The Associate in Arts in English provides community college students practice in writing mechanics and text analysis in order to pursue the many professions that demand strong reading and writing skills. In addition to the core courses, ranging from developmental to transfer level, literature courses deepen student understanding of literary traditions and their relevant contexts, by exploring the motivations and creative processes of a variety of English-language writers. The diverse themes presented in English and Literature courses examine the economic, political, social justice issues affecting the nation and the world, and explore the contributions of groups traditionally marginalized by society. Completion of this curriculum will demonstrate commitment to the serious study of English and Literature in practice and in theory and will provide comprehensive preparation for upper-division work.