English & Literature

Composition, Creative Writing, Literature and Reading

Our Mission

The mission of the English Department is to help prepare students to be “major” ready through effective use of written & verbal communication and to provide the necessary skills for students to be successful in their college career and beyond. The literature classes we offer fulfill part of the Humanities requirement for the Associate in Arts & Sciences Degree, as well as potential electives.

By studying English, you will learn to read closely and think critically. You will gain an appreciation of literature through exposure to a broad range of ideas and learning styles that will help you learn about yourself as well as the world around you.

Why Study English?

The department offers a variety of specialty composition and literature courses for our students, reflecting our concern for student success and our awareness of the diversity of our student population. From learning communities and hybrid courses to literature and composition pilot studies, we offer a range of unique courses focusing on expository, research, creative, and work-related writing and American, British, and World Literature

“I believe that reading and writing are the most nourishing forms of meditation anyone has so far found. By reading the writings of the most interesting minds in history, we meditate with our own minds and theirs as well. This to me is a miracle.”

Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

Composition

student with English instructor

CBC’s English composition courses will allow you to prepare for meaningful writing experiences throughout your education and in your career.

Our college-level composition courses—English 101 and 102—provide you with a foundation in source-based writing, argumentation, and research. These courses are required for a variety of programs and degrees, including the general AA.

Our technical writing courses—English 103, 235, 310, and 415—prepare you to write in professional situations. These courses are required or preferred for a variety of programs and degrees, including some AAS degrees, BAS, and BSN degrees.

All of our composition courses feature small class sizes to allow for the increased teacher-to-student interaction needed to help students succeed.

Literature and Creative Writing

students in English class

Literature and Creative Writing courses are not just for English majors--in fact, these courses are great places to learn about history, psychology, anthropology, sociology and philosophy, among other subjects--as well as to join with the greatest minds this world has to offer to explore the purpose and complexity of life.

"I am a Spring 2023 CBC graduate who also participated in Running Start. Taking several English classes has helped me to improve my own skills and understanding of the subject. As a tutor, I’ve seen my students’ skills and confidence grow as well. Coming from both sides, I’ve witnessed how the English department does its best to encourage students and help them do their best work. Working with the department directly as a tutor, I’ve been able to see how dedicated they are to helping ensure their students’ success and their dedication to learning. "

Our literature courses will help you hone your analytical and close reading skills. You will explore influential texts from across the globe that have shaped and reflected the complex history of humanity. From surveys of American, British, and World Literature to specialty courses such as LGBTQ Studies, Lord of the Rings, and Bible as Literature, our literature courses have something for everyone.

In our Creative Writing classes, learn how to tell your own stories and express powerful ideas through the magic of poetry. Join with our passionate faculty and other student writers as you explore the greatest written works of the ages and learn to compose your own.

Careers in English and Literature

Courses taught in English and Literature can serve as a foundation for many degrees and/or careers.

  • Workplace Writing

    Copywriter, technical writer, grant writer, content writer, digital content editor, publicist, blogger, and copy editor.

  • Creative Writing

    Screenwriter, novelist, poet, author, podcaster, nonfiction writer, and literary agent.

  • Journalism

    Reporter, public relations specialist, social media specialist, content marketer, blogger, publisher, editor, fact checker, and copy editor.

  • Law & Politics

    Lawyer, government worker, public interest advocate, consultant, speechwriter, lobbyist, spokesperson, policy analyst, fundraiser, social worker, law clerk, judge, and legal researcher.

  • Education

    Elementary, middle, and high school teacher; college professor; writing center tutor and director; school and college administrator; career counselor; librarian; and archivist.

  • Business

    Administrative assistant, customer service representative, public relations manager, sales representative, recruiter, business analyst, marketing manager, and advertising director.

Full-Time Faculty

Our department and faculty are very passionate about what we do and are constantly studying and reflecting on how to better serve our students while also remaining current in our fields. Explore below to see the wide array of research interests, specialties, and creative work our faculty is actively engaged in and to find out more about the many workshop offerings our department has for students throughout the year.

 Courses Taught: English Composition and Technical Writing

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Courses Taught: Creative Writing, English Composition and Writing Prep

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Courses Taught: American Literature, English Composition and Writing Prep

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 Courses Taught: English Composition and Writing for Health Professionals

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Courses Taught: English Composition and Writing Prep

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Courses Taught: American Literature, English Composition and Intro to Literature

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 Courses Taught: English Composition

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 Courses Taught: English Composition

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Courses Taught: English Composition, Intro to Literature and Writing Prep

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Courses Taught: English Composition and Writing Prep

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Courses Taught: English Composition, Intro to Literature and LGBTQ Studies

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 Courses Taught: English Composition

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Courses Taught: English Composition and Writing

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Adjunct Faculty

Courses Taught: English Composition and Writing Prep

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Courses Taught: English Composition

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Courses Taught: English Composition and Writing Prep

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Courses Taught: English Composition

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image of English class with instructor