English and Philosophy

Photo of small tables and chairs
 

Welcome

The purpose of the English/Philosophy Department at Monroe Community College is to develop accurate and insightful readers, critical and creative thinkers, informed and skillful writers, and influential and empathic individuals in their local and global communities.

Our department is one of the largest and most diverse departments on campus. English and Philosophy not only serves students who major in these fields, but all of the college community. 

Featured Course and Programs

ENG 101
A course emphasizing college-level, source-based writing (summary, analysis, synthesis, research), with special attention to critical reading and thinking skills. Students will draft, revise, and edit multiple thesis-driven essays. They will also study and practice argument and persuasion. (ENG 101 or ENG 200 satisfy the composition requirement for graduation.) Three class hours. (SUNY-BC) Course offered Fall and Spring. Prerequisite: Most students will receive placements based on their academic record. This includes high school transcripts, college transcripts, and/or TASC/GED scores. You may see your placement in Degree Works. Those students with GPAs that can be verified on an official high school transcript will be placed as follows:

  • 80 HS GPA or higher will be placed into ENG 101
  • 71-79 HS GPA will be placed into TRS 099/ ENG 101

If you have questions about your placement, please email your advisor. In person testing is scheduled by appointment.

Programs of Study:

  • A. A. Degree in Creative Writing: At MCC, Creative Writing students build strong skills through courses, workshops, and close mentorship with award-winning faculty. You’ll explore multiple genres, discover career pathways, and connect with Rochester’s vibrant literary community. A capstone course will help you prepare for transfer, publishing, and the next stages of your creative and professional journey.

    • What You’ll Gain:

    • Sharpen your writing across genres
    • Learn in an inclusive, supportive environment
    • Work with published, award-winning writers
    • Publish and share your work locally and nationally
    • Explore career options in writing and beyond
    • If desired, plan to transfer seamlessly into four-year programs

    AWP Membership: MCC's membership to the Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP) provides students with resources like The Writers Chronicle and discounted registration for the annual AWP conference.

  • A.A. Degree in English: The English degree program at MCC provides students with a diverse array of educational experiences in the liberal arts and humanities.  Students in this program will complete courses in writing, literature, and cultural studies in preparation for transfer and careers including but not limited to teaching, editing, law, the arts, marketing, business, and communication.  The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the analytical and critical reading, thinking, and writing skills necessary to understand the human experience from a variety of diverse perspectives.

Location & Contacts

Brighton Campus
Building 5, Room 532
8:45am to 4:45pm
(585) 292-2027