Undergraduate

The English major and minor at Boston College build fundamental skills in close reading, literary analysis, and critical thinking through a wide range of courses. English students study major developments in British, American, anglophone, and multicultural literatures, exploring essential human issues through multiple periods, cultures, and approaches.

At a Glance

The Literature Core and First-Year Writing Seminar provide a robust foundation for future study in the liberal arts.

Customizable Programs

Enjoy the freedom to shape a program suited to your intellectual interests while sharpening your critical thinking, analysis, argumentation, and articulation.

Personalized Advising

English majors and minors are mentored by scholars and writers who are leaders in the contemporary study of literature.

Why Major in English?

"I chose BC’s English Program because of the robust course offerings and the relevancy of the professors. The diversity in specialties, along with the contemporary work being produced, was invaluable to me as a creative."
Taylor Morales, Class of 2023

English Language Learning (ELL)

The Program for English Language Learning (ELL) supports undergraduate students from linguistically diverse backgrounds in their mastery of English. During their first year, students can take a linked sequence of two English courses that fulfill core requirements. Students place into the sequence after completing the English language assessment during the summer before their first year.

Interested in ELL courses? 

Jenny Penafiel

“What I love most about the English program is the kindness I have received from everyone here. At first, I doubted whether I would perform well, since I was unconfident about my English. But whenever I met obstacles, there was always someone there to support me. I fall more and more in love with English Literature as I learn more.” 

Yinan Ding '25
Patrick McCann

“Growing up in a bilingual household made learning English or Spanish completely a difficult task. I enrolled in the English minor because I saw it as a great opportunity to improve my comprehension, but I stayed once I realized there were courses and resources that allowed me to explore how having a background in more than one language can be beneficial.”

Jacob Bojito Ríos '25