• Degree Requirements

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  • This page outlines requirements for the major in Literary Studies (BA Literary Studies) with a concentration in Writing or Literature and Critical Analysis. Students in the Bachelor’s Program for Adults and Transfer Students (BPATS) who are interested in writing should consult their core faculty advisor. Undergraduates across the university can minor in Writing and in Literature and Critical Analysis

    Requirements for the BA in Literary Studies

    Faculty members in Literary Studies regard critical and theoretical writing as a process that is as creative as writing poetry, fiction, and drama. Only specific courses satisfy the major requirements, including electives. In choosing courses to meet requirements, students are encouraged to meet with Juan De Castro for questions about the Literature and Critical Analysis program and Jennifer Firestone for questions about the Writing program.

    Below are the general requirements for the degree in Literary Studies (BA Literary Studies). For specific concentration requirements within the BA, see the Literature and Critical Analysis Concentration or the Writing at Lang Concentration and download the appropriate worksheet below. See the university course catalog for fall 2025 Literary Studies courses that fulfill these requirements.

    Introductory courses:

    Other required courses:

    Senior Capstone:

    • Choose 1 of the following, by advisement (3–4 credits):
      • Individual Independent Senior Project
      • Senior seminar for chosen concentration. NOTE: Starting in 2022–2023, Literature and Critical Analysis Senior Seminars and Writing Senior Seminars will be offered only in spring semesters. Students pursuing Lang's Writing concentration should take Advanced courses no earlier than their fifth semester. 

    Total credits: 36–48 

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To apply to any of our undergraduate programs (except the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students and Parsons Associate of Applied Science programs) complete and submit the Common App online.

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To apply to any of our Master's, Doctoral, Professional Studies Diploma, and Graduate Certificate programs, complete and submit the New School Online Application.

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