Students learn the forms and techniques of the arts of poetry and fiction.
They also learn, through the study of literature, how to read as writers do, how writers use language to manipulate meaning, and how to use language in ways that make ideas accessible and artistic. The major offers a series of workshop courses in poetry, fiction, playwriting, screenwriting, and nonfiction, and reading courses in poetry and fiction presented from the writer's point of view. The Department of Creative Writing at UCR offers the only Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing in the University of California system. A subject matter preparation program for the Multiple Subject teaching credential is available for individuals who plan to pursue a career in teaching. Students who complete such a program are exempt from subject matter examinations when applying for a teaching credential program.