Division of Humanities and Bilingual Studies
Bilingual Studies
The department offers non-degree programs in English as a Second Language (ESL), as well as courses in world languages. In order to supplement the classroom experience, the Bilingual Studies faculty participate in, develop, and support cultural events, organizations, and activities designed to promote feelings of positive cultural awareness among students and the Bilingual communities of Essex County. Advising, tutoring, computer-assisted language learning, and other support services are also available to students.
Location: Level I, Red Area
Chairperson: William Tooma
Faculty: Maria Bruan, Michael Pekarofski, and Samuel Lumbsden
Administrative Assistant: Gloria Gamboa
English as a Second Language (ESL) academic courses
Students work on improving their proficiency in English through a series of courses:
- ESL 031 ESL Intensive Experience: American Culture (3 Credits)
- ESL 032 ESL Intensive Experience: Listening/Comprehension and Speaking (6 Credits)
- ESL 033 ESL Intensive Experience: Reading and Writing (6 Credits)
- ESL 041 ESL Basic Academic Grammar (4.6 Credits)
- ESL 043 ESL Reading, Writing and Communication I (6 Credits)
- ESL 051 Form and Function of English (3 Credits)
- ESL 053 ESL Reading, Writing and Communication II (6 Credits)
- ESL 061 Advanced Academic Grammar for Writing (3 Credits)
- ESL 062 Active Listening and Speaking (3 Credits)
- ESL 063 ESL Reading, Writing and Communication III (6 Credits)
Students my register for a limited number of additional courses taught in Spanish or English while they are taking ESL courses. The idea is to give students more opportunities to improve their proficiency in English while fulfilling college requirements and electives.
The ESL program is available through placement by the Department of Bilingual Studies. In many cases, students in these courses are professionals or college graduates seeking to improve their English as rapidly as possible. Various cultural and educational activities serve to enhance and reinforce the learning experience to prepare students to enter college-level courses directly or to successfully compete in the job market and is available through placement by the department of Bilingual Studies. While learning a foreign language, students also have the opportunity to develop cultural awareness and sensitivity to meet the demands of an increasingly global and culturally diverse society.
Humanities
This division offers A.A. and A.S. degree programs that are transferable to 4-year institutions; an A.A.S. and a certificate program in Digital Media and Electronic Publishing. In addition, the division offers general education courses in Art, English, History, Music, and World Languages required for degree programs as well as developmental courses in English to assist students not fully prepared for college-level courses.
Location: Level I, Red Area
Chairperson: William Tooma
Coordinator (English): Jamal Elborj
Faculty: Patricia Bartinique, Viral Bhatt, Eileen DeFreece, Jhestarri DePasquale, Nessie Hill, Mikal Nash, Sean O’Connell, Robert Spellman, Margaret Stevens, Jennifer Wager, and Rebecca Williams
Administrative Assistant: Gloria Gamboa
Art - AA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 0401
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree
Why major in Art?
ECC’s Art degree program majors take courses that ensure a strong technical and artistic foundation. Curriculum parallels the first two years of a bachelor’s in Art at a four-year college or university and also serves as preparation for careers such as a freelance artist, graphic designer, interior decorator, advertising designer, museum assistant, curator, or art teacher.
If I major in Art, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, the Art degree prepares students to transfer to institutions offering a baccalaureate in Art as well as many other Humanities and Liberal Arts degrees. Typically, credits will be applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree. While at ECC, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the degree requirements of program you wish to transfer to upon graduation.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement testing, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major. Art studio courses may generally be taken at any time.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of history of art through time and diverse cultures;
- Research and analyze a particular artist, period, style, work, or trend in art to prepare an MLA-formatted research paper which uses information technology in its preparation;
- Demonstrate proficiency in performing and using a variety of drawing, design, and painting techniques, materials, and styles; and
- Produce a personal portfolio of two- and three-dimensional works of art.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Liberal Arts - AA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 0199
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree
Why major in Liberal Arts?
Liberal Arts provides broad foundations in languages and literature, humanities, social sciences, mathematics, and the sciences. Teaching, law, publishing, government service, and business are a few of the possibilities open to Liberal Arts majors; indeed, many employers hire Liberal Arts graduates as they receive a solid and comprehensive education. Program is also recommended for those exploring a general curriculum before deciding upon a specific career.
