English: Literary Theory and History Concentration, BA
As a Literary Theory and History emphasis, you’ll also gain a fundamental understanding of literature’s role in human society, as well as the diverse critical lenses scholars use to interpret and understand literature. How does a Marxist reading of To Kill A Mockingbird enhance the book’s themes and ideas? What about a Feminist interpretation? Or a psychological one? Your studies will culminate with an original work of literary scholarship, as you employ the skills you have refined throughout your time here.
Graduates from our program are well-positioned for competitive master's degrees and Ph.D. programs. Others have gone on to careers in entertainment, tech, law, education, and more.
Learn More About Our Program
Get to know our well-respected faculty and their academic specialties. Or explore scholarship opportunities and an array of internship possibilities.
Curriculum
What can you do with a degree in English: Literary Theory and History Concentration?
A degree in Literary Theory and History strengthens close reading, historical contexting, and argumentation—preparing you to analyze culture and communicate clearly across many fields. Some careers may require graduate study or professional certification.
Literary Editor
Shape manuscripts for clarity, coherence, and voice; guide authors through developmental and line edits.
Publishing / Acquisitions Assistant
Evaluate submissions, write reader reports, coordinate copyediting and production schedules.
Research Assistant (Humanities / Policy)
Locate and synthesize primary/secondary sources; produce literature reviews and concise briefs.
Cultural Critic / Essayist
Write criticism grounded in theory and history for magazines, journals, or digital platforms.
Archivist / Special Collections Assistant
Organize and describe historical materials; support preservation and access (often requires MLIS).
Museum / Public Humanities Educator
Translate scholarship into exhibits, labels, and programs for diverse audiences.
Professor
Teach college-level English courses about literature, writing, media, and theory.
Technical / Professional Writer
Turn complex information into clear documentation, reports, and standards.
Communications Strategist
Craft evidence-based narratives for organizations; manage messaging across web, email, and print.
Librarian / Information Specialist
Curate collections, teach research skills, and support information literacy (MLIS typically required).
Saint Mary's Testimonials
The faculty at Saint Mary's definitely changed my life. There was a lot of support that I don't think I would have found in a larger college setting. They grew to know me and what I was capable of. I felt like there was a definite kinship that developed where, however much effort I gave in my classes, my teachers were also supporting my goals.
Amanda Benson, '06
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