From Chaucer and Shakespeare to American literature and literary journalism, the bachelors of English program offers courses that cover all aspects of English and American literature — from Medieval poetry and prose to contemporary fiction. Many of these courses are organized historically by literary periods, and some focus on a specific literary genre, such as the novel or drama, or an individual author. 

English majors often study independently with professors through tutorials, independent studies, and senior theses, where students work one-on-one with a professor on a topic of their choosing. Students who select the thesis option work collaboratively with a professor to complete a significant research project.