North Park University: Christian - Urban

Why Study Literature?

The study of English literature offers the discipline you need to read critically, offer constructive feedback on others’ writing, and consider literary representation in a wide range of cultural, historical, and interpretive contexts.. Focus on your love of reading while developing the skills of a creative and rigorous thinker, effective communicator, and flexible problem solver—skills you can use in any number of careers or fields.

Why North Park?

North Park’s English literature curriculum is a blend of classical British literature, poetry, modern and postmodern literature, and contemporary world literature. You’ll study texts through the lenses of race, class, and gender; discuss issues of faith and theology; and discover new ways to approach life’s biggest questions. Small class sizes give you the opportunity to get to know your professors: they’ll be your mentors as you become a better reader, more critical thinker, and venture on as a citizen of the world.

Careers In Literature

English majors with a concentration in literature go on to a wide range of careers that focus on critical engagement with text, including:

Fiction/nonfiction author
Journalist
Language and literature teacher
Reading specialist
Editor
Librarian
Communications professional

Graduate Schools

North Park graduates have gone on to master’s and doctoral programs in many disciplines at schools that include University of Illinois, Northwestern University, University of St. Thomas, University of Chicago, McCormick Theological Seminary, Oxford University, and University of London.

Interesting Classes

Explore the full range of English literature, with core classes that include:

American Literature
Shakespeare
English Romanticism
Postmodern Literature
Race and Literature

Learn more about the courses and requirements for this program.

Double Major

An English major focused on literature complements many subjects by teaching how to read and think critically about the significant issues in our history and society. Common double majors include art, biblical and theological studies, history, philosophy, politics and government, and secondary education.

Meet the Faculty

Dr. Reinhold Dooley teaches the modern and postmodern literature courses in the English major, challenging his students to see the ways cultural shifts impact their perceptions of the world.

Read more about Professor Dooley and the English faculty.

Beyond the Classroom

Enhance your education through a variety of activities outside the classroom, including:

Alpha Rho, the English Honor Society
Study abroad
The North Park Press’s “North Branch” literary feature
Internships
North Park Theatre Company

Next Steps

Program Requirements

English Literature

concentration in English