Welcome to Composition & Literary Studies!

The CLS Department offers courses in composition, literature, and integrated reading and writing. Our faculty help students develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills essential for academic and professional success.

Programs & Divisions

ACC Degree Program

Major in English

The English Major at ACC helps you develop a strong foundation to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year college. Students who major in English learn how to communicate effectively, think critically, and develop writing skills.

Associate of Arts in English (opens in new tab) English Majors Website (opens in new tab)

Honor Society

Sigma Kappa Delta

More than just a college club, SKD is a unique entity that opens the doors of opportunity for its members and facilitates academic, professional, and personal growth while promoting excellence in the disciplines of the English language.

SKD at ACC (opens in new tab)

Integrated Reading & Writing (INRW)

Dr. Ursula Parker
Faculty Director of INRW

(512) 223-7437 [email protected]

View Website

Liberal Education Advancement & Development (LEAD)

Brinda Roy

(512) 223-2052 [email protected]

View details

Dual Credit

Dr. Karen Conness
Chris Gardner
Sarah Stayton

Dual Credit Liaisons

View Website (opens in new tab)

Honors Program

Dr. Anne-Marie Thomas

(512) 223-7457 [email protected]

View Website (opens in new tab)

Course Information

Departmental Syllabi

Prerequisites

ENGL 1301
TSI complete in Reading & Writing or exempt
ENGL 1302
ENGL 1301 or equivalent w/ minimum grade of C
ENGL 2300-level (Literature Classes)
  • ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302 or equivalents w/ minimum grade of C.
  • A sophomore level literature class from ACC and/or a transfer institution (for example, E314 or E316 from UT or ENG 2000 courses from Texas State) w/ minimum grade of C.
  • Students have 84 college credit hours, including ENGL 1301 (or equivalent) w/ minimum grade of C, from ACC and/or transfer institutions.
Honors
Contact the ACC Honors Program (opens in new tab)

Course Descriptions

ENGL 1301: English Composition I

3 credit hours (3-3-0)

Intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising, and editing, both individually and collaboratively. Emphasis on effective rhetorical choices, including audience, purpose, arrangement, and style. Focus on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating, and critical analysis.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: TSI complete in Reading and Writing or exempt

ENGL 1302: English Composition II

3 credit hours (3-3-0)

Intensive study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. Emphasis on effective and ethical rhetorical inquiry, including primary and secondary research methods; critical reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts; systematic evaluation, synthesis, and documentation of information sources; and critical thinking about evidence and conclusions.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: ENGL 1301 or equivalent w/ minimum grade of C

ENGL 2322: British Literature I

Anglo-Saxon Through 18th Century (3-3-0)

A survey of the development of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the Eighteenth Century. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical, linguistic, and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors and traditions.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

ENGL 2323: British Literature II

18th Century to the Present (3-3-0)

A survey of the development of British literature from the Romantic period to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

ENGL 2327: American Literature I

Beginnings through Civil War (3-3-0)

A survey of American literature from the period of exploration and settlement through the Civil War. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from among a diverse group of authors for what they reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

ENGL 2328: American Literature II

Civil War to the Present (3-3-0)

A survey of American literature from the Civil War to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from among a diverse group of authors for what they reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

ENGL 2332: World Literature I

Ancient World through 17th Century (3-3-0)

A survey of world literature from the ancient world through the sixteenth century. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors and traditions.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

ENGL 2333: World Literature II

18th Century to the Present (3-3-0)

A survey of world literature from the seventeenth century to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors and traditions.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

ENGL 2351: Mexican-American Literature

3 credit hours (3-3-0)

A survey of Mexican American/Chicanx literature from Mesoamerica to the present. Students will study literary works of fiction, poetry, drama, essays, and memoirs in relation to their historical, linguistic, political, regional, gendered, and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors, literary movements, and media forms. Topics and themes may include the literary performance of identity and culture, aesthetic mediation of racialization, struggle and protest, and artistic activism.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

Prerequisite: Literature Classes prerequisites

Integrated Reading & Writing

INRW 0230: Integrated College Reading and Writing Strategies

2 credit hours (2-2-0)

