English at W&M
As an English student, you will engage with the variety and richness of literary forms and genres — poetry, drama, prose, fiction and nonfiction — and explore a range of historical periods and critical approaches. By considering the aesthetic, rhetorical, historical, philosophical, cultural and ideological dimensions of everything from the canonical masterpieces of British and American literature to experimental literary works and marginalized voices from around the world, you will discover the power of English language and literature and, with our creative writing classes, perhaps make some of your own.
Applied Learning
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Courses
Study the Rise of the Novel (ENGL 333), ponder studies in Shakespeare (ENGL421), revel in the Harlem Renaissance (ENGL 417B) or dive into Global Postmodernism (ENGL 370).*
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Research
Complete an honors thesis project or independent study guided by a faculty member on topics from American poets to how social movements affect literature.
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Donaldson Writer in Residence
Learn from the noted writers W&M brings to campus, such as Kelli Jo Ford. These writers hold an intensive masterclass and mentor students.
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Sara & Jess Cloud Lecture Series
Attend lectures from nationally renowned speakers and scholars. Previous speakers include Susheila Nasta MBE FRSL, Juana Maria Rodriguez and Marjorie Perloff.
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Hayes Writers Series
Meet breakthrough contemporary authors who visit campus to share their work, experiences and fresh perspectives with you.
Creative Writing
Work closely with award-winning faculty and visiting authors to write your own story. Our hands-on seminars immerse you in a dynamic mix of contemporary and traditional storytelling traditions from around the world.
Upcoming Events
Student Resources
Discover more about student funding, advising, useful forms, and resources for writing and research.
Outcomes
English majors excel in their ability to synthesize research, formulate thoughts, draw carefully reasoned conclusions and communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences. Equally important is the majors' broad contextual understanding of the history and sweep of human ideas. W&M graduates apply their skills and knowledge in a wide range of endeavors. Many gravitate toward careers in business, marketing, editing, writing and teaching at the elementary and secondary levels. A substantial number go on to graduate-level study in a field related to English with the goal of entering the professoriate or pursue a professional degree in journalism, medicine, law or librarianship.
Alumni & Friends
We love hearing from alumni, so please send us your news!
Support English
Your contribution to the Department of English will help our faculty members provide our students with the best possible learning experiences.
Contact The Department of English
English
Mailing Address
Department of English William & Mary P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
Contact Us
- Phone: 757-221-7483
- Fax: 757-221-1844
- Email: english@wm.edu
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.