The Literature programs in the Department of English Language and Literature focus on an understanding of the traditions, themes and dynamics of imaginative writing in English, within its various historical and cultural contexts. Students choose courses from a broad range of historically-organized courses, courses in literary genres, and courses in the history of language, criticism and theory. The Writing, Rhetoric and Discourse Studies program focuses on the theoretical, creative and practical applications of writing in and for a range of contexts. The Creative Writing program focuses on the craft of key literary genres, as well as the material and social contexts of creative writing. The Department aims in its programs to foster an informed and critical intelligence, a mastery of the best uses of language, and an appreciation for the social and personal centrality of powerful imaginative and expository writing across times and cultures.

The Department offers a BA Honours in English Language and Literature, a BA Honours in English and Creative Writing, a BA Honours in Writing, Rhetoric and Discourse Studies, a three-year program leading to the BA Pass degree in English Language and Literature or Writing, Rhetoric and Discourse Studies, a combined honours degree in English and Creative Writing and another subject, and combined honours and pass degrees in English Language and Literature and another subject or Writing, Rhetoric and Discourse Studies and another subject. In addition, the Department offers courses on academic, creative and professional writing which are available as electives to all Brock students who wish to explore theories of language production and develop their creative and professional writing skills. The Department also offers a Minor in English Language and Literature and a Minor in Writing, Rhetoric and Discourse Studies as well as a Certificate in Rhetoric and Professional Writing.

Seminars (discussion groups) are the rule in all English Language and Literature courses, encouraging students to become active participants in the study of literary texts. Through close attention to essay assignments, students learn to write in convincing and disciplined ways.