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The
Top FAQs
Information for Prospective Students
Courses: Registration and Enrollment
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Dropping Classes
English AP and IB Credit
Contact Information for English Faculty
Transferring Courses from Other Schools
Admission to the English Major
Graduation and Commencement
Teacher Certification in English
Seeking English Advising
The
Top Ten Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get into English courses restricted to "English Majors Only" when
I'm not an English Major?
The English course I want to take is full. Can I get an entry code/permission
to overload?
How can I get in touch with an English instructor?
How can I find out who is teaching/will teach/taught a particular English course?
Does the English Department offer a Minor in English?
How can I make an appointment with an English adviser?
Where can I get information about writing courses or writing programs?
I'm not a UW student. Can I still take UW English classes?
I want to take an English composition class as a non matriculated student in
summer quarter (ENGL 111, 121, 131, 182, 197, 198, 199, 281, 381, 471). What
test scores do I need to qualify?
I want to become an English major. What should I do?
Where can I download forms for English undergraduates (applications, degree
requirements, independent study, internships, etc.)?
English
Courses: Registration and Enrollment
The 100-level English composition course I want to take is full. How can
I get in?
The 100-level English course I want to take is restricted to freshmen and
sophomores only. I'm not a freshman/sophomore.
What is a "Freshman Interest Group (FIG)"?
What is a "Service Learning Component"?
What does "PLUS 1 HR" mean?
What does "COMPUTER INTEGRATED" mean?
The 200-level English course I want to take is full. How can I get in?
The 200-level English course I want to take is restricted to English Majors
only, but I'm not an English major.
The 300- or 400-level English course I want to take is full. How can I get
in?
The 300- or 400-level English course I want to take requires an add code.
Where can I obtain one?
The 300- or 400-level English course I want to take is restricted to English
Majors Only, but I'm not an English major.
How can I set up an independent study (ENGL 499, 492, 493)?
Dropping Classes
What's the UW's course drop policy?
How can I drop a class during weeks 3 through 7 if I've already
used my one "annual
drop"?
How can I drop a class after the seventh week
of the quarter?
Admission to the English Major
What are the admission requirements for the English undergraduate major?
Can I apply while my prerequisite courses are in progress, before a grade has
been assigned?
Where can I get an application form for the English major?
How do I calculate my GPA?
I've received a letter from the Registrar telling me I must declare a major
now, but I haven't completed both of my prerequisite courses yet. What should
I do?
I applied to the English major. When and how will I find
out if I've been accepted?
Graduation and Commencement
How do I apply to graduate?
What is GSP (Graduating Senior Priority), and how do I get it?
I tried to register using my GSP, but it didn't work.
I applied to graduate, but now I need to postpone my graduation. How do I do
that?
I applied to graduate and want to make sure that I'm 'on track' to finish my
requirements.
How can I sign up to participate in the commencement ceremony?
Where do I get my cap and gown, graduation announcements, etc?
How many tickets can I get for commencement?
Does the
English Department have a graduation ceremony of its own for English majors?
When will I receive my diploma?
I never received my diploma. Why not?
Seeking English Advising
Where should I go to seek English advising?
What are the English Advising office hours? Do I need an appointment?
What should I bring with me?
How can I stay abreast of English Department issues and receive departmental
announcements?
Where can I get information about internships?
Where can I get
career information?
Where can I get
information on applying to graduate school?
Information for Prospective Students
How can I find out about admission to the University of Washington?
How can I find out about admission to the Department of English?
Do I need to apply to the English Department before/when applying to the University?
My post baccalaureate application says that I need a recommendation from the
major department I'm interested in.
I'll be applying to the UW as a transfer student. What
courses does the English Department recommend that I take before I transfer
to
the
UW?
How
can I find out how my classes will transfer to UW from a Washington
community college?
What
are UW College of Arts and Sciences General Education Requirements for
graduation?
What are UW's transfer credit policies?
What are the requirements for a BA in English at UW?
May I seek advising from a UW English Adviser before I am officially
a UW student?
English as a Second Language (ESL)
How can I find out about taking ESL Classes?
Can ESL students enroll "regular" English Composition
classes (ENGL 111, 131, etc.)?
Where can I find out about becoming an ESL teacher?
AP and IP Credit Policies
Current and past UW English AP credit policies.
Current and past UW English IB credit policies.
I earned a high enough AP (or IB) score, but I don't seem to have received
credit. What should I do?
My IB credit is listed as ENGL 999 on my UW transcript.
Does this count for composition or VLPA?
My AP credit is listed as ENGL 111 on my UW transcript, but now I want to take
ENGL 111. Can this be changed?
I was awarded AP credit for my score of "3" on the AP test at my prior
school. Can I retain this credit once I transfer to the UW even though the
UW requires a score of "4" or higher?
Transferring
Courses from Other Schools
How will my English courses transfer to UW from a Washington community college?
What are UW's transfer credit policies?
What are UW's General Education Requirements for graduation?
I'm a UW student, but I want to take some classes at another school and transfer
them back to UW. Can I do that?
My UW transcript lists my English courses from other schools as ENGL 1XX, 2XX,
etc. What does this mean?
I think my English course taken at another school should count as English composition.
What should I do?
I think my course(s) taken at another school should count
as "W" Writing
credit. What should I do?
I'm planning to study abroad. Will the English courses I take count toward
my English major at UW?
The
TOP TEN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I get into English courses that are restricted to English Majors Only when I'm not an English Major?
Courses that are restricted to English Majors are restricted only during Period I Registration (approximately the first five weeks of pre-registration for continuing students). Once Period II Registration begins, this restriction is lifted, and anyone can register for these courses as long as there is still space available. To find out the dates for Period I and Period II registration, refer to the Academic Calendar.
