Some students may be holistically placed using their high school G.P.A. However, it may still be recommended for students to take the placement test. For the test, the student will write an essay on a topic assigned by the Department in order to assure proper placement in composition or business writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Composition Courses
Must I take a placement test before taking Composition?
How are the tests evaluated?
Each essay will be scored automatically and scored 1 (lowest) to 6 (highest). Essays not scored by the system will read by two readers. A student with a score of 6 should take English Composition 1 or Business Letter and Report Writing, depending on the major.
What happens if I do not take a placement test?
Some students may be holistically placed using their high school G.P.A. However, it may still be recommended for students to take the placement test. Students who do not have the appropriate test scores or who have not met the course pre-requisites will be dropped from the course. For more information contact the Department of Language and Literature at 968-8150.
What if English is my second language?
The college offers courses specifically geared for students learning English as a second language.
When do I take a placement test?
These tests are given throughout the year. Contact the Testing Center to schedule the test. Call 215-968-8150 for more information.
Questions about Literature Courses
Do literature courses transfer?
Generally courses in literature transfer to other colleges.
Are there prerequisites for literature courses?
No literature course has a prerequisite. In fact, a student might choose to take the second half of English Literature before taking the first. There are no writing prerequisites.
Where can I get more information?
General information is available by calling the Department Office at 215-968-8150. If you have questions regarding a particular course, it is a good idea to contact the instructor directly, or meet with the instructor during office hours.
Other Questions about Literature and Creative Writing
Does the college hold any writing contests or give any writing awards?
Yes. There are a number of annual awards for writing, fiction and non-fiction. The Department also oversees the Bucks County Poet Laureate.
Where can I share my creative writing on campus?
In addition to the creative writing courses the college offers, there is a literary society on campus.