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List of All U.S. Colleges with a Creative Writing Major
Writing has been my passion practically since I learned to read in kindergarten. I would write stories about princesses and my family dog, Gansett. When it came time to look at colleges, I was set on attending one with a strong creative writing program. Ultimately, I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a B.A. in Writing Seminars.
Today, colleges across the country offer creative writing as a major. Because writing skills are essential for a wide range of careers, and because most curricula emphasize broad liberal arts competencies, a degree in creative writing can set you up for success in numerous fields, whether you want to be an editor or a lawyer.
Interested in majoring in creative writing? Learn which schools offer the major and what to look for in a program.
Overview of the Creative Writing Major
Creative writing is about more than spinning tales. For your major, you’ll generally need to pursue a curriculum grounded in literature, history, foreign language, and other humanities courses, along with distribution courses, if the college requires them.
Most creative writing majors must participate in workshops, in which students present their work and listen to peer critiques, usually with a certain number of advanced courses in the mix. In some cases, colleges will ask you to specialize in a particular genre, such as fiction, poetry, or playwriting.
To succeed in creative writing, you’ll need to have a tough spine, in order to open yourself up to feedback from your classmates and instructors. You may need to give readings in public — if not as an undergraduate, certainly during your career. Of course, a passion for creating is essential, too, as is a willingness to revise your work and learn from the greats and your peers.
A creative writing major opens up doors to many careers, including journalism, content marketing, copywriting, teaching, and others. Even careers that don’t center around writing often have a strong writing component: you’ll need to write reports, deliver presentations, and so on.
Some writers go on to earn an MFA, which will help you hone your craft. It’s also often a prerequisite for teaching creative writing at the college level.
What to Look for in a College as a Creative Writing Major
Published authors on faculty.
Many world-renowned authors have another claim to fame: professorships. Writers who have taught their craft include (among many others):
- Maya Angelou (Wake Forest University)
- Colson Whitehead (many colleges, including Vassar College and Columbia University)
- Stephen Dixon (Johns Hopkins University)
- Viet Thanh Nguyen (University of Southern California)
- Eula Biss (Northwestern University)
- Toni Morrison (Princeton University)
Be aware that as an undergraduate, you may not be able to learn from the greats. That’s why it’s important to look into which courses these faculty teach before you have dreams of being mentored by Salman Rushdie — who is a Distinguished Writer in Residence at NYU.
Genres Offered
While many schools that have creative writing majors offer fiction and poetry courses and tracks, there are some niche genres that could be more difficult to find. If you’re interested in playwriting, for example, you won’t find that at every school. Before you decide on a program, be sure it includes the genres you’d like to explore further, whether that’s flash fiction, creative nonfiction, or something else.
Workshopping Opportunities
The core of most quality creative writing curriculum is workshopping. This means sharing your work in your classes and listening to your peers discuss and critique it. While this may sound intimidating, it can do a lot to help you hone your work and become a better writer. Look for colleges that make this the bedrock of their curriculum.
Showcasing Opportunities
Are there opportunities to present your work, such as college-sponsored readings where undergraduates can participate? Or, perhaps the school has a great literary journal. At my school, students could submit their plays and have them performed by fellow students.

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List of All U.S. Colleges With a Creative Writing Major
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What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?
No matter what major you’re considering, the first step is ensuring you’re academically comparable to students who were previously accepted to the college or university. Most selective schools use the Academic Index to filter out applicants who aren’t up to their standards.
You’ll also want to demonstrate your fit with the school and specific major with the qualitative components of your application, like your extracurriculars and essays. For a prospective creative writing major, the essay is particularly important because this is a way to demonstrate your writing prowess. Activities might include editing your school’s newspaper or literary journal, publishing your work, and participating in pre-college writing workshops.
Want to know your chances of being accepted to top creative writing schools? Try our Chancing Engine (it’s free). Unlike other calculators, it takes your individual profile into account, including academic stats and qualitative components like your activities. Give it a try and get a jumpstart on your journey as a creative writing major!
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College Info

Finding a dedicated creative writing program at a school you're excited about can be a real challenge, and that's even before you start worrying about getting in. Nonetheless, there are some great options. In order to help you find the best school for you, this list rounds up some of the best colleges for creative writing in the United States .
The Best Creative Writing Programs: Ranking Criteria
You should never take college rankings as absolute truth —not even the very official-seeming US News ones. Instead, use these kinds of lists as a jumping-off place for your own exploration of colleges. Pay attention not just to what the rankings are but to how the rankings are determined.
To help with that, I'll explain how I came up with this highly unscientific list of great creative writing colleges. I started by narrowing my search down to schools that offered a specific creative writing major. (If you don't see a school you were expecting, it's likely because they only have a minor.)
In ranking the schools, I considered five major criteria:
- #1: MFA Ranking —If a school has a great graduate creative writing program, it means you'll be taught by those same professors and the excellent graduate students they attract. Schools with strong MFA programs are also more likely to have solid alumni networks and internship opportunities. However, many schools with great undergrad programs do not offer MFAs, in which case I simply focused on the other four options.
- #2: General School Reputation —The vast majority of your classes won't be in creative writing, so it's important that other parts of the school, especially the English department, are great as well.
- #3: Extracurricular Opportunities —One of the key advantages of majoring in creative writing is that it can provide access to writing opportunities outside the classroom, so I took what kind of internship programs, author readings, and literary magazines the school offers into consideration.
- #4: Diversity of Class Options —I gave extra points to schools with a variety of genre options and specific, interesting classes.
- #5: Alumni/Prestige —This last criterion is a bit more subjective: is the school known for turning out good writers? Certainly it's less important than what kind of education you'll actually get, but having a brand-name degree (so to speak) can be helpful.
The Best Creative Writing Schools
Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of schools! The exact numbering is always arguable, so look at it as a general trend from absolutely amazing to still super great, rather than fixating on why one school is ranked #3 and another is ranked #4.
#1: Northwestern University
Northwestern's undergrad creative writing program boasts acclaimed professors and an unparalleled track record of turning out successful writers (including Divergent author Veronica Roth and short-story writer Karen Russell).
Outside the classroom, you can work on the student-run literary journal, intern at a publication in nearby Chicago, or submit to the Department of English's yearly writing competition . The university is also home to a top journalism program , so if you want to try your hand at nonfiction as well, you'll have plenty of opportunities to do so.
#2: Columbia University
Like Northwestern, Columbia is home to both a world-class creative writing program and a top journalism school (plus one of the best English departments in the country), so you have a wide range of writing-related course options. Columbia also benefits from its location in New York City, which is bursting at the seams with publishing houses, literary journals, and talented authors.

#3: University of Iowa
The University of Iowa's big draw is the infrastructure of its graduate Writers' Workshop, which is often considered the best MFA program in the country.
As an English and Creative Writing major here, you'll take classes from great young writers and established professors alike, and get to choose from a wide range of topics. This major provides transferable skills important for a liberal arts major with a creative focus. You'll also have access to the university's impressive literary community, including frequent readings, writing prizes and scholarships, and the acclaimed literary journal The Iowa Review .
#4: Emory University
Emory is renowned for its dedicated undergrad creative writing program , which draws the very best visiting scholars and writers. Students here have the chance to attend intimate question-and-answer sessions with award-winning authors, study a range of genres, compete for writing awards and scholarships, and work closely with an adviser to complete an honors project.
#5: Oberlin College
A small liberal arts school in Ohio, Oberlin offers very different advantages than the schools above do. You'll have fewer opportunities to pursue writing in the surrounding city, but the quality of the teachers and the range of courses might make up for that. Moreover, it boasts just as impressive alumni, including actress and writer Lena Dunham.
#6: Hamilton College
Hamilton is another small college, located in upstate New York. It's known for giving students the freedom to pursue their interests and the support to help them explore topics in real depth, both inside and outside the classroom. Hamilton's creative writing program takes full advantage with small classes and lots of opportunities to intern and publish; it also has one of the best writing centers in the country.
#7: Brown University
Brown's Literary Arts program offers one of the top MFAs in the US as well as an undergraduate major . For the major, you must take four creative writing workshops and six reading-intensive courses, which span an array of departments and topics, from music and literature to Middle East studies and Egyptology.

#8: Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University has an excellent creative writing MFA program, lots of super specific class options, and a number of scholarships specifically earmarked for creative writing students. This school’s undergraduate English program also offers a concentration in creative writing that allows students to specialize in a specific genre: poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction. If you’re interested in exploring your potential in a specific writing genre, Washington University could be a great pick for you.
#9: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT might not be a school you generally associate with writing, but it actually has an excellent program that offers courses in digital media and science writing, as well as creative writing, and provides plenty of guidance on how graduates can navigate the tricky job market.
Not to mention the school is located in Cambridge, a haven for book lovers and writers of all kinds. Though it probably isn’t a good fit for students who hate science, MIT is a great place for aspiring writers who want to build writing skills that are marketable in a wide range of industries.
#10: University of Michigan
University of Michigan is one of the best state universities in the country and has a top-notch MFA program. This school’s undergrad creative writing sub-concentration requires students to submit applications for admittance to advanced creative writing courses. These applications give students crucial practice in both building a writing portfolio and articulating their interest in creative writing to an audience who will evaluate their work. If you're looking to attend a big school with a great creative writing major, this is a fantastic choice.
#11: Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins is another school that's known more for engineering than it is for writing, but, like MIT, it has a dedicated writing program. As a major here, you must take not only courses in prose, poetry, and literature, but also classes on topics such as philosophy and history.
#12: Colorado College
Colorado College is a small liberal arts school known for its block plan , which allows students to focus on one class per three-and-a-half-week block. The creative writing track of the English major includes a sequence of four writing workshops and also requires students to attend every reading of the Visiting Writers Series.
Bonus School: New York University
I didn't include NYU in the main list because it doesn't have a dedicated creative writing major, but it's a great school for aspiring writers nonetheless, offering one of the most impressive creative writing faculties in the country and all the benefits of a Manhattan location.

