Languages and Literature

Why Languages and Literature at APSU?

The Department of Languages and Literature promotes the value of language learning, good writing, critical thinking, and an informed appreciation of literature to our students, the university, and the community. As one of the largest departments at Austin Peay State University, we offer:

• Expert Faculty: 34 full-time, diverse faculty members, including several award-winning teachers.

• Personalized Learning: Small class sizes ensure individual attention and mentorship.

• Versatile Programs: 8 degree concentrations to match your interests and career goals.

• Global Perspective: Many study abroad and language immersion opportunities.

Explore Our Programs

Our Mission

Because words matter, the Department of Languages and Literature is dedicated to engaging students with the power of spoken and written words. Through inspired teaching and scholarly and creative achievement, we foster critical thinking and an understanding and appreciation of how languages are foundational to cultures, and how literature illuminates and reflects those cultures. We work to strengthen cross-cultural literacy by showing that languages and literature play to and through each other, helping students locate their own voice and power.

Meet our Faculty

Programs of Study

The Department offers comprehensive educational pathways for students at all levels.

Josh Rees

World Language – Spanish

---

My professors at Austin Peay have always asked me to think about how I can take what I’m already good at and use that to help a bigger group of people than I have before.

Madison Hobson

English

---

Being a Governor means so much more to me than a mascot; it means that I have the power to bring change and be change.

Nicholas Lee

English

---

How can I make myself better and what kind of person do I want to be in 10 years? It’s not about what things will I have, but what kind of person do I want to be?

Beyond the Classroom

Our faculty and students actively participate in a variety of enriching programs:

• African-American Studies

• Honors Program

• International Studies

• Women's and Gender Studies

• Study-abroad and exchange programs

• Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts

The Department and the Center of Excellence regularly bring major literary figures to campus as lecturers, readers, and writers-in-residence. Notable visitors have included Maxine Kumin, Galway Kinnell, Gwendolyn Brooks, Richard Wilbur, Allen Ginsberg, Carolyn Forche, David Bradley, and Gary Snyder.

Explore Opportunities

Zone 3 Literary Journal

Through the Center for Creative Arts, our creative writing program publishes Zone 3, a literary journal that showcases fiction, poetry, and nonfiction from emerging and established writers.

Our Home in Harned Hall

The Department is located in Harned Hall, the oldest campus building, saved from destruction in 1988 by faculty, students, and townspeople. Formerly a women's dormitory, Harned was converted into a modern facility equipped with the latest technologies while preserving its historic character.

Schedule a Campus Visit