The Graduation Writing Requirement (GWR) assures that students have maintained the ability to write proficiently at the time of graduation and before they enter the professional work force.
How is the requirement fulfilled?
To fulfill this requirement, one of the following two options must be completed and passed:
- By passing the Writing Proficiency Examination (WPE)
- By receiving a grade of C or better and
certification of writing proficiency in an approved upper-division
course based on a 500-word, in-class essay. Select from the
following GWR-approved English courses:
** Check the Class Schedule for current quarter offerings **
· Non-GE Writing Courses: English 301, 302, 310, 317, 318, 326
· GE C4 Literature Courses: English 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 335, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343, 345, 346, 347, 349, 350, 351, 352, 354, 370, 371, 372, 380, or 381.
Check your catalog to see which courses also meet USCP requirements as well, or visit the USCP Courses website. GWR certification is NOT available during Spring quarter London Study courses.
May I meet the GWR at another campus?
CSU GWR-certified students may apply for credit at the Writing Skills Office. Previous certification is valid only within seven years of matriculation at Cal Poly.
When is the Writing Proficiency Examination offered?
At 9 am on a Saturday early in each quarter except summer. Students must sign up and pay the $25 fee at Cashier's Office by the sign-up deadline to register for the WPE. The Cashier will provide a sheet with details and a sample topic.
Please visit the WPE webpage for the most up-to-date quarter exam dates and sign-up dates.
Where can I get help to prepare for the WPE?
The University Writing Lab (10/138) offers individual help M-R 9-6; and F 9-2. The Lab offers WPE workshops from 7-9 pm during the two weeks preceding the test. Visit their website for expository writing tips and sample essays.
Questions?
Please call the Writing Skills Office at 756-2067, or stop by Erhart Agriculture (Bldg. 10), Room 130.
