English — Creative Writing Emphasis, BA

Department of English, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

58-60 Credits

Introduction

English is one of the central liberal arts degrees. A background in English provides graduates with a sound basis for pursuing a variety of careers, including law, business, education, publishing and government, as well as graduate work in creative writing, language, literary and cultural studies, and critical writing. English engages students in diverse literary heritages as well as fosters the development of sophisticated abilities in critical analysis, creative inquiry, reflective reading, and effective communication and expression.

Why Consider a Creative Writing Emphasis in the English Major?

The Creative Writing program focuses on writing courses: creative writing in fiction, drama, poetry, or nonfiction prose and includes coursework in literature to supplement the creative writing courses. Students in the upper-divisional courses are expected to interpret and analyze literature in thoughtful, organized, and clear essays that are free of mechanical errors. If you think you need help with your reading and writing, we strongly encourage you, in addition to your work in English courses, to consult the Hacherl Research & Writing Studio and other University resources.

Introductory and advanced critical writing genre courses form the core of the major, giving students an opportunity to develop their craft and aesthetics through intensive writing, reading, and workshops. Students must take courses in at least two different genres. Aside from the core courses, creative writing majors take 25 credits in literature (which may include literary/cultural, rhetorical, and literacy theory and film studies) at the 300- or 400-level. Special modes courses (456, 457, 458, 460) introduce advanced students to distinct forms within their major genres.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Schedule an online appointment with the English Department’s Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Elle Starr, to declare this major. You can visit chss.wwu.edu/english-department/advising to schedule your meeting. The prerequisites for declaring the major are 60 credits completed and ENG 202.

Though the English Department cannot guarantee immediate enrollment in the major or access to any specific class, we matriculate students into the major on a rolling basis as space is available and offer a wide variety of topics each term.

Advising Tips: Students are strongly encouraged to meet with the Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Elle Starr, early in their careers at Western. Students should declare their major by the start of their junior year.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.