Not sure what classes to take in your first term at PSU? Use the registration guides below for suggestions, and if you need more help, schedule an advising appointment or call 503-725-3822. You can also access the registration guide made available in the online orientation (Your browser will need to be logged into your pdx.edu account to access them.).
GENERAL SUGGESTIONS:
- Full-time is 12 credits. Most courses are 4 credits, so three courses is typically considered full-time. You should also budget 2-3 hours per credit outside of class for homework and studying.
- Consider the times when courses are offered and how they fit in your personal schedule/preferences. If you are not a morning person, you may want to avoid 8 am courses. If you have school-aged children, how does that impact your choices?
- Creative Writing is only available as a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree. The major also requires a separate application to the department, but you can start taking the classes before you’re admitted. Applicants are accepted every term. WR 212, WR 213, and WR 214 are all required, are offered every term, and can be taken in any order.
First-Year Students:
Helpful video: How to register for FRINQs & SINQs
Transfers with 30-89 credits:
Review courses above first, and take any courses that are not yet completed.
| Required courses | Advisor Pro Tips |
|---|
| UNST 2XX Sophomore Inquiry or HON 260 Honors Writing for Sophomore Transfers (4 credits) | Refer to descriptions on the websites linked and pick a theme that interests you. Examining Popular Culture; Gender and Sexualities, and Interpreting the Past are good options. |
| Language course (4-5 credits) | Take the course recommended by our Language Placement Advice. If your BFA language is already complete, take a fine/performing arts course. |
| WR 212 Intro to Fiction Writing, WR 213 Intro to Poetry Writing, or WR 214 Intro to Nonfiction Writing (4 credits) | If you have already taken an intro to creative writing course in your chosen genre, take an intermediate level in that genre: WR 312 Intermediate Fiction Writing or WR 313 Intermediate Poetry Writing (4 credits) or another 300-level WR course. |
Helpful video: How to register for FRINQs & SINQs
Transfers with 90 or more credits:
Review courses above first, and take any courses that are not yet completed. If you are transferring 135 or more credits, you do not need the Upper Division Cluster, and we strongly recommend meeting with your academic advisor to create a plan for your degree completion.
| Required courses | Advisor Pro Tips |
|---|
| Upper Division Cluster course or HON 360 Honors Writing (4 credits) | Remember that you cannot use any major courses to fulfill your cluster. If you are completing a minor, those courses can be applied to the cluster. Suggested Cluster options: Examining Popular Culture; Gender and Sexualities, Interpreting the Past |
| Language course (4-5 credits) | Take the course recommended by our Language Placement Advice. If your BA language is already complete, take a fine/performing arts, science, social science, or a Race and Ethnic Studies designated course, if needed. |
| WR 212 Intro to Fiction Writing, WR 213 Intro to Poetry Writing, or WR 214 Intro to Nonfiction Writing (4 credits) | If you have already taken an intro to creative writing course in your chosen genre, take an intermediate level in that genre: WR 312 Intermediate Fiction Writing or WR 313 Intermediate Poetry Writing (4 credits) or another 300-level WR course. |
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