Capstone Programs

CAPSTONE PROGRAMS FOR MAJORS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE

Updated October 2025

The English Department sponsors two capstone programs. These programs support English majors in doing advanced work in creative writing and English studies and are noted on official UM transcripts after graduation. These programs support the production of a senior thesis that may earn Honors in the College for graduation. The Research and Creative Writing capstones are distinct from each other in terms of student experience and educational objectives, as described on each program page.

All English majors are welcome to pursue the Capstone in Creative Writing or a Capstone in Research in the form of a sequence of credit-earning/graded English courses and by submission of an application in advance of the thesis-writing year. Check [Contact & Calendar] for application deadlines.
The two English capstone programs do not require that students intend to earn an Honors credential or be enrolled in the LSA Honors Program as either a Lower-Division or Upper-Division student. If you are interested in the Honors credential through an English Capstone, see [How to Earn Honors in English].
Dual admission in Research and Creative Writing capstones is offered under special circumstances. Only one track, however, can appear on the transcript and will be decided by the student in advance of graduation.
Students interested in a Creative Nonfiction thesis should meet with directors of both programs to find the best fit for their plans.