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The study of literature as embodied in the English major has a number of goals: to familiarize the student with the work of important writers; to introduce her to the individual and cultural values, ideas, debates, and insights woven into literature; and to sharpen her understanding of the English language. Repeated practice in thinking, writing, and speaking about literary texts is a way of helping the student discover her own voice, develop her skills of critical analysis, and gain confidence in herself as an independent thinker.
The student majoring in English learns to read with discernment, an ability that can enrich her for the rest of her life. At the same time she develops pragmatic skills that will serve her well in the world of the professions. Simmons English majors have gone on to successful careers in college teaching, law, publishing, journalism, advertising, business, government service, high technology, and secondary education.