To declare an English major at the University of Massachusetts Amherst English Department, students must follow a series of steps that ensure they meet the department's requirements and understand the program's curriculum. The English Department at UMass Amherst offers a diverse range of courses, from medieval literature to contemporary fiction, and declaring a major in English can lead to a variety of career paths, including writing, teaching, editing, and more.
Meeting the Eligibility Criteria
Before declaring an English major, students typically need to have completed a certain number of credits and have a strong foundation in English literature and writing. The UMass Amherst English Department requires that students have a minimum GPA of 2.0 to declare the major. Additionally, students are expected to have completed English 112: College Writing or an equivalent course, as well as at least one other English course at the 200-level or above. Students who have not yet met these requirements should consult with an advisor in the English Department to plan their course schedule accordingly.
Steps to Declare the Major
To declare an English major, students should follow these steps:
- Meet with an advisor in the English Department to discuss the major requirements and create a plan for completing the degree.
- Complete the Major/Minor Declaration Form, which can be found on the UMass Amherst website or in the English Department office.
- Submit the form to the English Department office, where it will be reviewed and processed.
- Once the major has been declared, students will be assigned an advisor in the English Department who can provide guidance on course selection and career planning.
| Course Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| English 112: College Writing | Introduction to college-level writing, including analysis, argumentation, and style. |
| English 200-level course | Introduction to literary studies, including close reading, critical thinking, and research skills. |
| English 300-level course | In-depth study of literary periods, genres, or themes, including advanced critical thinking and research skills. |
Curriculum and Course Options
The English major at UMass Amherst offers a wide range of courses, from Shakespeare to Contemporary American Literature. Students can choose from various concentrations, including literary studies, creative writing, and rhetoric and composition. The major requires a total of 36-40 credits, including core courses, electives, and a senior seminar. Students should consult the UMass Amherst course catalog and the English Department website for the most up-to-date information on course offerings and requirements.
Concentrations and Specializations
English majors at UMass Amherst can choose to specialize in a particular area of study, such as:
- Literary Studies: Focus on the analysis and interpretation of literary texts, including fiction, poetry, and drama.
- Creative Writing: Emphasis on the craft of writing, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.
- Rhetoric and Composition: Study of the theory and practice of writing, including argumentation, style, and pedagogy.
What are the benefits of declaring an English major at UMass Amherst?
+Declaring an English major at UMass Amherst provides students with a strong foundation in literary analysis, writing, and critical thinking, as well as access to a wide range of courses, internships, and research opportunities. English majors develop valuable skills in communication, analysis, and problem-solving, making them competitive in a variety of career fields.
Can I declare an English major if I'm a transfer student or a junior?
+Yes, transfer students and juniors can declare an English major at UMass Amherst. However, they should meet with an advisor in the English Department to discuss their course schedule and ensure they can complete the major requirements within their remaining time at the university.
In conclusion, declaring an English major at UMass Amherst requires careful planning, attention to requirements, and a passion for literary studies and writing. By following the steps outlined above and working closely with an advisor, students can embark on a rewarding academic journey that prepares them for a variety of career paths and lifelong learning.