If I major in Liberal Arts, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, Liberal Arts degrees prepare students to transfer for a baccalaureate in many fields. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree. While at ECC, we encourage you familiarize yourself with requirements of program wishing to transfer to upon graduation.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement testing, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Apply principles of effective rhetoric and critical thinking in oral presentations and writing assignments;
- Utilize the library, Internet, and other electronic sources to prepare research projects following Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines for source documentation;
- Apply critical and analytical analysis techniques to literary works and visual art works and/or musical pieces of various periods, styles, and genres;
- Demonstrate knowledge of historical events and fundamental concepts and theories of analysis used in historical interpretation; and Compare and analyze diverse cultures throughout history.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Liberal Arts: Africana Studies Option - AA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 019A
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree
Why major in Liberal Arts: Africana Studies?
Liberal Arts: Africana Studies is for students who desire a broad foundation in African and African-American arts, humanities, and social sciences. Students educated in these fields work in government service, teaching, law, publishing, and business.
If I major in Liberal Arts: Africana Studies, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, Liberal Arts: Africana Studies degrees prepare students to transfer for a baccalaureate in Africana Studies as well as many other fields. Africana Studies programs exist at Rutgers University, Drew University, and William Patterson University. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelors.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in
two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the arts, history, and literature of Africa, the African-American community, and the Caribbean;
- Apply critical thinking, problem solving, and effective communication skills to analyze and discuss literary and/or art works, historical events, and topics related to cultural diversity; and
- Utilize the library, Internet, and other electronic sources to prepare research projects that follow MLA, APA, and/or Chicago Manual of style guidelines for source documentation.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Liberal Arts: Communications Option - AA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 019C
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree
Why major in Liberal Arts: Communications?
Liberal Arts: Communications is for students interested in gaining general knowledge of the media and communications industry including television, radio, and/or film production, and mass communication. Program utilizes broadcast equipment to give students knowledge in producing, writing, directing, editing, technical operations, and announcing.
If I major in Liberal Arts: Communications, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, Liberal Arts: Communications degrees prepare students to transfer for a baccalaureate in Communications as well as many
other fields. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement testing, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the techniques, forms, and principles of television, film or radio production and post-production.
- Analyze and explain various media, their histories and their relation to society.
- Utilize film analysis involving form, storytelling and narrative elements to evaluate their function within a film.
- Write for various media, utilizing professional formats.
- Operate industry-standard audio and video production and post-production equipment and software to create digital media.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Liberal Arts: Journalism Option - AA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 019C
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree
Why major in Liberal Arts: Journalism?
Liberal Arts: Journalism is for students interested in newspaper, magazine, book, or electronic publishing. Program covers theory and practice of reporting and writing news and features for print and/or electronic publications. Students have opportunities to report on news, arts, entertainment, and sports.
If I major in Liberal Arts: Journalism, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, Liberal Arts: Journalism degrees prepare students to transfer for a baccalaureate in Journalism as well as many other fields. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement testing, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills in writing, reporting, researching, interviewing, and presenting news stories appropriate for college-level discourse;
- Demonstrate theoretical knowledge and practical concepts in synthesizing, evaluating, editing, proofreading, and revising;
- Apply appropriate journalistic styles, news structures, news formats, news values, and elements when producing stories; and
- Utilize technology, the library, and social media for journalistic reporting and writing of leads, news stories, papers, layouts, and design.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Liberal Arts: Spanish Language Option - AA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 019L
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree
Why major in Liberal Arts: Spanish Language?
Liberal Arts: Spanish Language is for students interested in careers such as business, social work, education, law enforcement, or health professions. In fact, Spanish proficiency is an essential part of many occupations. There is a demand for teachers of Spanish throughout New Jersey.
If I major in Liberal Arts: Spanish Language, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, Liberal Arts: Spanish Language degrees prepare students to transfer for a baccalaureate in Spanish as well as many other
fields, including education. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement testing, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Proficiently write, read, speak, and listen to intermediate-level Spanish that emphasizes real-life contexts; and
- Describe various cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division (973) 877-3285.
Music - AS
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 0409
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree
Why major in Music?
