Writing Proficiency Examination

Because the University of New Haven believes that good writing skills are essential for success, it requires all its undergraduate students to demonstrate such skills before it will confer a bachelor's degree.  Thus, during the first semester after achieving 57 credit hours, all students must take an examination in writing skills.  No student will be eligible to receive the BA or BS degree unless the examination is passed.

The examination consists of the writing of an impromptu theme on one of several topics of interest.  If their syntax, punctuation, and diction are in accord with the conventions of standard English and if the argument or exposition is clear and coherent, students will pass.  If a student's writing is found to be deficient in these respects, notice of the unsatisfactory performance on the examination will be sent to the student, to the student's academic advisor, and to the Registrar. 

A student who fails the examination must take specific steps to improve his or her written English.   These steps may be systematic tutoring at the Center for Learning Resources, enrollment in E 103 Fundamentals, or the formulation of a program of self-study.  The student must then retake the examination each subsequent semester in which he or she is enrolled in the university until the examination is passed.  In no case shall the requirements for a four-year degree be completed without satisfactory performance on the Writing Proficiency Examination.