Integration of critical reading and academic writing skills. This course is not for college-level credit. Repeatable up to six-credit hours. INRW 0230 is a co-requisite course that will be paired with a college-level course.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

View INRW 0230 Prerequisites (TSIA 2.0)
ELAR CRC Diagnostic Essay
945–990 N/A 0–4
910–944 5–6 0–4
910–944 4 3–8
910–944 3 6–8
Or C or better in INRW 0420
Course Placement Options

INRW 0230 + linked co-requisite section paired with ENGL 1301
Reserved for students in the Ascender or BRASS programs

Notes

All exit level courses. All corequisites have managed enrollment. Students must be enrolled in both linked (paired) sections.

INRW 0340: Integrated Reading and Writing Strategies

3 credit hours

Emphasis on increased proficiency of comprehension skills, vocabulary development, and writing skills. Ninth grade reading level required. INRW 0340 repeatable up to six credit hours. A modified course is offered in a two-hour (0230) format.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

View INRW 0340 Prerequisites (TSIA 2.0)
ELAR CRC Diagnostic Essay
945–990 N/A 0–4
910–944 5–6 0–4
910–944 4 3–8
910–944 3 6–8
Or C or better in INRW 0420
Course Placement Options

INRW 0340 + linked co-requisite section paired with specific sections of:
ENGL 1301, HUMA 1301 (Great Questions Seminar), SOCI 1301, SPCH 1315 or 1311

Notes

All exit level courses. All corequisites have managed enrollment. Students must be enrolled in both linked (paired) sections. Holistic advising is optional (see Corequisite Registration Form to access).

INRW 0420: Intermediate Integrated Reading and Writing Strategies

4 credit hours with 1 hr. lab

Students will improve their college reading and writing skills both in and out of class through integrated reading and writing activities. Daily and major writing assignments will offer students the opportunity to master the reading and writing processes and the critical thinking skills necessary to complete college work. Students will read and write for expressive, informative, and persuasive purposes.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

View INRW 0420 Prerequisites (TSIA 2.0)
ELAR CRC Diagnostic Essay
910–944 3 0–5
910–944 4 0–2
Course Placement Options

INRW 0420 stand-alone course (with 1 hr. lab)
INRW 0420 paired with 0430 (8-week format, with 1 hr. lab each)
INRW 0420 Great Questions Seminar (paired corequisite, requires petition and approval)

Notes

Entry level — intermediate course for students needing reading and writing at the lower level.

INRW 0430: Integrated College Reading and Writing Strategies

4 credit hours (4-4-1)

Integration of critical reading and academic writing skills. This course is not for college-level credit. Repeatable up to six-credit hours.

Departmental Syllabus (opens in new tab)

View INRW 0430 Prerequisites (TSIA 2.0)
ELAR CRC Diagnostic Essay
945–990 N/A 0–4
910–944 5–6 0–4
910–944 4 3–8
910–944 3 6–8
Or C or better in INRW 0420
Course Placement Options

INRW 0430 with 1 hr. lab (8-week exit level, linked with INRW 0420)

Notes

Exit course for both reading and writing. Must be enrolled in both consecutive linked INRW 0420 & INRW 0430 sections.

Special Programs

Liberal Education Advancement & Development (LEAD)

LEAD is an interdisciplinary initiative designed to transform the student experience by integrating High-Impact Practices (HIPs) and character-driven pedagogy across the curriculum. By emphasizing active, student-centered learning—such as undergraduate research, service learning, and collaborative projects—we move beyond passive content delivery to empower students who can analyze, articulate, and defend their ideas. Through a deep engagement with the liberal arts and sciences, LEAD equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a pluralistic society.

LEAD Guiding Principles

Curiosity
Foster open inquiry, intellectual engagement, and exploration across disciplines.

  • Open-mindedness — willingness to consider unfamiliar ideas
  • Balanced and Critical Thinking — ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information from multiple sources
  • Engagement/Motivation — enthusiastic and proactive attitude toward learning, persistence, and showing genuine interest in intellectual work
  • Inspiration — be exposed to compelling ideas, stories, or experiences that fuel learning and creativity
  • Strategic Thinking — plan thoughtfully, recognize patterns, set long-term goals based on informed decisions

Integrity
Ground knowledge and actions in ethics, accountability, and self-awareness.

