Writing
University Writing (GS1010) is required of all GS students in their first year as it facilitates students' entry into the intellectual life of Columbia by helping them become more capable and independent academic readers and writers. With its small section size and emphasis on the writing process, revision, critical analysis, collaboration, and research, the course provides an occasion for students to develop academic habits and skills important to their success in future courses. Students learn how to formulate arguments, support them with evidence, and set them down in clear and persuasive prose.
In planning their first semesters of study at Columbia, each GS student should start by choosing a section of University Writing that fits their schedule. Themed sections are designated by the unique section numbers outlined below.
American Language Program (ALP) students must score a 10 on the ALP Essay Exam or earn a score of B- or higher in Advanced Academic Writing for International Students (ALP 9) prior to registering for University Writing.
Courses of Instruction (may vary by semester)
- Sections below 100: UW: Contemporary Essays, GS1010.0xx
- Sections in the 100s: UW: Readings in American Studies, GS1010.1xx
- Sections in the 200s: UW: Readings in Gender and Sexuality, GS1010.2xx
- Sections in the 300s: UW: Readings in Sustainable Development, GS1010.3xx
- Sections in the 400s: UW: Readings in Human Rights, GS1010.4xx
- Sections in the 500s: UW: Readings in Data Sciences and Engineering, GS1010.5xx
- Sections in the 600s: UW: Readings in Medical Humanities, GS 1010.6xx
- Sections in the 900s: University Writing for International Students, GS1010.9xx (special permission required)