Creative Writing Department

There are currently two (2) pathways for students interested in extended undergraduate study in Creative Writing: 

1. Major in English and choose the concentration in Creative Writing.  

1. Minor in Creative Writing to compleiment any major (except the English major with concentration in Creative Writing) 

NOTE: Students of any major may pursue the Certificate in Creative Writing. 

Program Overview

The BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing cultivate scholarly and creative achievement through graduate and undergraduate courses . We promote student literacy – specifically the abilities to read, write, and think critically . We encourage faculty to pursue

excellence in teaching, foster collegiality, contribute creative works and/or scholarly research and engage in service to the university and Rio Grande Valley community. The BA in English degree, as a collaboration among the Department of Literatures and Cultural Studies, the Department of Writing and Language Studies, and the Creative Writing Program in the College of Fine Arts, support culturally responsive pedagogy and community engagement. A student with an English major possesses skills in critical thinking, writing, and reading. English majors can enter professions such as teaching, writing, editing, media production, law, public service, and advocacy, and they are prepared for continued graduate or professional study.

Major Requirements - 48 hours

Program Overview 

The Department of Creative Writing offers an 18-hour minor in Creative Writing that includes courses and workshops in various genres of creative writing such as poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, graphic literature, screenwriting, and playwriting.

Program Restrictions

Students pursuing a BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration cannot declare a Creative Writing minor.

Minor Requirements - 18 hours

Program Overview

Undergraduate Certificate Application Form

If you are not pursuing either of the other undergraduate options in Creative Writing, the 12-hour Undergraduate Certificate is a viable option. When you have finished completing the courses for the certificate, or if you are near graduation and in your final semester of Creative Writing courses, please fill out the application and submit it to the chair of the Creative Writing Department through email or drop off a copy to Anita Reyes at ELABS 125. Attached you will also see the courses that can be applied to the Creative Writing Certificate. The Certificate will appear on your transcript after the submitted form has been completed and routed by the department to the Registrar for confirmation and processing.

Certificate Requirements - 12 hours