BU's Department of English supports the growth of English as a profession and develops students' critical reading and writing skills. The department seeks to provide students with opportunities to analyze diverse literatures; an understanding of how language functions; knowledge of multiple interpretive tools; and the ability to use language creatively and powerfully for exposition, persuasion, and artistic effect.

The department offers a program where students can major in four possible concentrations: one which emphasizes literature and linguistics, one which emphasizes creative writing, one which emphasizes digital rhetoric and professional writing, and one which emphasizes secondary education.