Minors
Literary Studies
Do you love reading, writing about, and discussing literature? If your answer is yes, then the Literary Studies minor is right for you. In addition to the marketable skills you gain and polish as you fulfill the program requirements, this minor combines enjoyment with intellectual excitement. Please note that this minor is available only to non-English majors and non-English Education majors.
Learn moreProfessional Writing
Given the importance of communication in professional, civic, and personal lives, writing minors are proliferating around the country. The UW Professional Writing minor (PWM) is designed for students in any major in which effective written communication is highly valued.
Creative Writing
The Creative Writing minor teaches students the fundamentals of creating original work in traditional genres (poetry, fiction, and non-fiction) while providing exciting opportunities for the exploration of blended genres and interdisciplinary work. An undergraduate student can earn a flexibly designed minor in Creative Writing that complements majors from a wide array of departments and colleges.
Professional Writing Internship
Students in the Professional Writing Minor have the option of taking ENGL 4970, the Professional Writing Internship. It is a great way to build your résumé while still in school. As a former professional writing intern explains, the internship experience can create a great “…foundation for a potential job, even a long-term career.” An internship will give you a better understanding of the practical applications of professional writing, recognizable work experience in a professional writing area of your choice, and relationships with a network of professionals who can give you a competitive edge. The internship is best suited for students who have already completed a sizeable portion of the professional writing minor requirements.
For more information regarding internship opportunities, please contact the Professional Writing minor director, Dr. Michael Knievel.
Student Testimonials
"I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the Professional Writing Minor to anyone. It not only made me a well-rounded and confident writer, but I believe it helped me get accepted into graduate school and obtain my current job. During one of my job interviews the interviewer asked me for details about the professional writing minor, so I told them about a couple of the classes and described why they had given me strong writing skills. Two days later I got the job. Coincidence? I'll let you decide"
--Ben Parkhurst
"I am so glad that I pursued a minor in Creative Writing at UW. Each class offered a fascinating exploration of poetry, fiction, non-fiction, or a surprising combination of multiple genres. UW's Creative Writing instructors are world-class. Their encouragement and support helped me grow as a writer and gave me the confidence I needed to continue on my path to a writing life."
--Katherine Heller
Creative Writing opportunities
Creative Writing minors also enjoy writing opportunities outside of the classroom, including:
- Student Readings
- Creative Writing Club
- Specialty Workshop Sessions
- Annual Undergraduate Creative Writing Contest
- Internships
For more information regarding the Creative Writing minor, please contact the minor director Paul Bergstraesser.
