Department ofEnglish  English Department Learning Outcomes
Note: This list of learning objectives is derived from the more
detailed list of objectives drafted by the English faculty in
2000. It is meant to summarize, but not replace, that list.
Humans are linguistic animals. Language is the most fundamental
and pervasive tool we have for interpreting our world and
communicating with others as we act in and attempt to transform
that world. Whether they pursue an emphasis in literature or
writing, English majors gain a deeper understanding of the
resources of the written word. Both literature and writing
courses help students explore how writers use the creative
resources of language-in fiction, poetry, nonfiction prose, and
drama-to explore the entire range of human experience. English
courses help students build skills of analytical and
interpretive argument; become careful and critical readers;
practice writing-in a variety of genres-as a process of
intellectual inquiry and creative expression; and ultimat