English
All students pursuing a degree at HCC are required to take at least one English course. HCC offers foundational reading and writing courses, college composition, and college-level writing and literature courses. These courses may fulfill prerequisites as well as general education core requirements and electives. Instructors provide hands-on, active learning opportunities to prepare students for success in English and other content area courses.
What English courses are offered for credit?
Foundational Courses
English college placement scores may indicate a need to prepare for upper level courses. Your academic advisor will provide guidance regarding your placement test scores.
Information Literacy Courses (INFO 100)
INFO 100 teaches students a core of information literacy and critical thinking skills that will transfer to other coursework and will help them to reach academic and professional goals. Students will learn and refine strategies for college success and will strengthen their capacity for effective academic and professional communication and use of information resources. Through research, reading, writing, and reflection, students will assess their strengths and goals in the context of pathways for academic and career exploration.
English General Education Core
College Composition (ENGL-121) is a requirement for all HCC programs, and it is a pre-requisite for many courses; the course helps to develop argumentative skills and critical thinking abilities essential in college and beyond. Eligibility to enroll is based on Accuplacer placement test, SAT, AP, and/or ACT scores, or the successful completion of HCC’s required Foundational Courses, Accelerated Learning Programs, or ESL Credit Programs.
Writing and Literature Courses
HCC’s English Department offers a wide range of 200-level literature courses in a variety of genres and periods as well as cultural areas, ethics, and technical writing. These courses advance analysis and critical thinking skills. All 200-level literature courses require English 121 or an equivalent as a prerequisite.
Is there a way to progress through beginning English classes more quickly?
Placement scores in designated upper ranges may qualify you for HCC’s Accelerated Learning Programs (ALP) in lieu of Fundamental Courses to place into ENGL-121.
You may also be eligible to satisfy the requirement for some English courses through test scores such as SAT, ACT, or AP and should check with your an advisor in the Advising Office.
Why should I take a literature course?
For most programs, literature courses will fulfill a Core Elective.
The study of literature can broaden perspectives, increase cultural awareness, promote critical thinking, and help to develop a number of skills needed for academic and career success.
Should I major in English?
A degree in English can serve as a foundation to launch a career in areas such as criminal justice or communications or for transfer to many further areas of study. Learn more about HCC’s associate transfer degree for students intending to complete a Bachelor’s program in English or related major at another college or university. View the program page or speak with an academic advisor.