Why Study English at OCC?
Studying English at Ocean County College goes far beyond literature — it’s about building the communication, analytical, and creative skills that power careers in diverse fields such as media, business, law, marketing, gaming, and emerging digital industries. If you want to stand out in a content-driven world, our program helps you find your unique voice and turn ideas into real opportunities.
What You Will Learn
OCC’s English majors learn how to construct persuasive arguments and write across academic, professional, and creative contexts. Through close reading, academic research, navigating the complete writing process, and discussion, you will gain skills that transfer seamlessly to four-year programs and today’s evolving workforce.
Core skills and competencies include:
- Adaptive Writing for Diverse Platforms
- Strategic Storytelling and Narrative Craft
- Ethical Research and Digital Literacy
- Critical Analysis of Global Literature
- Media Criticism and Cultural Evaluation
- Clear Synthesis of Persuasive Arguments
Where Passion Becomes a Career
An Associate in Arts with a concentration in English is more than just a writing degree—it’s a launchpad for any career that values critical thinking and clear communication. In New Jersey, you can step into the workforce immediately as a substitute teacher, or find roles in media, libraries, and business operations where strong research and teamwork are essential.
If you choose to transfer to a four-year program, your pathway opens even wider. Our graduates pursue rewarding careers in law, journalism, and education, as well as creative roles in gaming, digital media design, and “GLAM” industries (galleries, libraries, archives, and museums). Whether you want to shape public policy, teach the next generation, or design narratives for emerging tech, the skills you build here will get you there.
Transfer Opportunities
Credits earned at Ocean County College transfer to four-year colleges and universities, giving students the flexibility to continue their education at accredited institutions. English Education graduates are well-prepared to take that next step — Kean University is among our transfer partners where OCC graduates can complete their bachelor’s degree.
Connect with our Transfer Services team to ensure a smooth path to your bachelor’s degree.
At A Glance
Length
61 credit hours
~2 Years to Complete
Cost
For Ocean County Residents
Summer – $206 per credit
Effective Fall – $216.00 per credit
Academic Pathways
This program is designed to transfer. Where you go next is up to you! After earning your degree at OCC, seamlessly transfer your credits to a four-year college or university, setting the stage for continued academic and career success.
Associate
Build a strong foundation in literature, creative writing, and critical analysis.
Bachelors
Seamlessly transfer to a four-year institution to specialize in areas like English Literature, Creative Writing, or Professional Writing.
Careers
Use your degree to pursue roles in education, publishing, communications, or continue your studies in graduate school.
Have any Questions?
Contact the HUB
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