Associate of Arts - English

Students completing the program will be able to... • Demonstrate knowledge of and familiarity with the methods of interpreting literature across genres. • Assess, evaluate, and analyze ideas expressed in text or in spoken language. • Create (write or present) coherent arguments that evidence clear prose and synthesize diverse bodies of knowledge. • Conceptualize, write, workshop, present for feedback, revise and edit an original text.

The English major at Diablo Valley College (DVC) offers students the opportunity to prepare for a broad range of professions through the study of language, literature, and composition, as well as the opportunity to transfer to UC, CSU, and other four-year colleges and universities to earn a bachelor’s degree. The English major curriculum at DVC hones a student’s critical thinking, reasoning, and communication skills as it also prepares students pursuing careers in law, government, business, entertainment (film, television, and theater), advertising, writing, editing, and education.

DVC’s English major consists of 21 units of study. Students are required to take 6 units of core reading and composition courses, where they will develop their ability to craft clear prose through writing, reading, and research. In addition, students are required to complete 9 units of core genre and survey courses, and 6 units of specialized literature and writing courses, thereby developing individual interests and breadth of knowledge.

The DVC English major is intended for transfer. Students who intend to transfer must consult with a program advisor or counselor to ensure that the requirements for transfer to four year institutions of their choice are met. students who intend to transfer are advised to select General Education Option 2 (IGETC) or Option 3 (CSU GE). Option 1 (DVC General Education) is not generally advised.

To earn an associate in arts degree with a major in English, students must complete each course used to meet a major requirement with a “C” grade or higher, maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher in the coursework required for the major and complete general education requirements as listed in the catalog. Certain courses may satisfy both major and general education requirements; however, the units are only counted once.