Writing Programs

The Critical Writing Program provides a uniquely discipline-based writing curriculum for Penn undergraduates across all four schools. Students fulfill their writing requirement through Critical Writing seminars and receive additional writing support and feedback from peer and senior tutors in the Writing Center.

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Students should satisfy the Writing Requirement by taking a writing seminar sometime in their first year. Writing seminars are offered through the Critical Writing Program.

The Marks Family Writing Center offers friendly, expert writing help to Penn undergraduate and graduate students. Writing tutors are trained to help students write with greater skill and confidence.

The Creative Writing Program offers workshops in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, journalistic writing, screenwriting, and playwriting. It also offers minors in Creative Writing and Journalistic Writing, publishes a literary journal highlighting; the work of students, faculty and eminent alumni writers; and provides qualified English majors the opportunity to earn honors in English by submitting a creative thesis. Throughout the year, the program invites visiting writers to Penn for readings and talks, and sponsors a University-wide writing contest each spring.

The Kelly Writers House is a historic house on Penn's campus that serves as a center for writers from Penn and the Philadelphia region at large. Each semester the Writers House hosts approximately 150 public programs and projects: poetry readings, film screenings, seminars, art exhibits and musical performances. Each week about 500 people work, write and collaborate in its many rooms and in the "Arts Cafe." Writers House also has a strong virtual presence through live interactive webcasts and dozens of listservs, web magazines and email discussion groups.

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Writing is the primary medium through which the quality of a student's intellectual work will be judged. The ability to express oneself clearly and persuasively in writing is fundamental for success across all academic disciplines, and throughout one's personal and professional life.

For these reasons, writing plays a central role within the College curriculum. Students must take a writing seminar to fulfill the College's Writing Requirement. It is recommended that students take this course during their first year of study. Students are also encouraged to continue development of their writing skills by participating in Penn's writing programs.