Information for Students

What is a Writing Intensive (WI) course?

Writing Intensive (WI) course uses writing as a tool for learning and thinking. BCC offers over 200 WI courses every fall and spring semester in many different disciplines. In each WI course, you will complete 10~12 pages of formal writing as well as various informal writing assignments.

How many WI courses do I need to take before graduation?

You need to take at least TWO WI courses before graduation. It is recommended that you take your second WI course after completing or while taking ENG 11. Make sure you discuss this requirement when you see your advisor to register for classes.

How can I search for WI courses?

When you search for classes on CUNYFirst Class Search, select "Writing Intensive Course" as a Course Attribute.

Does ENG 10, 11, 12, 14, 16 count as Writing Intensive?

No. While these courses may have a lot of writing assignments, these courses are NOT designated as Writing Intensive. If you would like to take an English Writing Intensive course, you can take English literature courses.

I am a transfer student and I have already taken Writing Intensive courses at my previous college. Can these courses count toward my WI requirement?

Yes. Writing Intensive courses taken at other colleges may be counted toward this requirement.