When it comes to capitalization, Bellevue College follows clear and straightforward rules based on the Merriam-Webster dictionary. Using these guidelines ensures your writing is professional, consistent, and easy to read. Here’s a breakdown of how to handle capitalization in common contexts.
More Information:
Capitalization Guidelines at Bellevue College
- Department Names
- Capitalize full department names.
- Correct: He worked in the Department of Sociology.
- Use lowercase for general references to academic subjects or departments.
- Correct: She studied sociology.
- Correct: He plans to major in biology.
- Capitalize full department names.
- Organizations, Boards, and Committees
- Capitalize full names on first reference; lowercase on subsequent references.
- Correct: The Bellevue College Board of Trustees meets monthly. The board will discuss budget planning at its next meeting.
- Capitalize full names on first reference; lowercase on subsequent references.
- Course Titles
- Always capitalize the full names of courses as they appear in the catalog.
- Correct: She is taking Introduction to Psychology this quarter.
- Always capitalize the full names of courses as they appear in the catalog.
- Awards, Historical Events, and Programs
- Use uppercase for named awards, major historical events, and official program titles.
- Correct: He received the Outstanding Student Award.
- Correct: She is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
- Use uppercase for named awards, major historical events, and official program titles.
- Titles and Headings
- Use title case for titles and headings: capitalize all words except articles, conjunctions, and prepositions with three or fewer letters (unless they’re the first or last word in the title).
- Correct: Of Mice and Men
- Correct: Across the River and Into the Trees
- Use title case for titles and headings: capitalize all words except articles, conjunctions, and prepositions with three or fewer letters (unless they’re the first or last word in the title).
- Quarter References
- Use lowercase for quarters in narrative text.
- Narrative: She plans to graduate during spring quarter.
- Capitalize quarters in titles or headers.
- Header: Fall 2024 Registration Opens Soon
- Use lowercase for quarters in narrative text.
Why It’s Important
Following these capitalization rules ensures clarity and professionalism across all Bellevue College communications. Consistency is essential when writing for diverse audiences, including students, faculty, and external partners.
For additional details, visit the Bellevue College Style Guide. Writing that adheres to these standards reflects the care and excellence that Bellevue College represents!
Last Updated January 24, 2025