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Creative Writing Degree Online Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Write Your Own Story 

• $330/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.

An Online Creative Writing Degree Can Help You Reach Your Goals

Whether you are looking to advance your career or simply want to pursue your passion for writing, the online creative writing bachelor's program at SNHU offers a supportive community, comprehensive curriculum, and flexible format that can help you achieve 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.

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 (BA) 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 annual salary for writers and authors was $73,150 in 2022. 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 Nonfiction Discover your niche with a nonfiction writing degree online at Southern New Hampshire University. Our online Bachelor of Arts (BA) 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 annual salary for writers and authors was $73,150 in 2022, 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 Poetry The online Bachelor of Arts (BA) 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 Screenwriting Whether you have dreams of writing blockbusters, developing documentaries or working with other writers on sitcoms, the online Bachelor of Arts (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 annual salary of $73,150 in 2022. 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.

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, career opportunities for writers and authors are projected to grow 4% through 2032 — that's as fast as average for all occupations. 1

In 2022, the median annual wage for writers and authors was $73,150 . 1

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

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. opportunities you'll have the chance to share your work with the vibrant creative writing community at snhu: the penmen review , our online journal that accepts submissions 12 times a year word for word, a bimonthly livestream event featuring published writers reading from their work fall fiction contest, a short-story competition that offers snhu scholarships among its prizes student writers spotlight, a livestream reading showcasing the best of snhu's creative writing students 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."

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120 Credits

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8-Week Terms

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100% Online

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No Set Class Times

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 undergraduate students are required to take general education courses , which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.

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')); What to Expect as an Online Student No set class times: Asynchronous classes let you do your coursework when and where you want Pick your pace: Choose between full time (2 courses) or part time (1 course) each term Student support: 24/7 access to online student services like the library, tech and academic support if (typeof carouselContainer === "undefined") { window.carouselContainer = new carousel(); } let vc_0a2c09e41977426b8f3008e18ed9a68a = document.getElementById('carousel-0a2c09e41977426b8f3008e18ed9a68a') if (vc_0a2c09e41977426b8f3008e18ed9a68a !== null) { carouselContainer.init(vc_0a2c09e41977426b8f3008e18ed9a68a); } 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, Course Materials ($ varies by course)

Frequently Asked Questions

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English (Creative Writing), BA

On this page:.

At a Glance: program details

• Location: Tempe campus
• Additional Program Fee: No
• Second Language Requirement: No

• Initial Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics

Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map on-campus archive

eAdvisor Tracking Tool

Program Description

The BA in English with a concentration in creative writing focuses on the study and practice of the literary arts, with courses in poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction.

Students gain practical experience through writing workshops and internship opportunities.

The undergraduate program features an outstanding faculty whose many books have received major national and international recognition.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

Admission to the Creative Writing Concentration (Fiction & Poetry)

Portfolio submission period opens: february 20, 2023, portfolios due: march 17, 2023 by 5:00pm, submit here: spring 2023 creative writing concentration  .

Note: You need to be logged into your ASU Gmail account to connect to the portfolio submission form.  

About the Creative Writing Concentration

The Creative Writing Program encourages all interested students, regardless of their field of study, to join our community of writers through beginning and intermediate workshops in fiction and poetry (ENG 287/ENG 288 , ENG 387/ENG 388), diverse special topics courses (ENG 394/ENG 494), and various, exciting writing events held on campus. 

Interested students*, who have already taken beginning and intermediate workshops, and are committed to continuing their study of Creative Writing, have an opportunity to develop their skills in supportive, highly focused workshops through the Creative Writing Concentration. Instruction in the tradition(s) to which concentration students can aspire and uphold, and from which they may draw inspiration, will be provided by the Creative Writing Program's nationally recognized faculty of writers.

Please note that acceptance into the Creative Writing Concentration is restricted.   Students must submit a portfolio for review and be offered a seat in the advanced workshops. (Please see the "Portfolio Review Guidelines" below.) 

*Students interested in pursuing both fiction and poetry at the 400-level, must check with their academic advisor to ensure that the necessary courses (ENG 487, ENG 488, ENG 498: Fiction, ENG 498: Poetry) will fit their degree plan. Students must submit two portfolios--one in fiction, one in poetry--to be considered for admittance into advanced coursework in both areas. 

Students pursuing the Creative Writing Concentration must either select as their major the bachelor's in English with a concentration in creative writing upon being admitted to ASU or, after entering the university, meet with an English advisor to change to this major and concentration.  Non English-majors will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

• To complete the concentration, English majors who have already declared themselves in the creative writing concentration must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher in their major.
• Concentration students must complete the two advanced courses in their genre (ENG 487 and ENG 498 in poetry, or ENG 488 and ENG 498 in fiction). Note that enrollment into these courses is restricted. Spaces are limited. Students must submit a portfolio and be selected to move forward.  (See the "Portfolio Review Guidelines" below.)
• Transfer students must seek advisement as to whether they will be able to successfully fulfill the creative writing concentration requirements.
• PLEASE NOTE :  Students admitted to begin 400-level coursework through the Fall 2020 Portfolio Review will start their coursework in Spring 2021. ENG 488 (fiction) will be taken in the Spring semester. The capstone course, ENG 498, will be taken in the Fall 2021 semester. ENG 487/488 and ENG 498 may not be taken simultaneously. 
• The next portfolio review for fiction will be offered in Fall 2022. The next portfolio review for fiction and poetry will be offered in Spring 2023.
• Students are only allowed to apply for the creative writing concentration twice during their time at ASU.

Portfolio Submission: How to Apply

Submit your completed portfolio online via the link below. Your portfolio should include:

1.     COVER SHEET (Available Online)

2.     CREATIVE WRITING SAMPLE

     a.      Poetry Sample: 5 poems

     b.      Fiction Sample: 1 piece of fiction of at least 5 double-spaced pages and not longer than 10 double-spaced pages

3.     PERSONAL STATEMENT (2 double spaced pages or 500 words)

     a.    Discuss your interest in the relevant genre (poetry or fiction)

     b.     What do you hope to gain from the creative writing concentration

4.     CRAFT ESSAY (2 double spaced pages or 500 words)

     a.     Submit an essay on a single poem or short story focusing an element(s) of craft you learned from the piece, how that craft element(s) works within the poem/story, and  why this aspect of craft is pertinent to your own writing

     b.     Please provide textual examples from the creative piece in your essay

5 .      SUBMIT: SPRING 2023 CREATIVE WRITING CONCENTRATION

        NOTE: You need to be logged into your ASU Gmail account to connect to the portfolio submission form. 

Further Information  

To receive further information about the bachelor's in English with a concentration in creative writing, make an appointment to speak with English undergraduate advisor at 480-965-3168. You may also contact Creative Writing Program Manager, Justin Petropoulos ( [email protected] ), RBH 152.

Portfolio Review Guidelines

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.

Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options.

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

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Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, affording college, tuition calculator, scholarships, financial aid, career outlook.

Degree programs in English prepare students for graduate studies in a number of programs, including English, creative writing, education, law and business. They also lead to a variety of careers in diverse fields. Employers seek those with strong writing, communication and critical thinking skills. Some of the most common professions for English majors are in the fields of:

• nonprofit service

Graduates often find roles where they spend time:

• developing web content
• managing public relations
• writing professional and technical content

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Writers and Authors

• Growth: 3.7%
• Median Salary*: 73150
• Growth: -4%
• Median Salary*: 73080

English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

• Growth: 1.2%
• Median Salary*: 74280

Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers

Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education.

• Median Salary*: 62360

Public Relations Specialists

• Growth: 6.1%
• Median Salary*: 67440

Search Marketing Strategists

• Growth: 13.4%
• Median Salary*: 68230

Technical Writers

• Growth: 6.9%
• Median Salary*: 79960

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

Studying abroad expands students' perspectives by exposing them to new and distinct cultures, communities and people. Students can explore the English language at a deeper level through an extended lens of dialects, literature and terminology in one of more than 300 study abroad programs.

Students can enhance their resumes with the educational experience and heightened cultural competency, communication and critical thinking skills they acquire through study abroad programs.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these study abroad programs for students majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing .

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-3168

2024 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees [Bachelor’s Guide]

If you love penning stories, brainstorming characters, and building whole worlds in your head, then a creative writing degree may be an ideal fit.

In this college program, you could develop skills for turning your natural talent into a career opportunity. Clear, clever writing is beneficial in a variety of work settings.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Whether you choose to pursue a creative career or to apply your skills in advertising, teaching, or another field, online writing degrees could help you get started.

Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Creative Writing Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University offers a BA in Creative Writing that can be earned 100% online. Class sizes are small, and students take just one course at a time in 5 week sessions. The curriculum teaches from a Christian worldview and includes courses such as Survey of the Publishing Industry, Advanced Creative Writing, Nonfiction Seminar, and more.

Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Florida International University

Florida International University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Arts in English with a Writing and Rhetoric track. Graduates often pursue careers in writing, publishing, advertising, media, and related fields. The curriculum includes studies in written and spoken communication. Coursework includes Approaches to Literature, Introduction to Writing Studies, Rhetorical Theory and Practice, and more.

Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media can be earned on campus or online. On-campus classes are 15 weeks long, and online classes are 7 weeks long. Graduates often work in fields such as publishing, journalism, marketing, and advertising. GCU uses a faith-based curriculum.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a BS in English and Writing—Creative Writing that can be earned entirely online. Each class is 8 weeks long. The average student can finish the program in just 3.5 years. Coursework includes Introduction to Creative Writing, American Realism and Naturalism, Modern Grammar, and more.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Missouri State University

Missouri State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing. Graduates of the program have gone on to work as editors, journalists, content marketing specialists, public relations specialists, and more. Online classes are taught by the same faculty as those on campus.

Missouri State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. Four concentration options are available: Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and Screenwriting. Classes are asynchronous and have no set meeting times. Potential students can apply at any time to start in an upcoming 8 week term.

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University offers a BA in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing. The program is available online and provides a high level of flexibility. The program’s faculty members are published writers themselves. Graduates often work in fields such as teaching, editing, publishing, journalism, and more.

Southwest Minnesota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arkansas – Little Rock

The University of Arkansas—Little Rock offers an online program for a BA in Professional and Technical Writing. The program requires students to develop proficiency in a second language. Course possibilities include Introduction to Professional and Technical Writing, Persuasive Writing, Theories of Rhetoric and Writing, Document Design, and more.

UA Little Rock is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida offers an online program for a BA in English—Creative Writing. The curriculum seeks to develop students’ general communication and critical thinking skills. Graduates often go on to careers as copywriters, educators, journalists, and more. Online courses at UCF may be synchronous or asynchronous.

The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Wisconsin – Superior

The University of Wisconsin—Superior offers a BA in Writing that can be earned 100% online. Online students may take some classes on campus if they wish. The program includes courses in creative writing, persuasive writing, technical writing, poetry, and more. Students are required to build portfolios as they work their way through the program.

UW-Superior is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online Creative Writing Degrees

Have you always dreamed of launching a career as a writer? If so, a college major in creative writing could help you develop your knowledge and skill sets.

If this is a job you’re thinking about, then you’ve probably spent a considerable amount of time practicing your writing over the years. A college program could help you take that to the next level. In this program, you could learn from experienced professors and get feedback from your peers. You’ll also study the examples of accomplished writers who have gone before you.

You may practice many different styles of writing, such as:

• Film scripts
• Nonfiction pieces
• Short stories

Your college may offer concentration tracks for this type of bachelors degree program. That way, you can study an area of creative writing that you’re really interested in.

For example, you might focus on fiction or nonfiction creative writing. Poetry could be another option. Even if your school doesn’t have predesigned concentrations, you may still have the opportunity to focus on the types of writing that most appeal to you. That’s because there are usually many elective courses available in a writing program.

Along with your classes, you might be able to do a for-credit internship. Through it, you could gain experience in a real-world publishing setting. Many creative writing majors pursue jobs as novelists, journalists, or television writers. You could also think about becoming an editor, an agent, or a producer. There may also be opportunities for you in schools or libraries.

Writing Careers & Salaries

There are many different jobs that relate to writing. Of course, you could pursue work as a writer or an author, but that comes in a wide variety of forms. There are some creative writers who write novels, poems, or children’s books. Others pen plays or television scripts.

Just because you study creative writing in college doesn’t mean that you’d have to stick to that type of writing. Your way with words could also be useful for jobs in journalism, social media management, or textbook writing. Some graduates create copy for advertising or marketing purposes.

There are also jobs for technical writers. They often use their skills to explain things related to science, technology, or mechanics. Your understanding of words and language could also be useful for helping others excel as writers. For example, being an editor or a literary agent are other lines of work to consider.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the median salaries of potential career paths related to the field of writing.

Some positions may require additional education, and extensive experience may be needed for jobs with high levels of responsibility.

With experience, some professionals move into roles where they coordinate many aspects of the creative process. Examples include being a movie producer or a creative director. Perhaps you are choosing a creative writing career because you really love literature. In a library, you could help others discover great books.

Depending on your role, you might require additional training, such as a master’s degree in library science. Another way to help others uncover a love for words is to work as a teacher. For example, with the proper training, graduates may teach language, literature, or creative writing in a junior high or a high school. You could also consider teaching creative writing in non-school settings, such as community youth programs.

Bachelor of Creative Writing Curriculum & Courses

In a creative writing program, you may have the opportunity to take many different classes of your choosing. That way, you can craft a degree program that reflects your goals and interests.

Your curriculum might include:

• British Literature : You’ll read works by famous British authors, analyze the texts, and write papers about them.
• Creative Genres : Toward the beginning of your studies, you may have a class that surveys several genres through both reading and writing assignments.
• Digital Writing : There are some unique considerations for publication in an online format, so you’ll explore social media, blogs, email campaigns, and other digital media in this course.
• Drama Studies : You may read famous plays, study the historical development of this genre, and consider drama’s influence on life and culture.
• English Grammar and Syntax : The ability to write correctly will serve you well throughout your career, so you may have a class to refresh and refine that skill.
• Literary Criticism : You’ll learn to be a critical reader who can analyze texts and evaluate their meaning through various literary frameworks.
• Poetry Writing : Poems come in many different styles, and you’ll explore a variety of them during this class as you practice writing poetry and sharing it with others.
• Publishing Careers : There might be a class that introduces you to jobs in writing and publishing so that you can start making a career plan.
• Screenplays : As you study the screenplay format, you may write your own scripts and evaluate your classmates’ creations.
• Writing Fiction : In this course, you’ll gain experience as a fiction writer by creating various pieces and sharing them with the other students in your class.

A bachelors program will generally have about 120 credit hours total, including both general education classes and the ones for your creative writing major.

Admissions Requirements

The admissions process varies from school to school, but it usually begins with filling out an application form. There may be a fee too.

In addition, you might submit the following:

• Essay or writing sample
• Official high school transcript or GED certificate
• Scores from the ACT or the SAT (not required by all schools)

At schools with rolling admissions, you can turn in your materials at any point in the year. Other schools set firm deadlines for applying.

Online Creative Writing Programs Accreditation

There are many types of college accreditation. One of the most important to consider is regional accreditation . This status means that a school has been evaluated and approved by one of the seven regional accreditors in the US.

There are strict standards for regional accreditation, so it is considered a key sign of a credible school. That’s often important to both educational institutions and employers. If your school is regionally accredited, you might be able to transfer credits to another college or qualify for graduate school.

Accreditation might also help you in your job search since employers may prefer to hire people with accredited degrees.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

College can be costly, but you may be able to get financial help from a variety of sources. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you determine your eligibility for government assistance. That can include both state and federal funding.

Students often qualify for government loans that allow them to borrow money until school is over. Some may get grants as well. Scholarships can be another valuable addition to your financial aid package. There are all sorts of scholarship programs, such as ones given for academic merit, sports ability, and leadership capacity. In addition to outside scholarships, you might also be awarded money directly from your college.

Employers sometimes help pay for college too. You can check with your human resources department to see whether your workplace has a tuition program.

What Can You Do with a Creative Writing Degree?

A bachelor’s in creative writing online degree could help you launch a career as a writer. Your preference might be to write books, poems, plays, or movie scripts. You could focus on pieces for young audiences or for older readers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that writers may work for others or be self-employed. Other potential jobs in the publishing industry include being an editor or a literary agent. There’s also the possibility of becoming a journalist or copywriter for a newspaper, a magazine, or a website. You could also consider teaching creative writing to students in public schools or private settings.

If you feel that a masters degree would be beneficial, you could search the best online MFA in Creative Writing programs that would suit your needs.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing?

You can generally finish a bachelors in creative writing online program in 4 years. Four years of full-time study is standard for a bachelor’s degree, but sometimes online English degree programs let you finish a bit faster.

