The English department offers two tracks of study leading to a major in English: a literature track and a writing track. As reading and writing are both self-reflexive acts, it is the department’s intention that students completing either track for the degree in English will develop a Christian philosophy of the English language, its literature and ministry at the same time that they:
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lop the skills necessary for being critical and reflective readers and writers of a diverse array of texts;
Develop linguistic ability and understanding through the study of the history and grammar of the English language;
Acquire a broad knowledge of and appreciation for literature;
Create practical career plans. "Develop the skills necessary for being critical and reflective readers and writers of a diverse array of texts" includes the abilities to do the following:
Develop and articulate a Christian worldview, which includes a critical understanding of culture that is consistent with and elaborates on sound Christian doctrine and theology;
Appreciate and evaluate a variety of possible critical approaches to texts, working from a Christian perspective and value system;
Possess knowledge of sound research methodology relevant to the critical reading and writing of texts;
Demonstrate excellence in the articulation of ideas in verbal and written forms; and
Understand the connections of oral, written, visual, and computer-generated forms of expression. "Develop linguistic ability and understanding through the study of the history and grammar of the English language" includes the following:
The personal development of their own writing style through the study of written texts and feedback from both peers and professors; and
The study of the history or grammar of the English language. "Acquire a broad knowledge of and appreciation for the literature" includes the following:
Study the development of literatures through survey courses;
Study specific authors, periods and movements in depth;
Become adept at understanding, critiquing and synthesizing the ideas of scholars who study these authors, periods and movements;
Foster a passion for the written word as art, text and companion. "Create practical career plans" includes the following:
Knowledge of the many opportunities available to the English major both for career and future study;
Acquiring breadth within the major and through elective course work to prepare for career and future study; and
Develop an integrated philosophy of career and ministry.