About

Mission Statement

In the University Writing Program, we understand that our cultural world is profoundly rhetorical. That is, the communication we encounter, in all its forms, shapes our thinking and our very experiences, with others and even with ourselves.

Our mission in the UWP is to sharpen students’ awareness of the rhetorical forces at work in our culture and strengthen their ability to respond to–and shape–such forces. We seek to cultivate in our students the skills and passion to advocate on behalf of themselves and argue persuasively against injustices.

We also understand that argumentation can be an act of radical humility, one that facilitates shared understanding, if not always agreement. We see good argument as the cornerstone of a healthy democratic society. We foster a community of civically engaged and informed learners who practice and value ethical discourse, including such virtues as honesty, good judgment, intellectual courage, and empathy.

In keeping with the University of Notre Dame’s mission, the UWP aims "to create a sense of human solidarity and concern for the common good.” We believe the study and practice of virtuous rhetoric situates writing as innately relational, thus requiring us to be profoundly responsible to others.