Students in the literature program have the extraordinary opportunity to hear and meet a wide variety of writers. Most authors stay for a few days, giving readings, attending receptions, visiting classes, and meeting with graduate students. Other major writers join the faculty for two-year terms.<br><br>Class sizes range from five to 15 students, providing ample opportunity for interaction with faculty. Students select courses from a wide range of topics, periods, and genres. Regular offerings range from Anglo-Saxon literature to contemporary poetry, drama, fiction, and film. Students may choose a minor from a variety of other graduate programs, or they may choose an area of emphasis from a number of specialties. In addition to more traditional literary studies, specialties include, among many others, women's studies, African American literature, Chicano/Chicana literature, critical theory, children's literature, composition theory and practice, technical communication, and studies in the American Southwest.