Adelphi's program in English encourages students to discover the pleasures and values of the written word in their own writing and that of acknowledged artists. The program gives students as comprehensive and acquaintance as possible with the work of important writers and interesting writers. The program also provides a close look at the ways in which good writing gains its power.

The English curriculum emphasizes historical development by requiring students to take the three-semester survey called "Literature in English." Students must also take a course in literary criticism and theory called "Interpretive Theories and Methods."

The program offers two major tracks literature and creative writing. Each track produces the cultural reference and skill in using language artfully that are requisite in any profession—administration, advertising, journalism, law, library science, writing, teaching to name a few—in which language is the paramount tool. In addition, the creative writing track prepares students for advanced work in poetry, fiction, and playwriting.

Regardless of track, all English majors are required to take the following courses.

Course#	Course Title	Credits
ENG 231	Literature in English I	3 cr
ENG 232	Literature in English II	3 cr
ENG 233	Literature in English III	3 cr
ENG 250	Interpretive Theories & Methods	3 cr
	Three other courses in English	9 cr