How To Pick the Best Creative Writing School for You
Just because Northwestern is a great school for creative writing doesn't mean you should set your heart on going there. (The football fans are completely terrifying, for one thing.) So where should you go then?
Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking at creative writing programs to help you determine the best school for you:
Does It Have Courses You're Interested In?
Look at the course offerings and see whether they interest you. While you can't predict exactly what classes you'll love, you want to avoid a mismatch where what you want to study and what the program offers are completely different. For example, if you want to write sonnets but the school focuses more on teaching fiction, it probably won't be a great fit for you.
Also, don't forget to look at the English courses and creative writing workshops! In most programs, you'll be taking a lot of these, too.
What Opportunities Are There To Pursue Writing Outside of Class?
I touched on this idea in the criteria section, but it's important enough that I want to reiterate it here. Some of the best writing experience you can get is found outside the classroom, so see what kind of writing-related extracurriculars a school has before committing to it.
Great options include getting involved with the campus newspaper, working on the school's literary journal, or interning at the university press.
Who Will Be Teaching You?
Who are the professors? What kind of work have they published? Check teacher ratings on Rate My Professors (but make sure to read the actual reviews—and always take them with a grain of salt).
If you're looking at a big school, there's a good chance that a lot of your teachers will be graduate students. But that's not necessarily a bad thing: a lot of the best teachers I had in college were graduate students. Just take into consideration what kind of graduate program the school has. If there's a great creative writing MFA program, then the graduate students are likely to be better writers and more engaged teachers.
What Are the Alumni Doing Now?
If you have a sense of what you want to do after you graduate, see if any alumni of the program are pursuing that type of career. The stronger the alumni network is, the more connections you'll have when it comes time to get a job.
What About the Rest of the School?
Don't pick a school for which you like the creative writing program but dread everything else about it. Most of your time will be spent doing other things, whether hanging out in the dorms, exploring off campus, or fulfilling general education requirements.
Many schools require you to apply to the creative writing major, so make doubly sure you'll be happy with your choice even if you aren't accepted to the program.
What's Next?
Are you sure a creative writing major is the right fit for you? Read our post on the pros and cons of the major to help you decide what path to take in college.
For more general advice about choosing a college, check out our complete guide to finding the right school for you. Some major factors to consider include deciding whether you're interested in a small college or a big university , an in-state or out-of-state institution , and a public or private school .
Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Alex is an experienced tutor and writer. Over the past five years, she has worked with almost a hundred students and written about pop culture for a wide range of publications. She graduated with honors from University of Chicago, receiving a BA in English and Anthropology, and then went on to earn an MA at NYU in Cultural Reporting and Criticism. In high school, she was a National Merit Scholar, took 12 AP tests and scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and ACT.
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA •
- • Rating 4.14 out of 5 652 reviews
Sophomore: Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard enough to get in, others come in doing Olympiads from when they were 5 years old. The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and you really get to be who you want to be; it's very beautiful. Each dorm has an extant history and culture; you can automatically learn about someone by what dorm they live in. The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must collaborate. You're forced to learn time management skills. I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school! ... Read 652 reviews
- grade A+ Overall Niche Grade
Acceptance rate 7%
Net price $19,998
SAT range 1510-1580
#1 Best Colleges in America .
CAMBRIDGE, MA ,
652 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard... The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and... The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must... I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school! .
Read 652 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,
Acceptance Rate : 7% ,
Net Price : $19,998 ,
SAT Range : 1510-1580 ,
Brown University
Providence, RI •
- • Rating 3.83 out of 5 1,051 reviews
Niche User: I am currently enrolled as an incoming freshman at Brown University but I have been fortunate to participate in two of their pre-college programs. Overall, the academic resources and opportunities to explore STEM-based passions are incredibly diverse and accessible. The campus has amazing faculty that are engaged in the subject, both in and out of the classroom. They provide insightful feedback and support, especially as I had little experience doing lab work in high school. Outside the classroom, there were countless facilities and events that covered a wide variety of interests. These helped me foster a strong sense of community as I was able to connect with peers of similar likes during these events. I love how interconnected the university is with the larger city of Providence, which makes both professional and recreational engagement more accessible. Lastly, the Brown community was incredibly welcoming and supportive. Everyone there was proactive and engaged! ... Read 1,051 reviews
Acceptance rate 8%
Net price $27,659
SAT range 1440-1560
#9 Best Colleges in America .
Blue checkmark.
PROVIDENCE, RI ,
1051 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Niche User says I am currently enrolled as an incoming freshman at Brown University but I have been fortunate to participate in two of their pre-college programs. Overall, the academic resources and opportunities to... Outside the classroom, there were countless facilities and events that covered a wide variety of interests. These helped me foster a strong sense of community as I was able to connect with peers of... Lastly, the Brown community was incredibly welcoming and supportive. Everyone there was proactive and engaged! .
Read 1051 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 8% ,
Net Price : $27,659 ,
SAT Range : 1440-1560 ,
Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH •
- • Rating 3.86 out of 5 722 reviews
Junior: I am a transfer student athlete and am planning to attend Dartmouth in the fall. What I loved on my visit was the family atmosphere amongst the faculty and the close relationships they had with their students. I believe that it is important to put an emphasis on undergraduate education and Dartmouth does that the best in comparison to any other school in the nation. From an athletic standpoint I feel like Dartmouth has all the tools and facilities to help me achieve my athletic goals. Coming from an institution that gives athletic scholarships, Ivy leagues do not have that availability. I felt like the experiences and relationships that I would build would make it worth it to apply for scholarships online. Thank you! ... Read 722 reviews
Acceptance rate 9%
Net price $24,525
#10 Best Colleges in America .
HANOVER, NH ,
722 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I am a transfer student athlete and am planning to attend Dartmouth in the fall. What I loved on my visit was the family atmosphere amongst the faculty and the close relationships they had with... .
Read 722 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 9% ,
Net Price : $24,525 ,
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Minnesota State University, Mankato
Mankato, MN •
- • Rating 3.67 out of 5 1,219 reviews
Freshman: I have been having a wonderful experience here at Minnesota State Mankato! They're are always tons of events being planned for the students, any where from there welcome week events to other fun events planned throughout the year for all students and staff to enjoy. Campus also provides tons of on campus jobs for students to apply for. The professors here are all very understanding and realize what it is like to be a college students, therefore, they are always willing to help you when needed and are also very easy to talk to while being understanding. ... Read 1,219 reviews
- grade B Overall Niche Grade
Acceptance rate 67%
Net price $15,201
SAT range 886-1106
Sponsored Result, Minnesota State University, Mankato
MANKATO, MN ,
1219 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says I have been having a wonderful experience here at Minnesota State Mankato! They're are always tons of events being planned for the students, any where from there welcome week events to other fun... .
Read 1219 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade : B ,
Acceptance Rate : 67% ,
Net Price : $15,201 ,
SAT Range : 886-1106 ,
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA •
- • Rating 3.88 out of 5 1,309 reviews
Junior: Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities to study abroad. Greek life is active, but not necessary to have a rich social life. Tuition, room and board are expensive but there’s lots of aid available. Highly recommended, but very competitive admission rate ( around 8% ). Suggest applying Early Decision if Penn’s your first choice ( 18% acceptance rate ). ... Read 1,309 reviews
Net price $24,167
SAT range 1460-1570
#11 Best Colleges in America .
PHILADELPHIA, PA ,
1309 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities... .
Read 1309 reviews.
Net Price : $24,167 ,
SAT Range : 1460-1570 ,
Columbia University
New York, NY •
- • Rating 3.81 out of 5 1,301 reviews
Sophomore: I liked that there are endless academic opportunities available; you will never run out! Food is average and oftentimes the lines in the dining halls take an annoying amount of time. The dorms in my experience have been pretty nice, and some have crazy amazing views of the city. Students overall are pretty nice/polite here but there in definitely an air of competition in certain interest groups. Many of the general lectures courses leave a lot to be desired and didn't give me any special ivy league education that I couldn't have gotten elsewhere. However, that being said, I've also taken some incredible smaller courses where I've been able to build a relationship with my professor and learn a lot from them. Also make sure you are somewhat interested in what the core has to off because its a huge part of your education at Columbia. ... Read 1,301 reviews
Net price $22,126
#12 Best Colleges in America .
NEW YORK, NY ,
1301 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I liked that there are endless academic opportunities available; you will never run out! Food is average and oftentimes the lines in the dining halls take an annoying amount of time. The dorms in my... .
Read 1301 reviews.
Net Price : $22,126 ,
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL •
- • Rating 3.69 out of 5 1,448 reviews
Junior: Northwestern is a wonderful academic institution. The professors and one of a kind programs are incredibly engaging. Northwestern provides students with so many opportunities within their undergraduate career. The campus is in an ideal location with its proximity to Chicago and lakefront access. Additionally, Northwestern has hundreds of clubs that fit any and all interests. The only downsides to Northwestern include the competitive atmosphere, cold winters, and lackluster party scene. If you are someone who is willing to brave the cold and explore Chicago for your fun and parties, then Northwestern is the place for you! ... Read 1,448 reviews
Net price $28,344
SAT range 1430-1550
#14 Best Colleges in America .
EVANSTON, IL ,
1448 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Northwestern is a wonderful academic institution. The professors and one of a kind programs are incredibly engaging. Northwestern provides students with so many opportunities within their... .
Read 1448 reviews.
Net Price : $28,344 ,
SAT Range : 1430-1550 ,
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Washington University in St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO •
- • Rating 4.09 out of 5 1,523 reviews
Alum: I am thankful for my undergraduate experience at Washington University in St. Louis. The college has great connections for post-grad opportunities in multiple fields - business, medicine, research, engineering. I was easily able to switch between the Arts & Sciences program and the Business School at the end of my sophomore year. There is a huge focus on medicine, so even for other career paths there are healthcare adjacent offerings (e.g. Healthcare Management, Bio Medical Engineering, Global Health, Psychology/Neuroscience/Philosophy). The brand name and resources do carry for other non-health related professions too. The classwork can be tough so it's best you find out which paths are a good fit for you in terms of academic rigor, class size, and teaching style. Your counselors can help with this. Good size of the school - not too big to get lost, but not too small to know everyone and the campus is very very beautiful! I suggest visiting and talking to alum to learn more! ... Read 1,523 reviews
Acceptance rate 16%
Net price $27,233
SAT range 1480-1560
#15 Best Colleges in America .
SAINT LOUIS, MO ,
1523 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I am thankful for my undergraduate experience at Washington University in St. Louis. The college has great connections for post-grad opportunities in multiple fields - business, medicine, research,... Good size of the school - not too big to get lost, but not too small to know everyone and the campus is very very beautiful! I suggest visiting and talking to alum to learn more! .
Read 1523 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 16% ,
Net Price : $27,233 ,
SAT Range : 1480-1560 ,
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL •
- • Rating 3.77 out of 5 1,224 reviews
Sophomore: UChicago certainly lives up to the rumors of its academic rigor but it pays off because each of my classes has been full of highly engaged students excited to study and discuss the material! Unfortunately for students not very very well versed in time-management, the academic work really can take over your life and fulfill the “where fun goes to die” catch-phrase for this school so it requires some serious practice to balance fun and work. In terms of on-campus living, their “Hogwarts” style housing makes for an amazing built-in community even as a freshman. I love living in the dorms and plan to stay through graduation! I’d recommend this college only to students who genuinely enjoy dedicating over 50% of their time to their academics. ... Read 1,224 reviews
Net price $36,584
SAT range 1500-1570
#16 Best Colleges in America .
CHICAGO, IL ,
1224 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says UChicago certainly lives up to the rumors of its academic rigor but it pays off because each of my classes has been full of highly engaged students excited to study and discuss the material!... I’d recommend this college only to students who genuinely enjoy dedicating over 50% of their time to their academics. .
Read 1224 reviews.
Net Price : $36,584 ,
SAT Range : 1500-1570 ,
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD •
- • Rating 3.65 out of 5 1,367 reviews
Senior: John’s Hopkins is a great university with wonderful teaching staff and TA’s that are committed to helping their students succeed. I would highly recommend STEM students to apply as the engineering, computer science and other non pre-med curriculum is world class too. The smaller classes really provide a more conducive learning experience. There are also many things to do in Baltimore and living so close to Washington DC provides other opportunities to explore. The Hopkins Homewood campus is one of the most beautiful among all the campuses I toured before applying. As a top ten nationally ranked university you can’t go wrong! ... Read 1,367 reviews
Acceptance rate 11%
Net price $25,241
SAT range 1470-1560
#21 Best Colleges in America .
BALTIMORE, MD ,
1367 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says John’s Hopkins is a great university with wonderful teaching staff and TA’s that are committed to helping their students succeed. I would highly recommend STEM students to apply as the engineering,... .
Read 1367 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 11% ,
Net Price : $25,241 ,
SAT Range : 1470-1560 ,
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA •
- • Rating 3.69 out of 5 1,440 reviews
Alum: I am alumni of Carnegie Mellon's School of Architecture. Many people don't understand the ethos of the school, but it's a consortium of conservatories for aspiring writers,architects, engineers, painters, industrial designers, computer programmers, etc. Unlike other schools, there's an explicit professional focus. The workload is intense, but the culture is collaborative. If this environment suits your temperament and aspirations, the benefit is tremendous! Our professors used to say, "If you can handle the work here, you'll find your professional life easy." The school motto says it all, "My Heart is in the Work." ... Read 1,440 reviews
Acceptance rate 17%
Net price $36,983
SAT range 1460-1560
#22 Best Colleges in America .
PITTSBURGH, PA ,
1440 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I am alumni of Carnegie Mellon's School of Architecture. Many people don't understand the ethos of the school, but it's a consortium of conservatories for aspiring writers,architects, engineers,... .
Read 1440 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 17% ,
Net Price : $36,983 ,
SAT Range : 1460-1560 ,
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI •
- • Rating 3.93 out of 5 4,515 reviews
Sophomore: Michigan is truly the best of all worlds! World class academics? Check! Top tier athletics? Check! Great party scene? Check! It is so easy to get involved with a wide variety of interests. There's more clubs than I can name here. Opportunities are plentiful, especially involving research. STEM majors especially can easily get involved with the hospital and research facilities nearby. Complaints: diversity should be better, and some of the first-year facilities are average. That being said, this feels like a very accepting school compared to the surrounding areas, and most people tend to be very open minded. Otherwise, Ann Arbor is a great town. Campus feels safe to walk around, even at night, and the directly surrounding areas generally don't have issues. Honestly, I can't speak highly enough about how great this school is. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Go Blue! ... Read 4,515 reviews
Acceptance rate 26%
Net price $17,832
SAT range 1340-1520
#25 Best Colleges in America .
ANN ARBOR, MI ,
4515 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Michigan is truly the best of all worlds! World class academics? Check! Top tier athletics? Check! Great party scene? Check! It is so easy to get involved with a wide variety of interests. There's more clubs than I can name here. Opportunities are plentiful, especially involving research. STEM majors especially can easily get involved with the hospital and research facilities nearby. Complaints: diversity should be better, and some of the first-year facilities are average. That being said, this feels like a very accepting school compared to the surrounding areas, and most people... Otherwise, Ann Arbor is a great town. Campus feels safe to walk around, even at night, and the directly surrounding areas generally don't have issues. Honestly, I can't speak highly enough about how great this school is. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Go Blue! .
Read 4515 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 26% ,
Net Price : $17,832 ,
SAT Range : 1340-1520 ,
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA •
- • Rating 3.97 out of 5 3,917 reviews
Sophomore: For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines -Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good -Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities (ex: Greek life) But when you get through the superficial aspect you can meet some really awesome, interesting friends! -facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dorms Overall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit a certain mold. ... Read 3,917 reviews
Net price $39,759
SAT range 1340-1530
#28 Best Colleges in America .
LOS ANGELES, CA ,
3917 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines -Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good -Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities... -facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dorms Overall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit... .
Read 3917 reviews.
Net Price : $39,759 ,
SAT Range : 1340-1530 ,
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Emory University
Atlanta, GA •
- • Rating 3.82 out of 5 1,569 reviews
Graduate Student: I loved my experience as a graduate student! I attended the public health program and received a Master's degree from this esteemed school. I learned from professors enmeshed in relevant research and current events. The school's community partnerships and proximity to the CDC allowed its students easy access to many professional opportunities, especially for those interested in infectious disease. Emory provides a beautiful campus and a variety of study spaces for its students. This university may want to work on developing a more distinct student culture -- this is one of the few areas where the school may be lacking. ... Read 1,569 reviews
Acceptance rate 19%
Net price $25,672
SAT range 1380-1530
#34 Best Colleges in America .
ATLANTA, GA ,
1569 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says I loved my experience as a graduate student! I attended the public health program and received a Master's degree from this esteemed school. I learned from professors enmeshed in relevant research and... .
Read 1569 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 19% ,
Net Price : $25,672 ,
SAT Range : 1380-1530 ,
Wellesley College
Wellesley, MA •
- • Rating 3.76 out of 5 614 reviews
Senior: Pretty good! Great environment for learning and fostering a well-rounded perspective on the world. Faculty and your peers will have the greatest influence on your experience, so if you choose well, you will definitely be satisfied. ... Read 614 reviews
Acceptance rate 20%
Net price $21,614
SAT range 1350-1520
#36 Best Colleges in America .
WELLESLEY, MA ,
614 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Pretty good! Great environment for learning and fostering a well-rounded perspective on the world. Faculty and your peers will have the greatest influence on your experience, so if you choose well,... .
Read 614 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 20% ,
Net Price : $21,614 ,
SAT Range : 1350-1520 ,
University of Texas - Austin
Austin, TX •
- • Rating 3.97 out of 5 6,520 reviews
Sophomore: I think a lot of the campus resources are great, and I love my classes so far. A lot of the student organizations that you can join have long waitlists, so it’s good to plan early on the type of extracurricular environment you’d like to be a part of. The buildings on campus range from stellar architectural masterpieces to modern works of art. There are very few things lacking, but part of the package deal of living in Austin is the construction. The whole city, including a lot of campus as of now, is hard to navigate with all of the work being done. It’s very important to do the absolute utmost asap, as the course load and competitive environment encourage daily task building. Doing work as soon as possible is practically the only way to be able to experience social events. If you’ve studies in a smaller environment, especially for intro classes, you’ll run into some kinks trying to adapt to the larger class sizes. What starts here changes the world! ... Read 6,520 reviews
Acceptance rate 32%
Net price $16,892
SAT range 1210-1470
#46 Best Colleges in America .
AUSTIN, TX ,
6520 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I think a lot of the campus resources are great, and I love my classes so far. A lot of the student organizations that you can join have long waitlists, so it’s good to plan early on the type of... .
Read 6520 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 32% ,
Net Price : $16,892 ,
SAT Range : 1210-1470 ,
Haverford College
Haverford, PA •
- • Rating 3.93 out of 5 258 reviews
Freshman: Haverford is a great place! This is very cliche but the community is amazing, the professors are supportive and very knowledgable, and the atmosphere is welcoming! I chose Haverford because of the unique Honor Code and the Quaker Consortium. At Haverford, the students have a lot of trust (we have take home exams, self-proctored finals, and we can even change the rules of the school). The Quaker Consortium allows Haverford students to take classes at Bryn Mawr, Swarthmore, and the University of Pennsylvania! There are endless opportunities and I've made great memories. The only complaint I have is the social scene and things to do around campus are limited. Otherwise, the atmosphere is amazing and you will receive a great education here! ... Read 258 reviews
Acceptance rate 18%
Net price $25,215
SAT range 1360-1520
#51 Best Colleges in America .
HAVERFORD, PA ,
258 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Haverford is a great place! This is very cliche but the community is amazing, the professors are supportive and very knowledgable, and the atmosphere is welcoming! I chose Haverford because of the... .
Read 258 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 18% ,
Net Price : $25,215 ,
SAT Range : 1360-1520 ,
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL •
- • Rating 3.85 out of 5 2,980 reviews
Senior: Miami has been a great place the past few years for me. As a transfer student, coming in not knowing anyone, I have met many types of different students from hard working backgrounds. The professors are very much committed to getting to know everyone in their class, and not just going through the motions as a mundane robot you see at some larger schools. In my experience the average class size outside of your one or two 100 level class is between 5-30 students. The campus is beautiful. Everywhere you look is palm trees and clear skies (with the exception of your occasional rain shower) the university does a nice job maintaining the buildings and surrounding vegetation. Food wise the options aren’t the greatest. In the past few years there has been an attempt to bring in healthier options, but for the most part the dinning hall and food court include your average Starbucks, subway, panda, so on and forth. Safety campus is very safe Never had any issues. Overall a great school! ... Read 2,980 reviews
Acceptance rate 33%
Net price $31,726
SAT range 1250-1420
#57 Best Colleges in America .
CORAL GABLES, FL ,
2980 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Miami has been a great place the past few years for me. As a transfer student, coming in not knowing anyone, I have met many types of different students from hard working backgrounds. The professors... The campus is beautiful. Everywhere you look is palm trees and clear skies (with the exception of your occasional rain shower) the university does a nice job maintaining the buildings and surrounding... Food wise the options aren’t the greatest. In the past few years there has been an attempt to bring in healthier options, but for the most part the dinning hall and food court include your average... Safety campus is very safe Never had any issues. Overall a great school! .
Read 2980 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 33% ,
Net Price : $31,726 ,
SAT Range : 1250-1420 ,
Hamilton College
Clinton, NY •
- • Rating 3.7 out of 5 477 reviews
Freshman: It's an amazing campus with beautiful and kind professors, students, staff, etc. Everyone is willing to help you and no one leaves you hanging. I'd really recommend checking out this college to see if it's for you! ... Read 477 reviews
Net price $23,936
SAT range 1380-1510
#58 Best Colleges in America .
CLINTON, NY ,
477 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says It's an amazing campus with beautiful and kind professors, students, staff, etc. Everyone is willing to help you and no one leaves you hanging. I'd really recommend checking out this college to see... .
Read 477 reviews.
Net Price : $23,936 ,
SAT Range : 1380-1510 ,
University Park, PA •
- • Rating 3.88 out of 5 7,312 reviews
Junior: I chose Penn State University because of the multitude of research and other science-related opportunities that are afforded to you when attending a large university. I also love the overall atmosphere regarding both my studies and social life. Regarding my studies, there are so many resources available to help me when needed including tutoring services, study groups, and more. When I'm not focusing on my studies, there are many events that I can go to for fun including fairs, lectures, concerts, and more. I have not given Penn State all five stars because they offer little financial aid to middle class incomes, however, I knew how much tuition was when accepting and was prepared to take out loans. Overall, love attending Penn State because of all the educational opportunities and fun events! ... Read 7,312 reviews
Acceptance rate 56%
Net price $26,151
SAT range 1160-1360
#64 Best Colleges in America .
UNIVERSITY PARK, PA ,
7312 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I chose Penn State University because of the multitude of research and other science-related opportunities that are afforded to you when attending a large university. I also love the overall... .
Read 7312 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 56% ,
Net Price : $26,151 ,
SAT Range : 1160-1360 ,
Colby College
Waterville, ME •
- • Rating 3.74 out of 5 554 reviews
Freshman: Colby is a really great school, and all that I was looking for academically. While the workload for some of my classes took a little bit of transitioning towards, I feel like I am being challenged while also learning a lot. The school gives great financial aid and funding, which is a huge advantage too. Personally, I like the smaller campus size. It's easy to navigate and get around, but there's still a pretty wide expanse so you don't feel suffocated. However, because it is a small campus, there isn't much to do outside of events being held. Downtown is also pretty barren, and there's nothing to do. The shuttle is a bit limited, and only goes downtown and to Walmart. Having a car would be very nice here! If you love nature and the outdoors, it's perfect here. There is a lack of diversity, but also more diversity than I was expecting from a college in the middle of nowhere Maine. ... Read 554 reviews
Acceptance rate 10%
Net price $18,552
SAT range 1380-1520
#67 Best Colleges in America .
WATERVILLE, ME ,
554 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Colby is a really great school, and all that I was looking for academically. While the workload for some of my classes took a little bit of transitioning towards, I feel like I am being challenged... Personally, I like the smaller campus size. It's easy to navigate and get around, but there's still a pretty wide expanse so you don't feel suffocated. However, because it is a small campus, there... There is a lack of diversity, but also more diversity than I was expecting from a college in the middle of nowhere Maine. .
Read 554 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 10% ,
Net Price : $18,552 ,
SAT Range : 1380-1520 ,
University of Washington
Seattle, WA •
- • Rating 3.78 out of 5 4,521 reviews
Junior: Love the campus! The coursework is rigorous no matter your major, but there's tons of classes that are so niche and interesting to explore! This school will give you a challenge for sure! Having to apply to your major is a huge downside-- there's a decent chance you might not get to study what you want if the major is competitive and your GPA and statements aren't competitive enough (there's just too many students). Similarly, you can't take major classes until you get accepted into the major (which usually isn't until your junior year), so that can delay the graduation process if you don't schedule and plan your degree right. Because of the large student body, everyone is clawing for everything-- registration for classes is a nightmare, long lines at dining halls and events, etc. (you can expect to sometimes wait more than an hour for food, applying to housing/registration takes hours as well because the server is being filled with so many students). ... Read 4,521 reviews
Net price $9,661
SAT range 1200-1470
#70 Best Colleges in America .
SEATTLE, WA ,
4521 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Love the campus! The coursework is rigorous no matter your major, but there's tons of classes that are so niche and interesting to explore! This school will give you a challenge for sure! Having to... Because of the large student body, everyone is clawing for everything-- registration for classes is a nightmare, long lines at dining halls and events, etc. (you can expect to sometimes wait more... .
Read 4521 reviews.
Net Price : $9,661 ,
SAT Range : 1200-1470 ,
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY •
- • Rating 3.65 out of 5 1,570 reviews
Sophomore: I came to this school without having visited campus at all, and I'm so grateful that my move-in day was when I first got to experience it, with all my fellow freshman around me. People think, erroneously, that Rochester (both the city and the university) are boring places to be, and I would agree only insofar as to say that those who want things to come to them, might be bored. The city has so many amazing restaurants, venues, and sites, but you have to take that first step of getting on the bus to go see them. At an academically rigorous school like UR, it can be hard freshman year to remember that life exists outside of academics, and especially outside of STEM. UR has a vibrant arts community, though, not even including Eastman (which has student and professional concerts alike). Everyone finds their niche pretty easily once they look for it, because there is genuinely something for every type of person. And, everyone honestly supports each other all the time! ... Read 1,570 reviews
Acceptance rate 35%
Net price $36,254
SAT range 1330-1510
#72 Best Colleges in America .
ROCHESTER, NY ,
1570 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I came to this school without having visited campus at all, and I'm so grateful that my move-in day was when I first got to experience it, with all my fellow freshman around me. People think,... .
Read 1570 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 35% ,
Net Price : $36,254 ,
SAT Range : 1330-1510 ,
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN •
- • Rating 3.8 out of 5 4,946 reviews
Sophomore: I absolutely loved Purdue during my Freshman year. I will be a sophomore in the fall and am very excited. Purdue has already opened so many doors for me. I was able to study abroad in Spain as a freshman this summer. It was a truly incredible experience. I was placed in a double with A/C and community bathrooms. Community bathrooms are not as bad as you may think. There were 6 showers on the floor, 7 counting the one in the guest bathroom on each floor. Easily more than 40 people lived on my floor, and I only had to wait once for a shower to open up all year long. The bathrooms were very clean. The dorm lobbies have things like pool tables, ping-pong tables, great study areas, and so much more. There are a lot of great clubs to join, and there is the option to start your own club. The food was pretty good. A lot of fried options though. Sporting events are very exciting to attend. Purdue has a lot to offer from a great degree to a true college experience. Boiler Up! ... Read 4,946 reviews
Net price $12,294
SAT range 1170-1420
#79 Best Colleges in America .
WEST LAFAYETTE, IN ,
4946 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I absolutely loved Purdue during my Freshman year. I will be a sophomore in the fall and am very excited. Purdue has already opened so many doors for me. I was able to study abroad in Spain as a... .
Read 4946 reviews.
Net Price : $12,294 ,
SAT Range : 1170-1420 ,
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX •
- • Rating 3.84 out of 5 1,535 reviews
Sophomore: Though SMU may have its faults at times, overall it has been an incredibly welcoming environment that consistently pushes me to be a better overall student, through its rigorous academic courses and ready-to-assist professors, along with the numerous resources it provides for students of all types. Being part of multicultural organizations has really helped me grow as a person because I get to see people who are just like me in different ways. In addition, being a part of the Rotunda Scholars program has given me immense opportunities through tutoring, study sessions, jobs, connections, and overall ability to perform well. ... Read 1,535 reviews
Acceptance rate 53%
Net price $41,444
SAT range 1250-1450
#82 Best Colleges in America .
DALLAS, TX ,
1535 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Though SMU may have its faults at times, overall it has been an incredibly welcoming environment that consistently pushes me to be a better overall student, through its rigorous academic courses and... .
Read 1535 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 53% ,
Net Price : $41,444 ,
SAT Range : 1250-1450 ,
Macalester College
Saint Paul, MN •
- • Rating 3.79 out of 5 457 reviews
Alum: Over my 25 years as an Academic Physician, I can say with confidence that my Mac education enabled me to be the doctor I am. Mac taught me to think critically, consider others empathetically, and stay curious about the world around me. These are the factors that truly drive my everyday practice, research, and teaching/mentoring of medical students. Mac today is even more solid than a generation ago, maintaining its excellence in teaching while supplementing with hands on internship opportunities. Thank you Macalester! ... Read 457 reviews
- grade A Overall Niche Grade
Acceptance rate 39%
Net price $35,589
SAT range 1280-1450
#84 Best Colleges in America .
SAINT PAUL, MN ,
457 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Over my 25 years as an Academic Physician, I can say with confidence that my Mac education enabled me to be the doctor I am. Mac taught me to think critically, consider others empathetically, and... .
Read 457 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade : A ,
Acceptance Rate : 39% ,
Net Price : $35,589 ,
SAT Range : 1280-1450 ,
Orange Coast College
Costa Mesa, CA •
- • Rating 3.86 out of 5 1,117 reviews
Alum: OCC is one of the biggest and, arguably, one of the best community colleges in the nation. They boast a large variety of majors and programs for students to explore. My experience with the counselors have been amazing, as they helped me complete the credits I needed for transfer and discover the right major for me. As a two-year college, the classes offered are mostly lower division general education classes. OCC offers an associates degree or certification for almost every major available. The facilities on campus are well maintained with brand new buildings across campus, including the college center, student union, literature & language building, and (my favorite) the planetarium. You’ll be able to meet and learn along side a diverse population of students coming to study from across the country and the world. With a beautiful campus, a large variety of majors, and amazing staff, I couldn’t recommend OCC more! ... Read 1,117 reviews
Acceptance rate 100%
Net price $6,499
Sponsored Result, Orange Coast College
COSTA MESA, CA ,
1117 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says OCC is one of the biggest and, arguably, one of the best community colleges in the nation. They boast a large variety of majors and programs for students to explore. My experience with the counselors... .
Read 1117 reviews.
Acceptance Rate : 100% ,
Net Price : $6,499 ,
Bard College at Simon's Rock
Great Barrington, MA •
- • Rating 3.27 out of 5 339 reviews
Sophomore: I came to Simon's rock as a 9th grader in the Academy and just matriculated into the College last semester. I had an absolutely wonderful experience here at Simon's rock! The community is so warm -- we are just like a family together and everyone helps everyone (during the pandemic I wasn't able to go back home and got so much care from the school and the community!) I'm also so grateful for all the support Simon's rock gives, especially financially. I come from a lower-middle-class family and got almost a 50% scholarship! Almost everyone I talked to(I would say more than 80% ) gets financial support and I've just never seen a school that does this. We are located in a pretty rural area with beautiful nature around which I think is great for studying. But of course, we can still take the shuttle and get to town to buy groceries and stuff. The dining hall food is average college food, but very nutritious and with a wide range of choices for students who have different needs. ... Read 339 reviews
- grade B minus Overall Niche Grade
Acceptance rate 94%
Net price $37,326
Sponsored Result, Bard College at Simon's Rock
GREAT BARRINGTON, MA ,
339 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I came to Simon's rock as a 9th grader in the Academy and just matriculated into the College last semester. I had an absolutely wonderful experience here at Simon's rock! The community is so warm --... .
Read 339 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade : B minus ,
Acceptance Rate : 94% ,
Net Price : $37,326 ,
Showing results 1 through 25 of 325
Writing in the Disciplines
These colleges typically make the writing process a priority at all levels of instruction and across
These colleges typically make the writing process a priority at all levels of instruction and across the curriculum. Students are encouraged to produce and refine various forms of writing for different audiences in different disciplines. In spring and summer 2022, we invited college presidents, chief academic officers, deans of students and deans of admissions from more than 1,500 schools to nominate up to 15 institutions with stellar examples of writing in the disciplines. Colleges and universities that received 10 or more nominations are ranked here. Read the methodology »
To unlock full rankings, SAT/ACT scores and more, sign up for the U.S. News College Compass !
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Brown University
Providence, RI
- #1 in Writing in the Disciplines
- #13 in National Universities (tie)
At Brown University, undergraduate students are responsible for designing their own academic study with more than 80 concentration programs to choose from. Another unique offering at this private, Ivy League institution in Providence, Rhode Island, is the Program in Liberal Medical Education, which grants both a bachelor’s degree and medical degree in eight years.
(fall 2021)
SAT, GPA and More

