English, a language of global culture,
commerce and international relations, is the focus of the
HPU English major. An important literary language of India,
Africa and the Caribbean as well as Great Britain and North
America, English is also the adopted tongue of many writers
across the globe and a language into which texts from many
other literatures are translated. Understanding the language
through its historical development in literature in various
cultures and encountering texts in historical, cultural, theoretical,
and practical contexts, students will practice critical, analytical
and creative writing as preparation for a variety of careers
and graduate programs.
Program objectives
Students will recognize, understand, and practice various poetic
and rhetorical forms and strategies. (This objective is emphasized
in lower division courses and Textual Practices courses.)
Students will examine the ways in which texts shape and are
shaped by history, culture, and context. (This objective is emphasized
in Texts in History and Texts and Culture courses)
Students will experience texts from various cultures and explore
ethical questions in a multi-cultural context. (This objective
is emphasized in Lower division courses, Texts in History and
Texts in Culture courses)
Students will explore and analyze poetic and rhetorical texts?including
their own?from multiple epistemological perspectives. (This objective
is emphasized in Textual Theories courses and 4000 level seminars)
Students will employ appropriate research methods and will
present their own arguments in response to and/or supported by
poetic and rhetorical texts. (This objective is emphasized in
HUM 3900, and 4000 level seminars but all courses in the program
aim to build students skills in this area.)
Students will develop analytical and communication skills useful
in the pursuit of a wide variety of careers. (Skills are developed
through the entire program; practicum courses emphasize development
of professional skills)
