The change in status of several State Universities (Perguruan Tinggi Negeri or PTN), which were previously designated as State Universities with Legal Entity Status under Government Regulation Number 153 of 2000, returning to regular State University status, has led Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) to review and update its Tri Dharma policies. In response to this shift, all institutional bodies at UGM, especially those involved in academic activities such as faculties, study programs, and related units, are working to adapt, anticipate challenges, and implement appropriate strategies to ensure that the quality of education remains high despite these evolving conditions.

In line with UGM’s broader mission, the English Literature Study Program in the Faculty of Cultural Sciences is also taking strategic steps to align with the new paradigm of university governance. Guided by the Long-Term Higher Education Development Framework (KPPT-JP) and UGM’s Strategic Plan for 2008 to 2012, which provide general direction and guidance, the Study Program has carried out evaluations across various aspects of its academic performance. These evaluations show that the program’s performance and learning processes can be further improved by restructuring the curriculum and developing better human resource planning.

Curriculum improvement focuses on creating a more coherent and continuous learning experience to strengthen graduate competencies. This includes reducing the number of compulsory courses to allow for more focus and depth, while increasing the number of elective courses to give students greater flexibility and specialization opportunities.

The requirement to write a thesis as a Final Project remains an essential element of the English Literature Study Program. It has proven effective in enhancing students’ reasoning and analytical skills. However, this process can be improved through better scheduling, more efficient supervision, and increased academic support for thesis preparation. It is important to remember that while the thesis is a key component of academic development, it is not the ultimate goal of the learning process.

To address various challenges in teaching and learning, the English Literature Study Program is currently developing a New Curriculum. This initiative is based on a thorough self-evaluation, along with directions from UGM’s Strategic Plan and the Rector’s Decree Number 581/P/SK/HT/2010. The New Curriculum also aims to reflect the aspirations of stakeholders by thoughtfully integrating both academic vision and practical relevance to the job market. The availability of resources, including lecturers, students, and funding, is also considered in the development process.

The goal of this New Curriculum is to enhance graduate competencies through a competency-based approach. It is designed to help students respond to and anticipate rapid changes in society. The curriculum also serves as a flexible foundation for those who intend to pursue further studies or engage in various professional and community-based activities, both within Indonesia and abroad. The English Literature Study Program hopes that if implemented effectively, this curriculum will lead to greater efficiency and impact in the learning process.

In addition, the curriculum provides a clear understanding of the term “English Literature” as stated in the program’s name and vision. “English Literature” refers to literature written in English, with a primary focus on British and American literary traditions. Meanwhile, “English Language” refers to English as a global means of communication. This includes the development of language skills such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as the study of components like vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. It also includes linguistic studies, language acquisition methods, and assessment practices.

The study of English Literature is highly relevant to Indonesia’s national development. Through specific language strategies, literary works represent, reflect, critique, reformulate, and question various aspects of human life, including culture, law, politics, economy, society, religion, and education. To study literature is, in effect, to study these dimensions of life. This is particularly important for Indonesia, where literature plays a significant and universal role in promoting cultural understanding and critical awareness.