The Career
When one thinks about English as a field of study, a few careers and options naturally come to mind, such as teaching, writing, editing or continued study in graduate school. But English is, in fact, a dynamic field that lends itself to many possible careers.
English majors develop critical thinking, communication and analytical skills that can be highly sought after in business, industry, marketing, finance, the non-profit sector and public service. They may work in any number of fields, often those not immediately associated with English.
Employment Opportunities
More specifically, career options for English degree holders include:
- Advertising writer or executive
- Author
- Broadcaster
- Communications manager
- Editor
- Educator
- Journalist
- Project manager
- Public relations specialist
- Publisher
- Speech or technical writer
- Web content manager
Professional Traits
Those pursuing an English career should:
- Have strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
- Be creative, inquisitive and analytical.
- Pay close attention to details.
- Have strong research skills.
- Be able to work both independently and as part of a professional team.
The Program
Students completing the coursework in the ECC Associate of Arts in English degree program have a sound foundation for a number of career and transfer options. Assuming appropriate placement scores, it is a two-year degree, with flexibility to customize it toward the student’s chosen career.
The program consists of the 43-credit hour general education core plus the necessary electives in literature, language and writing. Student planning to transfer to four-year institutions can take traditional English courses such as American, British, African-American and women’s literature and Shakespeare. ECC also provides Latino/Latina literature, science fiction, mythology and autobiography courses.
For those wanting to further develop their writing skills, the program offers curriculum in business, creative, technical and journalistic writing. In addition, the college provides various student activities, organizations and practicum experiences such as the Cornerstone student newspaper, Literary Review, writing contests and open-microphone events.
Admission Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Transfer Options
Many of the credits, particularly the general education electives earned with this degree, are accepted as transfer credits by four-year colleges and/or universities. Please note that transferring credit is decided by the bachelor degree-granting institution. Students seeking to transfer should communicate often with their faculty advisors and the East Central College transfer advisor. They should also make early contact with the four-year institution of their choice regarding the transferability of ECC credits and coursework.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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