Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Associate's Degree in two years. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). The plan includes four semesters, each with an average course load of 15 units, and follows the Plan 1 General Education pattern. You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The associate degree curriculum in English is designed to develop proficiency in written communication and in the understanding of human nature through the study of language and literature.  Completion of the A.A. degree in English prepares students to pursue upper-division studies as an English major focusing on literature, writing, criticism or other related fields. Students wanting to pursue a career in law, politics, education, or communications often choose the A.A. degree in English because of the emphasis on close reading of texts, strategic employment of language, and strengthened writing skills the program promotes. Because the critical thinking and analytical skills developed as an English major are so versatile, students who may not be sure of their career and/or academic goals might want to consider it. 

employ active reading and critical thinking skills to analyze, respond to, and evaluate various texts.

use the writing process to develop polished compositions that align with the intended purpose and audience.

use language, sentence structure, and punctuation effectively to convey the intended meaning and tone.

locate both primary and secondary sources of information (using the web, the library, and the library databases) and evaluate them for credibility and accuracy.

correctly integrate and document sources in MLA format to avoid plagiarism.

demonstrate familiarity with major authors, works, genres, literary styles, and literary critical paradigms.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

First Semester

15-16 units

Second Semester

14 units

Third Semester

15 units

Fourth Semester

16 units