If no space is available on the first day of Period II, keep watching enrollment: a space may open up for you, as students will be adding and dropping courses on line every day through the first week of the quarter. You can also come in to see an English adviser to talk about options; there may be other, comparable courses that you can take. Finally, you're always welcome to attend class during the first week of the quarter (the beginning of Period III Registration) and check with the instructor about gaining entry into the course. To increase your chances, be sure to be on time for the first class and to ask the instructor about the entry code policy for the course -- and do not miss any class time during the first week.
Unfortunately, there's no way around this restriction. We're sorry if this has made it difficult for you to register for classes you want to take. The restriction is there because students who are already in the English major need these courses in order to graduate, so they receive first priority. Most UW academic departments have similar restrictions for the same reason.
How can I get in touch with an English instructor?
ENGL 109, 110, 111, 121, 131, 182: Check the Time Schedule first: there are often links with instructor names and e-mail addresses. If no instructor is listed in the Time Schedule, contact English Undergraduate Programs at 543-2190 for contact information for instructors of English composition. If you know the instructor's name, you can also try the UW's online Faculty/Staff/Student directories or the English Department People Directories.
ENGL 197, 198, 199: Check the Time Schedule first: there are often links with instructor names and e-mail addresses. If no instructor is listed in the Time Schedule, contact English Undergraduate Programs at 543-2190 for contact information for instructors of Interdisciplinary Writing Program (IWP) courses. If you know the instructor's name, you can also try the UW's online Faculty/Staff/Student directories or the English Department People Directories. You can also consult the Interdisciplinary Writing Program web pages.
ENGL 200 - 499: Visit the English Department People Directories for faculty and TA contact information. Instructor names and contact information are also listed with their courses in the English Department Course Offerings or in the UW Time Schedule. If you know the instructor's name, you can also try the UW's online Faculty/Staff/Student directories. If you can't locate the instructor you're looking for, you can call English Undergraduate Advising at 543-2634 (engladv@u.washington.edu) or the English Department main office at 543-2690.
ENGL 500 - 800 (graduate courses): Visit English Graduate Programs course schedules, or check the English Department People Directories. If you know the instructor's name, you can also try the UW's online Faculty/Staff/Student directories. If you can't find the instructor you're looking for, you can contact English Graduate Programs at 543-6077, or e-mail englgrad@u.washington.edu.
Creative Writing courses: Regular Creative Writing faculty will be listed in the Creative Writing Program web pages. TAs and AIs will be listed with their courses in the English Department Course Offerings or in the UW Time Schedule. If you know the instructor's name, you can also try the English Department People Directories or the UW's online Faculty/Staff/Student directories. If you can't find a particular creative writing instructor, contact the Creative Writing Program Office at 543-9865.
Does the English Department offer a Minor in English?
No, there is no official minor in English offered at the University of Washington. Students interested in English are welcome, however, to take any concentration of English courses that are of interest to them. We are happy to speak with interested students about creating a cohesive and interesting structure of English courses.
Official minors available in related areas include Linguistics, Comparative Literature, and Comparative History of Ideas. For a complete list of official minors, please visit Minors Offered by the University of Washington.
Where can I get information about writing classes or writing programs?
For detailed information about Writing Classes and Writing Programs, click here.
The Department of English offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in English with an emphasis in creative writing (electives in the English major are distributed among creative writing classes), which selects applicants on a competitive-admission basis. The Department of English also offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in creative writing. Other academic departments that offer writing courses include the Department of Technical Communication (technical writing), the Department of Communication (journalism), and the School of Drama (play writing). The University of Washington Extension (through UW Educational Outreach) offers writing courses and writing certificate programs both on campus and through Distance Learning. Writing courses are also taught through the UW Women's Center and through various community organizations. Follow this link for more detailed information about writing and writing programs.
I'm not a UW student. Can I still take UW English classes?
If you're not a UW student, there are a number of ways that you can take
classes at the UW as a non matriculated student:
Courses in literature and writing are offered through UW
Online Learning.
Credit and non-credit Courses are offered through UW Educational Outreach Extension Classes.
Courses offered as part of regular UW matriculated English programs are
available to non
matriculated students on a stand-by registration basis.
There is no
pre-registration for non matriculated students during the regular academic
year (autumn through spring quarters), and stand-by registration is offered
on a space-available basis. It can be difficult to access some English
courses as a non matriculated student, especially composition courses,
creative writing
courses, and literature courses that are popular or are required by the
matriculated program. Autumn quarter is an especially difficult time
for non matriculated
students seeking access to English courses. Students who wish to take
courses need to register through the UW Extension office. Registration
will occur
on the fourth day of instruction for the quarter, with the instructor's
permission, and provided that there is space available.
Courses are offered through UW's Summer Quarter to non matriculated students, and pre-registration for courses is available. If the course you're interested in is a composition course (ENGL 111, 121, 131, 182, 197, 198, 199, 281, 381, 471), please click here.
Individuals who already have bachelor's degrees can apply to the UW for post baccalaureate ("fifth year") matriculated status and become matriculated UW students this way. Admission is very competitive. Click here for information about admission to the post baccalaureate program.
The Access Program for Older Adults waives tuition for individuals who are 60 years of age or older who'd like to audit UW courses on a non matriculated, space-available basis.
I want to take an English composition class as a non matriculated student in summer quarter (ENGL 111, 121, 131, 182, 197, 198, 199, 281, 381, 471). What test scores do I need to qualify?
