Established in 1972, the Department of English focuses on providing a humanistic perspective to the study of language and literatures. Over the years the department has evolved as a centre for critical and creative thinking, fostering literary sensibilities, and providing a platform for open dialogues. The curriculum of English courses are shaped as a response to the contemporary challenges in the society, both cultural and professional, and introduces students to different literatures across genres and cultures. Some of the pioneering courses offered by the institution include media literacy, understanding development narratives, debates in the history of ideas covering language, caste, nation, business, politics and technology, debate and argumentation, academic writing, and thinking creativity. The department has also been offering open elective and certificate courses in cinema, and popular culture. In 2022, as the college transitioned into a multidisciplinary institution, the Department of English introduced the B.A. English and Psychology programme to explore the possibilities of interdisciplinary education.

The philosophical orientation of the department has been inspired by the Jesuit vision and mission of education, and shaped by the efforts of public intellectuals and creative teachers like Prof. G K Govind Rao and Prof. R Rajaram. The faculty members of the department come from a variety of socio-cultural backgrounds, and pursue diverse academic interests.

The pedagogic practices of the department envision learning through participating in continuous discussions and debates, both inside and outside the classroom. The focus is on allowing students to develop perspectives by articulating their experiences. The assessment, both summative and formative, emphasizes on the progress made in understanding experiences, and articulating them creatively through written and speaking assignments. Also, the ability to apply language skills in practical contexts are given equal weightage.

The department fosters special interest student associations and conducts activities, such as VIVIDHA – The SJCC Literary Fest, book exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops. It also encourages participative dialogue within the larger community through programmes like Republic Day Lecture Series, Seminars, Panel Discussions, and Colloquiums on topics of contemporary cultural and political significance.