Why Study English?
Studying English at Trinity as a lens for understanding culture, history, and the human experience through close reading, discussion, and original inquiry.
Publish and Edit as an Undergraduate
Students contribute to and edit campus literary journals such as the Trinity Review, 1966: A Journal of Creative Nonfiction, and The Expositor, gaining hands-on experience in writing and publishing
Research Through Archives and Primary Texts
Students conduct original research using rare materials, learning to transcribe, edit, and interpret early manuscripts and print texts.
Close Faculty Mentorship and Discussion-Based Learning
Small classes allow students to work closely with faculty and peers, developing ideas through discussion, writing, and sustained literary study.
The English Major (B.A.)
The English major explores literature across periods, genres, and cultures while helping students investigate the ideas, histories, and questions that shape human experience.
In-Demand Skills
You’ll gain skills in:
- Close reading and textual analysis
- Clear, persuasive writing
- Critical and interpretive thinking
- Oral communication and discussion
Interdisciplinary Curriculum:
You’ll complete 39 credit hours, study literature and writing across a wide range of periods, genres, and approaches. The English major also connects naturally with creative writing, film, history, women and gender studies, religion, communication, and other humanities fields.
The English Minor
21 Credit Hours | 1.5 to 2 semesters of coursework
The English minor is designed to complement a wide range of majors and allows students to build a focused course of study in literature, writing, and critical approaches.
Students do not need to be English majors to pursue this minor.
Taylor Swift’s music took center stage in Trinity’s 2025 Lennox Seminar, where English and Philosophy faculty explored songwriting, literary criticism, and cultural impact. Students analyzed lyrics alongside poetry and engaged with visiting scholars, connecting literary study to one of today’s most influential artists.
Recent Graduate Careers
English graduates leave Trinity with adaptable communication, research, and analytical skills that open opportunities across creative, professional, nonprofit, and academic fields.
Writing, Editing, and Publishing
Students gain experience shaping ideas for different audiences through editing, revision, and publishing—preparing them for roles in publishing, journalism, content strategy, and editorial work.
Graduate Study, Research, and Academic Pathways
Graduates continue into advanced study in literature, writing, library science, law, or the humanities, building on Trinity’s emphasis on inquiry and original research.
Media, Communication, and Creative Industries
Coursework builds persuasive writing, storytelling, and communication skills that translate to careers in marketing, communications, public relations, and digital media. Students learn to craft compelling narratives and communicate ideas clearly across platforms.
Transferable Skills & Flexible Career Paths
The major complements careers that value thoughtful analysis, collaboration, and persuasive communication—from nonprofits and business to education, law, and public service.
Get Your Questions Answered
Students interested in the English major and minor are encouraged to:
Meet with an academic adviser to explore introductory courses in literature, writing, rhetoric, and related humanities fields, and review the course catalog for detailed degree requirements.