All summer-only (non matriculated) students who want to take one of the English composition courses listed above must present test scores to the English Advising Office in A-2-B Padelford Hall in order to be registered for a composition section. Prospective composition students must present one of these acceptable standardized test scores:
a score of at least 490 on the SAT-Critical
Reading section (PSAT scores are not accepted);
-OR
a score of at least 20 on the ACT English
test.
-OR-
a score of at least 90 on the MTELP,
which must be taken at the UW Testing Center;
-OR-
a score of at least 480 on the GRE Verbal exam;
-OR-
a score of at least 580 on the paper-based TOEFL exam;
-OR-
a score of at least 237 on the computer-based TOEFL exam;
-OR
a score of at least 70 on the internet-based TOEFL exam;
Scores may be delivered in person to A-2-B Padelford Hall, or faxed to us along with a copy of photo identification to (206) 616-9318. If you are faxing, please provide a cover sheet that tells us what sections you're most interested in, your UW student ID number, and how we can reach you.
If there is space available in the section that you're requesting at the time that we process your acceptable test scores, an adviser can register you for the course (provided that you have a UW student number that is eligible for registration for the summer quarter at that time; see Taking Summer Courses as a Non Matriculated Student for summer registration information). If you fax your information to us, you'll want to telephone our office to follow up with an English adviser: (206) 543-2634.
REGISTRATION
and ENROLLMENT in ENGLISH COURSES
The 100*-level English composition course (ENGL 111, 121, 131, 182, 197, 198, 199) I want to take is full. How can I get in?
The only way to get into a 100-level English composition course that is full is to keep watching the enrollment through MyUW to see if a space becomes available. No overloads are permitted for 100-level English courses. No waiting lists are maintained. Instructors do not have entry codes.
Consider enrolling in a different course as a back up in case no space becomes available for you through MyUW. Note that most sections of English composition are reserved for Freshman Interest Group (FIG) students only during autumn quarter, and are reserved for freshmen and sophomores only during winter quarter. If you are a junior or senior, consider taking the course in the spring quarter, or consider a more advanced course such as English 281.
Note to Freshmen: English composition is not required during your first quarter at the University. If you choose not to participate in a Freshman Interest Group (FIG) and if all other Autumn Quarter sections are full, be assured that you will be able to obtain space for Winter or Spring quarters.
*ENGL
100 - 105 are ESL
classes. ENGL 107 and 109- 110 are open to EOP
students only.
The 100*-level English composition course (ENGL 111, 121, 131, 182, 197, 198,
199) I want to take is restricted to freshmen and sophomores only. I'm not
a freshman or sophomore. What should I do?
This restriction applies for Period 1 Registration only. Once Period 2 Registration begins, you'll be able to register for the course as long as there is still space available at that time if you are a junior or senior.
If you are a
post baccalaureate or graduate student, this course is not available to you.
Consider
taking ENGL 281 (Intermediate Expository Writing) instead.
*ENGL 100 - 105 are ESL classes. ENGL 107 and 109- 110 are open to EOP students only.
What is
a "Freshman Interest Group (FIG)"?
A FIG is a group of 20 to 25 new UW freshmen with similar academic interests who are enrolled in the same schedule of classes during their first quarter on campus. Even though many FIGs include English composition courses, the English Department does not administer FIGs. Visit First Year Programs for information about FIG content and FIG registration. If an English composition course is part of a FIG, students who are not enrolled in the FIG generally cannot take the course. For more information, contact New Student Programs at 543-4905 or fyp@u.washington.edu.
What
is a "Service Learning Component"?
Service Learning is a program directed by the Edward E Carlson Public Service and Leadership Center that provides the opportunity to bring so-called real world experience to academic learning. Your course's Service Learning component can include projects in community, government, and not-for-profit organizations that fulfill a need of the organization while advancing your understanding of your course goals and objectives. Traditionally, participation in a service-learning component requires approximately twenty hours per quarter of service at a specific site. The Carlson Center arranges placement at these sites. For more information, visit The Student Guide to Service Learning.
What does "PLUS 1 HR" mean?
The designation "PLUS 1 HR" means that the course may require additional meetings outside the regularly scheduled class times posted. How (and if) this time is used is up to individual instructors, who may want to use additional time outside of class for student conferencing, writing/study groups, etc. These things, if the instructor chooses to implement them, would be scheduled around your other classes. Check with your instructor on the first day of class.
What does "COMPUTER INTEGRATED" mean?
The designation "COMPUTER INTEGRATED" means that it is part of the Computer Integrated Classroom (CIC) program. The CIC program is dedicated to developing innovative computer-integrated approaches to teaching argumentative writing, literature, critical thinking, and research skills. A CIC course covers the same material as conventional 100-level writing courses, but it combines the best of traditional instruction with the benefits of computer-aided writing. Students spend time debating, writing, and working through material BOTH in the face-to-face environment of a conventional classroom and through independent and collaborative work in/on a computer network. Specific computer experience is not required. CIC instructors are prepared to teach students with diverse levels of experience with computers. Inexperienced students will find that the technology is easy to learn and that the program provides a well trained and accessible support staff to help them become comfortable in a computerized environment. For more information about CIC classes, visit the CIC web site.
The 200-level English course I want to take is full. How can I get in?
1. Keep watching the enrollment on MyUW. A space may become available for you.
2. If no space opens up, plan to attend class the first day of the quarter, and talk with the instructor about the entry code process, should space become available.
The 200-level English course I want to take is restricted to English Majors Only, but I'm not an English major. What should I do?
This restriction applies for Period 1 Registration only. Once Period 2 Registration begins, you'll be able to register for the course as long as there is still space available at that time. If no space opens up, plan to attend class the first day of the quarter, and talk with the instructor about the entry code process, should space become available.
