Updated October 2025
Because there is considerable overlap between the English major and the Creative Writing minor, LSA has determined that the Creative Writing minor is not an option for English majors to pursue.
English majors can study creative writing in the major nevertheless. 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 requirement credit.
Students interested in creative writing should begin with English 223 Introduction to Creative Writing. English 223 provides an introduction to the reading and writing of two genres, typically poetry and fiction, and to the workshop method of critiquing student 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.
Additionally, at the end of third/junior year, English majors who have completed or are about to complete one of the sequences above 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.
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.
