English

Our courses in writing, research, and literature support students in developing critical thinking and the effective communication of ideas—skills that are essential for engaged citizenship. Whatever academic and professional goals students may choose, strong reasoning and language skills are necessary for success and participation.

The study of English allows students to explore the critical role language and literature play in the shaping of human culture and social experience. We read and write in order to encounter, understand, and ultimately help change the world.

English courses foster skills of critical analysis, interpretation, and written argument and expression. By encouraging the ability to read critically and write persuasively, English courses provide students with an intellectual foundation and analytical skills that they can draw upon to follow a wide range of paths.

Those who study English believe that an intense concern for words, ideas, and images helps people understand who they are and who they can become. Writing helps us clarify and share our thoughts. Literature helps us contemplate the pains and joys of human existence. Through the study of English, we see life's complexity, experience life as others do, and better understand the world in which we live and work.

Studies in English provide preparation for the professions, government service, and politics. Career opportunities in English include teaching, journalism, publishing, advertising, and copywriting.

• Students seeking an Associate Degree must take a writing course, either English 50, 1A or 1AL, and may take a literature class in fulfillment of the humanities requirement.
• Students seeking a Baccalaureate Degree should take English 1A or 1AL and may take English 1B and other literature courses in fulfillment of specific General Education requirements.
• Students majoring in English should take English 1A or 1AL and 1B and at least one of the following: English 5A and 5B, or English 20A and 20B, English 21, or English 30A and 30B.
• Students planning to transfer to the University of California should consider English 2. For specific information, students should consult the catalog of the school to which they intend to transfer.
• Pathway: Arts, Humanities and Communication Pathway
• Students planning to transfer to CSUB should check out the CSUB English Department Home Page.

Full List of English Courses in BC Catalog

Contact Information

Department Chair
Pam Boyles
pboyles@bakersfieldcollege.edu
(661) 395-4489

Department Office
Humanities 57

Fax
(661) 395-4723

Degrees and Certificates

The Bakersfield College English Department offers the following degree:

English Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer

General Education Patterns

There are five patterns BC students can follow to complete your general education requirements for graduation from Bakersfield College or successfully transfer to a CSU or UC. Find your pattern at General Education Patterns.

English Majors

Majoring in English can prepare you for the professions, government service, and politics. Career opportunities in English include teaching, journalism, publishing, advertising, and copywriting.

Students seeking an Associate Degree must take a writing course, either English 50 or 1A, and may take a literature class in fulfillment of the humanities requirement.

Students seeking a Baccalaureate Degree should take English 1A and may take English 1B and other literature courses in fulfillment of specific General Education requirements.

Students planning to major in English should take English 1A and 1B and at least one of the following: English 5A and 5B, or English 20A and 20B, English 21, or English 30A and 30B.

Students planning to transfer to the University of California should consider English 2. For specific information, students should consult the catalog of the school to which they intend to transfer.

Students planning to transfer to CSUB should check out its English Department Home Page.