The 300- or 400-level English course I want to take is full. How can I get in?
Keep watching the enrollment on MyUW. A space may become available for
you. If a space does not open up, plan to attend class on the first
day of the quarter
and ask the instructor about his or her procedure for overloads. Beginning
on the first day of the quarter, all registration for 300- and 400-level
courses is by entry code only and by instructor permission. Overloads
are at the discretion
of individual instructors, and policies will vary from instructor to instructor
and from course to course. Some students choose to contact
the instructor in advance to ask about the overload policy for a particular course.
Be aware
that faculty are not always available, especially during breaks between quarters,
and may not be checking their campus e-mail or voice mail regularly.
The 300- or 400-level English course I want to take requires an add code. Where can I obtain one?
Before the first day of the quarter: Check the Time Schedule: the course listing will have instructions on whom to contact.
On or after the first day of the quarter: Entry codes for 300- and 400-level classes are issued by instructors during Registration Period 3, which begins on the first day of the quarter. If you plan to ask for an add code, you should plan to attend the class starting on the first day. Many instructors are reluctant to give late enrollment permission to students who haven't been attending because of the amount of covered material that has been missed.
Most classes that require an add code do so only during Period 3 (the first week of classes), at which time the codes for all classes are available from the individual instructors.
Certain specialized classes, such as The Composition Process (ENGL 471) or 400-level creative writing classes, require add codes during Periods 1 and 2 as well. The Time Schedule will indicate where you where you can request an entry code (or find out why one is needed, i.e., why a registration restriction is in place). Example:
ENGL 471 COMPOSITION PROCESS >3503..... A .....5..... TTh 1030-1220 .....CDH 105..... DILLON,G
ADD CODE: PDL A2B (PDS. 1 & 2) 1 |
1 This means that you should request an add code from A-2-B Padelford Hall (English Advising) during Registration Periods 1 (priority registration) and 2 (which begins about five weeks after priority registration has begun). 2 This means that you should request an add code from the instructor during Registration Period 3 (beginning on the first day of classes for the quarter). Consult the Academic Calendar for the dates of the Registration Periods for the quarter. |
Creative Writing classes at the 400 level are reserved for Creative Writing Option English majors, who've been admitted by a competitive admission process, and add codes to these courses are available from the Creative Writing Office in B25 Padelford Hall. If you're interested in taking Advanced Verse (ENGL 483), Advanced Short Story (ENGL 484), Novel Writing (ENGL 485), or Playwriting (ENGL 486), you should stop by the Creative Writing Office in B-25 Padelford well in advance of the beginning of registration. Their telephone number is (206) 543-9865.
The 300- or 400-level English course I want to take is restricted to English Majors Only, but I'm not an English major. What should I do?
This restriction generally applies for Period
1 Registration only. Once Period
2 Registration begins, you'll be able to register for the course as long
as there is still
space available at that time. Because there can sometimes
be stiff competition for these spaces, we recommend that you plan to log
on to the MyUW system
at 6:00am on the first day of Period 2 Registration (which begins about five
weeks after priority registration has begun). Consult
the Academic Calendar for the dates of the Registration Periods for the quarter.
How can I set up an independent study (ENGL 499, 492, 493)?
ENGL 499, 492: Independent Study, or Advanced Expository Writing Conference: Approach the faculty member with whom you'd like to work and ask for permission to study independently with him/her. You should have a specific academic project in mind, and it should be one that cannot be completed in a regularly-offered English course. It is best to approach faculty who know you; they are more likely to agree to work with you, being familiar with your work and your academic capacities. It is also best to approach a faculty member whose own academic interests relate to your project (e.g., if you're interested in researching and writing about a particular Shakespeare play, approach someone who teaches Shakespeare or who specializes in Elizabethan or Renaissance literature). For a list of English faculty with their academic interests, click here. All regular faculty members and acting instructors can supervise independent studies; TAs cannot.
To download an Independent Study form in PDF
format, click here.
ENGL 493: Advanced Creative Writing Conference: Approach the Creative Writing faculty member with whom you'd like to work in order to ask for permission to arrange an independent conference. For a list of Creative Writing faculty, click here.
Forms for ENGL
493 are available in the Creative Writing Office in B-25 Padelford Hall.
DROPPING
CLASSES
How can I drop a class during weeks 3 through 7 if I've already used my one "annual drop"?
If you've already used your one "annual drop" (one drop available September through August each academic year), you have only two options:
(1) Completely withdraw from the University for the quarter (drop all classes, forfeit all tuition, etc.)
or
(2) petition
for a Hardship
Withdrawal from the
course if you qualify.
How can I drop a class after the seventh week of the quarter?
After the end of the seventh week of the quarter, there are only two ways
to drop a class:
(1)
Completely
withdraw from the University for the quarter (drop all classes,
forfeit all tuition, etc.). This must be done before the last day of instruction.
or
(2) Petition
for a Hardship
Withdrawal from the course if you qualify.
If you have been in attendance and done satisfactory work until within two weeks of the end of the quarter, you can request an incomplete from your instructor and, if he or she grants your request, you can make up the work during the subsequent quarter. Your instructor may require you to furnish proof that the work cannot be completed because of illness or other circumstances beyond your control. Incompletes are granted at the discretion of individual instructors.
ADMISSION
to the ENGLISH MAJOR
Can I apply while my prerequisite courses are in progress, before a grade has been assigned?
Your grades in the prerequisite English classes are part of what determines your eligibility for the major. You must wait until grades have been recorded for both prerequisite classes before applying.
Where can I get an application form for the English major?
