Learn More About Yourself and the World When You Write at CapU

Explore creative and scholarly writing in an innovative BA program at CapU.

This article was written by Jasper Chu for Capilano University.

The Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Writing and Literature at Capilano University is your opportunity to work towards a fulfilling career in education, media, marketing, or publishing.

“It’s the first BA program in B.C. that combines the study of creative writing and literature, so students can explore both the creative and scholarly side of writing,” said Leah Bailly, the program’s convenor. “This is not a traditional degree in any sense.”

English instructor Cassidy Picken adds, “This major is unique, not only in how it brings together literary study and creative writing but also in the possibilities it opens for engaging with literature in ways that are relevant to students today.”

“Future teachers will be drawn to our program, as well as writers, publishers, marketing professionals, future librarians and journalists and lawyers,” Bailly says. “Most jobs in the arts and entertainment sector, including digital games and film, will require strong writing skills.”

Instructors in the program are experienced professionals, including scholars, award-winning fiction writers, poets, memoirists, and television writers.

Study in small, engaging seminar settings

In the program, you’ll study in small and engaging seminar formats, with the opportunity to find your niche in a range of concentrations.

If you choose to concentrate in Critical and Creative Writing, you can learn about screenwriting, poetry and creative non-fiction. Concentrating in Literature and Culture, meanwhile, is an opportunity to learn about film and literature internationally, in Canada, by Indigenous peoples or about the environment.

Learn from an Indigenous Writer in Residence

The program also features an Indigenous Writer in Residence, who will advise you on using critical and creative decolonial practices in your writing.

“We need to acknowledge the role of education in past cultural erasure and present acts of reconciliation,” Bailly said. “They will give readings, host office hours, and create opportunities for students to engage with their work.”

Blend creative and critical skills

“[The program] will help me blend critical thinking and research skills to gather and analyze information with the creative writing abilities to present it all in a compelling way,” said Laura Morales Padilla, a student in the program who also serves as editor-in-chief of the Capilano Courier. “Channelling my passion for research and writing into meaningful advocacy, guided by the instructors who have taught and inspired me so much already.”

Gain hands-on publishing experience

You’ll also gain publishing experience from The Liar, CapU’s literary journal, working as part of an editorial team.

“It’s the best hands-on experience a student can find for a future in publishing, as a writer, designer or editor,” Bailly says. “It will touch every aspect of publishing – from acquisitions, to editorial, to publicity, and launch.”

“It’s a special opportunity that is usually only offered to students in graduate programs, but we are lucky to include literary publishing in our BA.”

Build a portfolio through a capstone anthology

Finally, for your pre-graduation capstone project, you’ll publish an anthology of your best work under the guidance of your instructors to show your progress.

After completing this four-year bachelor’s degree, you’ll be equipped with vital career skills, including storytelling, presenting ideas as both a writer and researcher, and engaging with the rich history and culture of literature.