  • Honesty — truthfulness in communication and actions, especially in academic and professional contexts
  • Ethics/Morality — adhere to moral principles that guide behavior in both personal and societal contexts
  • Self-awareness — understand one’s own values, emotions, and biases, and how they influence behavior and decision-making
  • Personal Responsibility — identify and apply ethical principles and practices to decision-making by connecting choices, actions, and consequences
  • Evidence — research-based inquiry, flexible thinking, awareness of biases, learning from mistakes, and attention to nuance and context
  • Decision-Making — make choices guided by evidence and ethical considerations
  • Data and Digital Literacy — find, interpret, and ethically use information from digital sources

Compassion
Cultivate empathy and a recognition of our common humanity.

  • Empathy — understand and share the feelings, perspectives, and experiences of others
  • Civic Responsibility — analyze differences and commonalities among peoples, ideas, aesthetic traditions, and cultural practices to include intercultural competence, have knowledge of civic responsibility, and be able to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities
  • Global Citizenship — analyze differences and commonalities among peoples, ideas, aesthetic traditions, and cultural practices to include intercultural competence, have knowledge of civic responsibility, and be able to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities
  • Relationship Building — develop meaningful, respectful, and collaborative connections with others
  • Storytelling — use stories/narratives to communicate lived experiences, build empathy, and foster human connection across cultural and ideological divides

Resilience
Encourage adaptability, collaboration, and perseverance in pursuit of personal and collective growth.

  • Determination — persevere in the face of challenges, guided by purpose and vision
  • Personal Accountability — hold oneself to shared standards of behavior and responsibility
  • Collaboration and Teamwork — work productively and respectfully with others to achieve shared goals
  • Progress — track one’s academic and intellectual progress and take responsibility for one’s own learning

Honors CLS Courses

ACC Composition & Literary Studies classes are also offered through the Honors Program, which offers core curriculum courses with an emphasis on in-depth research and discussion in small classes limited to 15 students.

Honors Program (opens in new tab)

What Students Should Expect in CLS Courses

In our classes, you can expect to read thought-provoking articles and works of literature from diverse writers. You might have a film or video assigned as well. During class, expect to share your ideas as well as listen to the ideas and insights from other students. CLS courses are a place to sharpen your critical thinking and your writing skills!

Courses in CLS include reading, writing, and research. Most classes require essays, including research and analysis papers; classes may also have quizzes and exams. The best place to find out about required assignments is by reading your instructor's syllabus, which lists the readings and due dates.

If you're getting ready to take ENGL 1301, please check out our hand-out called Expectations for Incoming ENGL 1301 Students (opens in new tab) . That lists the skills you're expected to have before starting ENGL 1301.

Expectations for Incoming ENGL 1301 Students

Below are the skills we expect students to have a basic understanding of when they enter Composition I.

Reading

  • Know the difference between fact and opinion.
  • Read a text and summarize it.
  • Read a paragraph and identify the main idea.

Content Development

  • Use correct and appropriate diction.
  • Know the difference between objective and subjective.
  • Use examples and other supporting details to support ideas.

Organization

  1. Write an introduction that introduces the topic and leads to the thesis.
  2. Write a thesis statement that addresses the writing prompt.
  3. Organize a paragraph using a main idea/topic sentence, explanations, and examples.
  4. Write sentences that connect ideas with transitions and are ordered logically.
  5. Write a conclusion that reinforces the thesis.

Grammar/Mechanics Sentence Construction

  • Construct complete sentences—avoid run-ons, splices, and fragments. Sentences should make sense.
  • Demonstrate subject-verb agreement.
  • Keep verb tense consistent.
  • Keep sentences parallel.
  • Use correct verb endings.

Grammar

  • Use correct punctuation, including commas, periods, question marks, exclamation marks, quotation marks, and apostrophes.
  • Follow capitalization rules.
  • Use pronouns correctly (case, agreement, and reference).

ESOL Issues

  • Choose correct prepositions.
  • Use the correct form of commonly confused English words and idioms.
  • Use correct verb forms.