The English Major Application Process begins on the web with an online application, followed up by delivery of a confirmation page and copies of transcripts:
Application Instructions and Information
Creative Writing Program Application for the undergraduate writing option within the English major.
How do I calculate my combined GPAs for the application?
Click here to download
a GPA Calculation Worksheet and instructions in PDF
format.
I've received a notice from the Registrar telling me I must declare a major now, but I haven't completed my prerequisite courses yet. What should I do?
Come to English Undergraduate Advising in A-2-B Padelford Hall and meet with an English adviser, being sure to bring all of your transcripts from other schools with you. Depending on your grades and your progress toward the major prerequisites, we may be able to extend your pre-major status for you to satisfy the Registrar's requirements.
English Advising
is open on a drop-in basis from 8:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Friday, when
no appointment is necessary. We are also open for evening appointments on Wednesdays
and Thursdays until 7:00pm. During final exam weeks, quarter breaks, and summer
quarter, we are open Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
I applied to the English major. When and how will I find out if I've been accepted?
Admission decisions will be made on or before the fourth Friday of the quarter in which you applied, and you'll be notified by e-mail (sent to the e-mail address you listed on your application).
When
you receive this notice, please read it carefully. It
contains some important steps you need to take right away to make sure that
your new major is declared officially. If you fail to follow these
steps, the UW registration system will not be able to recognize you as an
English
major, and you will not have access to English
major courses during Period 1 registration.
GRADUATION
and COMMENCMENT
How do I apply to graduate?
When you are within two to three quarters of completing all degree requirements,
you should see an English adviser and
complete the application paperwork for graduation. This process takes about
20 minutes, but can be as short as 10 minutes if there are no unusual
circumstances. Applying early (more
than two quarters in advance) provides you with Graduating
Senior Priority (GSP) for registration purposes. The
latest that you can apply is the third Friday of the quarter in which
you intend
to graduate -- but applying this late doesn't give you the opportunity
to take advantage of GSP registration (see below).
What is GSP (Graduating Senior Priority), and how do I get it?
Graduating Senior Priority (GSP) is a priority registration status you receive once you apply to graduate, which allows you to register early for your final two quarters of study -- a tool to help you to obtain space in those final classes you need in order to graduate on time. Once your degree application is on file in the Graduation and Academic Records Office, you may register on the first day of Registration Period I for your final two quarters. For example, if you're scheduled to graduate in December, you're eligible to use GSP registration in February, when signing up for Spring Quarter classes, and in May, when signing up for Autumn Quarter classes. (See chart below.)
You must apply to graduate by the GSP deadline for the first quarter you intend to use GSP. This deadline is usually several days before the beginning of Registration Period I for that quarter. Check with an English adviser if in doubt.
I tried to register using my GSP, but it didn't work.
There are three common reasons why your GSP won't work when you think it should:
1. You have not yet applied to graduate. See an English
adviser right away.
2. You have applied to graduate, but you are not yet within two quarters
of graduation (see chart below).
3. You have already used your GSP status twice (in cases when you've postponed
your graduation), which is the maximum for which any student is eligible.
(See
GSP rules in the UW Student Guide.)
If none of the
above applies, contact English Advising (206/ 543-2634) or the Graduation
Office (206/ 543-1803).
Month in which you're scheduled to graduate: |
You can use GSP when registering for classes you'll take in these quarters: |
You can participate in the Commencement Ceremony taking place in: |
March |
Autumn,
Winter (preregistration in May and November) |
June
of the same year |
June |
Winter,
Spring (preregistration in November and February) |
June
of the same year |
August |
Any
two quarters chosen from Winter, Spring, or Summer (preregistration in November, February, and April) |
June of
the same year (e.g., you'll participate in commencement in June before you actually complete your degree requirements in August) |
December |
Spring,
Autumn (preregistration in February and May, and note that you can also register with GSP for summer, if you attend, as a "free" GSP quarter)) |
The
following June |
Click
here for additional information about GSP.
Click here for
additional information about graduation.
Click here
for additional information about commencement.
I applied to graduate, but now I need to postpone my graduation date. How do I do that?
Contact an English adviser at 206/ 543-2634, or e-mail us. Please tell us when you are now scheduled to graduate, when you'd like your new graduation date to be, and why you're postponing.
I applied to graduate and want to make sure that I'm 'on track' to finish my requirements.
There are two things you can do to check the status of your remaining requirements:
Run a new Degree Audit (DARS Report) on line through the MyUW system
to check your progress.
See an English adviser.
It is a good idea to check in with English Advising at least once after you've applied to graduate. If there are any problems with granting your degree, you'll be notified by the Graduation Office.
How can I sign up to participate in the commencement ceremony?
The Commencement Office will contact you with information about commencement some time in April. If your degree has not yet been granted, the information will be sent to your UW e-mail account. If your degree has already been granted at that time, the information will be mailed to the permanent address you have on file with the UW. To check or change your official UW permanent address, visit MyUW. If you can't access MyUW, you can call 206/ 543-3868.
You can register for commencement on line once the web site is "open for business" for this year's June ceremony registration. Registration on line normally takes place during the first two weeks of May. Once the site is open for registration, you will not want to delay this step! There is a window of time for registering which usually lasts about 2 1/2 weeks.
See the chart above if you're not sure whether or not you're eligible to participate in commencement this year.
Where do I get my cap and gown, tickets for the ceremony, graduation announcements, class rings, etc?
At the Commencement web site,
you can get information about garments, tickets, graduation announcements,
class rings, disability accomodations, parking, and so on. You can also call
206/ 543-2592 or e-mail commence@u.washington.edu.
Does
the English Department have a graduation ceremony of its own for English
majors and their families & friends?
