Learning Outcomes

The department expects undergraduate majors in the program to be able to demonstrate the following learning outcomes. These learning outcomes are used in evaluating students and the department’s undergraduate program. Students are expected to demonstrate:

• An understanding of major theories, methods, and concepts of literary study and critical analysis

• An awareness of how authors and texts develop in relation to their historical contexts

• A comprehension of the formal qualities of key literary genres, forms, and styles

• An effective style of writing and a powerful use of language, evidenced by an authentic and original voice; coherence and organization; understanding of literary traditions and conventions (and by advanced classes, how these conventions can be challenged and/or subverted); effective close reading skills; revision skills.