AB in English in the Philippines

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in English (ABE) is a four-year degree program that centers on the theoretical aspects and practical applications of the English language and literature. Its curriculum is designed to equip students with proper knowledge and skills for them to become articulate English speakers and achieve a high level of English proficiency; and apply it government and law, education, media, business, and the industry as an official language of the Philippines.

Recommended Senior High School Strand

Students who want to pursue a degree in English are encouraged to take the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand under the Academic track. The curriculum focuses on human behavior, literature, education, politics, liberal arts, and society. The HUMSS strand will cover relevant topics that may be further discussed in their college lectures.

Subjects and Curriculum

Basic Communication Subjects
Preparatory English I & II
Business Communication
History of the English Language
Advanced English Grammar
The literature of the World
Children’s Literature
Phonology
Socio-linguistics
Research Writing
Technical Writing

Admission Requirements

Qualifications

The student must be a high school graduate.

However, if they were not able to graduate high school, they may opt to take the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college; the availability of courses for PEPT passers depend on the university.

The students must pass the College Admissions Test of the university.

Basic Requirements

Form 138 - High School Report Card (Original and Photocopy)
Recommendation letter from High school principal and guidance counselor
Most recent medical and dental health record
Copy of NSO Certified birth certificate
Certificate of Good moral character
Copy of honorable dismissal
Copy of high school diploma
(1) Latest 2”x2” ID Picture

Program Outcome

Graduates of AB in English are expected to be able to:

Explain the English language system and development comprehensively
Fluently, accurately, and creatively communicate in English in a diverse social, cultural, academic, and professional settings
Facilitate learning of the English language
Effectively participate in oral communications where language systems may vary
Produce well-written texts for different academic and professional purposes

On-The-Job Training/Internship

During the fourth year of the program, students are required to attend an On the Job Training (OJT) in any educational institutions, government offices, publishing companies, and production companies.

Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an actual work setting. Usually, universities require them to submit a written report on their tasks, learning experiences, and hours rendered. Their work performance will also be evaluated by their immediate managers and will be submitted to their respective OJT coordinator. The number of hours required may differ in each university.

Board Exam

The AB in English does not have a board examination. However, graduates may opt to take the Civil Service Examination (CSE) conducted by the Philippine Civil Service Commission (PCSC) to qualify in working in government offices. Some graduates opt to take a Master’s degree followed by a Doctorate degree to gain expertise in the industry.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of AB in English may pursue a career path in educational institutions, government offices, publishing companies, and production companies. They may apply as an English teacher, English tutor, language trainor, English translator, marketing communications specialist, public relations officer, and an academician.

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Reviews of AB in English graduates:

M. P.

◈ Studied AB English with Applied Linguistics
◈ At University of San Carlos
◈ Graduated 2004

Why did I choose English with Applied Linguistics: My father chose it because he didn't agree with my other choices. I enrolled and planned to transfer, but I always reached the department's 1.8 cut off grade. By the time I had more major subjects I developed an interest in linguistics and as a polyglot I could identify well.

About my college education: ○ principles and philosophies of applied linguistics, literature appreciation and analysis, teaching methodologies, speech communication, writing
○ most difficult: FoLa Nihongo and Algebra!
○ many shifted to another course because they didn't reach the cut off grade of 1.8 (2.0 previously) or found the course they desired. Out of 1 block section (around 50) only 8 English majors remained.
○ Algebra is my biggest frustration, but the other minor subjects broadened my knowledge. Most useful was Typing under Ma'am Abella. I merely passed, but it made me a fast touchtypist serving me well until now.
○ to succeed in this course, you should have an inclination to languages (especially English). It was awkward for me because English is not my second language growing up abroad. You should also have good analysis skills because the scope of language is deep and broad. Your self-confidence will be developed intensely.

My current job: 2017 (current job): German Language Teacher
2015 - 2016: government program community mobilizer
2006 - now: Tour Guide
2007-2009: English University instructor

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, especially when deciding to do a career in the academe or where jobs requiring good communication skills.

How long did it take to find a job: After graduating in 2004 as the only Octoberian with an English with Applied Linguistics degree, I got a lot of calls from call centers that began sprouting then. I went home to my province though, had kids, enrolled to get a master's degree, trained to become a DOT accredited tour guide and then was hired by a university to teach English.

Do I recommend studying English with Applied Linguistics: Employment opportunities are vast wherever communication is needed. The salary can vary too. It is also great as a pre-law course because you learn to debate, proper argumentation with persuasion and conviction etc.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: As an English major (now Ling/Lit), be sure teaching might be your fallback or chosen career. Not necessarily, but that is the road where I am always led to no matter what other path I chose. I was very meek and shy, but now I jump up on stage to talk in front of many people. If you love to write this is it for you too. You can even pursue a job in broadcasting and journalism.

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