Literature | Academic Requirements | Minor in English and Comparative Literature | Courses: 1000–2999 | Courses: 3000–3999 | Courses: 4000–4999 | Faculty

The Literature B.A. Program:
Academic Requirements

In addition to meeting general degree requirements, literature majors must complete a minimum of nine literature courses, plus an 8-credit senior project, as outlined below (at least 42 credits total).

Of the nine courses:

  • LIT 1520/Introduction to Literature is strongly recommended for freshmen considering the literature major.
  • No more than two may be taken through the School of Liberal Studies & Continuing Education, with permission of advisor.
  • At least five must be at the 3000 or 4000 level.
  • At least four must be taken at Purchase College.

Required courses:

  1. LIT 2450/Colloquium I: Studies in Literature
    Generally taken in the second year; transfer students who want to major in literature must complete this course during their first semester at Purchase.
  2. Three courses in the literature sequence (courses that emphasize issues of history and period): One each from sequence I (before 1750), II (1750–1900), and III (1900–present)
  3. LIT 4450/Colloquium II: Advanced Studies in Literature
    Generally taken in the second semester of the junior year.
  4. LIT 4885/Senior Project Seminar
  5. LIT 4990/Senior Project in Literature

Additional notes for literature majors:

  1. All courses taken to satisfy major requirements must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
  2. Certain courses in both drama studies and language and culture may fulfill the requirements. These courses are cross-referenced under the literature courses.
  3. Students may count toward the major up to 8 credits of writing courses (LWR prefix) at the 3000 or 4000 level. Writing courses at the 2000 level may not be counted toward the major requirements.

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Course Sequences for the Major in Literature



For current majors:
Literature B.A. Tracking Sheet and Graduation Application
In consultation with your faculty advisor, use this handy form to keep track of the courses you need to graduate!