The creative writing concentration is a program within the English major, consisting of any four creative writing workshops. See below for a list of offerings. The creative writing concentration may NOT be combined with the BA/MA, teacher certification programs, or the film concentration. The creative writing minor, however, may be combined with these programs.
Though the workshops may be taken in any sequence, the 300-level or intermediate courses in any genre must be preceded by the 200-level or beginning courses, and the 400-level or advanced courses in any genre must be preceded by the 300-level or intermediate courses.
All four workshops may count toward the English major, but concentrators still have to complete the courses, periods, genres, and guidelines required by the major. All workshops are three credits. See FAQ below for additional points, and when in doubt, ask.
Fiction Workshops
ENWR 213: Introduction to Fiction Writing
ENWR 311: Intermediate Fiction Workshop
ENWR 411: Advanced Fiction Workshop
Poetry Workshops
ENWR 212: Introduction to Poetry Writing
ENWR 312: Intermediate Poetry Workshop
ENWR 412: Advanced Poetry Workshop
Creative Nonfiction Workshop
ENWR 205: Creative Nonfiction
Special-Topic Workshops
ENWR 250: Special Topics in Writing
ENWR 491: Advanced Seminar
Playwriting Workshops
THTR 391: Playwriting I
THTR 395: Playwriting II
[all playwriting workshops are through the Theatre Program in the College of the Arts]
Screenwriting Workshops
FMTV 230: Story Analysis and Introduction to Screenwriting
FMTV 310: Intermediate Screenwriting
FMTV 410: Advanced Screenwriting
[all screenwriting workshops are through the School of Communication and Media]
Normally, the 400-level fiction and poetry workshops are offered only once per year, in the spring semester. Please plan ahead.
For a complete list of requirements, please see our Curriculum Guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enroll in the creative writing concentration? Students must apply using the major-minor drop-add form on the Registrar’s page, writing in “concentration” instead of “minor.”
If I’ve already taken a creative workshop at the college level, may I bring that in as transfer credit? Usually yes, upon consultation with your advisor, with a credit-adjustment form. You may also use previous workshop experience to enroll directly into an intermediate workshop, with the permission of the instructor.
How does a beginning workshop differ from an intermediate or an advanced one?
At the beginning level, students learn the basics of craft, with a lot of exercises and guidance. By the intermediate level and beyond, students are expected to write more in both quantity and higher quality. The teaching is also pitched at a higher level, from techniques to discussion and analysis.
Does a journalism course count? No, and the same is true for most communications courses.