Understanding how imaginative literature works in its various forms is an invaluable resource for any professional, academic, or personal pursuit. By paying close attention to the subtleties and power of language, to what words can do, students in English classes refine their skills in reading for nuance, asking probing questions, building strong arguments, and crafting compelling stories.  

The English Department offers a broad curriculum in global Anglophone literatures, film, contemporary literary theory, and creative writing.  Literature courses approach diverse materials and media in their aesthetic, historical, political, or cultural contexts and through a range of interdisciplinary perspectives, such as critical race studies, gender studies, or environmental humanities. Creative writing workshops are offered in different genres at beginning to advanced levels; a robust program of visiting authors and readings by faculty and students enhances the experience of creative writers at Tufts.

With the help of their advisor, English majors tailor their program of study according to their interests and goals. While many English majors plan to pursue careers as teachers or writers, graduates also find that literary study is excellent preparation for advanced training in law or medicine, or for jobs in corporate, nonprofit, and public policy environments. A flexible minor in English is also available.

Sample Classes:

• Expository Writing
• Reading, Writing, Research
• Non-Fiction Writing
• Forms of Poetry
• Black World Literature
• Virgil and Dante