Creative Writing FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about the Creative Writing Minor

Q: Do I have to officially declare the minor?A: No. But it is to your advantage to do so. Declaring the minor gives you preference in admission to creative writing classes. To declare the minor, you must fill out the appropriate form in the registrar's office and make your intentions known to Professor Carol Ann Johnston (johnston@dickinson.edu).

Q: How often will the required courses be offered?A: All 200-level requirements are offered every semester. 300- and 400-level requirements will be offered at least once a year — not every semester.

Q: Do I have to be an English major to do the Creative Writing minor?A: No.

Q: Can courses double-count for the English major and/or distribution requirements?A: Yes. Talk to your advisor about which courses will double-count. Don't assume.

Q: What about study abroad? Can I transfer classes from other institutions?A: Certain courses offered at the University of East Anglia, UK, can be counted as 218 or 318 workshop credit. Courses taken at other institutions, abroad or domestically, must be approved in advance by Professor Su, Professor Perabo, or Professor Johnston.  To get a general sense of whether the course you are considering is appropriate, some guidelines are available here:

200-level creative-writing credit guidelines
300-level creative-writing credit guidelines
In every case, the final determination of credit is the decision of the faculty, so be sure to secure approval before you take the course.

Q: Can I take the 218 and the 318 in the same genre simultaneously? Can I take 318 and 418 in the same genre simultaneously?A: No. No.

Q: Can I take 418 even if I’m not completing the minor in creative writing?
A: Yes, provided there is room in the class (declared minors have priority) and you have taken the prerequisites (218 and 318 in the genre).

Q: If Engl 220 is not one of my additional 200-level courses, how do I get into Engl 339 and a 300-level literature course?
A: Since 300-level English courses ordinarily have a prerequisite of English 220, students who choose not to take 220 should consult the instructor for admission, and consider their own preparedness for the course before registering. Also bear in mind that you can count a 300-level literature course in a languages other than English, toward the minor.

Q: Does 218 in one genre qualify as the prerequisite for 318 in another genre?A: No.