University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
- #2 in Writing in the Disciplines (tie)
- #83 in National Universities (tie)
The University of Iowa offers top-notch academic programming in more than 100 areas. Students looking to hone their leadership skills have many options, too: They can enroll in the LeaderShape Institute, a six-day getaway workshop; or participate in one of the many programs offered through the Center for Student Involvement & Leadership, including arts and entertainment, and multicultural programs. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, but about 95 percent choose to do so. Campus life may pose a challenge to tobacco users, as Iowa is a smoke-free campus. Students have more than 500 clubs and organizations from which to choose, and close to 10 percent of students go Greek as members of the school's more than 50 fraternities and sororities. Sports are another big focus of campus life; even in the competitive NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, the Iowa Hawkeyes are notorious players. Four blocks from campus is Iowa City, a Midwestern metropolis that has been recognized among the nation’s best for its scenery, greenery and sustainable energy efforts.
(out-of-state)

Yale University
New Haven, CT
- #3 in National Universities (tie)
Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, offers a small college life with the resources of a major research institution. Yale students are divided into 14 residential colleges that foster a supportive environment for living, learning and socializing.

Cornell University
- #4 in Writing in the Disciplines (tie)
- #17 in National Universities
Cornell University, a private school in Ithaca, New York, has 14 colleges and schools. Each admits its own students, though every graduate receives a degree from Cornell University. The university has more than 1,000 student organizations on campus.

Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Harvard University is a private institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. This Ivy League school is the oldest higher education institution in the country and has the largest endowment of any school in the world.

Carleton College
Northfield, MN
- #6 in Writing in the Disciplines (tie)
- #6 in National Liberal Arts Colleges (tie)
Carleton College is a private school in the historic river town of Northfield, Minnesota. Carls, as its students are known, have about 35 majors to choose from and more than 170 organizations to check out.

Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, PA
- #4 in National Liberal Arts Colleges
About 10 miles outside of Philadelphia is Swarthmore College, a private liberal arts institution that also offers a unique engineering degree program. Because Swarthmore is part of the Tri-College Consortium, students can also take courses at nearby Bryn Mawr College and Haverford College.

Amherst College
Amherst, MA
- #8 in Writing in the Disciplines
- #2 in National Liberal Arts Colleges
Amherst College, a private school in Amherst, Massachusetts, is known for its rigorous academic climate. Because Amherst is a member of the Five Colleges consortium, students can also take courses at Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts—Amherst.

Duke University
- #9 in Writing in the Disciplines (tie)
- #10 in National Universities (tie)
Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University is a private institution that has liberal arts and engineering programs for undergraduates. The Duke Blue Devils sports teams have a fierce rivalry with the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill Tar Heels and are best known for their outstanding men's basketball program.

Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
- #1 in National Universities
The ivy-covered campus of Princeton University, a private institution, is located in the quiet town of Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton was the first university to offer a "no loan" policy to financially needy students, giving grants instead of loans to accepted students who need help paying tuition.
1 (866) 989-5432
AM I A CANDIDATE
What I Wish I Knew as a Creative Writing Major

