Grow the knowledge and skills you need to excel as an entry-level writer or in a bachelor’s degree program in English, creative writing, writing or rhetoric with the NOVA degree in English.
Prepare to transfer to a four-year institution or to work as a writer with NOVA’s Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts with an English major. You can choose to concentrate in one of three areas: literature, creative writing, or writing and rhetoric. As a literature student, you’ll study a wide variety of texts and learn to analyze them in meaningful ways through different literary approaches that take into account culture, history and identity. As a creative writing student, you’ll explore how to write short fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction while reading diverse writers of these genres and studying their creative processes. As a rhetoric and writing student, you’ll study elements of the writing process and learn to craft arguments.
You’ll learn from NOVA English faculty who share your passion for writing, literature and language. These scholars will prepare you for success at a four-year institution and in your career.
You’ll take balanced courses that build on concepts from the humanities, social sciences, foreign languages and sciences in addition to advanced specialty literature and writing courses.
You’ll receive an affordable liberal arts education with an English specialization. You may even be eligible for NOVA scholarships that can help you offset the cost of your English degree.
The English Specialization is ideal for students who plan to transfer to a college or university to pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Sciences in English, Creative Writing, or Writing/Rhetoric or who are pursuing work as entry-level professional writers. It offers a balanced course load that builds on concepts from the humanities, social sciences, foreign languages, and sciences, in addition to specialty Literature and Writing courses at the 200-level.
Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the associate degree in liberal arts with an English specialization.
Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.
Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.