Deborah Uman, Chair

Why Study English at Fisher?

English majors and minors find themselves well prepared for graduate school and careers in business, law, teaching, marketing, public service, nongovernmental work, and many other areas.

The department supports experiential learning through internships, service learning, public presentation, independent study, and honors theses.


English majors and minors develop expertise in critical reading and writing—the ability to engage meaningfully with diverse texts from a range of cultural traditions and historical periods.

The English department also offers students the chance to apply analytical skills to contemporary media with the minor in film and television studies, as well as the opportunity to practice real-world writing with the certificate in public and professional writing.

The English Major

English majors choose from more than 60 courses in literature, creative writing, rhetoric, composition studies, and professional and technical writing. English majors choose one of two concentrations, literature or writing, but electives within the program invite students to explore both areas and develop a lifelong interest in reading, as well as a versatile set of writing skills. A number of English courses also meet several areas of the College Core.

All English majors develop skills in and knowledge of analysis, technique, publication, traditions, and process.

The literature concentration focuses on producing critical thinkers and writers, using the study of British, American, and world literature to promote an understanding of how language shapes history and everyday life.
