Students who minor in English study literature and other forms of verbal expression, literary history and criticism, critical theory, linguistics, and creative writing. Courses offered by the department explore a wide range of discourses written in English--from around the globe, as well as from Britain and America--including poetry, drama, fiction, film, popular culture, and electronic media. Students begin their studies, ideally in their sophomore year, with the department's methods course (ENGL 3001W), progress to taking Shakespeare (ENGL 3007 or a department-approved Shakespeare in London course), and two surveys in British and American literature (selected from ENGL 3003W, 3004W, 3005W, and 3006W). In addition, students choose at least one English elective course (3 to 4 credits of 3xxx or higher in ENGL, ENGC, or ENGW). The methods course--ENGL 3001W--provides minors with skills in close and critical reading, the background in history and culture, and multiple approaches to literary works that will guide their continued studies. Shakespeare and the British and American literature surveys situate literary works in historical, cultural, and theoretical perspective.

The equivalent of one course in independent study work may be applied to the minor. Coursework completed elsewhere may be counted toward the minor only with department approval. Students must take at least two of the 3xxx minor courses in the Department of English at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus. Students may earn a B.A. or a minor in English, but not both.