Frequently Asked Questions (Undergraduate Advising)

Welcome to our undergraduate programs in English. Please rely on me, Laura Scott, to help you choose courses that are rewarding as you work through your degree. I will help you navigate catalog requirements and the degree analysis. It is the University’s position that you are responsible for all rules that apply to your degree program, but there are many details to manage, and I have extensive knowledge of academic policies. Depend on me as a partner in your academic planning. I’m happy to work with you by phone (703.993.1179), email (lscott@gmu.edu), or during advising hours. Walk-in advising is available year-round in Robinson A 481. Please call 703.993.1179 to for the updated schedule.

Q: Where can I learn about teaching licensure?

We have a section of our site devoted to this topic.

Q: I earned a 3, 4, or 5 on my AP/IB English tests—what requirements have I fulfilled?

Congratulations. A score of 3 on the AP English exams earns you three credits for English 101. Scores of 4 or 5 on the AP or IB English exams earn six credits—three for English 101 and three for English 200-level literature. A complete list of how AP,IB, scores apply can be found here: http://admissions.gmu.edu/ugrad/acbe.html

Q: Can I apply for exemption from any English requirements through the English Department?

We offer exemption options for English 101 and English 302. Details are posted at the links given above. Currently, there is no exemption possibility for the University or College literature requirements.

Q: I’m a transfer student, but my English courses didn’t transfer the way I think they should have. Who can help me?

If you are seeking credit for English 101 or 302, you need to present a syllabus from the course you took to the Director of Composition, Dr. E. Shelley Reid. She can be contacted by email at ereid1@gmu.edu. For English 200-level credit, present the syllabus to me, Laura Ellen Scott.

Q: I need a literature course for General education. Do I have to take English 201?

English 201 is the most popular choice for this requirement, but there are other options in non-English courses that will satisfy the requirement. You can see the full range of options by consulting your personal degree plan at: https://patriotweb.gmu.edu

Be sure to check the specific prerequisites for any course you choose.

Q: What are the requirements for the English Major and/or English Minor?

Q: What is English 325: Dimensions of Writing and Literature?

English 325 is the department's required introduction to the study of English. In order to get the most benefit from this course, we recommend that you take it as soon as you have completed both of your 200-level English courses. For more on English 325 see the course coordinator's page.

Q: Should I take English 325 and English 302 at the same time?

Because both courses require a great deal of writing, we advise students not to take both in the same semester.

Q: What requirements do I have left before I graduate?

Students can track degree progress at http://patriotweb.gmu.edu.

However, if the information seems incorrect or incomplete, please contact the advisor. Laura has access to student records to make certain adjustments, including substitutions, waivers, and updates concerning concentrations and special topics courses in the major.