BA (Hons) English — Creative Writing Emphasis

The BA (Hons) English - Creative Writing Emphasis program at Western Washington University offers students the opportunity to develop their creative writing skills in a supportive and challenging environment. The program emphasizes the study of literature and language, as well as the craft of writing fiction, poetry, and drama. Students will learn how to analyze and interpret literary texts, as well as how to create compelling and effective written pieces. With a focus on practical application and individualized attention, this program prepares students for successful careers in creative writing or related fields.

Additional Information

The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career in creative writing or teaching English at the secondary level. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers as writers, editors, and teachers, as well as to further study at the master's and doctoral levels.

Discover Your Creative Potential at Western Washington University

Western Washington University is an ideal setting for students interested in creative writing, with its picturesque campus and surrounding natural beauty providing a unique inspiration for writers. The university is also known for its commitment to sustainability and social justice, which are core values that the program reflects and incorporates into its curriculum.

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.

Academic Requirements for freshman students:

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are given as follows:

• Completed application form

• Academic Transcripts(certified english translations if necessary)

• Relevant High school degree/Grade Report/Certificates

• SAT or ACT Scores (Optional)

• A cumulative GPA of 2.0

• Personal Statement or essay

• One letter of recommendation

• List of extracurricular activities(if any)

• Portfolio