Shaping the World with Words
Why study English?
Literature in English embodies a high level of creative insight into human behaviours, preoccupations, politics and passions. English at Otago teaches the arts of reading and writing in an integrated way, by studying and discussing literary texts, and by practising the techniques of writing.
By learning about language from its best practitioners, students gain critical skills that are valued by employers, governments and educationalists; skills that are essential for people taking an active role in an open society.
By immersing yourself in literature, you will gain a unique understanding of the roots of society and its cultures and also develop your own powers of analysis, creativity and imagination.
English at Otago
The department teaches almost forty undergraduate courses, covering a diverse range of historical periods, literary styles, and national literatures.
Teaching in the department is informed by the latest research. All members of the Department of English and Linguistics are actively engaged in research and publish leading contributions in their fields.
Detailed information about English papers.
Career opportunities
English develops key skills in critical thinking, cultural awareness, and communication, which are essential in all workplaces, and are increasingly sought after by employers.
Our graduates are working as editors, copy-writers and in publishing, as creative writers or journalists, teachers, librarians and educational administrators. English graduates may be found in the public services, as analysts, diplomats, politicians, and policy-makers. Others have become ministers of religion, arts administrators, and broadcasters.
