Curriculum for Liberal Education

Writing Intensive (WI) Courses

CLE Courses designated with WI are “writing intensive”, designed to pay special attention to the particular approaches to verbal communication that are used regularly in the disciplines, professions, and businesses that students are preparing to enter. These courses will include at least 15 pages of writing, in several assignments, with opportunities for revision and response. Some speech-oriented classes are included here as well, if they include a substantial writing component. Because oral communication is a natural dimension of verbal discourse, the WI courses will include opportunities for discussion and —when feasible — various forms of oral presentation.

If you entered Virginia Tech before Fall 2005..

Students entering Virginia Tech from Fall 1999 up to Fall 2005 (and maintaining continuous enrollment) must complete two (2) Writing Intensive courses. The Writing Intensive requirement may be met by:

  1. the successful completion of two WI-designated CLE courses, regardless of the number of credit hours attached to those courses; or
  2. the successful completion of two sequences of courses designated as providing Writing Across the Major (WAM); or
  3. the successful completion of one WI course, regardless of the number of credit hours attached to that course, and one sequence of courses designated WAM; or
  4. other writing experiences approved by the UCCC (now the UCCLE).

Students should consult with an advisor for specific instructions.

If you entered Virginia Tech after Fall 2005..

For students entering in Fall 2005 and thereafter, the WI requirement has been replaced by the ViEWS (Visual Expression, Writing and Speaking) requirement. Students should consult with their department to determine how this requirement will be meet in their particular major. Some departments will continue to use the existing WI and WAM because it best meets their disciplinary demands and student needs. Other departments have chosen other ways to meet the ViEWS requirement. Students should consult with an advisor for specific instructions.