English
Associate in Arts (Transfer)
Writing, research, and analytical skills equip individuals with the flexibility to tackle nearly any job, and they never diminish in value. Such skills also allow students to navigate the world with both self-confidence and empathy for others.
24/7
support in the Academic Support Center
The English Associate in Arts degree is designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree. Along with learning in the classroom, students are able to engage in activities such as visits by writers and poets (Illinois Poet Laureate Angela Jackson in 2022) and the ICC Library’s One Book, One College program. Students are also encouraged to submit their creative work to the Illinois Central Review literary magazine.
Admissions Office
The English Associate in Arts degree program has transfer agreements with Bradley University, Eureka College, the University of Illinois, and Northern Illinois University, among other institutions.
Students can expand their writing skills through the Creative Writing Club, and participate in the Between the Lines faculty cultural and literary presentations.
Attorney, Content Developer, Content Manager, Copy Editor, Editor, Entertainment Professional, Grant Writer, Librarian, Paralegal, Reporter, Teacher, Technical Writer, Writer
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
24 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
Anyone interested in social justice should pay serious attention to language and media representation. In ICC’s English and humanities classes, students will learn the analytical and research skills that can help them promote empathy and resist manipulation.
Dr. James M. Decker, Professor, English
How Do I Get Into the English Program?
Bring your love of writing, inspiration, and creativity to the English Associate in Arts program. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just one easy application for over hundreds of scholarships.
- Complete four years of high school English.
- High school activities that are helpful: literary magazine, yearbook, high school newspaper, theater, honor society, and volunteerism.
What Can I Expect As an English Student?
- Be able to communicate effectively.
- Conduct research and critically analyze texts.
- Consider the perspectives of others thoughtfully.
- Be prepared to transfer to one of a variety of bachelor’s degree programs at a four-year college or university.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.