Expository Writing at Skidmore

All Skidmore students are required to complete successfully one designated expository writing course by the end of the sophomore year (EN 105, EN 105H, EN 110, or a designated WI course in other academic departments). Students placed in “EN 103: Writing Seminar I” must complete this prerequisite course by the end of the first year. In some cases, students may be required to complete preparatory courses in their first semester before enrolling in EN 103. Designated writing courses offered by the English Department and in various disciplines can be taken to fulfill the expository writing requirement. Skidmore's writing program includes tutorial help at the Writing Center.

Students are required to complete the Directed Self-Placement (DSP) Program for Expository Writing Placement. The DSP asks you to write a short essay in response to a brief text and then reflect thoughtfully about your essay, your writing process, and your abilities as a writer. At the end of the DSP, you will choose the course that best addresses your needs and abilities as a writer. Students must complete the DSP in order to register for any expository writing courses.

Students can access the DSP by using this link: 

https://www.skidmore.edu/apps/english

If you have any questions about the DSP process, please contact Michael Marx, Director of Expository Writing, at (518) 580-5173 or mmarx@skidmore.edu.