Norbert College alumni, 94 percent reported that learning to think critically was very important, if not essential, in preparing them for their personal and professional lives. 90 percent thought that learning to write effectively was just as important. Besides providing excellent preparation for those who wish to go on to graduate school, the English major offers more than a program. It offers am
ple opportunity for students to practice critical thinking, in part by developing writing skills. Literature courses encourage the exercise of critical judgment, and the following courses help students improve their ability to write well: Introduction to Literature, Advanced Critical Writing, Business Writing, Fiction Workshop, Poetry Workshop, Advanced Seminar in Creative Writing and Tutorial in Advanced Creative Writing. English majors who meet grade-point requirements may join Sigma Tau Delta, a national scholarly society for promoting English studies. Norbert chapter promotes literary celebrations, hosts discussion groups and sponsors the annual Literary Awards writing contest. Many English majors also contribute to Graphos, the College's literary magazine. Norbert College English instructors help students gain knowledge of the aesthetic and moral values reflected in literature and to acquire the skills of reading, writing, imagining and creating, which they will find useful and liberating in their lives. The aptly prepared English major has many professional and career options. Some minors related to English include American Studies, Classical Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies.
