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Department of English

Special Study Certificate in Creative Writing

The Certificate of Special Study in Creative Writing is a 12-unit program intended for those who wish to study the art of literary writing without matriculating for a degree, or in addition to earning a degree in English or another area. It’s ideal for K-12 classroom teachers or others who have already earned a degree, but would like further expertise in creative writing. It allows students, graduates and professionals in a variety of fields the opportunity to enhance their training and bolster their resumes with a substantial creative writing background, making them more competitive on the job market and better prepared for professional careers and/or graduate degree programs.

Admission

Admission to the program requires the consent of both the creative writing program coordinator and the chair of the department. Courses toward the certificate may be taken while working toward a degree in any area, but units do not double count. Non-matriculated students should enroll in courses through the university’s Open University program: http://www.csufresno.edu/ExtendedEd/open%20univer.html

Requirements

The certificate program requires a minimum of 12 units of upper-division work. Students may take 12 units comprised of two courses in one genre (courses may be repeated one time) and one in either of the other genres; OR students may take one course in each of the three genres.

· English 161: Advanced Writing of Poetry (4 units)

· English 163: Advanced Writing of Fiction (4 units)

· English 164: Advanced Writing of Creative Nonfiction (4 units) [formerly Advanced Prose Writing]

At least one course at upper division level in an area of contemporary literature is recommended.

Note: Prerequisites (E41, E43, E44) may be waived with permission of advisor and specific course instructor (on approval of a writing sample).