Bachelor's in English

The California Institute of Technology has a rich history of scientific and technological innovation and is globally acclaimed for its commitment to cutting-edge research. Caltech is known for its exceptional programs in science and engineering. The university offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, with an emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. What sets Caltech apart is its dedication to fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation. With a faculty composed of leading scholars and a remarkable record of scientific achievement, including numerous Nobel Prizes and groundbreaking discoveries, Caltech remains at the forefront of scientific exploration and technological advancement. Its commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge makes it a top choice for students seeking an education deeply rooted in scientific discovery and innovation.

The option in English provides students with a broad and intensive education in literature from the classical era to the present day across a range of national and cultural traditions, from ancient epic to African American fiction, contemporary poetry to early science fiction. Courses teach students to understand literary texts as rich, complex expressions of their own moment, embedded in the vital questions of identity, ethics, politics, and art that continue to shape the present day. English courses at Caltech invite undergraduate students to become familiar with a wide variety of literary forms, genres, and styles of expression; to understand how authors and texts can be shaped by historical contexts; to appreciate differences in literary expression across time periods and national and cultural traditions; to develop critical reading skills through analysis and interpretation of literary texts; and to become effective writers with facility in style, organization, and interpretive argument. English option students in particular have the chance to work closely with faculty and to carry out independent research, culminating in completion of a thesis.