English
Description
Mastery of the written word is essential for communication in today’s global world. BSC English courses provide students the opportunity to strengthen their writing, reading, and critical thinking skills. English faculty strive to instill in students an appreciation of the power and beauty of the written word and the knowledge that their voices have value, all while participating in a community of active learners. If students want to live in a world of ideas, they should major in English.
The English program serves BSC students in numerous ways. The composition sequence fulfills graduation requirements in Communication. Most 200-level English courses fulfill requirements for Arts and Humanities and Diversity credit, and for students pursuing a major in English, BSC provides the first two years of study toward a bachelor’s degree.
Through assorted groups and activities, students have opportunities as freshmen and sophomores that are often reserved for juniors and seniors at other schools. Involvement in beyond-the-classroom activities, such as the student-produced newspaper and literary journal, gives students experience with practical applications of communication and leadership skills.
Preparation
Literature, journalism, and foreign language classes are useful to high school students pursuing studies in English. Individuals entering this field also will benefit from broad knowledge in history, the arts, world culture, philosophy, psychology, science, and technology.
Requirements
Students who complete the requirements of the suggested curriculum receive an Associate in Arts degree and may transfer to a four-year institution.
Bismarck State College has many cooperative, articulation, or transfer agreements with postsecondary institutions both inside and outside of the North Dakota University System. Some of these agreements are established to allow students to remain on campus as they complete their bachelor’s degree. In all cases, students seeking to transfer after completing a degree at BSC should consult the academic catalog of their destination college and work with their academic advisor to plan for this transition.
Career Opportunities
Demand is high for those who can read perceptively and write clearly. English is an excellent major for professional studies in law, teaching, and graduate programs in the arts and humanities. Advancing technology has opened many new career paths in electronic publishing and information technology. Other career possibilities include administration, journalism, broadcasting, public relations, communications and marketing, advertising, editing, grant writing, personnel relations, research and investigation, and management.