If you want to graduate quickly, you can choose to take classes throughout the year and pick a school with accelerated terms. Often, that means that the courses last only 8 weeks each. At some schools, you may have the option to earn a teaching credential by taking extra classes, though that would extend the overall length of your program.

Should I Major in Creative Writing?

Creativity and strong communication skills are essential, but that’s not all that’s needed for success in this field. For example, it helps to be organized. Writers may have several writing projects—each with different requirements and deadlines—on their plate at once.

It’s also beneficial for writers to be open to criticism. In college, your peers and your professors will evaluate your work. Feedback, often critical, will likely continue throughout your career. Also, writers are sometimes self-employed. While they may not always have the security of a steady paycheck, they have the flexibility to make their own schedule and pursue passion projects.

What’s the Difference Between a Technical Writing vs. Creative Writing Bachelors Degree?

For a writing career, you could pursue work as a creative writer or a technical writer. While both jobs require strong communication skills, they typically rely on different styles and have different goals.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technical writers have a higher median annual salary than other types of writers.

Is a Creative Writing Degree Worth It?

Yes, a creative writing degree is worth it for many students. If creative writing is something that you really enjoy—and you want to make a career out of it—then this program may be a good fit for you.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in media and communication are expected to increase at a 14% rate over the next ten years. In particular, jobs for authors and writers should see 9% growth during that time. So, English is a good major for a number of students who picture themselves in creative writing careers.

Getting Your Bachelor in Creative Writing Degree Online

Creative writing can be an exciting career choice for anyone who enjoys using words and sharing ideas. If you’ve always dreamed of being an author, a playwright, or a poet, this could be a strategic degree path for you.

Also, a busy schedule doesn’t need to hold you back from getting a college degree. Instead, you might consider earning your creative writing bachelor’s degree online. Distance learning programs often cater to busy students with full schedules.

You can count on getting a high-quality education when you study online at an accredited college or university. The sooner you start checking out schools, the sooner you can begin planning your creative writing studies.

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2024 Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools

College Factual reviewed 102 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for bachelor's degree seekers in the field of creative writing. 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 colleges 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.

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.

16 Top Schools for a Bachelor's in Creative Writing

Any student pursuing a degree in a bachelor's degree in creative writing has to check out University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus. Located in the 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

Every student pursuing a degree in a bachelor's degree in creative writing needs to take a look at Carnegie Mellon University. Located in the 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

Any 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

It's difficult to beat Johns Hopkins University if you wish to pursue a bachelor's degree in creative writing. Johns Hopkins is a fairly 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

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

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

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

Located in the large 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 small city of West Lafayette. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Purdue University - Main Campus

Northwestern is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Evanston. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Northwestern University

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

Located in the 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 Tucson, University of Arizona is a public university with a very large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Arizona

BGSU is a fairly large public university located in the town of Bowling Green. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Bowling Green State University - Main Campus

Related Programs

Learn about other programs related to Creative Writing that might interest you.

English (I Have a HS Diploma or Associate Degree)

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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• Major in Creative Writing (B.A.)

A way with words

From poetry to prose, fiction to nonfiction, script to screenplay, creative writing can challenge your imagination and serve as a repository for your reflections on the human experience.

As a student in the English Department’s creative writing major, you’ll learn to analyze effectively and to write persuasively in courses taught by faculty who are themselves published writers. Analysis of the work of great writers will provide you with ideas and inspiration, while interactive workshops will allow you to present your writing to classmates and receive valuable feedback.

There are several outlets for your creative writing. You can enter any of the English Department’s four annual writing contests; submit your work for publication in Clark’s student literary magazine; or publish your work on the Clark Student Voices blog.

Catalog Requirements for:

Why Study Creative Writing at Clark?

• Professional writers will be your guides you as you as you explore literary works and apply what you learn to develop and refine your own writing.
• Work one-on-one with faculty in the Creative Writing Capstone course to analyze and contextualize your own creative work.
• Aspiring playwrights can submit their scripts to the Visual and Performing Arts Department’s biennial New Play Festival, which produces full-length plays written, directed, and performed by Clark undergrads.

Featured Courses

Writing the novel.

Through careful study of published works, students will unpack the role and function of central elements of a novel and apply these techniques to their own over through weekly writing exercises.

Publishing & Literary Journals

Students gain experience working at an online literary journal: calls for submission, reading and voting on submissions, editing accepted works, preparing the issue for launch, and working on special-editions.

Creating Character

This course is a deep dive into creating dynamic characters, building them layer by layer, considering motivation, backstory, conflict, point of view, and voice.

The Creative Writing Path

Our program offers a range of courses, from foundational areas, such as Shakespeare, Romanticism, and global literature, to emergent fields, such as medical humanism, critical race theory, and sexuality studies. We advise English Department majors to take two historical surveys, one pre-1850 and one post-1850, early in their programs. A 100-level genre course is another good introductory class for students contemplating the major. The Creative Writing major and minor includes courses in poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction taught by professional writers. These courses guide students to examine literary works as a writer to apply what they learn to their own writing. Interactive workshops, moreover, provide the feedback that helps students to develop and refine their work. Please contact Coordinator of Creative Writing, Phil Lemos, for more information.

Our program provides a number of scholarly opportunities, such as participation in Sigma Tau Delta (our national Honors Society), our Capstone in Creative Writing, and our Honors program. We also have connections to a number of internships, such as the London Internship Program, which offers positions in the fields of theater and journalism, in addition to internships with local newspapers and journals, as well as national organizations.

The department and faculty offices are located in beautiful Anderson House. Many English courses, department colloquia, and other events take place in this historic building. We invite you to read our blog and our newsletter, The English Times [PDF], to learn more.

Qualified students are eligible for election to Sigma Tau Delta, the National Honor Society in English.

Study Abroad

The English Department has a special arrangement with the University of East Anglia in England, the Advanced Studies in English in Bath, England and the London Internship Program. For information, please consult with Professor Neuman, Chair, or Clark’s Study Abroad Programs.

Building your foundation

The Clark Experience

We structure our curriculum around Liberal Education and Effective Practice (LEEP), which connects classroom learning with action through world and workplace experiences.

At Clark, your education extends beyond the classroom. Visit the Career Connections Center  to learn more about  internship opportunities that complement your coursework and put your English knowledge into practice.

In cooperation with the University’s internship office, the English Department supports internships for all majors. Internships are available both in university offices and in venues beyond the campus-for example, newspapers, news departments of radio and television stations, periodical and book publishers, and communication departments. Please consult with Professor Neuman, Chair, for further information.

As a complement to this concentration, you can engage in a variety of related experiential learning opportunities, including internships, study abroad, and research. You can enter any or all of the English Department’s four annual writing contests; submit your work for publication in Caesura, Clark’s student literary magazine; or publish your work on the Clark Writes blog. Aspiring playwrights can submit their scripts to the Visual and Performing Arts Department’s biennial New Play Festival, which produces full-length plays written, directed, and performed by Clark undergrads.

Internships are available both in university offices and in venues beyond the campus-for example, newspapers, news departments of radio and television stations, periodical and book publishers, and communication departments.

Study Abroad and Away

Participation in a Study Abroad and Away program is an opportunity to gain world and workplace experience to complement your on-campus work. Clark approves semester, yearlong, and summer opportunities to earn credit through academic coursework, internships, community-based learning, or research.  The English Department has a special arrangement with the University of East Anglia in England, the Advanced Studies in English in Bath, England and the London Internship Program. For information, please consult with Professor Neuman, Chair, or Clark’s Study Abroad Programs.

Explore our Study Abroad and Away  page, where you can search programs by academic interest, location , and language; after you’ve identified some appropriate programs, ensure they fit into your four-year plan by talking with your faculty adviser as early as possible.

You can participate in Clark’s many clubs, organizations, and athletic teams as a way to complement your academic work. Here are some student organizations that might be of interest to you as a Creative Writing student:

• The Scarlet (student newspaper)
• Clark Poetry Slam
• Caesura Literary Magazine
• Scholarly Undergraduate Research Journal at Clark

Phi Beta Kappa Society, Washington, D.C.

writing internship for the national office

Worcester Magazine

editorial intern

New York City Ballet Archives

archive assistant

Brown for Missouri, Clayton, Mo.

campaign aide

D'Amico & Chenelle, Worcester

legal assistant/paralegal

Smithsonian Science Education Center, Washington, D.C.

digital science writer

Clark is committed to action-based learning, which means as an undergraduate you can join faculty and graduate students in their research . Our faculty are active researchers in a variety of English subfields including medieval and Renaissance literature; contemporary literary theory; semiotics and rhetorical theory; literary treatments of ethnicity; critical and literary theory; and book history and manuscript culture.

