University Writing Requirements

First-year Writing Requirement

The University Writing Program, an aspect of the English Department, operates under the aegis of the University Writing Committee, appointed by the Faculty Senate. The Program's primary function is to help students acquire the writing skills they will need to cope with the writing tasks they will perform in their academic work, in their lives, and in their careers.

To this end the Writing Program offers a First Year Writing Program, which includes courses titled Basic Writing (ENGLWRIT 111) and College Writing (ENGLWRIT 112 and 113). Entering students take a placement examination which places them in Basic or College Writing or exempts them, without academic credit, from the First Year Writing requirement. College Writing is the only University course that satisfies the First Year Writing requirement. The Writing Program placement exam is given during summer and transfer counseling periods.

All first-year students entering the University are expected to fulfill the Writing requirement during their first year. Those who do not may be required to take equivalent courses through the Division of Continuing Education or at another approved institution at their own expense. Transfer students who enter the University are expected to fulfill the First Year Writing requirement during their first semester, so that they may then fulfill their Junior Year Writing requirement in timely fashion.