WR Courses
The WR Requirement
As part of the Yale College curriculum, the writing requirement offers courses that combine attention to writing in a particular academic subject with instruction in the kinds of analysis and argument required for good papers in any course. Students in these courses - which are indicated by "WR" in the YCPS (Blue Book) - receive additional feedback on their writing, are taught effective strategies for developing and sustaining ideas, and learn the habits and techniques of experienced writers. WR courses are not watered down to accommodate writing instruction; on the contrary, because writing about a topic enhances learning, students in these courses generally achieve a deeper engagement with the subject than if they had only completed exams.
Beginning with the class of 2009, all Yale students must complete two WR courses by end of the sixth term, with one of these completed by the end of the fourth term. Where possible, we recommend taking at least one WR course in the freshman year. The listings on this site offer general guidance about WR courses that are especially appropriate to freshmen, those that allow freshmen under some circumstances, and those that are restricted to sophomores and juniors. Any one of these courses may have additional restrictions; please see the YCPS for course descriptions and additional information, and consult with your academic advisor.