LEVI SHULTZ
I thought I’d make a career out of writing. That’s what I went to college for. I majored in English: Creative Writing because I loved it. I enjoyed sitting in the classroom, talking to my peers about short stories and poetry… until my senior year rolled around.
What was after college? What was I going to do with this degree that I so loved pursuing? Could I really make a career out of writing?
I worked a slew of odd jobs and writing internships before I landed at Pearson as a Registrar Support Specialist, something I never imagined I’d be doing. Now that I’m 30 and working a job I enjoy, I look back on my college career wishing I had known a few things before graduating. Things like what jobs I could get with this degree and what skills should I be learning to better prepare me for life after college—because it turns out, life after college wasn’t anything like I’d imagined.
If you’re considering majoring in Creative Writing, here are a few things to keep in mind:
A Degree Doesn’t Always Mean A Job
The first question for any English major is “what do you hope to do with an English degree?” It’s a legitimate question and sometimes a hard one. What can one do with an English degree other than teach? Is a creative writing degree even marketable?
As a whole, the purpose of getting a college degree is not primarily about getting a job . The purpose of going to college is to educate yourself, grow as a person, and gain experience and knowledge that will last you a lifetime.
I don’t think I’d be writing this post or any of my past blog posts if I hadn’t pursued writing in college and worked as a writing intern for a couple years. However, I don’t think I would have ended up in my current position as a registrar support specialist—the job that actually pays my bills—if I hadn’t gotten 8+ years of administrative experience and a couple years of management experience alongside my degree.
Just because you’re getting a Creative Writing degree doesn’t mean you’ll end up as a best-selling author or poet. If you want to make yourself marketable for a wide array of jobs, consider gaining specialized experience alongside your writing education.
So, what are some creative job ideas for creative writing majors? Here are just a few ideas:
Marketing communications or copywriting
Web content writer or blogger
Public relations
Technical writer
Communications director
Social media specialist
Grant writer
Are you looking to get a college degree? Accelerated Pathways offers custom degree plans that allow students to achieve their degree and save money. Reach out to our student counselors to get more specialized degree guidance and information about our programs.
A note on freelancing
Thanks to the internet, the demand for freelance writers has grown. Some companies seek help for projects that require excellent writing and communication skills but don’t feel the need to hire someone full-time, so they turn to agencies and job boards that can get the word out. This is a great opportunity for the entrepreneurial-minded writer.
A few such agencies are The Creative Group , Creative Circle , and 24 Seven . You simply give them your resume and portfolio, indicate what kind of work you’re looking for, and they dish out your resume to jobs that may be a good fit. You can also browse job opportunities on their websites on your own and send your resume.
Check job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn. You can often find someone looking for a writer, editor, or expert communicator for various reasons. Just make sure you do a bit of research into the job and/or the company so you know what you’re getting yourself into.
Learn Non-Writing Skills
I love writing short stories and poems. Some of my best college memories are writing stories for my peers to review or talking to my writing professor about how to be a better writer over burgers. The skills I learned by taking writing courses are skills that I cherish even years after graduation.
However, looking back, I wish I had learned more skills than just creative writing. There’s more to jobs and careers than just simply writing. A lot of other skills and knowledge are necessary as well.
For example, I wish I had learned more about marketing and branding. This may have opened up opportunities for me in marketing and communications. For instance, when I interned for a branding agency, I had no idea what Search Engine Optimization (SEO) was or what the difference was between user experience and user interface. Were these pertinent to my role there? Not really, but my co-workers talked about them a lot, and I often felt lost.
Writing is great but learn other things too.
Don’t take odd jobs for granted either. Before I landed my job at Pearson, I worked as a front desk agent at a hotel, as a receiving assistant manager in a grocery store, and had a temporary job for a standardized testing service. While none of these by any means are dream jobs, I learned valuable skills in customer service, administration, management, and communication.
These odd jobs can be good ways to learn other skills that can give you a leg up in the race for employment, and while learning new skills or improving them, these various jobs can also help give you a boost in creativity based on your everyday interactions or duties.
Use Your Minor to Specialize
Minors are another great way to get some perspective in other fields.
On average, a minor takes up approximately 15-18 credits and usually helps fill up elective space in your degree. Don’t fill yours with writing classes. Some minors I would recommend to someone majoring in creative writing are education, business (specifically marketing, if available), journalism, and communications. All of these fields require creative writing in some way, and they are fields you’re most likely to pursue after college.
But ultimately, minor in anything you’re interested in. This will help you learn more, and give you more to write about! Besides, following your interests is a great way to land a job you love .
Pursue Internships
You’ll hear a lot of negative things about internships, like how they don’t pay well (or at all) or don’t teach you enough. To be honest, these things are true. But don’t be so quick to throw out the opportunity.
There are many well-meaning companies offering college students the opportunity to learn practical, on-the-job skills, and sometimes an internship can be a stepping stone to something better.
Making the decision to pursue an internship can be tough, and it comes with risks. You may not make any money, you might be new to the field, and you seriously have no idea what you’re doing. So, here are things you can do when pursuing an internship :
Make a budget. Can you afford to do something for free with the hope of something better in the future? After all, you do need to eat and to pay for the gas to get to your internship.
Make a list of local companies that may offer internships in your desired field. This may include companies that require you to commute, which will affect the aforementioned budget.
Contact your advisor and/or professors. They may have some very helpful information and connections. Depending on your school, degree, or major, you may even be required to complete an internship for graduation.
Treat it just like searching for any other job. You’ll be competing with hundreds—maybe thousands—of other eager students like yourself. You can’t win them all, but you should be persistent, professional, and confident.
When you interview for an internship, listen and ask good questions. Make sure you understand what the interviewer is asking of you, and if you don’t know something, ask because you’re there to learn.
Pursue What You Value
When deciding on a major, a minor, side jobs, or any of the myriad of decisions you’ll make in college, it’s important to know what you want to do in the future and set goals. These goals will help orient you and make the decision-making process a lot easier.
But even more important than setting goals is defining your values . The things you value are the motivators for reaching your goals. These values answer the question of “why?” Why do you want to achieve this or that goal? Why is this goal important to you?
For example, as a writer, I want to get a short story published, a common goal that many writers share. The value (or the motivator to reach this goal) is that I want to tell people about the things I care about, struggle with, and think about, to share my story and my perspective. That value is true even as I write this blog post. If and when I achieve this goal, I will make a new goal, but my values will remain more or less consistent for months and years to come, possibly for the rest of my life.
It’s your values that will carry you through all of the writing, job searching, skill acquiring, and interning you can muster, not your goals. So, what do you value? How do those values motivate you to reach your goals or your dream job as it were?
As long as you consistently pursue what you value, no matter what other choices you make about your major, you’re guaranteed to walk toward a meaningful future career.
Learn more about how Accelerated Pathways can help you get an affordable English degree that also gives you the flexibility you need to build other important career skills at the same time.
- Levi Shultz
Levi is a Registrar Support Specialist here at Pearson by day, short-story author by night. When he’s not working (or writing), you can find him playing board games with friends, playing guitar, watching tv with his wife, or eating a delicious home-cooked meal.
Creative Writing Major
Description: A program that focuses on the process and techniques of original composition in various literary forms such as the short story, poetry, the novel, and others. Includes instruction in technical and editorial skills, criticism, and the marketing of finished manuscripts. Is Creative Writing the right major for you? Take the MyMajors Quiz and find out if it fits one of your top recommended majors!
What Kinds of Students Major in Creative Writing?
Students must enjoy writing and they must be creative. Additionally, students need to want to learn the English language in its written form. Students that are interested in writing and expressing their thoughts enjoy this major.
Is Creative Writing the right major for you? Take the MyMajors Quiz and find out if it is one of your top recommended majors!
What Courses Do Creative Writing Majors Take?
The required and elective courses you would take for Creative Writing majors vary considerably among institutions. Courses are listed here that are illustrative of the breadth of topics you are likely to experience were you to major in this field.
- Contemporary Poetry
- Creative Non-Fiction
- Playwriting
- Poetry Workshop
- Scriptwriting
- The Craft of Writing
What other majors are related to Creative Writing?
- Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing
- Rhetoric and Composition
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies

English (Creative Writing), BA
- ASU 101 or college-specific equivalent First-Year Seminar required of all first-year students
- ASU Language Placement : Only true beginners are eligible for 101-level courses. All other students are required to take a placement exam, regardless of prior credit earned.
- Select your career interest area and play [email protected] .
- Join a student club or professional organization
- Develop your skills
- Explore an internship
- Research employment opportunities
- Apply for full-time career opportunities
- First-Year Composition: All students are placed in ENG 101 unless submission of SAT, ACT, Accuplacer, IELTS, or TOEFL score, or college-level transfer credit or test credit equivalent to ASU's first-year composition course(s), determine otherwise. Students on Polytechnic, Downtown Phoenix and West Campuses are encouraged to complete the Directed Self-Placement survey to choose the first-year composition option they believe best suits their needs. Visit: https://cisa.asu.edu/DSP
- Mathematics Placement Assessment score determines placement in first mathematics course.
- Please keep in mind that the applicability of a specific transfer course toward an ASU degree program depends on the requirements of the department, division, college or school in which you are enrolled at ASU. Transfer agreements that guarantee the completion of university level requirements do not necessarily meet college and major requirements. Please consult with an advisor for more information.
- Total Hours: 120
- Upper Division Hours: 45 minimum
- Major GPA: 3.25 minimum
- Cumulative GPA: 2.00 minimum
- Total hrs at ASU: 30 minimum
- Hrs Resident Credit for Academic Recognition: 56 minimum
- Total Community College Hrs: 64 maximum
- Total College Residency Hrs: 12 minimum
- General University Requirements Legend
- General Studies Core Requirements:
- Literacy and Critical Inquiry (L)
- Mathematical Studies (MA)
- Computer/Statistics/Quantitative Applications (CS)
- Humanities, Arts and Design (HU)
- Social-Behavioral Sciences (SB)
- Natural Science - Quantitative (SQ)
- Natural Science - General (SG)
- General Studies Awareness Requirements:
- Cultural Diversity in the U.S. (C)
- Global Awareness (G)
- Historical Awareness (H)
- First-Year Composition

Online Students
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International Students
On Campus, need or have Visa
Campus Students
For All Campus Programs
Creative Writing Degree Online Bachelor of Arts
Write Your Own Story
- $320/credit (120 credits)
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Receive credit for prior learning
- 4 genre options for concentrations
- Advanced writing workshops
- No application fee or SAT/ACT scores required
Creative Writing Degree Program Overview
If you have a passion for storytelling and want to pursue a career using your writing talents, the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English program can help you get on the right path.
You'll develop your writing skills alongside students from across the country, who represent an incredible range of voices and experiences. Together, you'll participate in workshops, producing work and presenting it to your peers for commentary and discussion.
"Everything I learned during my degree journey added to my understanding of how to write and boosted my creativity," said Aubrie Arnold '20 , a graduate of the creative writing program. "I now feel like I can and will write novels – I’m working on that now – and I feel like I have the correct tools to make those novels successful.”
This degree is also an attractive option for transfer students, as it offers a number of free electives.
What You'll Learn
- Essential writing and critical-thinking skill sets
- Literary analysis to inform the application of storytelling elements
- Literary form, genre, structure and style
- Conventions and techniques used by varying genres
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Concentration Options
When you choose to study creative writing at SNHU, you have the option to stay with the general track – which gives you the flexibility to study a variety of genres – or you can opt to add one of our 4 concentrations to your degree : fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenwriting.
Creative Writing & English (BA) - Fiction Aspiring authors and storytellers who are looking for a way to gain inspiration and foster their imaginations will find the online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Fiction Writing to be the perfect balance of craft and critical analysis. This BA program emphasizes the craft of fiction writing and helps you develop an appreciation for all forms of fiction while honing your writing skills and philosophy of composition. You'll gain insights into publishing technologies and the industry as you enhance your fundamental knowledge of fiction writing's most crucial elements. This comprehensive program gives you a powerful understanding of plot, character development, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing. Studying fiction writing at Southern New Hampshire University doesn't just focus on developing your skill and technique. This program also gives you the opportunity to explore your creative boundaries, perfect your craft and dive deeper into your preferred genre. From fantasy to sci-fi and mystery to young adult, you can embrace the style of writing that you're drawn to and bring your original stories to life. The format of this BA program encourages collaboration and direct interaction with faculty and peers. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Nicholas Patterson '22 found peer interaction through writing workshops to be a favorite part of his program. "I have learned tons of new skills," he said, "but most importantly learned how to grow from constructive criticism." Career outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median 2021 salary for writers and authors was $69,510. 1 The BLS notes that a degree and publication is typically required for a full-time writing position. Writers who concentrate in fiction have career opportunities in a range of professions, including content writing, editing, copywriting, publishing, communications and more. Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Fiction Writing Workshop Intermediate Fiction Writing Workshop Advanced Fiction Writing Workshop Request Info Apply Now Creative Writing & English (BA) - Nonfiction Discover your niche with a nonfiction writing degree online at Southern New Hampshire University. Our online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Nonfiction delves into a wide variety of styles and subjects – everything from the personal essay to autobiography, memoir, travel writing and magazine features. Our creative writing online program can help you combine research and reflection with compelling storytelling. You'll also gain insights into publishing technologies and the industry, explore your creative boundaries and develop a unique voice. A solid foundation in the broader scope of creative writing is critical to the craft of nonfiction writing. In our comprehensive nonfiction writing program, you'll acquire a powerful understanding of research, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing. The online nonfiction writing degree program's format encourages collaboration and ongoing interaction with faculty and peers. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Career outlook: The median 2021 salary for writers and authors was $69,510, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1 Nonfiction writers can publish in magazines, newspapers, and literary journals, as well as find career opportunities in digital content writing, social media/communications, copywriting and editing. Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Nonfiction Writing Workshop Intermediate Nonfiction Writing Workshop Advanced Nonfiction Writing Workshop Request Info Apply Now Creative Writing & English (BA) - Poetry The online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry degree program is an opportunity for aspiring poets to find inspiration, engagement and creative collaboration with peers and faculty alike. Our specialized program enables you to hone your craft and unleash your imagination, helping you create imagery in verse. While a poetry degree is valuable in and of itself, it can also prepare you for many professional paths. You can explore careers in creative writing, advertising, journalism, publishing and advertising copywriting. Southern New Hampshire University also offers an online Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry. As a student in our poetry degree online program, you'll begin taking writing courses during your first year. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Career outlook: Career paths with a BA in creative writing include work as a creative writer, advertising copywriter, journalist, publisher or poet. Writers have also found careers in communications, digital content writing and editing. Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Poetry Writing Workshop Intermediate Poetry Writing Workshop Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop Request Info Apply Now Creative Writing & English (BA) - Screenwriting Whether you have dreams of writing blockbusters, developing documentaries or working with other writers on sitcoms, the online BA in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Screenwriting is an excellent way to hone your writing skills and put your passion to work. The classes in this specialized online screenwriting degree are based on a comprehensive study of creative writing, with a special focus on story structure, character development and the visual medium of film. You'll have the opportunity to explore all of the forms that screenwriting takes – feature-length and short films, television episodes and miniseries, commercial and internet-based video. While creative writing is at the core of this program, your screenwriting classes will place a special emphasis on visual storytelling. Designed by experienced and distinguished faculty, this creative writing program will give you a powerful understanding of how story, character, theme, action, visuals and dialogue intertwine to create a compelling moment in time. The format for the screenwriting degree online program encourages collaboration and direct interaction with faculty and peers. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Career outlook: Blockbuster movies, independent films and shorts, commercials, television dramas and sitcoms all rest their success on the backbone of their scripts. Screenwriters have lots of options when it comes to navigating their careers. You could pursue independent work and make your stories come to life – or you could develop scripts for specific projects that need a writer's touch. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors earned a median salary of $69,510 in 2021. 1 Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Introduction to Screenwriting Workshop Intermediate Screenwriting Workshop Advanced Screenwriting Workshop Request Info Apply Now if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('a7db942c2ff94e9783a92e9b328572c0')); Career Outlook
Use storytelling skills to write everything from children’s books and novels to biographies, essays and memoirs.
Apply your understanding of the written word to plan, review and revise content for publication in books, periodicals or online platforms.
Promote a product, service or organization with content for advertisements, marketing campaigns or websites.
Research topics, investigate story ideas and interview sources to write compelling nonfiction articles for newspapers, magazines, blogs and television news programs.
Screenwriter
Use the power of writing to create visual and auditory experiences for everything from major blockbuster films to television episodes and commercials.
Speechwriter
Write speeches for business leaders, politicians and others, using words to engage with and move an audience.
Technical writer
Prepare instruction manuals and how-to guides to clearly communicate complex ideas and technical information.
And with today's technology, it's easy for writers and authors to work from just about anywhere as long as they have internet access – meaning jobs aren't limited to major cities anymore.
In addition to the writing skills you'll develop in a creative writing degree program, you could also pick up a handful of other career skills 1 the workforce desperately needs, like:
- Adaptability: Adapt to updates in software platforms and programs, including various content management systems (CMS).
- Creativity: Develop interesting plots, characters or ideas for new stories.
- Critical-thinking skills: Understand concepts that must be conveyed through writing.
- Determination: Gain the focus to meet deadlines.
- Persuasion: Convince others to feel a certain way about a good or service – especially if you choose a career in advertising.
- Social perceptiveness: Develop an understanding of how readers respond to and connect with your work.
"This [program] not only allowed me to explore my creativity through writing," said Nicholas Patterson '22 . "It taught me the fundamentals of the industry and how to pursue a career in it."
Job Growth and Salary
Prospects for writer and author occupations appear promising in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry shift from print to online media should result in employment growth. 1
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for writers and authors is expected to grow 4% through 2031 — that's as fast as average for all occupations. 1
In 2021, the median annual wage for writers and authors was $ 69,510 . 1
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Creative Writing Degree
Why snhu for your creative writing degree flexible with no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. affordable as part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. in fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. prior coursework could also help you save time and money. snhu’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. you could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience , or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you. respected founded in 1932 , southern new hampshire university is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. snhu is accredited by the new england commission of higher education (neche), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality. recently, snhu has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education: u.s. news & world report named snhu the 2021 most innovative university in the north and one of the nation's "best regional universities" awarded the 21st century distance learning award for excellence in online technology by the united states distance learning association (usdla) a $1 million grant from google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth network at southern new hampshire university, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities. 93.6% of online students would recommend snhu (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). discover why snhu may be right for you . admission requirements expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. that’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials: completed free undergraduate application prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you test scores are not required as part of your application acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms . how to apply if you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going: complete a free undergraduate application submit any additional documents required work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through the application process if you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email [email protected] . if (typeof accordiongroup === "undefined") { window.accordiongroup = new accordion(); } accordiongroup.init(document.getelementbyid('06235c05b74e467bb258c6a2eee81259')); what snhu students are saying.
"I came [to SNHU] originally to have more freedoms and explore my creativity in a new environment. This program has given me that and more – this program has enabled me to improve myself in every facet of writing, from brainstorming a new idea to learning about genres and even how to market myself and my writing."
Courses & Curriculum
Southern New Hampshire University is home to one of the largest creative writing programs in the country.
Our unique online creative writing degree allows you to take writing courses from the start. The program features 4 writing workshops, including an advanced workshop in which you'll complete a polished piece in the genre of your choice.
The courses in our BA in Creative Writing can help develop your talent for creating stories, novels and characters and turning them into finished, professional pieces. Whether you choose the general track or a specific genre, you'll learn from published writers with valuable industry insights.
In addition to the courses and electives within the major, SNHU's online writing degree program includes 30 credits of free electives. This leaves you with room to choose courses or a minor in an area of study that you'd like to write about – like history or psychology – or the opportunity to complement your studies with career skills, such as graphic design or marketing. The amount of free electives also makes our creative writing degree an attractive option for transfer students.
Throughout your program, you'll learn from published writers, professional editors, publishers and established literary critics – subject-matter experts who can help guide you to improving your craft.
As a bonus at SNHU, you can choose to further your study of creative writing with one of our popular graduate programs:
- Online MA in English and Creative Writing: Building on the learnings from your bachelor's degree, you can choose from the same 4 concentrations – fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting or poetry – in this 36-credit online master's in writing program, which allows you to develop creative works that can contribute to your professional advancement.
- Online MFA in Creative Writing: Gain both the writing skills and the professional skills to succeed in areas like marketing, publishing, content writing, teaching and freelancing in this fully online, 48-credit online MFA in creative writing program. You can also focus on a wide range of fiction genres – such as contemporary, romance, young adult or speculative – plus you'll add one of two embedded certificates to your program: professional writing or the online teaching of writing.
- Low-Residency MFA in Fiction or Nonfiction: This highly focused 2-year program consists of 4 workshops and 4 in-person, weeklong residencies in New Hampshire. Within the 60-credit low-residency MFA program, you'll complete both a manuscript suitable for submission to editors and a critical essay that's ideal for literary journals.
Curriculum Requirements & Resources
General education.
All bachelor's students are required to take general education classes. Through these foundation, exploration and integration courses, students learn to think critically, creatively and collaboratively, giving you the edge employers are looking for.
Technology Resources
We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments .
Earn Math Credits
Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type PC (Windows OS) Apple (Mac OS) Operating System Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. Currently supported operating system from Apple. Memory (RAM) 8GB or higher 8GB or higher Hard Drive 100GB or higher 100GB or higher Antivirus Software Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. SNHU Purchase Programs Visit Dell Visit Apple Internet/ Bandwidth 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency Notes: Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility. Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10. Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government. Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers. if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); University Accreditation
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, $150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Associate of Arts Degree?
What is Public Relations (PR)?
What Can You Do with a Communications Major?