Yes, we do, and we hope you'll join us! More information is available at http://depts.washington.edu/engl/events/graduation.php
When will I receive my diploma?
Your diploma will be mailed to the permanent address you have on file with UW three to four months after your degree is granted. Your degree will be granted between one and four weeks after your grades for your final quarter have been posted, and your degree will be backdated to the last day of final exams week. To check or change your UW permanent address, visit MyUW. If you can't access MyUW, you can call 206/ 543-3868 to change your address.
If you're curious about whether your degree has been granted yet, you can use the online Degree Validation site. Note that you must have selected the "Yes" option for UW directory release in order for your degree information to be available on this site. You can change your directory release option through the MyUW system. You can also see if your degree is granted by viewing your unofficial transcript (also available through MyUW).
I never received my diploma. Why not?
Have at least four months elapsed since your official graduation date (which has nothing to do with when you participated in the commencement ceremony)? If you graduated in August, for example, you should expect your diploma to arrive in the mail some time in December. If you need proof that your degree has been granted before your diploma arrives, you can obtain a Degree Certification document from the Transcript Office.
If at least four months have elapsed, there are two common reasons why students don't receive their diplomas:
1. Your permanent address was not up to date with the UW student database. To check or change your official UW address, visit MyUW. If you can't access MyUW, you can call 206/ 543-3868 to change your address. If you believe your diploma was sent to the wrong address, you may call the Graduation Office at (206) 543-1803 to see if the post office has returned it to the UW.
and/or
2. You have a financial balance owing with UW, and there is a financial hold on your record. The Graduation Office will not issue diplomas when there is money owing to UW. To find out if you have financial holds on your record, call the Graduation Office at 206/ 543-1803 or e-mail ugradoff@u.washington.edu.
If neither of the two reasons above applies, contact English Advising at 206/ 543-2634, e-mail engladv@u.washington.edu, or contact the Graduation Office at 206/ 543-1803, e-mail ugradoff@u.washington.edu.
SEEKING
ENGLISH ADVISING
What should I bring with me when I see an adviser?
If you're not a declared English major, please bring copies of transcripts from any colleges or universities you've attended (other than the UW). Photocopies/unofficial copies are fine. If you are asking us to evaluate an English course from another school, please bring, along with your transcript from that school, as much detailed documentation as possible: a course description from that school's catalog, a syllabus if you have one, and any materials you've retained from that course.
If you are a candidate to the UW College of Education's MIT program for secondary education, or if you are a certificated teacher seeking information about an English Language Arts teaching endorsement, please follow the instructions given at our Teacher Certification web site.
How can I stay abreast of English Department issues and receive departmental announcements?
Subscribe to the English Department e-mail list, ENGLMAJORS. (You can subscribe
even if you're not an English major.)
INFORMATION
for PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
Do I need to apply to the English Department before/when applying to the University?
No. In fact, the Department of English accepts applications only from matriculated
University of Washington students. If you're a transfer student coming
from a Washington community college, you'll want to consult the UW
Transfer Guide to see if the English literature courses you've taken transfer as the prerequisite
English courses required to apply to the English major. If you're transferring
from another school, please feel free to contact an English Adviser at
206/ 543-2634 or engladv@u.washington.edu about English course work you've
completed elsewhere that may be applicable for departmental admission purposes.
My post baccalaureate application says that I need a recommendation from the major department I'm interested in.
This statement is somewhat misleading. You actually do not need a recommendation from the English Department in order to apply for post baccalaureate admission. (In fact, it will be difficult for us to recommend you for admission if we don't know you.) You should always feel free, however, to see an English Undergraduate Adviser to talk about your eligibility for the major. You can reach us at 206/ 543-2634, or by e-mail at engladv@u.washington.edu.
On your post baccalaureate admission application, you should list English as your intended major. The UW Admissions Office will then send a referral form to our department, asking us if you're eligible for admission to the English major. We will give one of three answers:
1. You're eligible,
based on the prerequisite requirements
for the major.
2. You're not eligible at this time, but there is strong potential for your
admission. (We will give this response if you have completed some English courses
successfully,
or if your English and/or cumulative GPAs make you a competitive applicant.)
3. You're not eligible at this time. (We will give this response if you haven't
taken English courses, or if your English or cumulative GPAs do not make you
a competitive applicant.)
The admission decision is ultimately made by the Office
of Undergraduate Admissions, and not by the English Department. You may be admitted (or
denied admission)
to UW regardless of the response we provide in this admission referral.
I'll be applying to the UW as a transfer student. What courses does the Department of English recommend that I take before I transfer?
The Department of English resides in the College of Arts and Sciences, which has a foreign language requirement for graduation purposes. If possible, it is a very good idea to complete a year of college-level foreign language (two semesters or three quarters) with a grade of 2.0 or above ("C") in the final quarter or semester. This is especially true if your intended foreign language for graduation purposes is Spanish: it is extremely difficult for non freshmen to access 100-level Spanish courses at the UW during the regular academic year. There are other ways to satisfy this requirement, for example, you may be able to pass a proficiency exam in another language or establish yourself as a literate native speaker of a language other than English. For details, please consult the College of Arts and Sciences General Education Requirements.
If you are trying to plan ahead, you may also wish to complete some applicable natural sciences courses toward the fulfillment of the UW's distribution requirement, called the Areas of Knowledge. For details, please consult the College of Arts and Sciences General Education Requirements. If you'll be transferring from a Washington community college, you can check the UW Transfer Guide to see whether or not your science courses will transfer to the UW as Natural World courses toward the satisfaction of this requirement.
