Why study English?

In a world resounding to the continuous drumbeat of “STEM, STEM, STEM,” to study English is to strike out on one's own.

We are a community of students and faculty dedicated to the skillful reading and writing of texts in a variety of genres, both creative and expository. Classes are small and our faculty members pride themselves on the excellence of their classroom instruction and the lasting relationships they make with their students. High-quality instruction, internship opportunities, and the opportunity to tailor the major to your intellectual and professional interests are only part of the story though.

Learn more about the value of a degree in English.

News

“Remembering Paule: A Photo Memoir of Her Richmond Years” chronicles the friendship of Daryl Cumber Dance and Paule Marshall, the first tenured Black professors in the VCU Department of English. The photo on the cover was taken in March 1995 at Howard University when Dance and Marshall attended Toni Morrison’s gala establishing The Sterling A. Brown Chair.

March 15, 2024

In new book, Daryl Cumber Dance chronicles her ties to revered author and VCU colleague Paule Marshall

Photo memoir by retired English professor documents a friendship and legacy that the ‘truth warriors’ nurtured for decades.

Author and VCU alum Jeffrey Blount visited Cabell Library to discuss his new novel, “Mr. Jimmy from Around the Way.” (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Feb. 29, 2024

VCU alum Jeffrey Blount shares the inspiration for his new novel – and a life lesson that still resonates

Author and 1981 graduate highlights panel discussion about creativity, redemption and the power of connection.

Cristina Stanciu, Ph.D., director of the Humanities Research Center at VCU, will serve a four-year term on the advisory board of the Consortium of Humanities Centers and Institutes. (File photo)

Feb. 23, 2024

Cristina Stanciu, director of VCU’s Humanities Research Center, elected to advisory board of global consortium

She will provide intellectual leadership and nurture collaboration tied to prominent issues of public concern.

English Spotlight