Writing and Rhetoric Minor

This information is part of the Colgate University catalog, 2022-23.

The minor is designed to enhance students' ability to think and write critically as they explore the connections between the theory and practice of rhetoric. Students in the minor demonstrate proficiency at crafting a suitable message as they deepen their understanding of rhetoric as an art and as a disciplinary subject of study. A minor in Writing and Rhetoric provides valuable intellectual resources and practical skills for students across the curriculum who are considering careers that call for excellence in speaking and writing. The minor is also ideally suited for students with interest in public life and civic responsibility in the evolving context of a global culture.

For more information about the department, transfer credit, etc., visit the Writing and Rhetoric department page.

Minor Requirements

With a variety of course options available, students are encouraged to tailor their minor to fit their individual interests, career goals, and majors. Students should seek advice from a member of the department when planning their course selections. The minor requires a minimum of five courses selected from the list below. No more than one course may be at the 100 level, and at least one course must be at the 300 or 400 level. A course taken in fulfillment of the writing requirement may be counted toward the minor.

Where appropriate, one semester of independent study in writing at the junior or senior level (WRIT 391 or WRIT 491) may substitute for another 300-level course.

Normally, no more than one course from another department or program may count toward the minor. This course must focus on either language theory or the specialized expository writing of a particular discipline, and will require the approval of the departmental adviser. Examples of possible courses from outside the Department of Writing and Rhetoric include ENGL 374 - Creative Nonfiction Workshop, HIST 199 - History Workshop, and PSYC 355 - Language and Thought. Other courses may be counted toward the minor depending on their curriculum and focus during a particular semester.

GPA Requirement

A minimum GPA of 2.00 is required in all courses counted for the minor.