The English Department actively supports the development of young scholars and the presentation of student research in multiple formats. As an undergraduate student in Creative Writing, you’ll receive support from faculty mentors to pursue and present your creative work, with the opportunity to present your findings. You can also apply for funding to support your own research on a project of your choice during the academic year or during the summer.

The Goddard Library ’s Rare Books Open House allows students to curate an exhibition of treasures from Goddard Library’s Special Collections. English students created and contributed to the Mix(L)it Digital Exhibit , a digital exhibit of mixed race literary and screen characters.

Our program facilitates scholarly research through our Capstone in English, a senior research project, and our Honors program. Please contact Professor Blake, Director of the Honors Program, for information. Also, every year The American Antiquarian Society, a prestigious national research library of American culture located in Worcester, offers seminars in specialized topics in American studies. Please contact Professor Neuman for more information.

Writing contests

Four writing contests , with prizes awarded, are hosted annually by the English Department. They are open to all Clark undergraduates.

• Loring Holmes & Ruth Dodd Drama Contest
• Prentiss Cheney Hoyt Poetry Contest
• Betty ’79 and Stanley Sultan Short Story Contest
• Leroy Allston Ames Essay Contest

At Clark you’ll get more than a great education; you’ll also be prepared for a long, productive career and life of consequence. And once you’ve completed your degree, you can join other Clark alumni who have gone on to work for great organizations and attend some of the best graduate schools in the world.

English majors are excellent communicators and highly adaptable, creative problem-solvers who apply their critical thinking skills to productive effect in a variety of professions. A foundation in creative writing is an asset to those seeking careers in education, digital and print media, marketing and public relations, and psychology.

Graduate School Placement—English Department

Boston University

University of London

Columbia University School of Journalism

Tufts University School of Medicine

Washington College of Law, American University

Faculty and Programs in the Department of English

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Creative Writing (BA)

College of humanities and social sciences | department of english.

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing — In Person

Stand Out With an Undergraduate Degree From Webster

Discover and strengthen your writing voice with webster’s creative writing program.

Become a part of the storytelling tradition through Webster University’s Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing program. You’ll take Creative Writing classes in fiction, poetry, drama and creative nonfiction.

Webster’s undergraduate degree in Creative Writing teaches you to read as a writer, as well as how to understand and analyze a vast range of literary strategies such as language, voice and form. As a Creative Writing major, you’ll prepare for creative writing jobs, and a wide range of other professional careers — thanks to our focus on critical thinking and concise communication skills.

“With my Webster degree I plan on writing stories about the small in-between places and bringing them to light to give the world an understanding of the differences and connections between everyone.”

BA in Creative Writing, '24

Choose Webster for Your Creative Writing BA

Get real-world experience.

As you earn your degree in Creative Writing, you can take Creative Writing practicum, which emphasizes hands-on experience in real-world work environments. To prepare you for some of the most exciting creative writing jobs, we offer course credit for internships at places such as St. Louis Magazine, River Styx Magazine , the Saint Louis Art Museum, Less Annoying CRM and Spectrum Healthcare.

Learn from Experienced Faculty

The small sizes of our Creative Writing classes mean more opportunities to work closely with our published and award-winning authors, poets and essayists. Our faculty mentor from their experience as writers and pass along their expertise to help you find your voice and publish your work.

Study in a Historic Building

Surroundings can often inspire creative writers. That’s why we offer our Creative Writing classes in the beautiful and historic Pearson House, a 90-year-old mansion on the northeast corner of campus.

Join a Thriving Literary Community

You’ll have many chances to share your work as a Creative Writing major— in The Green Fuse , our student literary magazine; The Mercury , our publication of outstanding student work from the past year; Surfacing, our annual festival where students write, direct and produce their own one-act plays; and the new Student Reading Series.

The David Clewell Visiting Writers Series

Every semester, the Clewell Series brings nationally renowned poets, novelists, essayists and playwrights to campus for readings, class meetings and one-on-one tutorials with Creative Writing Majors.

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing

Learn more about creative writing classes, electives, learning outcomes and more.

Program Details

Explore our catalog for more details about courses and admission requirements for the BA in Creative Writing degree.

This program is offered in Webster Groves, Missouri.

Creative Writing Program Recognized

Webster University’s BA in Creative Writing has been named one of the top creative writing programs in Missouri by creativewritingedu.org . Webster’s program was praised for its exploration of fiction, poetry, drama and creative nonfiction to prepare emerging writers.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing?

There are few degree programs as versatile as Creative Writing. Regardless of industry or position, nearly every employer seeks professionals who can communicate effectively, think critically and solve problems creatively.

We offer many resources to help you plan and find the career of your dreams. Our dedicated alumni network can show you the range of places our graduates work, and put you in touch with English and Creative Writing Gorloks who can help you get a start in your career.

You’ll also be able to build an individualized plan for your career search in our careers course titled, What Next? The English and Creative Writing Major After Graduation.

After graduation, you’ll have a strong foundation to pursue many professional and creative writing jobs, as well as graduate programs in fields such as:

• Data Analysis
• Copywriting
• Education Administration
• Human Resources
• Public Relations

Salaries for Creative Writing Graduates

Because our bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing can prepare you for so many different careers, your salary will depend on your chosen career path.

For example, the median annual wage for writers and authors is $73,000 — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Technical writers can expect to earn on average $86,000 — according to the BLS.

Other Degrees in Writing and Content Creation

• Scriptwriting (BA)
• Game and Game Design (BA)
• Journalism (BA)
• English (BA)
• Animation (BA)

Get Started on Your Bachelor's Degree in Creative Writing

Take the next step toward earning your Creative Writing degree. We are here to help you get started.

Learn more about our academic programs and our main campus and locations .

Connect with our admissions counselors and academic advisors .

Apply to Webster and take the next steps for financial aid and scholarships.

Contact the Admissions Office to Find Out More

If you have more questions about the program, your application or other enrollment-related inquiries, contact our Admissions Office .

Call 314-246-7800 or 800-753-6765 or send an email to [email protected].

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Bachelor of Arts in English, Creative Writing

Program overview.

Offers pathways for fiction writers and poets, who workshop their stories and poems in intimate classroom settings and have opportunities to learn all aspects of publishing a literary journal. The program fosters appreciation of our literary inheritance and provides the historical perspective from which to evaluate and produce contemporary writing.

Admission Information

Application process.

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Creative Writing

The Program in Creative Writing takes a comprehensive approach to the study of contemporary literature, criticism, and theory from a writer’s perspective, and provides rigorous training in the fundamental practices of creative writing. In our courses, students work with established poets and prose writers towards these pursuits, and both the major and minor in Creative Writing provide ample opportunities for interdisciplinary work across University departments. The program’s commitment to interdisciplinary work and academic rigor, coupled with an emphasis on teaching the elements of creative writing that underlie all genres, accounts for the program's vitality and explains why Creative Writing at Chicago is currently the largest initiative in the humanities for the College. The Program in Creative Writing offers workshops and seminars in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, as well as an increasing number of translation workshops.

Students who graduate with the bachelor of arts in Creative Writing will both be skilled in writing 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 who are not English Language and Literature or Creative Writing majors may complete a minor in English and Creative Writing.

• Creative Writing in the College Catalog
• Minor in Creative Writing in the College Catalog
• Creative Writing Home Page

English (BA) – Creative Writing

Program at a glance.

• In State Tuition
• Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

English (B.A.) - Creative Writing may be completed fully online, although not all elective options or program prerequisites may be offered online. Newly admitted students choosing to complete this program exclusively via UCF online classes may enroll with a reduction in campus-based fees.

Admission Requirements

Degree requirements.

• Students who change degree programs and select this major must adopt the most current catalog
• Students must earn at least a "C" (2.0) in each required course
• Co-op or internship credit cannot be used in the major without prior approval from the department
• Students should consult with a departmental advisor
• Departmental Residency Requirement consists of at least 15 semester hours of regularly scheduled 3000-4000 level courses taken from the UCF English Department
• Courses designated in General Education Program and Common Program Prerequisites are usually completed in the first 60 hours.

Online English - Creative Writing, BA

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

• International

Ready to get started?

Career opportunities.

