Fall 2025
As Chair of the Department of English, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our vibrant intellectual community. Our department, one of the oldest and most distinguished in the nation, stands at the forefront of literary studies, creative writing, and writing instruction, fostering an environment where rigorous scholarship and innovative creativity thrive side by side.
Our faculty members are internationally recognized scholars and authors, whose work spans centuries of literature and pushes the boundaries of contemporary critical theory and creative writing. From medieval manuscripts to postcolonial narratives, from environmental humanities to queer studies, our research and teaching cover a rich tapestry of literary traditions and emerging fields. Our location in the culturally rich corridor between New York City and Philadelphia provides unique opportunities for engagement with diverse communities of artists, scholars, publishers and editors.
Our nationally recognized graduate program, consistently ranked among the top in the country, is designed to nurture the next generation of scholars, critics, and writers. We offer a supportive yet challenging environment where students engage with cutting-edge research methodologies and develop their own scholarly voices. Our seminars encourage lively debate and collaborative thinking, while our mentorship programs provide individualized guidance for academic and professional development.
The department's commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. We host an array of lectures, workshops, and conferences that bring leading thinkers and writers to our historic College Avenue campus. Many of these are hosted at our Center for Cultural Analysis, which plays a crucial role in fostering innovative research and promoting dialogue across disciplinary boundaries. We recently opened the Scarlet Letterpress, a unique humanities makerspace designed to bring scholars and artists together for hands-on study of the material history of books and bookmaking. Our renowned reading series, Writers at Rutgers, which is open to the public, showcases outstanding work from established and emerging voices in poetry and fiction, leveraging the renown of our creative writing faculty.
For our alumni, the connection to our department doesn't end at graduation. We take pride in the accomplishments of our former students, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers in academia, publishing, law, and various other fields. We encourage ongoing engagement through our alumni network and events, celebrating the rich history of Rutgers English graduates.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of higher education and the humanities, our department remains committed to the enduring value of literary study. We believe in the power of language to illuminate the human experience, challenge assumptions, and inspire change. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion reflects Rutgers' broader mission as a public institution serving the diverse population of New Jersey and beyond.
Whether you are a prospective student, a curious visitor, or a returning alumnus, I invite you to explore our website and discover the wealth of opportunities our department offers. Join us in our ongoing conversation about literature, culture, and the vital role of the humanities in our world, here at the flagship campus of New Jersey's premier public university.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Rutgers English community.
Brad Evans
Professor and Chair