Documentation

  • Have awareness that one needs to document sources.
  • Understand the definition and examples of plagiarism.

Artificial Intelligence Tools

Full AI Guidelines

Complete CLS guidelines regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

Full AI Guidelines (opens in new tab)

AI Statement (Faculty)

The CLS statement on the use of AI tools by faculty .

Faculty AI Statement (opens in new tab)

AI Statement (Students)

The CLS statement on the use of AI tools by students .

Student AI Statement (opens in new tab)

Sample Syllabi

Click below to see sample syllabi from some of our faculty.

ENGL 1301: Composition I
ENGL 1302: Composition II
ENGL 2327: American Literature I
ENGL 2328: American Literature II
Integrated Reading and Writing
Other Resources

Credit by Examination

Some students may take a test to place out of English courses. Students can earn up to 30 credits through non-institutional credit-by-exam programs such as AP, CLEP, and up to 24 credits for IB. They can also take a departmental course challenge exam administered by CLS.

Programs, Exam Scores & Credit Awarded

Advanced Placement (AP) English Language & Composition

Minimum Score: 3
Credit Given: ENGL 1301

English Literature & Composition

Minimum Score: 3
Credit Given: ENGL 1301* or ENGL 1302

Note

*If credit for ENGL 1301 has been earned, credit is awarded for ENGL 1302.

More information: AP College Board (opens in new tab)

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) College Composition Modular

Minimum Score: Passing score on essay administered by CLS*
Credit Given: ENGL 1301

CLEP, American Literature

Minimum Score: 50
Credit Given: ENGL 2327 & ENGL 2328

CLEP, English Literature and Composition

Minimum Score: 50
Credit Given: ENGL 2322 & ENGL 2323

Note

*Essay administered and scored by the CLS Department.

More information: CLEP College Board (opens in new tab)

International Baccalaureate (IB) IB, English Comp 1

Minimum Score: 5
Credit Given: ENGL 1301

IB, English Language A: Literature

Minimum Score: 4 SL or 4 HL
Credit Given: ENGL 1301 (SL); ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302 (HL)

IB, English Language A: Language & Literature

Minimum Score: 4 HL
Credit Given: ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302

Key

HL: Higher Level requires 240 hours of instruction — a two-year course
SL: Standard Level requires 150 hours of instruction — a one-year course

ACC will allow up to 24 credits of IB credit. More information: IB Portal (opens in new tab)

Course Challenge Exam (CLS Department) CLS Challenge Exam

Minimum Score: Score of B on an essay administered by CLS
Credit Given: ENGL 1301 or ENGL 1302

The CLS Department administers course challenge exams for ENGL 1301 and ENGL 1302. See below for eligibility, policies, and study guides.

Credit by Exam Restrictions

  • Grade designation: AP and CLEP credit is designated as “CR” (credit) on the ACC transcript. A letter grade (A, B, C, D, or F) is not assigned.
  • Transfer not guaranteed: Non-institutional credit might not transfer from ACC to other institutions.
  • IB credit limit: ACC will allow up to 24 credits of IB credit.

How to Receive Non-Institutional Credit

To receive credit, you must provide the Admissions and Records Office (opens in new tab) with official test scores sent directly from the testing service and complete at least one credit class at Austin Community College (ACC).

ACC’s Highland Campus is an approved testing site for many exams including CLEP and Advanced Placement. Visit ACC Testing Services (opens in new tab) for more information.

Course Challenge Exams

Departmental Course Challenge Exam

  1. Review the steps and requirements on the “Credit by Examination: Institutional” ACC Student Handbook page (opens in new tab)
  2. Complete the ENGL Challenge Exam Request (opens in new tab) to gain permission to take an ENGL 1301 or ENGL 1302 challenge exam
  3. Brief study guides are available for the ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302 exams (see below)
  4. Direct additional questions to Theo Yurevitch or Susan Meigs

Please note: Exams may take several weeks to administer and grade. Plan your schedule accordingly.