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by Kaelyn Barron | 0 comments

But creative writing majors also go on to work in brightly lit corporate offices, where they write exciting copy for the marketing department. They can work for newspapers, libraries, NGOs, government entities—any place where words matter (which is virtually everywhere!).
If you’re considering a degree in creative writing, you should take some time to get acquainted with some of the most common career paths for graduates. Some of them may surprise you!
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get with a Creative Writing Degree?
Below are 8 potential job titles for creative writing majors. Note that these are just some of the more common routes—you’re certainly not limited to just these 8 titles!
Okay, let’s start with the most obvious. Of course, if you major in creative writing, we’ll go ahead and assume that you actually enjoy writing. The good news is that you don’t have to rely on sheer luck or get picked up by one of the Big Five publishers in order to become an author.
If becoming a full-time writer is your dream, you actually have lots of available options, including ghostwriting for others or self-publishing your books .
Granted, being an author isn’t exactly the most stable career path. You can’t really know when or where your next big success will come from. But if you’re okay with that element of unpredictability, and have a few backups in place, you shouldn’t let anything stop you from pursuing your goals.
For a roadmap to success, check out our complete guide to becoming an author .
Median U.S. Annual Salary: $63,200
Another rewarding trade for creative writing majors is editing. While creative writers may be particularly drawn to helping authors refine their manuscripts, there are lots of things to edit besides books, and you’re not limited to just the publishing industries.
Pretty much everywhere language matters—including marketing, business, law, government, nonprofits, print and online publications, and technology—there’s a need for editors, including developmental editors, copy editors, and proofreaders .
Learn more about how you can become an editor .
Median U.S. Annual Salary: $61,370
3. Journalist
Journalists can write for print publications, like a traditional newspaper or magazine, or report on breaking news and events, like presidential press conferences before talking to a camera about their findings. Many journalists also work freelance and write articles online for a variety of platforms.
Their job is to tell a story and present the facts, so that audiences can form their own opinions and make their own decisions. To make audiences care, those creative writing skills are essential.
Learn more about how you can become a journalist .
Median U.S. Annual Salary: $46,270
4. Columnist
Columnists need to be savvy in particular subjects (such as politics, fashion, film, books, food, or travel).
Your column will run on a website or in a print publication on a recurring basis (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.), so you’ll need fresh ideas for content related to your area of expertise.
And while Carrie Bradshaw couldn’t realistically afford her apartment and her weekly brunches writing just one column per week in Sex and the City , you can write for several publications at once, or land a column in a prominent publication and make a steady income.
If you’re looking to write a column, start with a blog about your area of expertise so you can build a portfolio to share with publications you admire.
5. Copywriter
Selling takes creativity, and copywriting is the art of selling with words. All advertisements, including billboards, landing pages, and Amazon product descriptions are the work of copywriters.
Digital marketing is a booming business, and virtually every company is on the lookout for talented writers who can create unique, attention-grabbing campaigns that generate sales. If you’re a writer who’s passionate about sales and marketing, this is definitely a career path worth considering.
Median U.S. Annual Salary : $54,463
6. Librarian
While creative writing is not a direct funnel into this profession (you’ll need a master’s degree in library science), an undergraduate degree is a great lead-in to such a program.
As a creative writer, you probably won’t mind being surrounded by books all day, and you’ll be great at pointing readers toward books they’ll love.
Median U.S. Annual Salary : $59,500
7. Screenwriter
Do you have dreams of seeing your words play out on the big (or small) screen? Your favorite movies and TV shows exist thanks to screenwriters. Why not put your creative writing skills to work by writing a screenplay ?
For more opportunities, check out this list of screenwriting contests you can enter for a chance to win cash prizes, meetings with film executives, and more.
Median U.S. Annual Salary : $63,200
8. Communications Coordinator
Communications coordinators or directors can find work in a wide range of industries, including finance, public relations, marketing, NGOs, health care, travel, education, government, and so much more.
Typical duties might include writing press releases and memos, drafting corporate messages, or overseeing social media and marketing campaigns.
Median U.S. Annual Salary : $45,389

Is Creative Writing a Good Career?
Most writers don’t do what they do for the money; that’s hardly a secret. There’s a reason the stereotype of the “starving artist” exists, so I won’t lead you to believe that a creative writing degree will put you on a fast-track to wealth and financial independence.
However, if the list above has shown you anything, I hope it’s that a creative writing degree can lead you down a variety of pathways that offer stable, fulfilling careers. You can pursue your dream of being a novelist, but rest easy knowing that that’s not your only option.
That being said, while perhaps not the most lucrative, a career that draws on creative writing can be extremely rewarding as long as you’re genuinely passionate about creating.
How Much Do Creative Writing Majors Make?
According to PayScale , the average salary for someone with a B.A. in Creative Writing is $55,907 in the United States.
However, it’s important to note that this number can fluctuate greatly depending on the type of work the degree holder pursues. (As you can see from the list above, career options are diverse in nature, and many of those professions operate on a freelance basis, which makes it even harder to nail down a reliable average.
Jobs for Creative Writing Majors
Contrary to popular belief, a creative writing degree doesn’t limit you to writing novels for a living (though that’s certainly an exciting possibility!).
Majoring in English or creative writing can open the door to life-changing possibilities across a wide range of industries. To learn more about this field, check out the best colleges for creative writing .
Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- 15 Great Jobs for English Majors: How to Turn Your “Useless” Degree Into a Successful Career
- How to Become a Journalist: 6 Tips for Aspiring Reporters
- What Is Creative Writing? Types, Techniques, and Tips
- Authors: Is an MFA Right for You?
As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.
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2023 Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools
For its 2023 ranking, College Factual looked at 101 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for creative writing students pursuing a bachelor's degree. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 3,331 bachelor's degrees in creative writing during the 2020-2021 academic year.
Jump to one of the following sections: * Our Methodology
- Best Bachelor’s Degree Schools List
Choosing a Great Creative Writing School for Your Bachelor's Degree

Quality Overall Is Important
A school that excels in educating for a particular major and degree level must be a great school overall as well. To make it into this list a school must rank well in our overall Best Colleges ranking. This ranking considered factors such as graduation rates, overall graduate earnings and other educational resources to identify great colleges and universities.
Other Factors We Consider
In addition to the above, you should consider some of the following factors:
- Major Focus - How much a school focuses on creative writing students vs. other majors.
- Major Demand - How many other creative writing students want to attend this school to pursue a bachelor's degree.
- Educational Resources - The amount of money and other resources allocated to students while they are pursuing their degree. These resources include such things as number of students per instructor and education expenditures per student.
- Accreditation - Whether a school is regionally accredited and/or accredited by a recognized creative writing related body.
Our full ranking methodology documents in more detail how we consider these factors to identify the best schools for creative writing students working on their bachelor's degree.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Since the program you select can have a significant impact on your future, we've developed a number of rankings , including this Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools list, to help you choose the best school for you.
In addition to College Factual's rankings, you may want to take a look at College Combat , our unique tool that lets you pit your favorite schools head-to-head and compare how they rate on factors that most interest you. When you have some time, check it out - you may want to bookmark the link so you don't forget it.
Featured Creative Writing Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
BA in Creative Writing & English
Develop your creativity and gain practical skills with a creative writing degree program –featuring 100% online classes – through a bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.

Best Schools for Bachelor’s Students to Study Creative Writing in the United States
Learn about the top ranked colleges and universities for creative writing students seeking a a bachelor's degree. Only those schools that rank in the top 15% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.
15 Top Schools for a Bachelor's in Creative Writing

It's difficult to beat Johns Hopkins University if you want to pursue a bachelor's degree in creative writing. Johns Hopkins is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Baltimore. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Johns Hopkins University

Any student pursuing a degree in a bachelor's degree in creative writing needs to look into Carnegie Mellon University. Located in the large city of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Carnegie Mellon University

Every student who is interested in a bachelor's degree in creative writing has to check out University of Chicago. Located in the city of Chicago, UChicago is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Chicago

Any student who is interested in a bachelor's degree in creative writing has to look into University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus. Located in the large city of Pittsburgh, Pitt is a public university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus

Located in the midsize city of Providence, Brown is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Brown University

Located in the large city of New York, Columbia is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Columbia University in the City of New York

Miami University - Oxford is a fairly large public university located in the fringe town of Oxford. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Miami University - Oxford

USC is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Los Angeles. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Southern California

Located in the city of Seattle, UW Seattle is a public university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Washington - Seattle Campus

Located in the large suburb of Wellesley, Wellesley is a private not-for-profit college with a small student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Wellesley College

Located in the city of Atlanta, Emory is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Emory University

Purdue is a very large public university located in the city of West Lafayette. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Purdue University - Main Campus

Located in the large suburb of Saint Louis, WUSTL is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Washington University in St Louis

GMU is a very large public university located in the large suburb of Fairfax. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from George Mason University

U-M is a fairly large public university located in the midsize city of Ann Arbor. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Additional Noteworthy Schools
Here are some additional great schools for Creative Writing students that almost earned our Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools award.
Creative Writing by Region
View the Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools for a specific region near you.
Other Rankings
Best associate degrees in creative writing, best doctorate degrees in creative writing, best master's degrees in creative writing, best overall in creative writing.
View All Rankings >
Creative Writing Related Rankings by Major
Creative Writing is one of 4 different types of Writing Studies programs to choose from.
Most Popular Related Majors
Notes and references.
- The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
- The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
- Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
- Credit for the banner image above goes to KOKUYO . More about our data sources and methodologies .
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Creative Writing Major
Jamie-Lee Josselyn celebrates Yiwei Chai at the Kelly Writers House 2022 Senior Capstone Celebration .
The Creative Writing Concentration for English majors (colloquially referred to as the “Creative Writing Major”) provides students with a solid grounding in literature as well as advanced study in creative writing. To fulfill this major, students may take courses in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, journalism, playwriting, screenwriting, and writing for children and young adults. They may also take innovative workshops in cross-genre, experimental, and hybrid writing, including writing that engages community organizing, multimedia and visual arts, and performance, as well as for-credit apprenticeships and courses in the independent study of a genre or topic.
Creative Writing Concentrators take at least three creative writing workshops as part of their major curriculum. As a major, you’ll discuss what makes good writing not only with other English majors, but also with students from Engineering, Nursing, and Wharton, each bringing a different perspective on the craft and study of literature, creating out of many voices a collaborative, integrated writing community that is part of Penn’s Center for Programs in Contemporary Writing, home to Penn’s writing programs, platforms, and projects. The cluster of programs at CPCW, which includes the Kelly Writers House , PennSound , ModPo , Jacket2 , and the [email protected] program of paid internships in arts and media, provides opportunities to our majors in and out of the classroom, including readings, webcasts, podcasts, lectures, performances, and archives — all of which promote the living textures of contemporary writing.
For a complete list of the creative writing workshops we offer, please click here to read descriptions of courses that attract around 800 students each year from across the university.
Click here to read about our award-winning faculty in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, journalism, playwriting, screenwriting, and writing for children and young adults.
All Creative Writing Majors are eligible to apply for Honors in English, writing either a critical thesis or a creative thesis .
Declaring your major
For complete details on English major requirements and to declare your major, please consult the comprehensive overview of the undergraduate major available at the Department of English , which includes information on next steps.
Current Majors with a Creative Writing Concentration
Miguel aldaco lps, brandon anaya 24a , eric axilrod 23a, erin brennan 23a, mikayla cassidy 24a, armando chardiet 25a, celine cheung 23a, rachel collison 24a, francesca davis 23a, makena deveraux 23a, margaret dunn 23a, mahailya hinsey 23a, eva ingber 23a, angela x ji 23a, jacob lewin 23a, esther lim 24a, sophia anna lotman 24a, kira lucas 23a, henry mcdevitt 23a, erica messics 24a, sophie nadel 23a, haley nguyen 23a, john nycz 24a, fatma omar 23a, delaney parks 24a, gabriella raffetto 24a, lucas schrier 24a, lee schwartz 23a, sofia sears 23a, sarah shin 24a, madeline song 23a, julian valgora 24a, nikki velletri 23a, abigail walker 23a, yueling xu 23a, ashna yakoob 23a.
Best Creative Writing Programs
Updated August 12, 2022

thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Best creative writing programs in the world.
A creative writing program gives students expert guidance in sharpening their artistic talents. Bachelor's programs teach the basics, while master of fine arts (MFA) and master of arts (MA) in creative writing programs train students advanced skills in story structure, research, and literary devices. This knowledge helps learners excel in writing-related positions.
Writers can work in any industry that relies on written communication. Graduates with creative writing degrees may work in roles like grant writer, author, journalist, scriptwriter, and public relations specialist. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 61% of writers and authors are self-employed.
This guide ranks the best MFA in creative writing programs in the country. This page also covers important information for prospective students, such as common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
Featured Online Schools
The best creative writing programs.
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Gainesville, FL
One of the nation's oldest creative writing programs, UF's master of fine arts in creative writing teaches students about literature and the writing craft. The full-time, international faculty includes novelists, poets, and translators.
The 54-credit, three-year program's requirements include four workshops, three seminars, and a thesis study. Courses focus on topics such as Analyzing Propaganda, Expository and Argumentative Writing, and Writing in the Health Professions.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit official undergraduate/graduate transcripts, references, and a writing sample.
Orlando, FL
UCF's bachelor of arts in creative writing trains students to become expert communicators, instilling a deep appreciation of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction works. Program graduates qualify for careers in teaching, writing, publishing, or journalism.
Offered both on-campus and online, the program includes general education, cultural foundations, literature courses, and writing classes. Electives include fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing workshops.
First-time high school graduates must submit official transcripts with a minimum 3.0 GPA and SAT and/or ACT scores. Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts with a 2.0 minimum GPA.
Tallahassee, FL
FSU's creative writing program trains students for academia and publishing careers. Award-winning faculty teach the program as part of FSU's bachelor of arts in English degree.
Studies include an advanced writing workshop (which provides training in article, fiction, poetry, and essay writing), pre-1900 British Literature, and literature electives. Students must also demonstrate foreign language proficiency and complete a minor or secondary major in another department.
High school graduates/first-year students may apply by submitting official transcripts and ACT/SAT scores. Essays and are highly recommended but not required. Transfer students must submit transcripts with a minimum 2.0 calculated GPA.
UT's master of fine arts in writing accepts only 12 students and offers full funding to every writer. Taught through the university's Michener Center for Writers, the three-year fellowship program includes workshops and courses, flexible electives, and a thesis in the student's primary field of concentration. Michener students focus on workshops in their primary writing fields, along with secondary studies and electives.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and submit transcripts, three recommendation letters, a purpose statement, and writing samples. Michener does not require GRE scores.
BYU's master of fine arts in creative writing prepares graduates for teaching and training. Taught by award-winning faculty, the two-year program includes a two-day writing retreat and travel funding to writers' conferences. Graduates qualify for publishing and presentation careers. The 32-credit degree requirements include writing workshops, literature seminars, an optional internship, and a thesis.
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in English (or equivalent), have studied an upper-level literary criticism course, and submit academic and creative writing samples, a statement of intent, and recommendation letters.
Seattle, WA
UW's master of fine arts in creative writing offers emphases in poetry or prose. The program admits 10 to 12 students each year, allowing close associations to develop between peers and faculty. Funding includes a tuition waiver, health insurance, and monthly stipend.
In addition to workshops and critical theory courses, the 55-credit two-year program requires a creative manuscript and critical essay thesis and an oral presentation.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Submission requirements include college/university transcripts, a statement of purpose, critical and creative writing samples, and three recommendation letters.
ASU's master of fine arts in creative writing emphasizes community outreach and one-on-one mentoring, allowing poets and fiction writers to collaborate with award-winning faculty. The school also offers access to professional and developmental opportunities in the publishing field.
The 48-credit program requirements include classes divided between writing and literature courses, a written exam, an applied project.
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution, preferably with a concentration in English or creative writing (sometimes waived for writing excellence). Submission requirements include official transcripts (minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA), a purpose statement, resume, recommendation letters, and a creative manuscript.
USF's master of fine arts in creative writing offers small classes, dedicated faculty, and a supportive atmosphere. The program, one of only a few to offer creative writing pedagogy training, accepts approximately nine students annually. Students receive tuition waivers, teaching assistantships, and health insurance.
The 45-credit program consists of writing workshops, craft seminars, pedagogy classes, and literature courses, with a thesis requirement.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in English or a related field with a 3.2 minimum GPA. Submission requirements include recommendation letters (former English instructors preferred), a writing sample, and a personal statement.
Champaign, IL
U of I's bachelor of arts in English with a creative writing major offers a flexible program that develops students' analytical, editorial, and creative skills. One of the oldest programs of its kind in the country, the degree prepares participants for various careers or graduate study paths.
The curriculum combines small writing workshops in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, with literature courses. Students also publish an annual journal of work alongside studies such as history and culture and Shakespeare.
First-year applicants must hold a high school diploma and submit transcripts and an essay. Transfer applicants must submit transcripts from previously attended colleges or universities (minimum 2.7 GPA ). SAT and ACT scores are considered if submitted.
Taught through FIU's College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, the master of fine arts in creative writing provides the practicing writer with skills to meet professional standards and expectations. The program offers small seminars, in-depth mentoring and an award-winning, dedicated faculty.
Courses include workshops, and poetry, writing, and literature classes. Requirements include completion of a publishable, book-length creative thesis.
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution (3.0 minimum GPA), with nine semester hours of creative writing. Submission requirements include a transcript, letter of intent, writing sample, and recommendation letters.
Charlottesville, VA
UVA's master of fine arts in creative writing provides students with a diverse and creative writing faculty. The two-year graduate program accepts 10 funded students a year. Many graduates land book contracts, while others qualify for literary jobs.
The 48-credit degree requirements includes a fine arts workshop, literature, and form and theory courses. Students must also complete and defend a thesis and take a one-hour oral exam.
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Submission requirements consist of recommendation letters, writing samples, and a statement of purpose.
Kirksville, MO
Truman's bachelor of fine arts with a creative writing major prepares students through a rigorous program, training them to become skilled speakers, writers, and communicators.
The 120-credit undergraduate program divides curriculum between major requirements (including a capstone), writing workshops, literature and theory classes, and literary genre courses. The application requirement can consist of a career seminar, research project, or internship.
First-time students must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores with preference given to those with 16 units in Truman-recommended subjects. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from previous colleges attended, and an admission essay.
Madison, WI
UW's master of fine arts in creative writing program emphasizes fiction and poetry. The six students admitted each year receive funding, and the opportunity to study various writing genres. MFAs also interact with a vibrant writing community, including the school's Wisconsin Institute for Creative Writing Fellows.
The 42-credit program consists of writing workshops and pedagogy, elective courses, and a thesis requirement.
Fiction writers and poets are admitted in alternating years. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree and submit a transcript, three references, a resume, writing sample, and statement of intent.
Iowa State's three-year master of fine arts in creative writing and environment encourages writers to hone their writing skills through creative writing workshops, literature coursework, and one-on-one work with a mentor.
The 54-credit program also includes interdisciplinary courses and field experience outside of the English department, allowing students to pursue fields relevant to writing projects. Students also complete a thesis.
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree (3.0 minimum GPA). Submission requirements consist of recommendation letters, a CV or resume, statement of purpose and writing samples.
Ann Arbor, MI
Students involved with U-M's bachelor of arts in English with a creative writing sub-concentration program learn from a faculty comprising award-winning novelists, short-story writers, and poets.
English majors must apply to the creative writing sub-concentration and fulfill Creative Writing and Introduction to Literary Studies prerequisites. Studies focus on American literature, poetry, and fiction, and a required senior creative writing tutorial.
High-school graduates and first-year students must submit school records, a teacher evaluation, and SAT or ACT scores. Transfer applicants must submit high school records, and official transcripts from post-secondary institutions; SAT or ACT scores may be required.
Raleigh, NC
NC State's master of fine arts in creative writing allows students to work with award-winning poets and writers to help hone their craft. The two-year, fully funded program offers participants the opportunity to apprentice under master writers, leading them to become master writers themselves.
The 36-credit program features workshops, and interdisciplinary coursework in literature and advisor-approved free electives, with a final thesis required.
Applicants must submit transcripts from all institutions, recommendation letters, personal statements, three references, and creative and critical writing samples.
Fayetteville, AR
Established in 1966, U of A's master of fine arts in creative writing degree offers a preeminent training ground for writers, with degree tracks in poetry, fiction, and literary translation. The school admits up to five students in each genre.
The 60-credit curriculum combines workshops and coursework in craft and literary studies, allowing students to develop their own voices while understanding great writers and their works.
Applicants must submit a genre-specific creative writing sample, a critical writing sample, statement of purpose, college transcripts, recommendation letters, GRE scores, and a teaching statement.
Milledgeville, GA
The master of fine arts in creative writing at Georgia College provides a fully funded, three-year educational opportunity that focuses on thesis work in the final two years. The award-winning faculty works closely with students, both as teachers and professional mentors.
The 42-credit program offers fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry workshops, requiring students to take cross-genre workshops. Offering an annual Visiting Writers series, the degree also requires journal design and editing courses and a thesis.
Applicants must submit transcripts from previous institutions attended, three recommendation letters, genre writing samples, a statement of purpose, and a resume.
Notre Dame, IN
The ND master of fine arts in creative writing program combines a work focus with engaged pedagogy. The two-year degree emphasizes learning through community, craft, reflection, and teaching.
Requirements for the 36-credit degree consist of workshops, literature studies, a thesis (full-length manuscript), and at least one outside elective. Practicum classes include literary publishing and teaching creative writing.
Applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Submission requirements consist of GRE test scores, a writing sample, statement of intent, recommendation letters, and transcripts.
College Park, MD
The fully funded, UMD master of fine arts in creative writing combines creative and scholarly work with undergraduate teaching and professional opportunities. The program develops and mentors the next generation of poets and fiction writers.
The core curriculum focuses on teaching writing and thesis completion, combined with literary, linguistic, and culture courses, one-on-one mentoring, and personal attention from an award-winning faculty.
Submission requirements consist of undergraduate and graduate transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of goals, and a creative writing sample.

Online Creative Writing Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Degree?
The best MFA in creative writing programs often include specializations, such as nonfiction, television, or poetry, which allow students to tailor the degree to their interests and career goals. Nonfiction students, for instance, explore memoir and biography writing, while poetry degree-seekers learn about diction and meter.
Creative writing degrees often require students to complete writing projects and receive feedback from professors and peers. These critiques help candidates develop and improve their writing styles.
Choosing a Program
Prospective students should consider factors like cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements when researching the best MFA in creative writing programs. Below, we explore these considerations for prospective students.
- Program Cost: Students should make sure school costs, like tuition and fees, fit into their budgets. Choosing a program that's within your budget can lead to fewer student loans and a more comfortable learning experience. Typically, in-state students at public schools pay the lowest tuition rates, though some schools offer in-state tuition for all online students regardless of residency.
- Transfer Policies: Degree-seekers with related experience should consider MFA programs that accept transfer credits. Schools may offer transfer credits for prior coursework or professional experience, which can reduce the length and cost of a degree.
- School Size and Type: A school's size and type affects the learning experience. For instance, small schools typically offer more personalized attention from faculty but fewer program options than larger schools.
- Program Length: The length of a program varies with credit requirements, enrollment status, and learning format. Students should choose a program with a timeline that's aligned with their needs and goals.
- On-Campus Requirements: Some online programs have on-campus requirements, like orientations or seminars, or even whole classes. Students should ensure they can meet all on-campus requirements before committing to a program.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: MFA in creative writing programs often have thesis, work, or capstone requirements that need significant time investments. Prospective learners should choose a program with requirements that align with their goals and interests.
What Else Can I Expect From a Creative Writing Program?
Creative writing curricula vary by program and often include specializations. Required classes can also vary by degree type, with MFA in creative writing programs focusing heavily on practical writing courses and MA programs focusing more on literature reviews and critiques. These degrees also lead to different careers; for example, an MA prepares students for teaching careers, while an MFA prepares students to work as authors.
The following sections outline common courses found in these programs and factors that can affect the length of a creative writing degree.
Online Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Curriculum
In this course, learners study poetic elements and tools, like rhyme, rhythm, and metaphor. Students learn how to analyze poems for meaning and complete original works that help them develop their writing styles. Students may also learn about the characteristics of different poetry types, such as sonnets and haikus.
Book Publishing
his course covers various aspects of the publishing industry, including traditional publishing and self-publishing. Students explore legal, technical, and economic publishing factors and learn to build marketing plans and edit book drafts. Students may also learn how to write query letters and book proposals for publishers.
Contemporary World Literature
Students in this class learn about literary movements in modern history, such as postmodernism and magic realism. They also analyze pieces for meaning while considering how factors like gender can impact interpretation. This course may also address how writing genres have developed over time.
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Creative Writing Program?
Full-time students often complete MFA programs within two years, but many factors can alter the length of a degree. For example, some schools may offer courses in eight- or 10-week terms rather than traditional 16-week terms. This format often allows students to expedite graduation.
Additionally, creative writing degrees with more credit requirements typically take longer to complete. However, some programs permit students to take course loads that exceed full-time, which can expedite graduation times.
Fully online programs may use synchronous or asynchronous formats for coursework. Synchronous courses require students to log on at set meeting times, while asynchronous courses let students complete coursework at their convenience within set deadlines. Often, the flexibility of asynchronous programs allows students to graduate faster than they would in synchronous programs.
Creative Writing Careers
MFA programs prepare students to write and edit for various industries and media. For instance, graduates may report news as newspaper journalists or create stories as science fiction authors. They may also write press releases, speeches, or how-to manuals for careers in public relations, politics, or computer science . Any organization that uses written communication can benefit from hiring employees with creative writing degrees.
Professional options for graduates also go beyond writing careers. For instance, master's program graduates may work as higher education teachers. However, many schools require professors to hold a doctoral degree. MFA programs provide a solid foundation for doctoral programs.
Writers may write nonfiction or fiction pieces for different purposes and industries. For instance, they may write advertisements for companies, publish recipes on a blog, or write fictional stories for books and movies. Writers often need to conduct research for topic accuracy and must be able to shape written pieces to fit client needs. Professional writers may work for one company or they may freelance for several organizations. Ideal traits for writers include creativity and flexibility. Writers should also be detail-oriented and excel at time management.
Median Annual Salary
Projected Growth Rate
College Professors
College professors teach classes for postsecondary students. Their responsibilities include building syllabi, delivering lectures, and administering and grading coursework. Professors may also suggest textbooks or curriculum changes in their departments to increase program quality. Other responsibilities may include conducting and publishing research, helping students choose courses, and attending field conferences. They must excel in written and oral communication and be comfortable working with technology.
Editors review documents to ensure factual accuracy, grammar, clarity, and structure. Editors may also make publication and layout choices for companies or offer authors brainstorming guidance. They may work full time in magazine, newspaper, book, or blog publishing or they may freelance with several companies. Typically, organizations require editors to hold a related degree for full-time employment. Editors need strong written communication, organizational, and time management skills.
Journalists
Journalists write news pieces for newspapers, blogs, and television reports. They often conduct their own research, interview witnesses or experts, brainstorm story ideas, and pitch stories to their managers for approval. Journalists often follow stories for weeks or months to provide updates, and they must ensure pieces adhere to their publisher's standards. They typically need a related degree, like creative writing or journalism, and strong research, writing, and editing skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with a master's in creative writing.
Graduates with a creative writing degree can pursue nonfiction and fiction writing careers in various industries. They can also teach writing concepts to higher education students or pursue careers in journalism or business.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's Degree in Creative Writing?
Program duration varies based on transfer policies, course structure, and credit requirements. In general, though, candidates can earn an MFA in creative writing with about two years of full-time study.
Is a Master's Degree in Creative Writing Worth It?
Many writing and editing careers only call for a bachelor's. However, a master's verifies advanced knowledge and skills and provides opportunities for networking, which can increase career opportunities. Additionally, college writing professors need at least a master's degree .
What's the Difference Between a Master of Fine Arts and Master of Arts?
An MFA focuses more on practical applications than an MA. Specifically, creative writing MFA programs include more writing-intensive courses, while MA programs focus more on literature reviews and assessments of other writers' work.
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Major in Creative Writing

Creative Writing Major at a Glance
Students who graduate with the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing will be skilled writers in a major literary genre and have a theoretically informed understanding of the aesthetic, historical, social, and political context of a range of contemporary writing. Students in the major will focus their studies on a primary genre: fiction, poetry, or nonfiction.
The organization of the major incorporates the writing workshop model into a broader education that furthers students’ knowledge of historical and contemporary literary practice, sharpens their critical attention, and fosters their creative enthusiasm.
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- Creative Writing
- Poetry & Poetics
Summary of Major Requirements
- 1 Fundamentals in Creative Writing Seminar
- 2 Technical Seminars (in primary genre)
- 3 Advanced Workshops (at least 2 in primary genre)
- 1 literary genre course (in primary genre)
- 1 literary theory course
- 1 pre-20th-century literature course
- 1 general literature course
- 2 Research Background Electives
- 1 Thesis/Major Projects Workshop (Winter Quarter of fourth year)
- BA Thesis (due in Spring Quarter; requires work with Writing and Research Advisor over fourth year)
= 13 Courses and a Thesis
Courses in the Major
Creative Writing courses give priority to students who have declared the major with Julie Iromuanya, the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS). In instances where a class has many more applications than it has spots, priority is determined first by degree program and then by class year.
Fundamentals in Creative Writing Seminar
The Fundamentals in Creative Writing course is an introductory multi-genre seminar to be taken by all students in the major and minor. Each section of the course focuses on a theme that is relevant to all forms of literary practice and introduces students to a group of core texts from the genres of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
Technical Seminars (in Poetry, Fiction, or Nonfiction)
Technical Seminars are designed to give students a deep grounding in core technical elements of their primary genre. Coursework may involve creative exercises, but papers will focus on analysis of assigned readings.
Advanced Workshops
Critique is the core value and activity of the workshop environment. Students in Advanced Workshops will practice critique under the guidance of the workshop instructor. Advanced Workshops typically focus on original student work. All students are strongly discouraged from taking an Advanced Workshop as their first course from the Program.
Literary Genre Courses
This requirement can be met using a cross-listed English course or an eligible literature course offered by another department. For a list of eligible courses, please visit this page .
Literature Courses
A substantial proportion of one of these courses must involve the study of literature written before the twentieth century, and one must fulfill a theory requirement. For a list of eligible courses, please visit this page .
Research Background Electives
Students take two courses outside of the Creative Writing program, selected in consultation with the DUS, to support the student’s individual interests and thesis project.
BA Thesis & Workshop
Students work on their BA project over four quarters. In Winter Quarter of their fourth year, students enroll in one of the Thesis/Major Projects Workshops in their genre.
- Types of Courses
Declaring the Major
Students in the major receive priority in Advanced Workshops, Technical Seminars, and Fundamentals Seminars.
There are two steps to declaring a major in Creative Writing:
- Meet with the DUS, Julie Iromuanya , to start a major worksheet.
- Confirm program approval with your College Advisor, so the major can be added to your my.uchicago account.
Students who have completed both steps are considered officially declared at the department level and therefore eligible for priority in major courses.
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Department of English
Creative writing.
The creative writing major at Miami is a thriving program, one of the largest in the United States, with an increasingly global curriculum and outlook. With eight full-time creative writing faculty, more than 180 undergraduate majors and minors (as well as 20-25 graduate students), there’s a creative writing buzz at Miami.
There are many ways to get involved in our large and lively community, from student-run publications to an extensive reading series and exciting creative writing workshops taught by award-winning faculty.
Our flexible curriculum makes it easy to double major, and employers and graduate schools value the skills our students gain in a variety of professions. English majors enjoy some of the highest acceptance rates into law, medical and business schools. See the Creative Writing Curriculum page for a complete list of required and elective courses for the major.
Brian Roley, Director of Creative Writing [email protected]
Program Highlights
- Fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction and screenwriting workshops led by award-winning, actively publishing faculty writers.
- Flexible curriculum makes it easy to double major.
- Employers in a variety of professions value the skills that English Creative Writing majors develop, such as communication and interpersonal abilities, and creative and analytical thinking. Similarly, English majors have some of the highest acceptance rates into medical, law and business schools.
- Literature courses offer global perspectives, understanding of literary and historical traditions, and models for literary experiment.
- Literary Marketplace and Issues in the Profession courses focus on the business side of the literary life.
- New emphases in the program include translation, live performance, and writing for digital media.
- A senior capstone in creative writing gives students the opportunity to hone ambitious writing projects.
Opportunities for Majors
- Many ways to get involved with our lively community.
- Meet the many prominent and emergent authors and publishing professionals who come to campus each year to visit classes and give readings and craft talks.
- Study abroad in the popular Literary London program .
- Gain editorial experience staffing literary magazines such as Happy Captive Magazine and Inklings . Build your resume, make friends, publish.
- Opportunities to apprentice with creative writing faculty.
After Graduation
Miami creative writing majors have enjoyed considerable career success. A partial list of honors received by former students includes the Pulitzer Prize (one winner, one finalist), the National Medal of the Arts, the PEN/Robert Bingham Award for Fiction, the Asian American Literary Award, the Whiting Fellowship, and the national Poet Laureateship.
Many creative writing majors pursue MFAs or other advanced graduate and professional degrees at top programs including the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, Columbia, Cambridge and Brown.
Recent data show that employers value the skills English majors acquire. Our graduates pursue successful careers in publishing, editing, advertising, law, medicine, and the business world.
See Internship and Job Resources for Creative Writing (Career Services).


