University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational coursework in literary history and language with advanced seminars, writing practice and elective study across periods and genres. Early courses typically cover close reading, introduction to literary analysis, and the study of rhetoric and composition. Upper-division options allow you to specialise in areas such as American literature, British and comparative literature, world literatures, literary theory, linguistics, digital humanities, and creative writing.

• Core skills: textual analysis, research methods, academic and professional writing, argumentation and critical theory.
• Typical modules: Introduction to Literary Studies; Shakespeare and Early Modern Literature; Nineteenth- and Twentieth-Century American Literature; Contemporary World Literature; Literary Theory; Rhetoric and Composition; Introduction to Linguistics; Creative Writing workshops (fiction, poetry); Studies in Race, Gender and Literature; Digital Humanities and Literary Data.
• Capstone and research: Many students complete a senior seminar, project or honours thesis that emphasises independent research, archival work or longer creative projects under faculty supervision.
• Learning formats: discussion-based seminars, lecture courses, writing workshops, independent study and opportunities for undergraduate research, internships and study abroad.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions weigh your overall academic record, strength of coursework in English and the humanities, writing samples or essays, and other aspects of your application. CU Boulder operates a holistic review process and has a test-optional policy for standardised tests; check the university's admissions page for current guidance.

• Recommended preparation: substantial coursework in English language, literature and writing; strong reading and essay-writing skills demonstrated in transcripts and application materials.
• International applicants: must meet equivalent secondary qualifications and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or university-approved alternatives if required.
• Transfer students: credit from community college or other institutions is considered; consult departmental advisors about transferability of previous coursework and major planning.

Career prospects

A degree in English from CU Boulder prepares graduates for a broad range of careers that value communication, critical thinking and analysis. Graduates commonly move into roles in publishing, journalism, content strategy, marketing and public relations, education, nonprofit and public sector work, and law. Many pursue postgraduate study in English, creative writing, library and information science, education, or law.

• Editorial and publishing assistant, literary agent, copy editor
• Journalist, content writer, digital content strategist
• Communications, public relations and marketing roles
• Secondary school teacher or education specialist (with appropriate certification)
• Graduate study and academic careers in humanities disciplines
• Legal, policy and public service careers that require strong analytical writing skills

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder offers a departmental environment with close faculty-student interaction and a wide range of elective options across literature, language, rhetoric and creative writing. The university’s location in the Boulder–Denver region gives students access to a lively cultural scene, publishing and media internships, and community partnerships. Facilities such as the campus libraries and the writing centre support research and writing development, and the department encourages undergraduate research, study abroad and interdisciplinary study with related programmes in history, film, environmental humanities and digital media.

Students benefit from small seminar-style classes at the upper level, opportunities to present research and participate in literary events, and mentorship from faculty who publish and teach across diverse literary fields. The programme’s emphasis on adaptable communication and analytical skills makes it a solid foundation for both professional careers and further academic study.