Course Challenge Policies

Institutional Credit Restrictions

  • Not every course or student is eligible for course challenge exams. Check with your instructional program or area (opens in new tab) for available classes and eligibility requirements.
  • International students may not apply course challenges toward their 12-credit enrollment requirement.
  • You must meet the course prerequisites and institutional enrollment requirements in order to receive credit.
  • You may challenge a course only once. Additional challenges are not permitted.
  • You may not challenge a course in which you currently are enrolled or previously earned a grade of A, B, C, D, F, I, W, or AU.
  • Grades earned through course challenges are not calculated in your GPA and do not count toward scholastic achievement awards.

How to Receive Institutional Credit

To receive credit, you must earn at least a B on the course challenge exam, enroll at ACC and complete at least one college course, and have the instructor submit your course challenge results to an ACC campus Admissions and Enrollment Office (opens in new tab) .

Study Guides & Exam Request

ENGL 1301 Study Guide

Challenge exam preparation

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ENGL 1302 Study Guide

Challenge exam preparation

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Exam Request Form

Request permission to take a challenge exam

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Course Catalog

Official CLS course descriptions

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Course Schedule

Find classes by campus, time, or modality

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Register Online

Enroll in classes for the upcoming semester

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Blackboard

Access your courses online

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Learning Lab

Free tutoring for writing and reading

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Tutoring

Schedule tutoring appointments

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Library Services

Research databases and resources

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Academic Calendar

Important dates and deadlines

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Advising

Get help planning your courses

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Testing Centers

Campus testing center guidelines

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Transfer Information

Transferring credits to ACC

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Info Hub

Student support resources

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Student Resources

All ACC student services

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Registration Dates

Upcoming registration windows

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Student Accessibility

Disability services and accommodations

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Student Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which English class to take?

You are eligible to enroll in ENGL 1301 if you are TSI complete. That usually means you've taken the TSI exam or another test like the SAT/ACT, GED, or STAAR test. Learn more about TSI Assessment (opens in new tab) .

Where can I go for tutoring or writing help?

The ACC Learning Labs (opens in new tab) provide free tutoring services and group study rooms. Sessions may help with brainstorming, outlining, understanding prompts, improving organization, and grammar.

Do I still need ENGL 1302 if my university only requires one writing class?

Yes. Students must pass both ENGL 1301 & 1302 before they can enroll in any ACC literature class—even if another university only requires one writing course. Faculty will confirm prerequisites for students to remain in class.

What are Liberal Arts Gateway classes?

These English classes offer a thematic approach to help students think deeply, write critically, and find additional relevance in what they study. LA Gateway courses build equity and inclusion, and professors help you learn skills for a lifetime of learning. Learn more about Liberal Arts Gateway (opens in new tab) .

How can I take an Honors class in English?

ACC's Honors Program (opens in new tab) offers core curriculum courses with in-depth research and discussion in small classes (max 15 students), taught by exceptional faculty with special projects, field trips, and guest lectures.

Am I allowed to pass out of ENGL 1301?

Some students may test out with credit by examination (AP, IB, or CLEP). Credit by examination details (non-institutional) (opens in new tab) . You might also schedule a Course Challenge Exam (opens in new tab) . Visit with an advisor first.

Faculty Resources

Requirements & Options (KISS)

Faculty requirements, assessment, and compensation

Faculty Calendar

Department events and deadlines

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Handbook

Policies and resources for CLS faculty

Directory

Browse CLS faculty contacts and information

Conferences

CLS professional development events

Faculty Evaluation

Evaluation procedures and forms

Department Syllabi

Departmental syllabi for all CLS courses

Online Teaching

Distance learning resources

Mental Health

Resources for faculty wellness

Professional Development

Training and growth opportunities

Glossary

ACC terms and acronyms

CLS Newsletter

Department news and updates

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Contact Us

Dr. Wendy L. Elle

Department Chair

Rio Grande Campus, Bldg. 3000, Rm. 3120

512-223-3357 [email protected]

Mads Fielder

Administrative Assistant III

Rio Grande Campus, Bldg. 3000, Rm. 3171

M-F 8am–5pm

512-223-3233 [email protected]

General Inquiries

Questions about courses?

Include your name, student ID, and course section number (e.g., ENGL1301-037)

[email protected]