historical periods and theoretical approaches, and opportunities for close mentorship in small seminars.
• Libraries and collections: extensive library holdings and special collections support primary-source research and creative projects.
• Experiential opportunities: internship networks in the city and region, cross-disciplinary collaborations, and options to engage with digital humanities and public scholarship initiatives.
• Support for careers: dedicated career services, alumni networks and departmental advising help students translate literary skills into professional pathways.