The Boston University English Department represents a cornerstone of intellectual exploration at one of the nation’s most dynamic research institutions. Within this vibrant academic community, students and faculty engage with literature, language, and critical thought across centuries and cultures. The department fosters rigorous analysis while encouraging creative expression, preparing graduates for diverse careers in an interconnected world. Its location in the heart of Boston provides unparalleled access to archives, publishers, and cultural institutions that enrich the educational experience.
Academic Programs and Curriculum
The department offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to challenge and inspire. Undergraduates can pursue a Bachelor of Arts in English with concentrations in Literature, Creative Writing, or Media and Culture. Graduate students choose between Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy tracks, allowing for deep specialization or broad interdisciplinary study. The curriculum emphasizes close reading, theoretical inquiry, and the historical contexts that shape literary production.
Undergraduate Studies
For undergraduates, the major introduces foundational skills in textual analysis, argumentation, and written communication. Students explore canonical authors alongside contemporary voices, examining how form and content intersect. Small seminar sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty, fostering a collaborative learning environment. The flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies toward specific interests, from medieval manuscripts to digital storytelling.
Graduate Research and Specializations
Graduate programs emphasize original research and scholarly mentorship. PhD candidates develop expertise in specific periods, genres, or theoretical approaches, contributing to ongoing academic debates. The department supports concentrations in areas such as American literature, British and postcolonial studies, comparative literature, and rhetoric and composition. Advanced workshops in creative writing complement critical study, allowing poets, playwrights, and prose writers to refine their craft within a scholarly framework.
Faculty Excellence and Research
The faculty comprises published authors, leading scholars, and dedicated teachers who are committed to student success. Their research spans diverse fields, including digital humanities, environmental literature, and transnational studies. Many faculty members lead major research projects, secure prestigious fellowships, and contribute to public discourse through publications and media engagement. Their mentorship extends beyond the classroom, guiding students in conferences, publications, and independent projects.
Resources and Opportunities
Boston University provides exceptional resources to support English studies. The Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center houses extensive collections of manuscripts and rare materials, offering hands-on research opportunities. The College of Arts and Sciences Writing Center provides one-on-one tutoring for students at all levels. Study abroad programs, internships at cultural institutions, and participation in literary festivals further enhance the academic experience.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Graduates of the Boston University English Department pursue successful careers in education, publishing, journalism, law, and the nonprofit sector. The department’s emphasis on critical thinking and communication skills ensures that alumni are well-prepared for evolving professional landscapes. A robust alumni network connects current students with mentors and job opportunities worldwide, reflecting the enduring value of a BU English education.
Community and Cultural Engagement
The department actively engages with Boston’s rich cultural landscape through public lectures, readings, and partnerships with local organizations. Events hosted by the African American Studies program, the Center for the Study of Asia, and the Institute for the Liberal Arts create interdisciplinary dialogues. These initiatives reinforce the department’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and the public humanities.
