Writing, Literary & Cultural Studies Division

In this age of information, we are constantly flooded with data and stimuli—we live in globalized, technologized communities. The Division of Writing, Literary, and Cultural Studies develops in students the ability to write effectively, to communicate clearly, to evaluate critically, and to understand the complexities of the modern world. In order to make informed choices and intelligent decisions, students must analyze all types of media with confidence.

Offering a wide variety of courses, the Division offers rigorous training in academic programs like English, Cultural Studies, and Theatre, where the focus is on close reading and thorough interpretations of English, American, African American, and World literature texts. And in the 21st Century, students do not only read traditional texts such as novels, short stories, plays, and poetry but also movies, television, music, and other products of popular culture. Technical Theatre connects naturally with Professional Communication, Broadcast Journalism, and Communication Theory. In addition, new programs in Latina/o Studies, Film Studies, and Middle Eastern Studies encourage students to study current world issues. In each program within the Division, students learn specific methods of critical analysis as well as contemporary theory, and are challenged to express complicated ideas clearly and concisely.

Courses ranging from 100-level survey courses to upper-level seminars provide students with the tools to decipher the messages and texts in their interconnected communities. Seniors benefit from the 400-level research based, year-long independent study project under the direction of a faculty tutor, demonstrating their ability to research, understand, and master knowledge in their specific field of study.

At the undergraduate levels, students can refine their writing and critical thinking skills by completing minors in Writing, Creative Writing, or Professional Writing. At the graduate levels, students may pursue the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing or the very exciting Online Master of Professional Writing (MPW). These graduate programs enhance the Division’s undergraduate offerings, and provide further skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in writing. Underclasswomen may take an MFA or MPW class for undergraduate credit. Chatham also features a 3-2 integrated degree program in Creative Writing, allowing talented students the opportunity to complete both the undergraduate BA and graduate MFA degrees in five years.

Study within the Division of Writing, Literary and Cultural Studies gives students an advantage when looking for not just the first job but also the second, third, and fourth job. With a background in this strong Division, students are equipped to succeed in many professional or academic pursuits, including law, business, teaching, writing, and graduate school. Analytical writing, critical reading, independent research, and professional presentation and expression are fundamental.