BA in Literary Studies in New York United States | The New School

New York City has served as a global hub for writing, publishing, bookselling, and creative professions for generations. The Literary Studies program helps students refine their writing and editing abilities while analyzing literary works—including novels, poetry, essays, plays, memoirs, epics, and mysteries—through lenses of craftsmanship, historical context, psychological interpretation, textual criticism, political theory, technological influences, and cultural examination.
Those drawn to Literary Studies begin with foundational Literature and Writing courses before specializing in one or both disciplines. By their junior year, all students complete two cornerstone courses that survey significant texts spanning ancient to modern eras, establishing shared literary knowledge and analytical frameworks.
Graduates often find opportunities in publishing houses, media outlets, digital platforms, and library systems. Career paths include professional writing, nonprofit work, journalism, bookselling, education, and advanced studies in English literature, comparative literature, or creative writing.

Prospective graduate students may explore the combined Bachelor's-Master's program, allowing them to apply graduate credits toward both their Lang undergraduate degree and a New School master's program.