One thing we recommend that you avoid is taking too many English courses at the sophomore level. The English major at the UW allows no more than 20 credits (on the quarter system) in sophomore-level English courses to apply toward the English major; the remaining English major credits must be taken at the junior and senior levels. If you are planning to take some English courses so as to prepare to apply to the English major once you arrive at the UW, please consult our required English prerequisites for making application to the major.
May I seek advice from a UW English adviser before I'm officially a UW student?
Absolutely! The best times to come by in person are during quarter breaks, but you are welcome at any time. We recommend that you avoid the first three weeks of the quarter, as these are very busy times when our office is crowded with UW students. Click here for information about how, where, and when to find us.
ENGLISH
as a SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)
How can I find out about taking ESL Classes?
ESL courses are not administered by the Department of English. These courses
are offered through the University of Washington Educational Outreach programs.
Visit the English Language
Programs web site.
Can ESL students enroll "regular" English Composition classes (ENGL 111, 131, etc.)?
UW Students:Yes, but if you have an ESL requirement, you should satisfy this first before attempting to enroll in an English composition course. You must also meet any other eligibility requirements listed in the Quarterly Time Schedule.
Non UW Students: Students not previously admitted to the University of Washington (non matriculated status) may enroll in ENGL 111, 121, 131, 281, 381, or 481 only if they can provide documentation that they have met one of the English proficiency test requirements. Enrollment in these courses as a non matriculated student is permitted on a space-available basis only; however, non matriculated students are not encouraged to seek enrollment in these courses during the academic year (autumn, winter, spring quarters) because there is no space available. For information about taking UW courses as a non matriculated student during summer quarter, visit the Summer Quarter web site. If you are eligible by your English proficiency test score and would like more information about enrolling in these summer courses, contact an English adviser at 206/ 543-2634.
Where can I find out about becoming an ESL teacher?
The Department of English offers a Master of Arts for Teachers (of English to Speakers of Other Languages) MATESOL degree program. This program is primarily designed for those who teach or plan to teach ESL at the college or university level or for those who are already certificated teachers in the K-12 system; the program does not provide K-12 teacher certification.
The UW's College of Education offers curriculum satisfying the requirements for a K-12 supporting endorsement in Teaching ESL, an option for certificated teachers or for candidates to the College of Education's Master's In Teaching (MIT) program, which provides K-12 teacher certification.
TESL Certificate programs are available locally at Seattle University's School of Teaching English as a Second Language, Seattle Pacific University, and at the Washington Academy of Languages, among others.
There are many programs offering TEFL/TESL/TESOL* certification for teaching English overseas, and many are short-term or online programs. Search the web, using the keywords TEFL Certification, TESOL Certification, TESL Certification, etc.
Those interested in careers in ESL teaching are welcome to come and speak with an English adviser. Volunteering with the UW's Language Exchange Program is also a good way to explore the field and get some experience.
*TEFL: Teaching English as a Foreign Language; TESL: Teaching English as a Second Language; TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages; These terms are often used interchangeably.
AP
and IB CREDIT POLICIES
AP Policies:
The AP policy that applies to you will depend upon when you matriculated at the University of Washington. It is not related to your date of admission to any other school nor to when you took the AP exam.
Students admitted autumn 2008 or later (Current AP Policy)
| English language | 4 or 5 | ENGL 190 (5 credits)* | VLPA |
| English literature | 4 or 5 | ENGL 191 (5 credits)* | VLPA |
*NOTE: There is no ENGL 190, or 191 in the UW curriculum. This number was created only for English AP credit.
Students admitted summer 2003 through summer 2008
| English language | 4 or 5 | ENGL 109 (5 credits)* | VLPA |
| English literature | 4 or 5 | ENGL 109 (5 credits)* | VLPA |
| Both tests | 4 or 5 | ENGL 109 (10 credits)* | VLPA |
*Note that ENGL 109 AP (VLPA) credit granted prior to AUT 2008 is *NOT* equivalent to the UW EOP composition course, ENGL 109, which is part of a two-quarter sequence for EOP students only. Those with ENGL 109 AP credit are *NOT* eligible to take ENGL 110, and should choose a composition course from among ENGL 111, 121, 131, 197, 198, 199, or C LIT 240.
Students admitted summer 1999 though spring 2003
| English language | 4 or 5 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition |
| English literature | 4 or 5 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition |
| Both tests | 4 or 5 | ENGL 111, 131 (10 credits) | English composition |
Students admitted autumn 1986 through spring 1999
| English language | 3, 4, 5 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition |
| English literature | 3, 4, 5 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition |
| Both tests | 3, 4, 5 | ENGL 111, 131 (10 credits) | English composition |
Students admitted spring 1985-summer 1986
| Language and composition | 5 | ENGL 111, 131 (or 181) (10 credits) | English composition |
| 4 | ENGL 111, 171 (8 credits) | English composition | |
| 3 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition | |
| Composition and literature | 5 | ENGL 111, 131 (or 181) (10 credits) | English composition |
| 4 | ENGL 111, 171 (8 credits) | English composition | |
| 3 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition |
Students admitted before spring 1985
| Language and composition | 5 | ENGL 111, 131 (or 181) (10 credits) | English composition |
| 4 | ENGL 111, 171 (8 credits) | English composition | |
| 3 | ENGL 111 (5 credits) | English composition | |
| Composition and literature | 5 | ENGL 111, 131 (or 181) (10 credits) | English composition |
| 4 | ENGL 111, 171 (8 credits) | English composition | |
| 3 | ENGL 171 (3 credits) | English composition |
Current and past UW English IB credit policies:
Students admitted autumn 2008 or later (Current IB Policy)
| English | 7, 6, or 5 | ENGL 193 (5 credits)* | VLPA |
*NOTE: There is no ENGL 193 in the UW curriculum. This number was created only for English IB credit.
