The English department at Lafayette is a lively and diverse environment that fosters exploration, analysis, discussion, and understanding in the classroom while encouraging reading and writing as lifelong pursuits.
English students are emboldened to apply the skills they learn to coursework in other disciplines, projects in the community, and endeavors in their personal lives.
The English department offers Major and Minor programs in two concentrations: literature and writing.
Check out the department timeline and application to do a Senior Honors Thesis!
"Lafayette's English department has allowed me to discover corners of the world I never thought I could. Whether it's Japanese-American post-WW2 literature, T.S. Elliot's modern Wasteland, or Flannery O'Connor's short stories, I always have the honor of learning something new."
"The English Department has pushed me out of my comfort zone when it comes to reading and has introduced me to many new genres, books, and authors that I never would have explored otherwise. The professors have also provided me with new tools and ways to analyze and understand texts, so now I find that literature opens up to me in a whole new way."
"The English Department comprises some of the most supportive faculty and fellow students on campus. Since freshman year, I have been met with nothing but thoughtful feedback and encouragement, which have allowed for my development as both a student and a prospective writer. I would not have had the opportunity to grow in my confidence and academic abilities without our foundation of wonderful professors and peers at Lafayette."
"Poetry is anything that touches the soul. As a poet, I strive to bridge the gaps we place between ourselves. My favorite part about my time in the English department has been the loving, kind people I’ve met–both professors and students. The courses Black Writers, 206 with Professor Wadiak, and Black Lit: Testimony of Slavery have cemented my passion for the art form."
Digging through decades of archival material, students and faculty to uncover and preserve the 40-year legacy of the College Writing Program
The special event in Philadelphia highlighted archival materials pivotal to the College’s founding
The English and film and media studies dual major will pursue a masters at Harvard