Career & Academic Pathways >> Language & Communication

Contact Information
Paola Gilbert (Division Chair)
(831) 646-4101
pgilbert@mpc.edu

For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Great Books
• Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

In this era of distractions, many ask, “Why read?” MPC’s Great Books program responds to that question through the study of keystone works in world literary and cultural traditions. Students learn about the history of the Great Books movement and what it is today; they consider the importance of Great Books for individuals and society, and they contemplate what makes a Great Book great. In the process, they participate in the Great Conversation. While creating a space for students to explore thought-provoking, even life-changing, ideas, the program equips students with background knowledge and strategies for reading well and deeply as they pursue lifelong learning.

Job Outlook

The Great Books program provides students with communication, reading, and thinking tools that are universally needed in any job. Besides that, reading literature develops empathy, a necessary trait for caregiving professions from teaching to medicine and for effective teamwork in any setting.

Potential Careers

Editors (may require additional training)*	$35,640 – 129,180
Librarians (may require additional training)*	$43,690 - $117,250
K-12 Teachers (may require additional training)*	$51,900 - $117,650
Registered Nurses (may require additional training)*	$71,230 - $163,830
Lawyers (may require additional training)*	$75,610 - $208,000+

MPC Degrees and Certificates

Great Books - Certificate of Achievement (COA)

Year 1

FALL	UNITS	SPRING	UNITS
ENGL 5 (Core requirement)	3	ARTH 1, ENGL 11, 17, 18, 25A-C,	3
ARTH 1, ENGL 11, 17, 18, 25A-C,	3	40A-B, 44-47, 49, HIST 4,
40A-B, 44-47, 49, HIST 4,		HUMA 10, PHIL 2, or 8
HUMA 10, PHIL 2, or 8		ARTH 1, ENGL 11, 17, 18, 25A-C,	3
ARTH 1, ENGL 11, 17, 18, 25A-C,	1-3	40A-B, 44-47, 49, HIST 4,
40A-B, 44-47, 49, HIST 4,		HUMA 10, PHIL 2, or 8
HUMA 10, PHIL 2, or 8		ARTH 1, ENGL 11, 17, 18, 25A-C,	1-3
		40A-B, 44-47, 49, HIST 4,
		HUMA 10, PHIL 2, or 8

Total Fall Units	7-9	Total Spring Units	7-9

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling.

Testimonials

Marybeth Murray

I decided to pursue the program certificate in preparation for a Masters in Secondary English Education with UC Santa Cruz's Masters and Credential program. And I'm so glad I did! The Great Books Program at MPC is a unique and engaging opportunity for anyone who is looking to dive deeper into literary study and expand their understanding of critical analysis. The program description is broad, but I felt like each class I took helped me move into a deeper analysis and understanding of literature throughout history. The Great Books Club has made it possible for me to continue to connect with the faculty, students, and alumni of the program and continue having engaging and exciting conversations about literature.