Students in the department learn about the transformations of English writing across historical periods and in varying cultural contexts, gaining crucial skills in careful interpretation and clear writing while learning about new ways of understanding literature and culture. They are given the opportunity to read British, American, Scottish, Irish, and Caribbean literature, be trained as creative writers and literary theorists, and take courses that contribute to programs or curricula in Africana Studies, Gender & Women's Studies, Environmental Studies, and Gay and Lesbian Studies.