Creative Writing Program
The Department of English offers a track in creative writing, along with a minor and cluster for undergraduate students who want to explore the art of writing and refine their skills in critical reading. Students work intensively on their own imaginative writing (fiction, poetry, and playwriting) in conjunction with the study of literature. Students wishing to pursue a concentration in creative writing must apply to the creative writing advisor in the department and receive written approval.
Almost uniquely among departments of its kind, the University of Rochester’s Department of English allows qualified graduate students to combine literary scholarship with creative writing. Both MA and PhD students may enroll in for-credit writing workshops; in place of the traditional MA Essay, MA students may opt to submit a novella, poem cycle, or other creative composition as their capstone project.