While studying with faculty members who are practicing poets and prose writers, Creative Writing majors explore the resources of their imaginations, sharpen their critical and verbal skills, and develop a professional attitude about their writing. Students also have the opportunity to work with other nationally known writers through the department's Visiting Writers series and part-time faculty appointments. The program, based on a conservatory model, is made up of faculty and students who have an intense commitment to their work. Students who do not exhibit a high level of commitment and promise in the introductory classes will not be encouraged to continue in the major. At the heart of the program is the workshop, where in small, roundtable classes, student work is considered and critiqued by peers and a professor. The workshops emphasize constructive criticism and the incorporation of criticism in revision. The workshop process helps students to practice their craft, to experiment, and to grow as writers. The capstone project for many of our students is the H&SS honors thesis program. Creative writing majors often complete a book of poems, short stories, a novel, or a screenplay, working one-on-one throughout their senior year with a faculty advisor.

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