Welcome to the Bachelor of Arts English - Literary Studies

The Literary Studies Concentration in the Bachelor of Arts in English is offered through the College of Liberal Arts at MTSU. Literary Studies provides training in theory and critical thinking for students considering careers in academia or other fields. This program is a study of literature with a focus on strategies for sophisticated reading, literary genres, literary criticism, and research. Students choosing the Literary Studies Concentration learn to analyze literature from different traditions and in various genres. Close reading of texts distinguishes Literary Studies from the Writing Concentration: although both programs strengthen students' reading and writing skills, the Literary Studies Concentration focuses on existing literature rather than the creation of new texts. Literary Studies differs from the Literature and Culture Concentration in terms of scope, the latter analyzing film, media, music and/or art in addition to novels, plays, and poems.

Career Path

Degrees in English increase opportunities for success in a constantly changing job market. An emphasis on clear and logical communication prepares students for a wide range of occupations, rather than emphasizing one or two vocational tracks. Students in the program have gone on to such positions as Advertising/public relations executive Content manager, Creative writer, Director/support staff for non-profit organizations, Editor, Lawyer (after law school), Librarian, Manager, Professional/technical writer, Public servant, Publisher, Researcher.