to broaden and intensify the literary-critical skills and understanding attained by students at earlier levels, particularly where essay-writing and extra-literary issues are concerned;

to develop a sound knowledge and understanding of the set texts;

to acquire a representative knowledge of the evolution of 20th century women's fiction in a range of English-speaking countries, including Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand and the USA;

to acquire a knowledge of contemporary drama and poetry by Australian women;

to achieve a sound understanding of a range of feminist theories and an ability to apply them appropriately to literary texts;

to develop an awareness of women's spirituality as expressed in literature;

to achieve an understanding of the place of women's literature in society and an awareness of how literature and literary study contributes to women's self-conception and social positioning;

to develop an ability to analyse popular romance and science fiction writing relevant to women.