Program Learning Outcomes
1) The ability to read texts closely
2) The ability to write clear and effective prose in accordance with conventions of standard English
3) The ability to write analytically about texts in accordance with the conventions of textual criticism
4) An understanding of how criticism as a practice gives rise to questions about how to conduct that practice, questions that are constitutive of the discipline: e.g., questions concerning what we should read, why we should read, and how we should read.
5) The ability to read texts in relation to history
6) An understanding of how texts are related to social and cultural categories (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, ability), enterprises (e.g., philosophy, science, and politics), and institutions (e.g., of religion, of education)
7) An understanding of how language as a system and linguistic change over time inform literature as aesthetic object, expressive medium, and social document
8) The ability to “join the conversation” that is always ongoing among critics and scholars regarding texts, authors, and topics engaging with secondary sources
9) An in-depth understanding of a single author, a small group of authors, or a narrowly-defined topic, theme, or issue
10) An understanding of the differences between and the requirements of genre (Creative Writing Track)
11) Knowledge of craft and technique in genres under study (Creative Writing Track)
12) Proficiency at critiquing peer and published work (Creative Writing Track)
13) Knowledge of elements, modes, and forms of chosen genre (Creative Writing Track)
14) The ability to incorporate criticism into revision of creative work (Creative Writing Track)
15) Proficiency at presenting work to readers in public readings, publication, or exhibits (Creative Writing Track)
16) An understanding of the process of revision, submission, publication (Creative Writing Track)
17) Knowledge of contemporary writers and literary journals (Creative Writing Track)