English Emphasis, AS - with Portland State University

Program Code: AS.PSUENGLISH

The Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in English is for students interested in transferring to Oregon State University, Portland State University, or University of Oregon to complete a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in Literature, Creative Writing, and Publishing.

For information contact Amanda Coffey, 503-594-3257 or amandac@clackamas.edu

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to:

• identify research methods appropriate for specific topics;
• interpret and analyze a variety of texts based on close reading and analysis;
• construct sound academic arguments that prove an understanding of rhetorical conventions and diverse audiences;
• rewrite and edit work after reflection upon peer and instructor feedback;
• collaborate with peers on writing projects and presentations.
• complete a short play, screenplay, series of poems, collection of creative nonfiction pieces, compilation of short stories, and/or text for a graphic novel;
• demonstrate an understanding of independent publishing and production;
• discover and/or create opportunities for professional publishing and production.

200-Level Creative Writing Electives

English Electives

Science Electives

Social Science Electives

English majors graduate with the ability to analyze the words of others, think both critically and creatively, research ideas and argue important positions, and organize their own thoughts into effective and articulate forms from web content to grant applications, business proposals to novels. Because of these skills, the National Association of Colleges and Employers has ranked English as one of the top-paying liberal arts majors, with average starting salaries above $50,000, and often rising much higher in the ten years after graduating.

Where can a degree in English take you? The employment opportunities that accompany an English major are myriad. One obvious example is the field of publishing. But English majors rarely stop at the obvious. Their skills apply equally well to the fields of public relations, marketing, advertising, and copywriting. In a business setting, English majors often find success as communications managers, web developers, researchers, project leaders, or administrators. If you want your words to reach the lives of others, English might guide you to the areas of journalism, law, government, and public policy. For those who truly love filling a blank page, English can lead into creative writing, speech writing, professional blogging, or technical writing. And the careers of professional writer, librarian, and teacher are ideal if you find that your love of English is uncontainable and must be shared