The Writing and Democracy Honors Program is available to students matriculated in and seeking an undergraduate degree at The New School. The program is a 32-credit roster of writing workshops (fiction, nonfiction, poetry) and literature seminars culminating
in a thesis project. Students also receive credit for taking part in the Writer’s Life Colloquium, an ongoing series of public readings, literary forums, lectures, symposia, and panel discussions. All Writing and Democracy students receive a scholarship.
New Students
To be considered for The Writing and Democracy Honors Program, students not already enrolled in a degree program at The New School must apply and be admitted to the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students.
Or they can apply to another undergraduate program at The New School that could incorporate a 32-credit area of study.
Writing Portfolio
In addition to submitting the required essays (which should address an interest in writing), résumé, and transcripts, applicants to the Writing and Democracy program must provide samples of their creative writing to demonstrate that they have the skills
and experience to excel in upper-level workshops and courses.
Submit a manuscript of eight to ten pages of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.
Continuing Students
Any student matriculated in an undergraduate degree program may apply to The Writing and Democracy Honors Program, as long as the courses and credit requirements would be appropriate to the student's academic standing and credit distribution requirements.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is a prerequisite for admission. Approved courses taken previously can be applied to the Writing and Democracy program after acceptance.
Applicants must provide a Statement of Purpose as well as samples of their creative writing.
Statement of Purpose
In an essay of approximately 500 words, describe the writing you've done, the writing you plan to do, and how the Writing and Democracy Honors Program would further your personal goals.
Writing Portfolio
Submit a manuscript of eight to ten pages of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. The writing samples should demonstrate that you have the skills and experience needed to excel in the challenging environment of the Writing and Democracy Honors Program.
Statement of Purpose and Writing Portfolio application form