Literature Class

Bachelor of Arts in English, Literary Studies Concentration

Literary Studies: A Biblical View of Literature

The written word has shaped society for thousands of years. In this concentration, you’ll carefully read the stories that evidence the moral and ethical problems that the world has faced throughout its history. You’ll see that literature points to the soul’s need for Christ and that the Bible is the ultimate guide to understanding literature.

With its combination of grammar, writing, and literature courses, the literary studies concentration will also help you express your own ideas more clearly and correctly. Along the way, you’ll gain confidence in your critical thinking skills as you analyze famous works and practice framing and expressing opinions in response. You’ll come to understand the value of creative thinking and problem-solving.

Literary studies serve as an excellent starting point for a variety of careers and pairs well with nearly any other major or minor, which can broaden your experience even more. You’ll graduate as a well-spoken, well-read professional, equipped to enter fields like law, writing, business, and education, or even seek higher education to sharpen your skills further.


Faith-Based Literary Studies

The literary studies concentration will help build a solid biblical worldview that you can apply to what you read daily. You’ll draw closer to the Creator by studying the works of His greatest creation—man—and understanding man’s sin nature. In contrast, you’ll glimpse God’s orderliness in how He created language and allowed it to develop. By graduation, you’ll be equipped to defend truth, recognize beauty, and articulate what is good using both your own experience and your close analysis of great works.

Senior Presentation

Literary Studies Concentration
Learning Outcomes

As a literary studies graduate, you will be equipped to

  • differentiate between the Christian-traditional view of language and the linguistic view of language;
  • critique trends in the English language from a traditional-Christian perspective;
  • communicate effectively in written and oral presentations;
  • analyze literature in light of the Bible, the meaning of the text, and the work’s historical and biographical context; and
  • synthesize research findings to effectively substantiate claims in academic prose.

Program Highlights

HISTORY AND TRENDS OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

This comprehensive course (EN 362) gives a wide-reaching view of the English language—past, present, and future. You’ll understand the context behind changes and alterations built over time and learn to take a stand for traditional English grammar and usage. See how your philosophy of language not only affects your speech but also can change your perspective on society’s linguistic trends as you engage in in-depth discussions with your peers.

SENIOR LITERATURE RESEARCH PROJECT

All your English courses culminate in an in-depth, independent study (EN 441) of a literary work of your choice. Further hone your critical research, analysis, and communication skills as you investigate a significant classic work. This project will serve as your capstone, empowering you to confidently start your career.

Your Literary Studies Future

What can you do with a literary studies concentration?

After you graduate, your options are practically endless. Because you gain excellent communication skills, the ability to think critically, and a wealth of knowledge to pull from, your degree can open many professional doors for you in a variety of fields. You’ll grow into a well—rounded, flexible professional, ready to take on higher education or enter the workforce directly.

Here are a few of the countless career opportunities available to you.

  • Author
  • Copywriter
  • Editor
  • Lawyer
  • Librarian
  • Proofreader
  • Public Relations
  • Teacher

Faculty Highlight

Elizabeth Vinaja

Dr. Elizabeth Vinaja

B.A., M.S., Ed.S., Pensacola Christian College
Ed.D., Liberty University
Graduate study: University of South Alabama, Arizona State University


“What I love the most about being an English teacher at PCC is seeing our students deepen their relationship with the Lord because of what we have read and discussed in our English classes. It’s rewarding to watch them learn to think critically from a biblical perspective and see them grow as they apply what they’ve learned to their own lives.

The literary studies concentration provides a well-rounded education. In their literature classes, students learn universal truths, historical background, and biblical discernment. They learn to synthesize research findings to develop arguments and prove claims using logic and sound reasoning. Sometimes we wonder, ‘What can’t they do with this degree?’ Students graduate knowing how to think critically, write effectively, and speak correctly using Standard English—all essential skills for any future career.”

Read more about Dr. Vinaja
Meet more faculty

About the Literary Studies Concentration

The purpose of the literary studies concentration is for students to learn biblical discernment as they are exposed to literary works and authors who best exhibit the ideas and characteristics of their times.

Students can apply for scholarships to receive financial aid.
Career Fair

Literary Studies Career Support

With Career Services and Career Link, students can start making connections with employers while on campus during Career Fair events. These services provide tools and resources designed to empower you for your career.

Need help? Career Services staff are ready to assist you in researching employment opportunities, exploring job qualifications, and providing mock interviews and résumé support.