The primary goals of the English curriculum are threefold. First, to provide course sequences for foreign-language students which successfully carry them through the transition from their native languages into English. Second, to provide career students with a Liberal Arts perspective through the offering of electives in literature and language. Third, to contribute to the transfer process of Liberal Arts students by offering courses which are accredited in other institutions.

To complete English program courses successfully, students are required to demonstrate their achievement of course objectives in essay tests, written reports, and quizzes. The English faculty and tutorial staff work closely with the students, providing diagnostic and tutorial services.

On the basis of performance in the City University Assessment Tests, the entering student will be advised as to whether he/she may register for (1) the English Program or (2) the Libra Program. Students who identify themselves as foreign language speakers are placed in the ESL Program according to results in an in-house test.