• ESL Teacher
• Educational Publishing Researcher
• Grant Writer
• High School English Teacher
• Higher Education Personnel
• Marketing/Communications Content Creator
• Technical Writer

University of Central Florida Colleges

Core Requirements: Basic Level

• CRW3013 - Creative Writing for English Majors (3)
• ENG3014 - Theories and Techniques of Literature Study (3)
• CRW3053 - Theory & Practice of Creative Writing (3)
• *ENG 3014 - This is a prerequisite for all 4000 level AML, ENG, ENL, or LIT courses

Core Requirements: Advanced Level

• Literary History Requirement
• Choose four courses total from these two groupings
• Select at least one of these pre-1865 literature courses
• Note: Each semester, additional courses may satisfy these requirements. Check with an advisor for details.
• AML3031 - American Literature I (3)
• AML3613 - Narratives of Slavery (3)
• ENL2012 - English Literature I (3)
• ENL3220 - English Renaissance Poetry and Prose (3)
• ENL4230 - Eighteenth-Century Studies (3)
• ENL4240 - English Romantic Writers (3)
• ENL4311 - Chaucer (3)
• ENL4333 - Shakespeare Studies (3)
• ENL4341 - Milton and His Age (3)
• AML3286 - Early American Women's Words (3)
• AML3640 - Native American Literature (3)
• LIT4374 - The Literature of the Hebrew and Christian Bibles (3)
• ENL3296 - Gothic Literature (3)
• Select at least one of these post-1865 literature courses
• Each semester, additional courses may satisfy this requirement. Check with an advisor for details.
• AML3041 - American Literature II (3)
• AML3261 - Literature of the South (3)
• AML3614 - Topics in African-American Literature (3)
• AML3615 - Harlem, Haiti, and Havana (3)
• AML3643 - Contemporary Native American Prose and Poetry (3)
• AML4101 - American Novel (3)
• AML4155 - Modern American Poetry (3)
• AML4265 - Florida Writers (3)
• AML4321 - Modern American Literature (3)
• AML3630 - Latinx Literature (3)
• ENL2022 - English Literature II (3)
• ENL4101 - English Novel (3)
• ENL4253 - The Victorian Age (3)
• ENL4262 - Nineteenth Century British Prose (3)
• ENL4273 - Modern British Literature (3)
• LIT3082 - Continental European Fiction Since 1900 (3)
• LIT3192 - Caribbean Literature (3)
• LIT4043 - Modern Drama As Literature (3)
• LIT4184 - Irish Literature (3)
• LIT4303 - Post-World War II Fiction (3)
• LIT3823 - Hispanic Women Writers (3)
• Earn at least 6 credits from the following types of courses: Pre-1865 Literature courses or Post-1865 Literature courses

Restricted Electives

• Please note that students must take 4 but no more than 6 of the courses listed in a. and b. below.
• A list of approved restricted elective courses is found in the myKnight audit.
• CRW3120 - Fiction Writing Workshop (3)
• CRW3211 - Creative Nonfiction Writing (3)
• CRW3310 - Poetry Writing Workshop (3)
• CRW3610 - Writing Scripts (3)
• CRW4122 - Advanced Fiction Writing Workshop (3)
• CRW4224 - Advanced Nonfiction Workshop (3)
• CRW4320 - Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop (3)
• CRW4616 - Advanced Scriptwriting Workshop (3)
• *May take ENC 4360 - Nature Writing instead of CRW 4224 but not both.
• CRW3311 - Readings in Poetry for Creative Writing (3)
• CRW3540 - Literary Magazines (3)
• CRW4114 - History of Prose Style (3)
• CRW4724 - The Florida Review (3)
• CRW4722 - Editing for Creative Writers (3)
• any other CRW elective or Special Topics course Credit Hours: 3

Grand Total Credits: 36

Capstone requirements.

• Select primarily from upper level courses, with departmental advisor's approval. May be outside of the department.

Foreign Language Requirements

• Met by graduation requirement
• Proficiency equivalent to three semesters of college instruction in a foreign language taught by the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures or the Department of History (Hebrew). Standardized examinations for foreign languages may be used to meet the requirement. With departmental approval, a cultural/multicultural or related course offered by the Department of English may be used to satisfy one semester of the Graduation requirement.

Additional Requirements

• The English Department offers multiple opportunities to complete the signature experience requirement. Please consult the Undergraduate Advisor for a full listing.

Required Minors

Departmental exit requirements.

• Maintain and achieve a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all courses used towards the major.

University Minimum Exit Requirements

• A 2.0 UCF GPA
• 42 semester hours of upper division credit completed
• 60 semester hours earned after CLEP awarded
• 30 of the last 39 hours of course work must be completed in residency at UCF.
• A maximum of 45 hours of extension, correspondence, CLEP, Credit by Exam, and Armed Forces credits permitted.
• Complete the General Education Program, the Gordon Rule, and nine hours of Summer credit.

Total Undergraduate Credit Hours Required: 120

Additional information, honors in major (9 credit hours).

• Application and admission through the English Honors Committee and the Honors College.
• Fulfill University requirements for Honors in the Major.
• Grade of "B" (3.0) or better in an English graduate or undergraduate course or in a graduate or undergraduate course outside the major that relates to thesis with approval (3 hrs), Directed Readings (3 hrs), and Thesis hours (3 hrs).
• Successful completion and oral defense of Honors thesis.

Related Programs

• English, Technical Communication (B.A.)
• English, Literature (B.A.)

Certificates

• Editing and Publishing Certificate

Related Minors

• English, Linguistics Minor
• English, Technical Communication Minor
• Writing and Rhetoric Minor
• English, Literature Minor

Advising Notes

Transfer notes.

• Lower division courses do not substitute for upper division courses.
• Courses transferred from private and out-of-state schools must be evaluated for equivalency credit. The student must provide all supporting information.

Acceptable Substitutes for Transfer Courses

Program academic learning compacts.

• Program Academic Learning Compacts (student learning outcomes) for undergraduate programs are located at: https://oeas.ucf.edu/about/academiclearningcompacts/

Plan of Study

Freshman Year - Fall (15 Credit Hours)

• ENC 1101 - Composition I Credit Hours: 3
• GEP Credit Hours: 3

Freshman Year - Spring (16 Credit Hours)

• ENC 1102 - Composition II Credit Hours: 3
• Foreign Language Elementary I Credit Hours: 4

Sophomore Year - Fall (16 Credit Hours)

• LIT 2110 or LIT 2120 Credit Hours: 3
• Foreign Language Elementary II Credit Hours: 4
• Elective Credit Hours: 3

Sophomore Year - Spring (15 Credit Hours)

• CRW 3013 - Creative Writing for English Majors Credit Hours: 3
• CRW 3053 - Theory & Practice of Creative Writing Credit Hours: 3
• Pre-1865 Literary History Elective Credit Hours: 3
• Pre- or Post-1865 Literary History Elective Credit Hours: 3
• Foreign Language Intermediate I or English Diversity or Elective Credit Hours: 3

Junior Year - Fall (15 Credit Hours)

• ENG 3014 - Theories and Techniques of Literature Study Credit Hours: 3
• Post-1865 Literary History Elective Credit Hours: 3
• Writing Workshop Credit Hours: 3

Junior Year - Spring (15 Credit Hours)

• Advanced Writing Workshop Credit Hours: 3

Senior Year - Fall (15 Credit Hours)

• Creative Writing Elective Credit Hours: 3
• Upper Level Elective Credit Hours: 3

Senior Year - Spring (13 Credit Hours)

• Elective Credit Hours: 1

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Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing

In a world polarized through hatred and fear, well-written stories and poetry have the capacity to enlarge our compassion, sharpen our senses, and offer new visions for the future. Those who can write and tell stories well hold the keys to helping people, institutions, and businesses navigate a changing world. Creative Writing marries concrete, pragmatic skills with creative exercise and dreaming big. Becoming a better writer is not easy. It takes passionate, committed students to listen deeply, explore inquisitively, and inspire fiercely.

Creative Writing at John Carroll University

The best way to become a better writer? To write. The Creative Writing major and minor at John Carroll allows you to gain intensive workshop experience in writing poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Another way to become a better writer? Read. Writing practice combined with critical review and analysis from the classics to modern creative works and everything in between.

As a Creative Writing major, you will learn to:

• Read texts with active, critical skills to form and articulate accomplished interpretations
• Produce multiple drafts of original creative works that are honed and revised through the peer workshop and faculty review process
• Produce written analyses of creative texts that demonstrate awareness of audience, artistic form, organizational sophistication, and clear argumentation
• Build oral communication skills by listening to others' ideas and articulating their own responses and questions clearly to situate themselves in the conversation
• Gain knowledge of cultural and historical contexts of Anglophone and translated creative works that enhance their appreciation for the voices either within or marginalized by the texts

Each of these is honed by faculty mentors who care deeply about your growth as a writer and human being.

