The Department of Literature, Writing and Rhetoric allows students to explore the nuances of the written word and visual rhetoric, while engaging withÌýa wide diversity ofÌýwritten works in the English language.ÌýStudents in this program are intellectually challenged to hone their critical thinking skills and develop strong proficiency in written language. Students also have the opportunity to write for our award-winning, student-run journals.

Our programs teach studentsÌýto interact with texts from aÌýwide arrayÌýof genres, cultures, and historical periods,Ìýas well as to produce their own textsÌýthrough a mastery of language and basic design principles. Whether you seek to educate, persuade, or enrich, you'll learn how toÌýexpress yourself analyticallyÌýand creatively, and howÌýto thrive in writing-intensive careers. Graduates are prepared for post-graduate studies or entry into professions that require critical thinking and excellent writing skills. ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's University is also home to one of just a few undergraduate rhetoric programs in the nation.

Writers Enjoy a Hilltop Welcome

Three Authors Visit the Hilltop and Share Thoughts on Their Craft and Life.

MAJORS

Our department offers two BA programs, each with options for specialization (visit the majors pages for links to the variety of degree plans available):

English LiteratureÌý

General specialization

Creative Writing specialization

Language Arts for Teachers

Writing and RhetoricÌý

Creative Writing concentration

JournalismÌýand Digital MediaÌýconcentration

Professional WritingÌýconcentration

General concentration

Faculty & Staff

Student Organizations

ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â’s University features two award-winning, student-run journals and many different ways to get involved in literature and writing on campus. Below are publications and organizations that writing and literature students contribute to and staff.

Sorin Oak Review

The is an annual literature and arts journal produced by ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's University students. Anyone within the ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's community may submit fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction essays, photography, and artwork.

Arete

is an award-winning, student-run academic journal at ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's University. First published in 1991, Arete is an annual publication that encourages students from all disciplines to submit research papers, essays, and theses that offer substantive, fresh, and well-researched arguments for an informed audience.

Hilltop Views

is a weekly student newspaper published by the School of Humanities and serving the community of ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's University. The newspaper publishes news stories, life and arts stories, and sports stories relevant to ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's students. Students are encouraged to use this opportunity to develop their writing and reporting skills.

The Book Jackets Literary Club

The Book Jackets Literary Club is a fully student-run organization in which students gather to share conversations about books and writing ideas.Ìý Students also gather to read and perform each other’s work and invite speakers to discuss internship and job opportunities for literature and writing majors.Ìý They also share information about upcoming literary events on campus and at local bookstores.

Upcoming Events

Check out the exciting lineup forÌýThe Marcia Kinsey Visiting Writers Series!