Music majors typically continue towards a career such as teacher, supervisor, or director of choral, instrumental, and/or theater production programs within schools, as well as in choral and instrumental organizations.
If I major in Music, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Yes, the Music degree prepares students to transfer for a baccalaureate in Music as well as many other fields. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement testing, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking summer courses.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate the development of musical performance skills commensurate to their level of experience;
- Utilize critical writing skills to critique musical performance;
- Create and analyze musical compositions to demonstrate mastery of fundamental principles of music theory;
- Demonstrate an aural application of music theory; and
- Demonstrate a vocal or keyboard application of music theory.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
New Media Technology - AAS
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 2071
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree
Why major in New Media Technology?
New Media Technology is career-oriented fusing interactive design interfaces including audio and video editing and animation, as well as game design. Multimedia artists and animators have opportunities in educational and corporate training, government agencies, web design firms, and other media-based fields.
If I major in New Media Technology, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
The New Media Technology A.A.S. degree program is job-oriented and not designed for transfer to a bachelor’s program. However, many colleges and universities, will apply most or all of the courses you have taken toward a bachelors. While studying at ECC, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with degree requirements of program you wish to transfer to upon graduation. Typically, credits are applied to the first two years of a bachelor's degree.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major.
How long will it take for me to complete this degree?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 15 credits each semester, degree can be completed in two years, which may be shortened by taking courses in summer sessions.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Apply fundamental principles of design to new media projects
- Utilize industry-standard software applications and hardware equipment to produce new media projects
- Demonstrate knowledge of storyboarding, character development, interactivity and introductory scripting using various computer software platforms and applications.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Art - COA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 3072
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Certificate of Achievement
Why major in the Art Certificate?
The Art certificate prepares students for employment and/or competitive arts programs in two-year or four-year institutions concentrating in Fine Arts or Digital Media Publishing.
If I major in the Art Certificate, can I transfer to a four-year college or university?
Courses completed as part of the Art certificate can be applied toward associate’s degrees at ECC. Most or all credits earned in certificate programs that are applied to associate’s degrees transfer to four-year institutions. Consult your academic advisor for more information.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?
Based on placement, you may have to take developmental courses in English and/or Mathematics before taking courses in your major. Certificate is designed to give high school students a head-start; selected high school art classes grant entry into this program.
How long will it take for me to complete this certificate?
If you do not need developmental courses and you register for an average of 6 credits each semester, certificate can be completed in one year, which may be shortened by taking courses in summer sessions.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of techniques of art, design, photography, and/or computer graphics; and
- Create compositions in art by proficiently utilizing drawing, painting, photography, and/or computer graphics skills.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Call the Humanities Division at (973) 877-3285.
Digital Media and Electronic Publishing - COA
Division of Humanities & Bilingual Studies — Curriculum Code: 3071
Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Certificate of Achievement
Why major in Digital Media and Electronic Publishing?
The Digital Media & Electronic Publishing certificate program prepares individuals for employment in professional positions in desktop publishing, advertising graphics, video editing, and digital production. The skills developed in the courses prepare students for employment at specialized printing companies, multimedia production centers, and digital media companies. This program has been created in accordance with standards established by the Electronic Imaging Printing Industry Association and also the National Voluntary Skills Standards for pre-press/imaging in the graphics communication industry.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses?
No.
If I major in digital media and electronic publishing, can i transfer to an upper-division college or university?
The Digital Media & Electronic Publishing certificate program is career oriented and not designed for transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. However, credits earned in this program can be applied toward associate’s degrees at ECC. Most or all credits earned in certificate programs that are applied to associate’s degree programs transfer to four-year institutions. Please see a Humanities Division academic advisor (faculty member) for more information.
How long will it take for me to complete this program?
If you follow the recommended sequence of courses and register for an average of 6 credits each semester, you should be able to complete this certificate of achievement in three semesters.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of visual design and media technology fundamentals;
- Describe and apply fundamental theories, practices, and appropriate elements of computer applications of presentation graphics; and
- Use a variety of industry-standard design software programs to produce graphic design for print and web-based media.
Where should I direct specific questions about this program?
Please contact the Program Coordinator at (973) 877-1937 or email her at jwager@essex.edu.