As a Creative Writing major at John Carroll, you will gather intensive workshop experience in writing poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. These workshops are intimate with not more than 15 students. Your professors are actively publishing, dynamic writers and instructors, which is why John Carroll boasts one of the most respected Visiting Writers programs in Ohio. You’ll have a chance to meet and work with nationally known visitors to our campus, people like Billy Collins, Rita Dove, Simon Armitage, Paul Muldoon, and Robert Pinsky.

The Creative Writing minor is the perfect complement to any other degree – from biology to pre-law. Whether you’re set on graduate school, or seeking a career in business, every industry seeks good writers who can effectively put complex thoughts into digestible, understandable terms. Whether you’ve always had a love of writing poems or you’d like to keep exercising your storytelling muscle, the creative writing minor is an examination into all kinds of writing – fiction and nonfiction, narrative and poetry –  as well as the important, foundational skills for doing so. Set yourself apart and bring with you a skill that is useful in every field.

job growth predicted over the next decade

Percentage of employers that want a candidate with strong written communication skills. A skill among the top three most desired overall.

of all writers are self employed

BA in Creative Writing Program Highlights

Real teaching, amazing experience, jobs & internships, featured faculty.

At John Carroll, your professors are actively publishing, dynamic writers and instructors, which is why we boast one of the most respected Visiting Writers programs in Ohio. You’ll have a chance to meet and work with nationally known visitors to our campus, people like Billy Collins, Rita Dove, Simon Armitage, Paul Muldoon, Reginald Dwayne Betts, Roxane Gay, Kiese Laymon, Naomi Shihab Nye, and Robert Pinsky, in intimate discussion-based classes.

Find real-world, transformative experiences that build on your writing and reading skills, as well as your worldview through unique, collaborative opportunities like peace-building classes in Ireland, Environmental Literature courses, workshops with actors from the London Stage, or chances to publish something brilliant from start to publication of the  Carroll Review

Our students take advantage of a range of internship and professional development opportunities both on and off campus. Work as a consultant in the University Writing Center; serve as both an editor for or contributor to the  Carroll Review , our student-run literary journal; or gain experience at every level of a campus newspaper, from beat reporter to executive editor at the award-winning  Carroll News.  Over your summer, land a paid internship with the Young Writers’ Workshop, a weeklong camp for students in 8th-12th grades. Or go off campus, and intern at organizations like Lake Erie Ink, Cleveland Magazine, American Greetings, or a number of locally headquartered, multinational companies.

"I'm a firm believer that every person has a universe of stories to share. But fiction isn't simply an escape to another realm. Fiction is resistance, an avenue for self-reflection, a way to find a piece of ourselves in other worlds. The best stories I've read shook my perceptions of the real world and have aided me in my own purpose to write." —Isaiah Hunt, Hopkins Post-Graduate Fellow - English

Featured Courses

En 133 introduction to creative writing workshop.

Fundamentals and practice of creative writing across genres. Prerequisite: EN 125 or equivalent.

EN 402 ADVANCED FICTION WRITING WORKSHOP

Intense, advanced work in crafting short stories.Prerequisites: EN 131, EN 132, EN 133, or EN 134.

EN 491 FEMINIST LITERARY CRITICISM

Women have used writing as a means to express their perspectives for centuries. This course studies the various theories of feminist literary criticism, including the social construction of gender and identity, the possibilities for women’s creative expression, and the influence of gender-related issues on the study of literary texts.

Notable Alum

Christopher Kempf, Creative Writing ’07

Status:  Author, MFA Professor at University of Illinois

What inspired your future?

Studying Creative Writing at John Carroll taught me to recognize the power and possibilities of language, and how, in ways great and small, it shapes our lives on a daily basis. Not only did the small class sizes and committed professors make for a highly enjoyable experience, but Creative Writing at John Carroll prepared me for a wide range of careers in which creativity, imagination, and inventiveness with language are necessary. I am extraordinarily grateful to have been a part of those classes.

Creative Writing Alumni Across the Region

John Carroll University alumni live, work, teach and support communities throughout the region from Northeast Ohio to Chicago, Indianapolis, Detroit, Columbus, Buffalo, Rochester, Pittsburgh, New York City, Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

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• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Explore your creativity, hone your writing skills, and find your voice.

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About this Program

The Department of English in the College of Liberal Arts offers the B.F.A. in Creative Writing. A major in Creative Writing emphasizes the craft of writing and of revising creative literary work in several genres, including fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and nonfiction. The study of creative writing requires close reading of literary works, discussion and critique of peers’ work in workshop settings, and the development of creative writing techniques and strategies.

Creative Writing serves students who wish to improve their writing, communication, and analytic skills, as well as strengthen their imaginative and expressive faculties.

• Creative Writing majors at UM study with acclaimed literature faculty as well as award-winning and bestselling creative writers in a town renowned for its literary and artistic culture. They hone their skills in small seminars alongside talented and creative students.

Application

After admission to the university, interested students must apply separately for this degree program. The department has an application form on its website along with brief instructions. 

The Value of a Creative Writing Degree

The B.F.A. in Creative Writing offers students experiences that are useful for any profession and are pivotal for meaningful participation in a thriving economy and society. The number one skill desired by employers in nation-wide surveys is written communication. In addition to honing this skill, s students explore diverse representations of human experience and ultimately learn how language shapes the world.

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Program information, program type, area of study.

College of Liberal Arts

B.F.A. in Creative Writing

Program Location

Required credit hours, degree requirements.

See the information below on the creative writing major and minor. For a full description, visit the  online catalog .

Students in the B.F.A. in Creative Writing degree complete 53 credit hours of English courses and 9 credit hours of courses outside the department. Students finish the program with a creative writing thesis, oral defense of the thesis, and participate in a public reading or showcase. 

Literary History Core:

• Eng 299. Intro to Literary Studies 
• One course from the list of Medieval and Early Modern Literatures list (see English major)
• One course from 18th/19th Century Literatures list (see English major)
• One course from Diverse Perspectives list (see English major)
• Two courses of literature electives at the 300-level or higher.

Creative Writing Core: 

• Eng 199 or 300: Intro to Creative Writing
• Eng 298: Intro to Form, Craft, and Influence
• Eng 301: Poetry Workshop
• Eng 302: Fiction Workshop
• Eng 308: Editing, Writing, and Digital Publishing
• Eng 400: Advanced Poetry Workshop
• Eng 401: Advanced Fiction Workshop

Creative Writing Electives:

• Eng 303: Nonfiction Workshop
• Eng 304: Screenwriting Workshop
• Eng 402: Advanced Nonfiction Workshop
• Eng 403: Advanced Screenwriting Workshop
• Eng 404: Special Topics in Creative Writing
• Eng 405: Nature Writing
• Eng 515: Nonfiction Workshop
• Eng 516: Fiction Workshop
• Eng 517: Poetry Workshop

Creative Writing Thesis:

• Eng 499: Thesis (final two semesters)
• Eng 498: Thesis Workshop 
• Eng 499: Senior Thesis

Courses Outside the Department:

Students complete 9 credit hours of courses from an approved list of Advanced Interdisciplinary Histories, Practices, and Theories of Art. Other courses may be approved by the program director.

