Updated October 2026
English majors interested in studying Creative Writing have several options to choose from which include electing the Creative Writing Minor (effective Winter 2027), enrolling in creative writing courses or applying for the Capstone in Creative Writing.
Elect the Creative Writing Minor (effective Winter 2027)
Starting Winter 2027, English majors will be eligible to elect the Creative Writing Minor! See our new Creative Writing Minor requirements. If you have questions about how this would impact your academic plan, please meet with an English Advisor during an English Advising appointment.
Enroll in Creative Writing Classes as English Majors (for students who are not declared Creative Writing Minors)
English majors can study creative writing in the major. Up to 2 writing-practice courses can be used for electives; an additional writing-practice course, if offered as meeting requirements in the English major (Time, Region, Foundations & Methods), can earn credit toward the Major. Additionally, English majors can take the new courses developed for the Creative Writing Minor. English 338, English 348, English 358 and English 458 are open to all students.
Students interested in creative writing should begin with English 223 Introduction to Creative Writing. English majors who complete English 223 can continue through the following sequence of courses to develop technique in and understanding of either fiction or poetry.
Intermediate Fiction (English 323), Advanced Fiction (English 423)
Intermediate Poetry (English 324), Advanced Poetry (English 424)
Students interested in creative nonfiction (rather than fiction or poetry) can review course descriptions for other writing-practice courses that focus on creative nonfiction (rather than, as is common, argumentative, expository, or critical writing). Such courses are often offered as English 325 Art of the Essay, 345 The New Essay, and 425 Advanced Essay Writing.
Apply for the Capstone in Creative Writing
At the end of third/junior year, English majors who have completed or are about to complete the fiction or poetry sequences can apply to the Capstone in Creative Writing, a small and selective program for which only English majors are eligible. The Creative Writing capstone supports the composition of a project in fiction or poetry through workshops with peers and regular meetings with faculty advisers. Creative nonfiction students can work in either capstone program and should discuss their interests with Capstone Directors. Please note: Students pursuing the Capstone in Creative Writing cannot elect the Creative Writing Minor due to overlaps in the requirements. Starting Winter 2027, students pursuing the Capstone in Research can elect the Creative Writing Minor.
English majors who successfully complete the Capstone in Creative Writing will earn the notation of Creative Writing on their official UM transcripts. English majors who complete the Capstone in Creative Writing and meet LSA requirements can earn Honors in English, also noted on transcripts. For more detailed information about transcripts, graduation distinctions, and honors, see How to Earn Honors with an English Major.
For more information about the Capstone in Creative Writing and its application process, see Contact Information and Calendar.
