Program Overview
The Literature minor at Missouri Southern State University complements primary degrees, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and literary appreciation. It offers core courses in creative, professional, and technical writing, along with British, American, and World literature. Students can tailor their studies with elective options and benefit from faculty expertise, unique approaches, and career preparation in various fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Literature minor at Missouri Southern State University offers students an opportunity to deepen their understanding of literature and writing while complementing their primary degree. Designed for students with a keen interest in literature but pursuing other majors, this minor program fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and a broad appreciation for diverse literary works.
Objectives:
- Enhance students' knowledge and appreciation of British, American, and World literature.
- Develop advanced skills in creative, professional, and technical writing.
- Foster critical reading, analytical thinking, and interpretation abilities.
- Provide a solid foundation for further studies or careers related to literature, language, and communication.
Outline:
Program Content and Structure:
The Literature minor comprises a coherent sequence of courses tailored to students' interests and academic backgrounds. Students work closely with their departmental advisors to select courses that complement their major studies.
Core Courses:
- Creative writing, professional writing, advanced professional writing, technical writing, or advanced essay writing.
- British, American, and World literature courses (nine hours at the 300-400 level).
Elective Options:
- Additional literature courses from a wide range of genres and periods.
- Creative writing workshops.
- Literary criticism and theory courses.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program employs various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These may include:
- Written assignments, including essays, analytical papers, and creative writing pieces.
- Presentations.
- Class participation.
- Portfolio reviews.
- Standardized exams, as appropriate.
Assessment Criteria:
Assessments emphasize the following criteria:
- Critical analysis and interpretation skills.
- Knowledge of literary history, genres, and movements.
- Writing proficiency, including clarity, organization, and style.
- Research skills.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and engage students actively:
- Lectures and discussions.
- Workshops and collaborative activities.
- Guided readings and independent research.
- Technology-enhanced learning.
Faculty:
The program's faculty consists of experienced and dedicated scholars who are passionate about literature and committed to student success. They bring diverse expertise in various literary fields, including:
- British literature.
- American literature.
- World literature.
- Creative writing.
- Literary theory.
Unique Approaches:
- The program offers opportunities for students to connect with the broader literary community through events such as guest lectures, workshops, and open readings.
- Students are encouraged to join Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society, for networking, recognition, and scholarly opportunities.
- The department publishes bordertown, a creative arts magazine featuring student and faculty work.
Careers:
Career Paths:
The Literature minor prepares students for a wide range of careers by enhancing their communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Graduates may find opportunities in fields such as:
- Publishing.
- Editing.
- Writing and journalism.
- Education.
- Public relations.
- Library science.
- Marketing and advertising.
- Law.
- Non-profit organizations.