Literature and Critical Analysis

Through courses in the Literature and Critical Analysis concentration, you cultivate:

• A high level of literacy through sustained exposure to and careful study of literary texts
• Analytic writing skills in reviewing primary texts and secondary sources and presenting theories and findings with evidence and documentation
• Improved skills in the advanced interpretation, including close reading, structural analysis of artistic works, and logical analysis
• A nuanced understanding of multiple ways of being in the world across time and space

You are encouraged either to explore genres across linguistic borders and historical periods or to attain a deep knowledge of particular regions or periods, extending across genres, in preparation for an independent senior “capstone” research essay. While nearly all of the courses are taught in English, Literature students often take courses in foreign languages or teaching English as a second language.

Concentration requirements

Minor requirements

Connecting to New York City

While it offers the atmosphere and intimacy of a small college, Eugene Lang College is part of The New School, a major progressive university in New York City. Lang students have opportunities to create and contribute to zines, podcasts, reading series, and literary and creative journals. The Literature and Critical Analysis concentration connects you to this world capital of literature, publishing, and media through:

• Class visits by well-known writers, literary publishers, practicing lawyers, archivists, and other New York City professionals
• Access to New York City's archives of rare books and manuscripts, such as the New York Public Library's Berg Collection and the holdings of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
• An internship program that places students with publishing houses, magazines, and other companies in NYC

Career Paths

Graduates are prepared to pursue a wide range of fields, including editing and publishing, magazine writing and reviewing, writing and editing for digital media, government and nonprofit careers requiring advanced literary skills, and advertising, public relations, and corporate communications. Graduates can also go on to advanced studies in academic and professional fields.

Consult our 4-Year Lang Career Pathways Map (PDF) for helpful steps and resources to link your academic journey to your future plans. If you are planning to pursue graduate studies, consider applying to the Bachelor's-Master's program, which enables you to earn graduate credits that apply to both your Lang degree and a master's degree in Creative Publishing and Critical Journalism or in Liberal Studies at The New School for Social Research. 

Outcomes at Lang