Undergraduate Program Creative Writing
- Transfer Guide
Degree Details
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Total Credits 180 Start Term Fall, Winter, Spring Delivery Method On campus Degree Planner (BFA)
Learn more about our academic program delivery methods
Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Overview
The degree provides you with a comprehensive and intensive curriculum of classes and workshops in craft and technique, exposure to the work of established writers, and opportunities for you to work closely with peers and published writers as they develop and hone their creative work and critical skills.
You get the opportunity to learn from distinguished faculty who bring their real-life experience and expertise as published authors into the classroom. Faculty are deeply engaged with creative writing students and act as mentors and advisors. Students in the program enjoy small class sizes, access to internship opportunities in a vibrant literary city, and a supportive community of peers. Students complete a final portfolio project that they can use alongside a resume. There are active creative writing student groups and writing events, including an annual reading series that brings writers of national and international reputation to campus. The B.F.A. requirements are designed to provide introductory-level experience writing in the three customary genres: fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. This is followed by intensive work in one of those genres.
The creative writing major is highly flexible with an elective structure that allows you to pursue your interests in literature, literary theory, film, screenwriting, and publishing. The department also offers an undergraduate degree or minor in English , a minor in film studies , and a certificate in comics studies .
Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree: Why PSU?
- Pathos Literary Magazine : A creative publication, staffed entirely by students, that exclusively publishes student work in three issues per year.
- Portland Review : A literary journal produced by graduate students in the English department that promotes the works of emerging writers and artists alongside the works of well-established authors. Portland Review has been publishing exceptional prose, poetry, and art since 1956 and has been noted in the Best American series and honored by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Arts Commission.
- Vanguard : A weekly print and digital newspaper distributed for free throughout the Portland State campus area. Entirely student-run, employing about 60 paid student reporters, multimedia contributors, photographers, graphic designers, and editors, its publishing body is the Portland State Media Board, consisting of four students, four faculty members, and one community member. The newspaper and its staff have earned several collegiate journalism awards, including the Oregon Newspaper Publishers Association General Excellence Award and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Circle Award.
- Ooligan Press : An award-winning nonprofit general trade press that publishes books honoring the cultural and natural diversity of the Pacific Northwest. Ooligan Press is a teaching press staffed by students pursuing master’s degrees in the Department of English.
- The Writing Center : A service to help students improve their writing and understand strategies to gain critical thinking skills they can adapt to all their writing projects. Writing center staff support students by acting as consultants rather than copyeditors, guiding students through their work by asking questions rather than editing specific text, with the goal of ensuring that the student-writer maintains agency over their writing.
Portland State offers many opportunities for students to engage in the broader creative community in the city through internships and jobs. Our students are able to work and carry out internships while they’re in school, allowing them to build relationships and add experience to their resumes.
What can I do with a Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing?

10 Best Degrees for Writers What to study if you want to write for a living
Ready to start your journey.
If you’re a great writer, you have a versatile skill that is useful in just about every occupation. If you’re a storyteller, you might want to major in a subject that teaches you how to craft a narrative that elicits emotion. Writers with other interests can combine their passions. For example, if you’re fascinated by engineering, you could major in technical writing. The following degrees allow you to learn marketable skills and are ideal for someone who wants to write for a living.
Recommended Online Degrees for Writers
Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.
1. Liberal Arts
A liberal arts degree is one of the most general and flexible options for writers. Some schools offer distinct majors under the liberal arts umbrella. Others offer specific degrees in liberal arts.
You can take courses in several categories for a liberal arts degree. This area of study includes science, technology, engineering, art, communications, economics, political science, history, psychology and sociology. Once you begin, you’ll likely narrow down your path to match your interests and talents.
A history degree can give you the foundation to research and write scripts for documentary films, for example. An economics degree can spur a career in finance writing.
Liberal arts degrees often teach soft skills, which are not easy to quantify. For example, this adaptable degree program enhances creative thinking, interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. Students can round out their knowledge by taking some courses that teach hard skills, such as statistical analysis or medical writing.
Who Is This Degree Good For?
A liberal arts degree prepares you for a broad range of professions. It’s a good option for people who are interested in writing and creative pursuits but aren’t sure what career path they’d like to follow. Many liberal arts students are interested in expressing themselves, helping their communities and enhancing their communication skills.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Liberal Arts Degree?
A liberal arts degree can help you get a job in just about any field. If you’re a writer, some career paths that might interest you as a liberal arts major include public relations, non-profit administration, marketing, human resources and academic research. You’ll have a chance to use your writing and communication skills in any of these positions.
A degree in English exposes students to a wide variety of literature. You’ll read works by historic and contemporary authors, writing analyses and critiques. Students will also learn effective communication, time management, critical thinking and creative skills.
There are typically two concentrations within an English degree program. You can choose to major in English language and literature or composition and rhetoric. If you want to be a writer, getting plenty of time to practice is important.
Some people think that an English degree is too general to help you secure a good job. However, the major allows you to be flexible. It teaches marketable skills that will help you succeed in any industry.
English majors do a lot of reading. You’ll become better acquainted with the classics and learn what made them impactful. You may not receive direct instruction on the business of writing. However, you can complement this major by minoring in a specialty to which you can apply your skills. You might want to take courses on blogging or social media marketing, for example.
People who want to develop strong written communication skills are excellent candidates for an English degree. This is a flexible option for creative thinkers who enjoy reading and writing and want to set up a flexible foundation for their career and further studies.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With an English Degree?
Surprisingly, the most common jobs for English majors are in education and law. However, many graduates with this degree also work in proofreading, editing, copywriting, technical writing and journalism. Some other career choices for writers with an English degree include grant writing positions and public relations. The average salary for someone with an English degree is $75,096.
3. Creative Writing
A creative writing degree is ideal for someone who is extremely verbal and drawn to expressing themselves with words. A creative writing major will spend a lot of time reading, interpreting and examining existing works of literature. They’ll also practice expressing emotions, thoughts and messages in a variety of ways.
Analyzing other writers’ work exposes you to different ways of structuring your own writing. Creative writing majors do a lot of reading. You’ll learn how to critique other artists’ work as well as your own. Regular feedback will help you improve your skills. You’ll also be required to write under pressure and meet deadlines, which are valuable skills in any market.
Do you write in your spare time? A creative writing degree is ideal for people who already spend a significant portion of their life writing. You’ll be assigned plenty of writing homework while you pursue this major. If composing essays is your least favorite task, this may not be the degree path for you.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Creative Writing Degree?
While you don’t need a formal academic degree to get your work published, you will learn how to infuse your projects with expression and meaning if you pursue a creative writing degree. This can help you find work as a novelist or poet. But it takes time to write a book, and you need a job immediately after college.
A specialization in creative writing fosters skills that are in demand across industries, such as effective communication, critical analysis and self-discipline. Many creative writing majors go on to work in marketing and advertising, copywriting, ghostwriting, editing, screenwriting or journalism.
Interestingly, approximately 50% of creative writers are age 40 or older. This may indicate that graduates with this degree pursue jobs in other fields before writing the next great novel or take on other roles early on in their careers.
4. Media and Journalism
A journalism or media degree sets you up to write for newspapers, magazines and broadcast news. It focuses on communication skills and using rhetoric to generate a clear, persuasive message. Creativity is important in this field, but so are accurate research, fact-checking and non-fiction writing. Students will learn how to present accurate information in an objective but engaging way.
Media and journalism majors may also study politics, ethics and law. They should have a good grasp on current events and have interest in learning about the political landscape. The media shapes many of society’s conventions and beliefs. Journalism majors will learn principles of persuasion, which help you build solid relationships in any workplace. Students pursuing this degree will also learn how to analyze data and statistics.
The journalistic environment is constantly evolving. The best media and journalism majors offer up-to-date courses that resonate with today’s media landscape. You might want to learn about social media influence and video editing along with formatting principles for news environments.
A journalism degree is ideal for individuals who want to make an impact on the world using their communication skills. You’ll round out your proficiency in writing by learning how to adapt your message to other media channels. If you enjoy working with people, have a curious nature and excel at organizing information into a clear, accurate message, you may be an excellent candidate for a journalism degree.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Media and Journalism Degree?
Many journalism majors work for print and broadcast news outlets. They may write the scripts for news stories or work as investigative journalists in the field. Journalists earn an average base salary of $62,000 per year . A degree in journalism can also prepare you for a job in marketing. The ability to transform data into an engaging message is essential in marketing. The confidence and communication skills that you gain in this area of study also position you to adapt well to a career in public relations or law.
5. Theater and Film
Theater and film majors aren’t just for actors. These degrees help writers develop the necessary skills for screenwriting, playwriting, arts journalism and film criticism. Courses often require students to read scripts and watch performances that are crafted by stage and cinema masters. You’ll learn about the structure and artistry behind story development in plays and movies.
Most theater and film degree programs offer plenty of courses in writing. You will develop a strong grasp of different storytelling devices. By the time you graduate, you should be well-versed in different areas, such as dramatic, expository and episodic writing. You’ll supplement your writing skills by learning about visual storytelling elements and different genres too.
People with an interest in performance art make good candidates for a theater and film degree. Many students seek to enter this field because they have a strong interest in watching films and plays. You’ll have to be able to collaborate with others and adapt your work based on external feedback.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Theater and Film Degree?
Students with this degree will be ready to write for the screen and stage. Film and theater graduates often pursue jobs in the motion picture industry, advertising and computer technology. Learning more about the back end of performance art prepares you to work behind the scenes in a variety of production categories.
Recommended Online Degree for Writers
6. professional and technical writing.
Professional and technical writing majors are extremely specific subsets within the liberal arts category. Some schools offer specialty courses in this category under other degree programs, such as creative writing or business. Others have distinct professional and technical writing degree programs.
Some of the subcategories of technical writing programs include technical communication, medical writing and scientific writing, and business communications.
Technical and professional writers must have a solid grasp of the English language. They must be able to organize complex information into structured documents. This degree is ideal for people who enjoy doing in-depth research and can adhere to deadlines. A love of learning helps; technical writers have to familiarize themselves with the subjects that they write about. This field usually requires technological proficiency.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Professional and Technical Writing Degree?
Many companies hire technical writers for instruction manuals, journal articles, professional documents and training handbooks. Many professional writers also compose press releases, draft memos and document policies. They may work in health care, law, business or the arts. The median annual salary for technical writers is $74,650, and the growth outlook is above average.
7. Linguistics
Linguistics degrees are often packaged with liberal arts, literature and creative writing programs. However, some educational institutions offer linguistics degrees as standalone majors.
Linguistics teaches you the basics of language history, semantics, grammar and rhetoric. You might study the way that different cultures have used language. Linguistics compares languages and studies their evolution. Delving into the details of language can help you craft your own writing more effectively.
You’ll develop the ability to recognize various writing styles, which makes you a more adaptable writer. Students will also learn about different aspects of discourse and persuasion.
People who love language generally enjoy diving into its particularities. Those with an affinity for writing will benefit from understanding the background of various words. Critical thinking skills are important because students will learn how to analyze language from a data-driven perspective.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Linguistics Degree?
A linguistics degree sets you up to be an excellent communicator. You can work in education, business, creative pursuits or the public sector. This field of study interconnects with anthropology, philosophy, psychology and sociology. Many linguistics majors go into publishing, information technology, international relations, speech therapy and language education. If you want a job that makes the most of your writing skills, you could work as an interpreter, translator, marketing specialist or editor.
8. Marketing
A marketing degree allows you to hone your writing skills while learning how to research, plan and implement effective promotional strategies. Students will learn how to research target markets, use visual, audio and verbal communication strategically and analyze the results of their efforts.
Successful marketing involves some knowledge of psychology. It’s important to understand why people behave and think the way that they do. That knowledge allows you to craft promotional strategies that will achieve the desired results.
A marketing degree program will provide some insight into psychology, linguistics and philosophy. Many marketing programs offer education about specific niches, such as digital and social media marketing.
Strong communication skills are essential for marketing. You could choose this degree program if you have a passion for sharing information in unique, creative and convincing ways. Marketing students must also be dynamic and flexible. You have to keep up with the ever-changing needs of the industry. You’ll have many opportunities to collaborate with others, which is an essential part of the marketing industry. You should be able to brainstorm with other people and develop ideas as a team player.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Marketing Degree?
A marketing degree is practical and highly adaptable. Every business should use strategic marketing to promote their offerings. Someone with an interest in writing can look for jobs that require top-notch verbal and language skills, such as developing social media campaigns or writing copy for printed brochures. Anyone with strong communication skills can write marketing material. A marketing degree lays the framework for you to understand intricate concepts and put them to use in industries such as entertainment, law, business, health care, retail and blogging.
9. Publishing
A publishing degree provides writers with an alternative way to influence the literary environment. Studying the publishing industry will give you a comprehensive background on business, marketing, communications and technology.
Students will learn traditional and contemporary publishing techniques. They’ll focus on industry trends and advancements. They’ll combine their visual and verbal skills to build their knowledge of design and layout standards.
Business skills are crucial for people in the publishing industry. Students who pursue this degree will learn about financial and operational functions in business. You must be able to recognize a profitable piece of literature, which involves understanding consumer markets, sales strategies and publishing channels.
Undergraduate degrees in publishing exist, but they’re not plentiful. Many students choose a more general major for their bachelor’s degree and pursue publishing at the master’s level.
If you have a love of the written word, you may want to immerse yourself in the industry. Studying publishing lets you approach writing from a business perspective. Ideal candidates for this degree are passionate about sharing important messages with the world.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Publishing Degree?
With a publishing degree, you can work in any department of a publishing company. You may have a hands-on position that requires some writing and editing. Alternatively, you may work in a business-oriented department, such as sales or marketing. Other publishing jobs include publicist, literary agent, production manager and contract manager.
10. Business
There is more to a writing career than putting pen to paper or fingers on a keyboard. To earn money by writing, you have to understand concepts such as supply and demand, management, entrepreneurship and economics. A business degree allows you to work behind the scenes in any field. It also provides a solid background for writers who want to self-publish or become entrepreneurs.
A business degree helps students develop soft and hard skills. You’ll learn leadership and motivational strategies that are applicable to any industry. You’ll also receive training on quantitative skills, such as accounting, data analysis and project management.
Many writers want to create content. However, others become interested in the business of writing. A business degree complements strong communication, leadership and teamwork skills. It can be an ideal area of study for people who want to expand their abilities beyond writing. You won’t have as much writing-specific coursework in this degree area as you might in English or creative writing. Still, business majors are required to complete a good amount of writing assignments.
What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Business Degree?
Strong writing skills enhance any company’s quality and reputation . If you understand business concepts and have excellent verbal skills, you will be an asset to businesses in any industry. If you’d like to use your written skills in your job, look for a position as a business writer, marketing content creator, curriculum developer or research analyst. You could also start your own business as a publisher, literary agency or publishing relations firm.
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Accredited Online English Degrees


DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH
- Undergraduate
- Creative Writing
Requirements for the Creative Writing Major
15 Courses, as follows No creative writing course may be audited or taken pass/fail.
Three Introductory Courses
- ENG 206 - Reading & Writing Poetry
- ENG 207 - Reading & Writing Fiction
- ENG 208 - Reading & Writing Creative Nonfiction
Year-long Writing Sequence
One of the following 3 credit courses:
- ENG 393 - Theory & Practice of Poetry
- ENG 394 - Theory & Practice of Fiction
- ENG 395 - Theory & Practice of Creative Nonfiction
The application will be available here at the beginning of spring quarter. We accept applications to all three sequences to late April.
ENG 392 - The Situation of Writing
“The Situation of Writing,” which is typically offered once per year, investigates the writer’s relation to the culture, both currently and historically. The course addresses such questions as the relation of criticism to imaginative literature, the rise and fall of specific literary genres, the effect of the university on the production and consumption of literary works, the state of the publishing industry, and international literary contexts.
Six 300-level Literature Classes
- Two on material written prior to 1830
- Two on material written after 1830
- Two from either period
Note: Students who have completed two parts of either British Literary Traditions (210-1 and 210-2) or American Literary Traditions (270-1 and 270-2) can use these two courses to count as ONE of these six literature courses.
Two Non-Literature Related Courses
These courses, in areas such as history, art, classics, and gender studies, broaden the student’s background for the study of literature. These must be approved by a creative writing advisor. Students with a second major or a minor will be considered to have completed this requirement.
[1] The School of Professional Studies also offers courses under the listings ENG 206, 207, and 208. These courses do not count toward the Creative Writing Major.
[2] Seniors may not enroll in English 206 until add/drop week.
[3] Seniors may, with department permission, enroll in English 207 or 208 without the pre-requisite.
[4] First year students may not apply to the creative writing sequence, even if they complete both pre-requisite classes in the first year.
Masters Programs in Creative Writing in USA 2023
- Creative Writing ›
A masters is earned after students complete an undergraduate degree program. To obtain a masters, you usually need to complete 12 to 18 college courses that often involve completing comprehensive tests and/or a thesis.Creative writing programs provide students with an overview of various writing techniques. Throughout the course of study, students often practice and experiment with a variety of ge… Read more
A masters is earned after students complete an undergraduate degree program. To obtain a masters, you usually need to complete 12 to 18 college courses that often involve completing comprehensive tests and/or a thesis.
Creative writing programs provide students with an overview of various writing techniques. Throughout the course of study, students often practice and experiment with a variety of genres, allowing them to establish a clear voice and style.
The United States of America is a large country in North America, often referred to as the "USA", the "US", the "United States", "America", or simply "the States". American colleges are funded by "tuition" charged to the student, which is often quite expensive, very commonly reaching into the tens of thousands of dollars per year.
33 Results in Creative Writing, USA
- Recommended Latest Title
- Recommended
Master of Arts in Writing
Johns Hopkins' Advanced Academic Programs nine-course online or on-campus MA in Writing program reflects the school's international reputation for academic rigor and creative ... +
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Eastern Oregon University's MFA in Creative Writing provides hands-on writing and editing experience during summer residencies and online courses. In addition to helping you g ... +
Master of Fine Arts in Writing
The Master of Fine Arts in Writing program offers graduate students an intimate, personalized learning experience while taking advantage of San Francisco’s vibrant, eclectic l ... +
Earn a scholarship worth up to $10,000
Ma in publishing and writing.
Whether you want to shape the prose of fresh voices as an editor, represent writers as a literary agent, or work with exciting online publications and new media formats, Emers ... +
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Writing for Film, Television, and Digital Media
The MFA in Sound Design is designed to provide the highest level of training in sound design for film, television, games, and other visual media. Students will gain a complete ... +
Master of Arts in Professional and Creative Writing
The online Master of Arts in professional and creative writing helps writers be successful, whether they are looking to write a novel or polish their professional writing skil ... +
Master of fine Arts in Creative Writing
The low-residency MFA at SPU is a creative writing program for apprentice writers — both Christians and those of other faith traditions — who not only want to pursue excellenc ... +
The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing is a 48-hour degree program for students who wish to become professional writers of playwriting, fiction, or poetry. The program re ... +
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing & Poetics
Launched in Fall 2012, the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing & Poetics (MFA) is designed to help students develop their creative work through a course of study that ... +
Narrative Studies, MA
The MA in narrative studies is a comprehensive program that explores narrative and storytelling across various cultures and historical periods. With an emphasis on teaching an ... +
The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing is a low residency graduate program, which requires two weeks of residency every summer in Eastern Oregon and completing online cou ... +
MFA Program for Writers
The Program is intellectually rigorous but with that rigor comes a generosity of spirit you'd be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. The MFA Program for Writers taught me that no ... +
MASTER OF FINE ARTS (M.F.A.) Creative Writing
Founded in 1981, the McNeese State University is home to the oldest Master of Fine Arts program in Louisiana and one of the oldest in the southeast. The cornerstone of our pro ... +
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFACW)
Chatham’s MFA in Creative Writing program grows from the legacy of Rachel Carson '29, a creative writer known for her social conscience. Our students understand that writing i ... +
MFA in Creative Writing
The MFA program in Creative Writing meets the needs of students who want to strike a balance between the development of individual creative talent and the close study of liter ... +
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Explore the relationships between AP courses, majors, and careers based on your choice.
Major: Creative Writing
Students of creative writing focus on the construction of poetry and prose. They read and analyze the work of established writers and write original creative work.
When you read a good poem, do you wonder how the writer managed to form such interesting images? When you read a novel, do you think about how the author created characters you can relate to?
If you study creative writing, you’ll try to answer questions like these, analyzing poetry and fiction to learn how writers create successful work. And, of course, you’ll try your hand at creating your own work, which you’ll share with professors and classmates. Although it’s very unlikely that you’ll make a living from writing poetry or fiction, you will gain the skills needed to work in fields such as editing, publishing, journalism, and advertising.
AP can get you on your path
Related ap courses and careers.
- 3 AP Courses
AP English Language and Composition
Learn about the elements of argument and composition as you develop your critical-reading and writing skills. You’ll read and analyze nonfiction works from various periods and write essays with different aims: for example, to explain an idea, argue a point, or persuade your reader of something.
Skills You'll Learn
- Skill: Reading closely, analyzing, and interpreting a piece of writing
- Skill: Evaluating a source of information
- Skill: Gathering and consolidating information from different sources
- Skill: Writing an evidence-based argument
- Skill: Drafting and revising a piece of writing
AP Research
Build on what you learned in AP Seminar to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, you will design, plan, and conduct a year-long research based investigation to address a research question.
- Skill: Conducting independent research
- Skill: Analyzing sources and evidence
- Skill: Applying context and perspective
- Skill: Writing a college-level academic paper
- Skill: Presenting research findings to an audience
Develop and practice the skills in research, collaboration, and communication that you’ll need in any academic discipline. You’ll investigate topics in a variety of subject areas, write research-based essays, and design and give presentations both individually and as part of a team.
- Skill: Reading and analyzing articles, studies, and other texts
- Skill: Gathering and combining information from sources
- Skill: Viewing an issue from multiple perspectives
- Skill: Crafting arguments based on evidence
Copy Editors
Copy editors review text to make sure that it is free of errors and is clearly written. They also ensure that writing follows the publisher's style and editorial policy.
"Twenty-five" or "25"? "PhD" or "Ph.D."? Being a copy editor means paying close attention to differences like these. Copy editors review text to ensure it is easy to understand and follows the publisher's style. And they make sure that the tone of the writing suits the publication’s audience, whether it's teens, scientists, or art lovers.
Copy editors also rewrite text or suggest changes, such as reordering paragraphs, to make the writing stronger. On top of all that, they correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Directors work closely with actors, designers, choreographers, and playwrights to manage the planning and production of theatrical works, including plays, films, musicals, and TV programs.
Directors make many of the creative decisions that bring a dramatic production to life. They have a part in almost every aspect of producing a play, film, or TV program. They must be creative artists as well as knowledgeable technicians. Active onstage and behind the scenes, they interpret scripts, communicate their vision to set and costume designers, audition and select cast members, manage rehearsals, and coach actors.
Editors review writers' work and make suggestions or changes to make the text stronger.
Behind every great writer is a fabulous editor. Magazines, newspapers, and websites, just to name a few publications, all employ editors to guide and encourage writers. Editors work in all kinds of settings, from busy newsrooms to corporate offices, to ensure that organizations get their messages to the public.
The titles and duties of editors vary a great deal, depending on where they work and exactly what they do. For example, developmental editors work with authors on novels and other long pieces to make sure the text is clear and meets the publisher's expectations. At newspapers, assignment editors match reporters to stories while executive editors make decisions about what news to cover and how to approach it.
Public Relations Specialists
PR specialists promote people and organizations. They work in a variety of settings, from corporations to government agencies. Many serve private clients.
When celebrities go into drug rehab or when businesses are guilty of fraud, there’s only one thing to do: hire a public relations (PR) specialist. PR specialists do more than put a positive spin on their client’s less-than-admirable activities. They also spread the word when they’ve done something good, like winning an Academy Award or donating money to a charity.
And how do PR specialists get the word out? They spend much of their time writing press releases and pitching story ideas to reporters.
Technical Writers
Technical writers create material, such as instruction manuals, related to science and technology.
Computer software and hardware, cars, stereos, and many other products come with instructions. Technical writers create operating instructions and other informational material, such as maintenance manuals, catalogs, parts lists, and assembly instructions.
This information not only allows consumers to use and maintain products easily and safely, but also protects manufacturers from being sued. If you enjoy writing and are curious about developments in science and technology, this field might be for you.
Translators
Translators read written materials, which can range from poetry to technical manuals, in one language and write them in another.
Translators often describe their work as a labor of love and it’s true that translating a great novel into another language can be almost as satisfying as though you had written it yourself. However, translators also do the necessary work of translating technical manuals, business memos, news stories, and government documents, without which the global economy would probably grind to a halt. Whether you translate poetry or scientific reports, translating requires creative thinking, research, and determination.
Writers develop text for publications, such as books, magazines, websites, and newsletters. They also create material for radio and TV broadcasts, movies, and plays.
Writers work in many places, from magazines to corporations to home offices. They create articles and nonfiction books, newsletters for nonprofits, annual reports for big companies, and scripts for TV and radio shows, just to name a few possibilities.
If you dream of writing a story, poem, or play that will live on long after you do, you may have to do so just for the joy of it -- and find a day job to make ends meet. If you’re also interested in writing nonfiction and develop a specialty in, for example, business, fashion, or sports, you may find that getting paid to write is an easier goal to reach.
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A creative writing major opens up doors to many careers, including journalism, content marketing, copywriting, teaching, and others. Even careers that don't center around writing often have a strong writing component: you'll need to write reports, deliver presentations, and so on.
Hamilton's creative writing program takes full advantage with small classes and lots of opportunities to intern and publish; it also has one of the best writing centers in the country. #7: Brown University Brown's Literary Arts program offers one of the top MFAs in the US as well as an undergraduate major.
Creative writing faculty acknowledge that a formal academic credential in creative writing is not needed in order to get writing published. However, they suggest, creative writing...
2023 Best Colleges with Creative Writing Degrees in America Best colleges College Quiz Best value Best student life View on map College type 4-year Private Public 2-year Community Trade/career Other General area of study Any Majors Clear filter Online Campus See all majors Online friendliness Fully online Large online program Some online degrees
All students interested in the Creative Writing Major must take two introductory writing courses, one in poetry (ENG 206) and one in either fiction (207) or creative nonfiction (208), before applying to the program. Students may not apply to the creative writing program in their first year.
Writing in the Disciplines These colleges typically make the writing process a priority at all levels of instruction and across the curriculum. Students are encouraged to produce and refine...
25 Top Schools in Creative Writing 1 Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD Master's Degree Highest Degree Type 1st Most Popular In MD 84 Creative Writing Degrees Awarded Every student who is interested in creative writing needs to check out Johns Hopkins University.
Some minors I would recommend to someone majoring in creative writing are education, business (specifically marketing, if available), journalism, and communications. All of these fields require creative writing in some way, and they are fields you're most likely to pursue after college. But ultimately, minor in anything you're interested in.
Creative Writing Major. Description: A program that focuses on the process and techniques of original composition in various literary forms such as the short story, poetry, the novel, and others. Includes instruction in technical and editorial skills, criticism, and the marketing of finished manuscripts.
2023 - 2024 Major MapEnglish (Creative Writing), BA. * Completion of a language course at the intermediate level (202 or equivalent), including American Sign Language IV. ASU Language Placement: Only true beginners are eligible for 101-level courses. All other students are required to take a placement exam, regardless of prior credit earned.
A creative writing major is an academic program that trains students in creating original compositions of a vast array of literary works and in many different genres. Creative writing programs also teach to understand the various theoretical underpinnings of contemporary writing.
The online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry degree program is an opportunity for aspiring poets to find inspiration, engagement and creative collaboration with peers and faculty alike. Our specialized program enables you to hone your craft and unleash your imagination, helping you create imagery in verse. While a poetry degree is valuable in and of itself, it ...
Median U.S. Annual Salary: $63,200. 2. Editor. Another rewarding trade for creative writing majors is editing. While creative writers may be particularly drawn to helping authors refine their manuscripts, there are lots of things to edit besides books, and you're not limited to just the publishing industries.
15 Top Schools for a Bachelor's in Creative Writing 1 Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD Master's Degree Highest Degree Type 38 Annual Graduates It's difficult to beat Johns Hopkins University if you want to pursue a bachelor's degree in creative writing.
The Creative Writing Concentration for English majors (colloquially referred to as the "Creative Writing Major") provides students with a solid grounding in literature as well as advanced study in creative writing.
A creative writing program gives students expert guidance in sharpening their artistic talents. Bachelor's programs teach the basics, while master of fine arts (MFA) and master of arts (MA) in creative writing programs train students advanced skills in story structure, research, and literary devices.
Most creative writing professors have a creative writing degree, and they may teach other types of courses as well. Universities usually require professors to have a post-graduate degree, such as a master's or doctorate. 7. Editor National average salary: $57,075 per year
Creative Writing Major at a Glance Students who graduate with the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing will be skilled writers in a major literary genre and have a theoretically informed understanding of the aesthetic, historical, social, and political context of a range of contemporary writing.
Creative Writing. The creative writing major at Miami is a thriving program, one of the largest in the United States, with an increasingly global curriculum and outlook. With eight full-time creative writing faculty, more than 180 undergraduate majors and minors (as well as 20-25 graduate students), there's a creative writing buzz at Miami.
The creative writing major is highly flexible with an elective structure that allows you to pursue your interests in literature, literary theory, film, screenwriting, and publishing. The department also offers an undergraduate degree or minor in English , a minor in film studies , and a certificate in comics studies .
3. Creative Writing. A creative writing degree is ideal for someone who is extremely verbal and drawn to expressing themselves with words. A creative writing major will spend a lot of time reading, interpreting and examining existing works of literature. They'll also practice expressing emotions, thoughts and messages in a variety of ways.
Three Introductory Courses. Two of these introductory courses are required for admittance to the year-long sequences. All three introductory courses are required for the major. ENG 206 - Reading & Writing Poetry. ENG 207 - Reading & Writing Fiction. ENG 208 - Reading & Writing Creative Nonfiction.
A masters is earned after students complete an undergraduate degree program. To obtain a masters, you usually need to complete 12 to 18 college courses that often involve completing comprehensive tests and/or a thesis.Creative writing programs provide students with an overview of various writing techniques.
If you study creative writing, you'll try to answer questions like these, analyzing poetry and fiction to learn how writers create successful work. And, of course, you'll try your hand at creating your own work, which you'll share with professors and classmates. Although it's very unlikely that you'll make a living from writing poetry ...
Writing to Heal. People who routinely "write to heal" experience increased confidence, a sense of calm, and a deeper appreciation for the life they're living. Get unlimited access to all healing writing lessons, quizzes, and resources, plus 10 writing exercises for only $89 CAD (approx. $65 USD). $ 89 .00.