Students admitted summer 2003 through autumn 2008
| English | 7, 6, or 5 | ENGL 108 (5 credits)* | VLPA |
*NOTE: There is no ENGL 108 in the UW curriculum. This number was created only for English IB credit.
Students admitted spring 2003 or earlier:
| English | 7, 6, or 5 | ENGL 999 (5 credits)* | English
IB credit posted as ENGL 999 may be counted toward either (a)
the English composition requirement, or (b)
the additional writing and VLPA requirements, but not for both. |
*NOTE: There is no ENGL 999 in the UW curriculum. This number was created only for English IB credit.
I earned a high enough AP (or IB) score, but I don't seem to have received credit. What should I do?
Your AP or IB credit should be listed on the first page of your UW transcript, below the record of any transfer courses you've taken and above the record of your first quarter of UW course work. If it does not appear, this means that the UW Office of Undergraduate Admissions has not received a copy of your AP or IB score report.
For AP Scores: Please contact the College Board and request that scores be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, Box 355852, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5840.
For IB Scores: Please contact the International Baccalaureate Association and request that scores be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, Box 355852, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5840.
My IB credit is listed as ENGL 999 on my UW transcript. Does this count for composition or VLPA?
ENGL 999 can count for either English composition or VLPA/W credit. If ENGL 999 is not appropriately assigned on your DARS report (accessed through MyUW), see your academic adviser.
My AP credit is listed as ENGL 111 on my UW transcript, but now I want to
take ENGL 111. Can this be changed?
Yes. These designations are somewhat arbitrary, and do not indicate that your AP work was identical in content with any UW English course. The Department of English can change the course number designation at your request. Please contact an English undergraduate adviser in A-2-B Padelford Hall, 206/ 543-2634.
I was awarded AP credit for my score of "3" on the AP test at my prior school. Can I retain this credit once I transfer to the UW even though the UW requires a score of "4" or higher?
Before autumn 1999, ENGL AP credit was awarded according to the policy at UW, regardless of the amount of credit awarded elsewhere. The UW now transfers ENGL AP credit awarded by another college for College Board AP scores of 3 or higher, even if the UW would not have granted credit for the score per its ENGL AP policy at the time. All such credit transfers as UW 1XX. In addition to an official transcript showing the credit awarded by the other college, the student must submit an official copy of the AP score. (A record of the score on a transcript from the other college is not sufficient.) AP English UW 1XX credit awarded for a score of "3" on the English language or English literature exam counts only as elective credit; it does not count toward the English composition requirement, the additional writing requirement, or Areas of Knowledge.
This policy applies only to students who receive the AP credit from another college before the student ever attends the UW. It does not apply, for example, to a student who (1) attends the UW, then (2) transfers to another college which grants the student additional credit for his/her AP scores, then (3) returns to the UW. Such a student would not be allowed to transfer the additional AP credit.
TRANSFERRING
COURSES from OTHER SCHOOLS
I'm a UW student, but I want to take some classes at another school and transfer
them back to UW. Can I do that?
Yes. Bear in mind, however, that you can count a maximum of 90 credits from all 2-year schools attended toward the 180 credits you need for a bachelor's degree at UW. You can count any number of credits from 4-year schools, but all students have to earn a minimum of 45 matriculated UW credits in order to earn a bachelor's degree from UW. You should always see an adviser whenever you plan to transfer credit to make sure that the classes you'll take elsewhere will transfer to UW and meet UW requirements.
If you are within your final 60 credits (you're in the last quarter of your junior year), you can take up to 15 credits at another school without special permission. If you need to take more than 15 of your final 60 credits elsewhere, see an English adviser to prepare a petition to the College of Arts and Sciences requesting permission. In all cases, you must still complete at least 45 matriculated credits (total) at UW in order to earn a UW bachelor's degree.
My UW transcript lists my English courses from other schools as ENGL 1XX,
2XX, etc. What does this mean?
This means that during the initial pass through your transfer records, the UW Office of Undergraduate Admissions did not find a direct UW course equivalent for the course you took in transfer. If you feel that the course you took is equivalent to a UW course, you can request a change from an English adviser. If you are an English major, or you plan to apply to the English major, it's especially important for you to have these undesignated credits evaluated so as to learn how they may fit into the English major prerequisite or major requirements. Please bring copies of your transfer transcript, a course description for each English course in question, and, if possible, a course syllabus for each class.
I think my English course taken at another school should count as English
composition. What should I do?
If you feel that a course you took at another school is equivalent to a UW English composition course, you can request that the course be redesignated by an English adviser. Please bring a copy of your transfer transcript, a course description for the English course in question, and, if possible, a course syllabus.
I think
my course(s) taken at another school should count as "W" Writing
credit. What should I do?
If you're an English major, you should see an English adviser. If you are not an English major, you should see your regular academic adviser in your own academic department. If you're a premajor, see an adviser in the Undergraduate Gateway Center in 171 Mary Gates Hall.
I'm planning to study abroad. Will the English courses I take count toward my English major at UW?
If you'd like to know how English courses you take elsewhere will meet major requirements, please bring course descriptions for your proposed course of study to an English adviser before you leave for your study abroad. For information on UW English Department study abroad programs, see Department of English International Study pages. For general information on study abroad, transferring credit, and programs that allow you to study abroad while remaining officially enrolled at the UW, contact International Programs and Exchanges.
If you have questions that haven't been answered, please contact
us!
engladv@u.washington.edu, 206/ 543-2634
