Academic writing requirement (AWR)

Strong reading, writing and research skills are essential to academic success.

Regardless of whether they are native speakers of English or have learned English as an additional language, all students need to develop these skills so that they are able to meet the expectations of advanced literacy associated with university-level academic studies.

Satisfying the academic writing requirement

All undergraduate students enrolled in a degree program must complete an AWR-designated course at UVic if they do not meet one of the following requirements upon entry to UVic.

  • A score of at least 86% on the B.C. English 12 Provincial Examination, or English 12 First Peoples Provincial Examination, within the three years immediately prior to admission.
  • A final grade of at least 86% in B.C. English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, or an approved equivalent Canadian curriculum grade 12 English course taken within the three years immediately prior to admission.
  • Transfer credit for ATWP 135, ENGL 135, 146 or 147, ENGR 110, or AWR-designated level credit.
  • A degree from a recognized English-speaking university.

Selecting an AWR-designated course

The following courses satisfy the AWR and are appropriate for any year of study, though you'll get the most benefit from taking one early on in your degree program:

  • ATWP 135 (formerly ENGL 135) - Academic Reading and Writing (1.5 units)
  • ENGL 146 - Contemporary Literature (AWR) (1.5 units)
  • ENGL 147 - Literary Traditions (AWR) (1.5 units)
  • ENGR 110 - Design and Communication I (2.5 units), for engineering students only

Which AWR course is right for me?

Note: Satisfying the AWR does not exempt students from the need to meet specific program requirements. Contact your Advising Centre if you require course selection advice

Second-language learners may also benefit from registering in the following preparatory course before registering in an AWR-designated course:

  • ATWP 101 (formerly ENGL 101) - Fundamentals of Academic Literacy (1.5 units)

Note: This course does not satisfy the AWR.

Timeline for completing the AWR

To gain the greatest benefit to their degree studies, students who have not satisfied the AWR are expected to register in a 1.5-unit, AWR-designated course as soon as possible.

Transfer students who are admitted as third-year students must complete the AWR during their first Winter Session.

Nursing and block-transfer students should consult their academic advisers for information about their deadline for completing the requirement.