Literature Major

Program Description: Literature Major at American University in Bulgaria

The Literature Major at American University in Bulgaria offers students a comprehensive exploration of diverse literary traditions, critical theories, and cultural contexts from around the world. This interdisciplinary program is designed to cultivate students' analytical, interpretive, and expressive skills through robust coursework in both classical and contemporary literature, including fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction texts. Students engage deeply with texts from different historical periods and geographical regions, fostering a nuanced understanding of the cultural, social, and political forces that shape literary production.

The curriculum emphasizes close reading, critical thinking, and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in education, publishing, journalism, cultural management, and beyond. Students have the opportunity to participate in creative writing workshops, literary analysis seminars, and interdisciplinary projects, allowing them to develop their own voice as writers and thinkers. The program also encourages engagement with contemporary issues such as identity, migration, and globalization through the lens of literary studies.

Faculty members are accomplished scholars and practitioners dedicated to mentoring students and fostering an inclusive academic community. The program often collaborates with local cultural institutions, offering internships and experiential learning opportunities that connect students with the vibrant Bulgarian literary and arts scene. Graduates of the Literature Major emerge equipped not only with a profound appreciation for literary arts but also with transferable skills in critical analysis, research, and communication, empowering them to succeed in various professional environments or pursue advanced studies.

Overall, the Literature Major at American University in Bulgaria provides a rigorous, intellectually stimulating environment for students passionate about texts and ideas, aiming to develop informed global citizens who appreciate the power of literature to inspire, challenge, and transform society.

Required Courses (6 courses): 

ENG 210: Introduction to Literature
ENG 388: Shakespeare 

Four (4) courses from the following: 

ENG 231 World Literature: Landmark Texts 
ENG 232 World Literature: Literatures in Translation
ENG 241 American Literature: Beginnings to 1865
ENG 242 American Literature: 1865 to Present
ENG 251 British Literature: Beginnings to 1785
ENG 252 British Literature: 1785 to Present 

Elective Courses (6 courses): 

One (1) from each of the following topics courses: 

ENG 340 Topics in American Literature 
ENG 350 Topics in British Literature
ENG 360 Topics in Literary Theory and Criticism 

Three (3) additional courses from the following: 

ENG 205 Creative Writing: Fiction
ENG 206 Creative Writing: Poetry
ENG 220 Film Criticism
ENG 221 Screenwriting
ENG 231 World Literature: Landmark Texts
ENG 232 World Literature: Literatures in Translation
ENG 241 American Literature: Beginnings to 1865
ENG 242 American Literature: 1865 to Present
ENG 251 British Literature: Beginnings to 1785
ENG 252 British Literature: 1785 to Present
ENG 260 Balkan Literature
ENG 300 The Bible as Literature
ENG 311 Public Speaking
ENG 340 Topics in American Literature* 
ENG 350 Topics in British Literature*
ENG 360 Topics in Literary Theory and Criticism*
ENG 370 Genre and Topical Studies*
ENG 371 History, Memory, and Narrative in Contemporary Balkan Cinema
ENG 380 Major Authors* 

The Literature Major at the American University in Bulgaria requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop their understanding of literary traditions, critical analysis skills, and cultural awareness. Students must enroll in a core set of courses that include Introduction to Literary Studies, which offers foundational knowledge of literary analysis, and History of Literary Movements, covering major epochs from antiquity to modern times. The program emphasizes the development of strong analytical and interpretive skills through courses like Literary Theory and Critical Writing.

Students are also encouraged to take a diverse selection of electives that span different genres, including Poetry, Drama, Fiction, and Non-fiction, as well as courses focused on specific regions or periods such as American Literature, European Literature, and Postcolonial Studies. In addition, the program includes language courses to strengthen students’ reading and interpretive abilities in original texts. A certain number of credits must be earned through participation in literary workshops, seminars, and independent research projects.

To complete their degree requirements, students must undertake a senior thesis or capstone project that demonstrates their mastery in literary analysis and research methodologies. The program promotes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, philosophy, and cultural studies to deepen understanding. Internships and study abroad opportunities are also available to enhance practical experience and global perspective. Overall, the Literature Major aims to prepare students for careers in academia, publishing, journalism, and other fields requiring advanced communication and analytical skills. The program's curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to include contemporary literary developments and pedagogical best practices, ensuring students receive a rigorous and relevant education.

The American University in Bulgaria offers a range of financing options to support students pursuing a Literature Major. Undergraduate students can apply for merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of tuition and are renewable annually contingent upon maintaining certain academic standards. Additionally, the university provides need-based financial aid for eligible students demonstrating financial necessity. Applicants must submit detailed financial documentation to be considered for these grants, which are designed to make education accessible to a diverse student body.

Furthermore, students have access to work-study programs that allow them to earn part-time income while completing their studies. These on-campus employment opportunities include positions in administrative offices, library services, or student support services, providing valuable work experience alongside academic pursuits. External scholarships and grants are also available from international organizations, foundations, and government agencies for qualified Bulgarian and international students. The university maintains a dedicated financial aid office that assists students in identifying and applying for these external funding sources.

In addition to scholarships and financial aid, many students utilize private loans to finance their education. The university offers guidance on responsible borrowing and connects students with reputable lending institutions. Students are encouraged to explore all financial options early in their academic planning process to ensure they can fully benefit from the university’s programs without financial hardship. Overall, the American University in Bulgaria strives to provide transparent, accessible, and comprehensive financing options to support students in achieving their academic and personal goals within the Literature Major program.

The Literature Major at the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) offers students an in-depth exploration of literary traditions, critical theories, and the cultural contexts of various historical periods. The program is designed to foster analytical thinking, interpretative skills, and a comprehensive understanding of diverse literary works from different genres and regions. Students have the opportunity to study American, European, and other world literatures, engaging with classic and contemporary texts that shape and reflect societal values and human experiences. The curriculum includes courses in literary theory, criticism, creative writing, and specialized seminars focusing on specific authors, movements, or themes.

AUBG's Literature Major emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, encouraging students to develop their own voice through writing and research projects. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, publishing, media, arts administration, and further academic pursuits. Students benefit from small class sizes and close interaction with faculty members who are accomplished scholars and writers dedicated to mentoring and guiding their academic journey. The university's campus environment fosters a multilingual, multicultural setting, enriching the study of literature by exposing students to diverse perspectives and global literary traditions.

Internship opportunities, study abroad programs, and participation in literary festivals and conferences further enhance students’ academic experience and professional readiness. The program also promotes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating studies of history, philosophy, and cultural studies to deepen students’ understanding of literature's role in society. Ultimately, the Literature Major at AUBG prepares students for thoughtful engagement with texts and ideas, equipping them with critical, analytical, and creative skills essential for a broad range of careers or advanced scholarly work.