Prospective Students
From the undergraduate coordinator
Welcome! As the undergraduate coordinator I'm here to answer student questions about English. I help students decide whether they want to read English; how to choose the best courses to fulfil their major requirements; and how to transition from level 3 English to Honours. I also chair the English Staff/Student Liaison Committee, which allows students to make their ideas and concerns known to staff members.
Should I study for an English degree?
If you are considering whether or not to begin an English degree, I would be happy to talk with you. There is no special course of study required to begin entry-level courses, and you'll find that many of your high-school classes will give you the basic information you'll need for studying English at the university level. What you will need, however, is dedication and responsibility. You'll have to work hard at reading and writing; prepare for and attend lectures and tutorials; participate in class discussions; and act considerately to the people you work with. All of these things require you to assume responsibility for yourself and your education. Although the English staff is here to help you, the initiative and drive to complete your degree must come from you.
International students
We welcome international students and are happy to say that international enrolments have been increasing over the last few years. Students from abroad can study here temporarily for a semester or year as part of their education elsewhere. They can also decide to enrol and pursue their entire university career here. We try to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for all students, and Canterbury is a great place to learn about New Zealand culture through the courses we offer in New Zealand and Australian literature and postcolonial literatures.
I'm interested in more subjects than English alone – is this a problem?
English goes well with many other topics, and I'd be happy to discuss more interdisciplinary approaches with students who feel that's where their interests lie. We offer a number of cross-listed courses with American Studies and Cultural Studies, and Film Studies is now affiliated with us as well.
You sound helpful, but how do I find you?
My office is English 306, on the third floor of the English building. My office hours vary from semester to semester, but they will always be posted on my office door. You are also welcome to email me at dan.bedggood@canterbury.ac.nz to make an appointment to meet and discuss your questions.
Dr Daniel Bedggood
Undergraduate Coordinator