African American Studies

• AAS 337: Anthropology of Blues Culture
• AAS 395: Survey of Black American Art
• AAS 412: Studies in Black Popular Culture
• *AAS courses cross-listed with Eng cannot count

Art and Art History

• Any 300-level or above AH or Art course
• Clc 303. Greek and Roman Tragedy
• Clc 304. Greek and Roman Comedy
• Clc 305. Topics in Classical Mythology
• Clc 307. Survey of Greek Literature
• Clc 308. Survey of Roman Literature
• Clc 309. Greek and Roman Epic
• Clc 315. Egyptian Art and Archaeology
• Clc 316. Bronze Age Aegean Art & Archaeology
• Clc 317. Etruscan Art and Archaeology
• Clc 318. Greek Vase Painting
• Clc 319. Greek Sculpture
• Clc 320. Greek Architecture
• Clc 321. Greek Art and Archaeology
• Clc 322. Roman Art and Archaeology
• Clc 323. Art & Archaeology of Pompeii
• Clc 328. Ancient Art on Location
• Clc 333. Poetry and Politics at Rome

Gender Studies

• G St 330. Queer Rhetorics
• G St 350. Gender and Sexuality in Cinema
• G St 353. Gender and Sexuality in the Media
• G St 442. Feminist Rhetorics
• Hst 456. Southern Music History
• Hst 481. Topics in History and Film
• Hst 482. Samurai in Film

  Philosophy & Religion

• Phil 320. Aesthetics
• Phil 355. Philosophy of Film
• Rel 386. Religion and Film

Sociology and Anthropology

• Anth 302. Anthropological Films
• Anth 305. Archaeology
• Anth 306. Archaeology of the Ancient Celts
• Anth 308. Death and Dying of the Ancient Celts
• Anth 324. North American Archaeology
• Anth 332. Early Medieval Art and Archaeology
• Anth 335. Archaeological Field Session
• Anth 336. Viking Art and Archaeology
• Anth 337. Anthropology of Blues Culture
• Anth 339. Art & Archaeology of Pompeii
• Anth 412. Ceramic Analysis
• Soc 315. Leisure and Popular Culture
• Soc 440. Sociology of Music

Southern Studies

• S St 533. Fieldwork and Oral History
• S St 534. Documentary Photography
• S St 537. Documenting the South in Film
• S St 540. Photographing Place in the U.S. South

Theatre and Film

• Thea 305. Screenwriting I
• Thea 321. Theatre History I
• Thea 322. Theatre History II
• Thea 325. Playwriting
• Thea 329. Queer Playwriting & American Culture
• Thea 406. Screenwriting II
• Thea 421. Musical Theatre History and Literature I
• Thea 422. Musical Theatre History and Literature II
• Thea 463. Writing from Stage to Screen

Writing & Rhetoric

• Rhet 330. Queer Rhetorics
• Rhet 442. Feminist Rhetorics

A minor in Creative Writing requires 18 credit hours of English courses and approved electives taught outside the department in Classics and Linguistics.

• Clc 303: Greek and Roman Tragedy
• Clc 304: Greek and Roman Comedy
• Clc 305: Topics in Classical Mythology
• Clc 307: Survey of Greek Literature
• Clc 308: Survey of Roman Literature
• Clc 309: Greek and Roman Epic
• Clc 333: Poetry and Politics at Rome
• Lin 303: Phonology
• Lin 304: Morphology
• Lin 305: Syntax
• Lin 506: Discourse Analysis
• Lin 510: Advanced English Grammar
• Lin 511: Dialects of English
• Lin 520: Historical Linguistics

See all English courses in the online catalog .

What is Creative Writing?

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Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Journalism

Transfer Credits

Next start date, expand your reporting and writing skills with an online journalism degree from liberty university.

Have you ever wanted to write for a magazine, news journal, or website? If so, then this program might be for you! At Liberty, you can learn how to compose original text with your own creative flair. Our journalism degree can help you gain the research and writing skills needed to craft compelling pieces that captivate your reader and move them emotionally.

Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Creative Writing – Journalism is an exciting and dynamic degree program that can help prepare you for a career in the media industry. With a focus on writing for social media, news and print, and multimedia storytelling, this journalism major can help equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to excel in a variety of fields.

Why Choose Liberty’s BS in Creative Writing – Journalism Degree?

There are many reasons why you might choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Journalism. One of the main benefits of this degree is that it is 100% online, making it convenient and accessible for students with busy schedules. Additionally, this program is designed to be completed in just 3.5 years, allowing you to earn your degree quickly and start your career sooner.

Furthermore, the Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Journalism program is unique in its focus on both creative writing and journalism. This means you’ll gain a well-rounded education that can provide a great foundation to begin a career in news media and content writing. Whether you want to be a journalist or branch out into other areas of writing, this degree can provide a pathway to accomplishing your goals.

Liberty’s online journalism degree is taught by experienced writers and journalists who have a wealth of knowledge to share. They’ll provide you with guidance and feedback as you develop your skills and work on your writing.

What Will You Learn in Our Online Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism?

In the Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Journalism program, you can learn competencies that are essential for success in a variety of journalism and creative writing industries. From writing novellas to writing for theater and film, you have the opportunity to develop many abilities that can help boost your marketability. Some of the skills you can develop include:

• Writing and Storytelling : You can learn how to craft compelling stories that engage and inform your audience, whether writing news articles, feature stories, or multimedia content.
• Journalism Fundamentals : You will explore the basics of journalism, including how to conduct interviews, fact-check information, and write in a style that is appropriate for different types of media.
• Print and Digital Publishing : In today’s media landscape, digital skills are essential. You can learn how to use a variety of digital tools and build platforms that focus on maturing your writing skill and brand.
• Professional Skills : In addition to creative and technical skills, you can also develop the professional skills you need to succeed in the workplace – including teamwork, communication, and project management.

Additionally, you can learn how to write for cultural engagement and convey nuanced meaning in your work. Your studies will culminate in a senior capstone that will synthesize the knowledge and training you have gained over the course of this journalism degree.

Featured Courses

• WRIT 201 – Introduction to Creative Writing
• WRIT 400 – Editing for Publishing
• WRIT 404 – Print and Digital Publishing*
• WRIT 417 – Writing for Cultural Engagement*

*Course guide coming soon

Highlights of Our Journalism Bachelor’s Degree

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years — and counting.
• To continue our mission of providing affordable education,  electronic textbooks are provided for all undergraduate courses at no cost to you. As a full-time student, this could save you an estimated $800-2,000 per year on textbooks!
• Liberty University has partnered with New York Times bestselling author and Christian novelist, Karen Kingsbury, to create the Karen Kingsbury Center for Creative Writing . Your curriculum includes content developed by Karen Kingsbury herself.
• Liberty University holds institutional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).
• This online journalism bachelor’s degree is taught by experienced professionals who are experts in the fields of journalism and creative writing.

Bachelor’s in Creative Writing – Journalism Degree Information

• This program falls under the College of Arts and Sciences .
• Download and review the Degree Completion Plan .
• View our Undergraduate Arts and Sciences Course Guides (login required).

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Military Benefits for Our Online Undergraduate Programs

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students from all over the globe. Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey.

As a thank-you for your dedication and service to our country, Liberty is honored to serve and support you in your pursuit of online education by offering the following benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $565 per course)
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
• Potential college credit for military training

Potential Career Opportunities for BS in Creative Writing – Journalism Graduates

• Professional blogger
• Social media coordinator

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Online Degrees

Applicants must have a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA for admission in good standing. Please visit our  admission requirements page  for more detailed admissions-related information. 

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Unofficial college transcripts may be accepted with a completed official transcript request form**
• Students may be allowed to enroll in up to 12 credit hours with Liberty with the submission of an unofficial high school transcript and our High School Self-Certification form
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

**An official transcript is needed within 60 days of acceptance or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

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Department of English

Left to Right: Undergraduate Department Representatives Cayenn Landau, Hannah Heimann, Irina Znamirowski and Autumn Bellan at the Meet the Major / Book Exchange.

When you major in creative writing at Brandeis, you will immerse yourself in small writing workshops, literary studies, and studio or performing art, all of which prepare you for a writerly life.

You will emerge with a strong grasp of historical and contemporary literature and culture as well as a sense of your own creative voice. Within the major, you may choose to concentrate on fiction, poetry or screenplay. Those who pursue honors within the major will work closely with a mentor to produce a body of high-caliber creative work. 

Why Brandeis?

Creative writing has a long history at Brandeis: taught since 1951, it has been a major in its own right since 2003.

Unlike other creative writing programs, our workshops are taught solely by established writers. You will learn your craft from working writers who are widely published and also dedicated teachers. Our impressive roster of past visiting writers includes Alice Walker, John Irving and Saul Bellow.

Our workshops are small — 14 students maximum. And because they are open to all, you will work closely with a wonderfully diverse group of peers majoring in neuroscience, Judaic studies, African and African-American studies, fine arts, law, business, biology and other areas.

Our program is also unusually active, sponsoring reading series, student awards, panel discussions, workshops on publishing, and journal and performance opportunities. Our Reading Series brings nationally known poets, novelists and translators to campus for readings and meetings with students. Featured readers have included Tom Perrotta, Jamaica Kincaid, Carl Phillips, Kazim Ali, Adrienne Rich, Sharon Olds, Mark Doty and others.

Interdisciplinary Study

As a creative writing major, you may take classes in related disciplines such as theater, comparative literature, African and African-American studies and philosophy.

You may also double major, as many of our students have, in disciplines as varied as math, biology, computer science, psychology and more.

