Discover the power of language and imagination.

At IC, studying English opens the door to dynamic opportunities that blend creative expression with in-depth training in literary analysis and critical interpretation. Whether you're drawn to writing, storytelling, or exploring the nuances of language, our program empowers you to think deeply, write boldly, and engage meaningfully with the world around you.
Chris Holmes speaks at the New Voices Literary Festival
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Find the latest news, events, and highlights in our department blog. 

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Exploring Worlds Through Words

In IC's Department of Literatures in English, you'll dive deep into the richness of language—from classic works of English and American literature to poetry, dramatic texts, autobiographies, science fiction, mysteries, critical theory, African American and global ethnic literatures, and a great deal more. You'll be exposed to what is regarded as the canon of English literature as well as to literatures that speak from cultural, racial, or economic margins.

English majors come from all walks of life, united by a fascination for the way in which human experience takes shape in and through language. Studying English equips you with essential skills: reading intelligently and critically and writing clearly and persuasively. It also invites you to ponder questions raised by contemporary literary theory, such as

• How do readers shape meaning in a text?
• What happens when different interpretations collide?
• In what ways does literature both reflect and shape history and culture?

Beyond mastering content, English majors learn to embrace nuance, question assumptions, and see complexity as a strength. You'll move beyond easy answers to discover the power of asking better questions.

Alexis Becker teaches a class
What to Expect

You can look forward to participating in small, animated classes that emphasize group discussion and active student involvement. You may also choose to challenge yourself by participating in seminars or working individually with faculty members on subjects of mutual interest in independent studies and honors projects. In the past, our students have investigated such topics as “Race and Slavery in the American Novel,” “Incarnations of Helen of Troy in Literature,” and “Shakespeare's Body.”

Many English majors choose to participate in events sponsored by Omega Psi, our local chapter of the Sigma Tau Delta international English honor society. Our students have also presented work at national conferences and published in regional and national undergraduate journals. 

Apply to Ithaca College Today

Join our community of curious, ambitious students and faculty as we learn and work together. The application process for Fall 2026 is now open. 

Take the First Step
Careers in English

An English major provides an excellent foundation for innumerable career choices. Some of our majors become secondary school teachers, while others go on to graduate school or to professional schools for degrees in English, law, public administration, and other fields. Some enter service programs such as the Peace Corps or Teach for America, and many others go directly into the work world after receiving their bachelor’s degrees. Our graduates have become journalists, writers, editors, managers, and consultants. One recent graduate is now an administrative assistant for the Arts and Business Council in New York City; another was hired as the director of public relations for Baume and Mercier; a third is presently in charge of marketing for the Child Welfare League of America. 

Whatever their chosen career path, English majors leave us having been trained to understand the challenges of communication and interpretation in a world that speaks in many voices. An English major prepares students to enter that conversation with inquisitiveness, sensitivity, and imagination. 

Explore Our Curriculum

From surveys to seminars, explore our full curriculum spanning centuries of literary tradition and contemporary voices.

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Meet Our Community

Connect with the professors, researchers, and staff who bring expertise in every corner of literary studies.

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Where Literature Takes You

From PhD programs to teaching positions, publishing careers, and legal practice – see where our degree leads.

Read Alumni/-ae Stories

Contact the Department of English

Jennifer Spitzer • Associate Professor & Chair
jspitzer@ithaca.edu

Kenesha Chatman • Administrative Assistant
kchatman@ithaca.edu

309 Muller Center

607-274-3146