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English Programs

English at College of DuPage is comprised of Creative Writing, Film, Literature and Writing Studies. Each program has its own unique focus and approach, but all of the programs provide high-demand 21st century skills like communication, collaboration and problem solving. 

Through innovative English courses taught by award-winning faculty, students will build personal and interpersonal communication skills and gain academic and professional skills. Students also have the opportunity to unlock creative potential while sharpening analytical and communication abilities. Discussion also focuses around understanding and appreciating global perspectives and cultural viewpoints.

A variety of programs and on-campus activities are available for students of different skill levels and interests. Writers can take part in the professional writing or creative writing lecture series. During Writers Read, students also have the opportunity to read and discuss work with a published author.  

The hiring outlook for English majors remains positive as business and industry continue to need creative problem solvers and effective communicators. By virtue of its versatility, English prepares graduates for the diverse jobs of today and the professional opportunities of tomorrow.

English professors are available for free speaking engagements and workshops.

Select an English Program

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Creative Writing

Creative Writing exposes learners to creative writing genres including poetry, creative nonfiction, drama, fiction, and screenwriting.

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Film

Students can choose to study film analysis, film production or both through a series of cross-listed course offerings between English and Motion Picture/Television departments.

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Literature

Literature classes explore literary texts from a broad range of cultures, geographies and time periods.

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Writing Studies

Writing Studies is a multifaceted program that prepares you for academic, public and professional writing.

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Why do I write? To say what others have not, to change what is needed, to enlighten those in the dark, and to be the voice to anyone who has been silenced.
- Lauren Krizenecky (COD Creative Writing Student and Accounting major)

I have thoroughly enjoyed taking Creative Writing courses online. As a writer, the classes have helped enhance my writing skills and overall help me better my craft.
- Vanessa Jasek (COD Alumnus)

English courses at College of DuPage are beneficial in aiding our understanding of texts as well as connecting the historical context of different time periods to our society today. Even in the courses I'm currently taking at ISU, I still utilize the analytical skills I acquired at COD.
- Brianna Liddell (COD Alumnus majoring in English Education at Illinois State University)

In Literature, I saw clearly for the first time the ways in which the literary knowledge, critical thinking skills, and communication skills I was getting from liberal arts classes could be translated into other areas of my life and into other fields.
- Elly Nalbach (COD Alumnus)

COD Stories

Olivia Voegtle

Olivis Voegtle began taking dual credit courses at COD while a junior in high school in order to supplement her homeschool classes and count toward a degree. Working as an editor for The Prairie Light Review, COD’s Liberal Arts journal, gave her the hands-on experience in the field she wanted to pursue.

Olivis' COD Story