You may apply to write a senior creative writing honors thesis in fiction or poetry. The honors thesis is a year-long project that results in a full-length collection of stories, novella, or poetry collection. A semester-long honors project, which results in a shorter body of work, is also available.

Creative Outlets

The Leonard Bernstein Festival of the Creative Arts sponsors student-run initiatives, such as writer/artist collaborations, installations and spoken-word performances.

There are also many student publications on campus to which you can submit your work and/or for which you may join the editorial staff, including:

Laurel Moon ― poetry, fiction, translation

Blacklist (formerly Where The Children Play) ― poetry, stories, art, photography

The Justice ― weekly newspaper

The Hoot ― independent weekly newspaper

Faculty Excellence

Our faculty include some of the best writers of fiction and poetry today:

Elizabeth Bradfield , Co-director, is the author of four poetry collections, most recently "Toward Antarctica," and also a collaboration with a visual artist, "Theorem." She also recently co-edited " Cascade Field Guide: Art Ecology Poetry ." Her work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Poetry and Orion, and she has received a Stegner Fellowship, the Audre Lorde Prize and other honors. The founder and editor in chief of Broadsided Press, she also works as a naturalist on expedition ships around the globe.

Stephen McCauley , Co-director, has published nine novels (including "The Object of My Affection" and "My Ex-Life") as well as articles, personal essays and reviews in The New York Times, The New York Times Book Review, The Boston Globe, Vogue, Harpers, Vanity Fair and other publications. Three of his novels have been made into feature films, and he was named a Chevalier in the Order of Arts and Letters by the French Ministry of Culture.

Marc Weinberg , Screenwriter, began his career in film as a story analyst working in development for studios and production companies. A graduate of UCLA's acclaimed MFA program in screenwriting, Weinberg transitioned to professional writer with the sale of a supernatural thriller to USA Network. He has sold scripts and story ideas that have been set up at studios and production companies, including Paramount Pictures and Citadel Entertainment. Weinberg’s credits also include several episodes of scripted entertainment for the Discovery Channel.

Every year, two distinguished authors join our faculty as the Fannie Hurst Fiction Writer and the Jacob Ziskind Poet. Past writers include J.M. Coetzee, Lorrie Moore, Li Young Lee, Denis Johnson, Russell Banks, Gish Jen, Grace Paley, Anne Waldman, Li Young Lee, Robert Creeley, Junot Diaz, Elizabeth McCracken, Chen Chen, and Grace Talusan. Porsha Olayiwola is the current Jacob Ziskind Visiting Poet-in-Residence and Christopher Castellani is the current Writer in Residence.

Internships and Study Abroad

Our majors have held internships at varied places, such as the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, Conde Nast Publications, the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, the Rees Literary Agency, the Denise Shannon Literary Agency, Macmillan Publishers, Simon and Schuster Publishers, Fox Searchlight Films, the Atlantic Monthly magazine, and many others.

Study Abroad

Many of our majors spend a summer or a semester studying in one of 70 countries, often in programs focused on literature and writing.

Other Opportunities

The department awards nearly $1,000 annually for outstanding student work, including:

The Dafna Zamarripa-Gesundheit Award, awarded for the best fiction published in the literary journal Laurel Moon.

The Andrew Grossbardt Award for the best poem.

Several more awards are given for creative honors theses.

Careers, Graduate Study and Alumni

Diverse career opportunities.

Many of our majors go on to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree in poetry, fiction, screenwriting, or creative nonfiction.

Another popular post-BA option is the six-week Columbia Publishing Course, which prepares students for careers in the publishing industry. Many enter fields related to writing, such as publishing, academia, advertising, and copywriting for a variety of businesses, including digital agencies and startups.

The Writing Life

Many of our graduates and workshop attendees are published writers or work in writing. They have received fellowships at such prestigious universities as Harvard, Cornell, Syracuse, Michigan, Arizona, Oregon, the Michner Center, and Washington. Their awards have included a Ruth Lily Poetry Fellowship finalist, Best American Poetry publications, the Loraine Williams Poetry Prize, the Glastock Poetry Competition and others.

Some of our graduates have gone on to teach at Tufts, Rhode Island School of Design, Columbia, Emerson, The New School and Bentley College.

Creative writing majors and those who have studied in our workshops include:

Award-winning author Ha Jin

Poets Linda Pastan, Alicia Ostriker and Mary Leader

Playwright and screenwriter Theresa Rebeck

Poet, fiction writer and memoirist Shirley Geok-Lin Lim

New York Times best-selling memoirist and journalist Daniel Smith

Emmy-winning writer and comedian Josh Gondleman

Ethan Mermelstein, script coordinator on “Nurse Jackie” and “Girls”

Kendra Fortmeyer, author of YA novel Hole in the Middle

Lindsay Goldwert, author of nonfiction book Bow Down

Elisa Albert, author of three novels, including The Book of Dahlia and After Birth

Christopher Boucher, author of three novels, including Golden Delicious

• Undergraduate English Program
• Senior Honors Track

Minor in Creative Writing

You might choose the creative writing minor to complement a major in comparative literature, economics, education studies or another field. See the requirements for the minor in the University Bulletin .

Undergraduate Advising Heads

Contact Professors  Elizabeth Bradfield or Stephen McCauley to learn more about how the Creative Writing curriculum is structured and what you would need to do to major in this field.

Major/Minor Declaration Form

Program Faculty

• Co-Director Elizabeth Bradfield
• Co-Director Stephen McCauley
• Jacob Ziskind Poet in Residence Porsha Olayiwola
• Writer in Residence Christopher Castellani
• Adjunct Assistant Professor Marc Weinberg
• Professor Paloma Valenzuela
• Professor Emerita Olga Broumas
• Professor Emerita Mary Baine Campbell

Contact the Undergraduate Department Representative

“I've gotten to the point where I'll go to office hours for professors whose classes I'm not in anymore just to hang out and catch up. I'm so close with them, I'd invite them to my wedding.”

Sarah Bierman ’14

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Undergraduate creative arts

Study creative arts and be part of the creative economy. Meet like-minded peers in our exciting community, work on real-world projects, and graduate with a unique and employable skill set.

Explore our courses

Bachelor of fine arts.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree provides in depth knowledge in one of nine study areas - the largest combination of creative disciplines in Australia. Collaborate with students and teaching staff from across disciplines to reflect industry practice, and work on real-world projects briefed by real clients.

Bachelor of Creative Industries

Study across creative practice, design and communication in one degree. Our Bachelor of Creative Industries, the first degree of its kind in Australia, allows you to choose a combination of study areas to suit your creative interests and aspirations.

Double degrees

A double degree can help develop a portfolio of skills and capabilities so you will be flexible and prepared for change in the real world. Save time and money instead of completing two separate degrees. Maximise your career opportunities and create your own specialist career niche within the creative industries by combining your degree with a complementary study area that interests you.

Discover double degrees

Why study creative arts?

Tour the creative industries precinct, creativity for the real world, explore our fine arts study areas, creative industries precinct.

The Creative Industries Precinct is made up of purpose-built teaching and learning spaces, including performance spaces, visual art galleries and music studios. The spaces are designed to make the creative process more visible, with windows and viewing panels allowing anyone to watch the work as it happens.

Explore more

Double degree. Double opportunities.

A double degree can help you develop a portfolio of skills and capabilities to prepare you for the real world. Maximise your career opportunities and create your own specialist career niche within the creative arts by combining a degree with a complementary study area.

Find the right double degree for you

Check out our latest blog posts

14 September, 2023

The job-ready skills you’ll learn in creative industries

Learn all the secrets of studying creative industries, and the job-ready skills you'll pick up along the way.

1 August, 2023

Virtual production powerhouse Vizion gives students industry-leading experience

Learn about the experience QUT Creative Arts students were given to collaborate with Vizion, an industry-leading virtual production powerhouse.

Rainbow Reid: Bringing industry insights into QUT fine arts

QUT’s exclusive Rainbow Reid program helps fund directors, writers, actors and more from industry to help train students for the real world.

Want to study across the creative arts?

QUT is a global leader in the creative arts. Our Bachelor of Creative Industries, the first degree of its kind in Australia, allows you to choose a combination of study areas to suit your creative interests and aspirations.

We're planning more great events for you soon! Check back later to see what's on.

Take a virtual tour

Explore our campuses with 360⁰ videos and 3D tours of the facilities available to our students.

Additional entry: applications close early

Acting, dance, music, visual arts.

Apply to QTAC and submit your additional entry application with QUT by 5pm, 26 September 2022

Additional entry requirements