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English Literature - FAQ

Do you still have questions about the program, careers after graduation, or how to get started? Take a look at the frequently asked questions or talk with an advisor to get the help you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Normally, the English literature major program takes two years of full-time study. If you're starting your first two years of a four-year degree, it's two years here plus two more at a four-year school. Some students take longer because they can't attend full-time or need help with reading, writing, or math.

In addition to an associate degree, if you complete the English literature program, you'll be able to:

  • Demonstrate understanding of literary works in context, including how texts engage notions of genre, culture, history, class, race, gender, and sexuality.
  • Discuss and explain, orally and in writing, themes, plots, characterization, symbolism, and other conventions and practices of literature and literary genres.
  • Define and apply vocabulary appropriate to the study of literature and the humanities (e.g., hero, myth, symbols, irony).
  • Make connections between literature and their own lives.
  • Use a variety of written, verbal, and multimodal forms to respond to and analyze literary texts and contexts.

Mt. Hood Community College has several student resources on campus to help students connect with employers and find a job placement both during and after their time at MHCC. Learn more through career planning.

If you're 18 or older, you can start without a high school diploma or GED certificate. But if you haven't finished high school, you can work on it here while beginning your career. Students under 18 without a diploma should talk with an advisor to get the assistance you need to get started.

You can start a course or two without them. But it's best for all students, whether full-time or part-time, to take the placement test soon, especially if you're aiming for a degree or certificate. The test covers reading, writing, and math and is free. To schedule a placement test, contact testing services.

No, you can start in any term, but some required English literature classes are not available in all regular academic terms. Please meet with an academic advisor to plan your path to graduation.

Yes, some classes are available at night or online, but it may take you longer to complete your program that way. Not all classes are available at night every term, so meet with an advisor to plan carefully.

Sometimes, yes. Some classes must be taken in order, and some have prerequisites. Check the catalog or talk to an academic advisor to plan your classes.

There's no special application for students in the English literature program, but you must apply to MHCC.

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Read English Literature Frequently Asked Questions


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