bachelor of arts in creative writing subjects

Earning A Creative Writing Degree: All About A Bachelor’s In Creative Writing

Updated: Aug 24, 2023, 11:05am

When thinking about creative writing, you may recall Emily Dickinson writing evocative poems, Nicholas Sparks penning love stories or Ernest Hemingway tapping away on an old typewriter. While these are all creative writers at work, not all professionals in the field are authors; there are other career options for you if you love writing and want to make it your career.

Though not always required, many writing jobs call for a bachelor’s degree. From writing novels to reporting news stories, a creative writing degree equips you with strong writing and communication skills to prepare you for a fulfilling, imaginative career.

This article discusses bachelor’s degrees in creative writing, admission requirements, common courses and job options. Read on to learn how a creative writing degree prepares you for a writing career.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

What Is a Creative Writing Degree?

A creative writing degree teaches you the techniques behind many writing projects, including fiction, nonfiction, screenplays, biographies and poems.

A bachelor’s degree in creative writing focuses on the principles of effective storytelling, writing for different genres and developing believable characters. You hone essential skills through giving and receiving feedback from peers and instructors, preparing you for many jobs requiring strong writing skills.

A bachelor’s degree in creative writing requires about 120 credits and takes four years of full-time study to complete. Accelerated programs may take less time.

Admission requirements for a bachelor’s in creative writing typically align with the university’s general admission requirements and include a completed application, transcripts from previous coursework and English proficiency. Because each school is different, these requirements may vary.

Specializations for Creative Writing Majors

Many creative writing programs offer areas of concentration, which allow you to focus your studies. Offerings vary by program, but below are a few typical specializations for students pursuing creative writing degrees.

This concentration covers all aspects of fiction writing, including character development, storytelling, plot development, narrative voice, various genres, publishing techniques and the mechanics of fiction writing. It prepares you to write engaging stories and bring them to life.

A nonfiction concentration allows you to explore many types of nonfiction writing, including autobiography, travel writing and magazine writing. It also touches on publishing technologies and teaches you how to use research and reflection to create stories that resonate with readers.

With a poetry concentration, you learn to tap into your imagination to write work that creates engaging imagery and inspires others. Coursework includes poetry writing workshops where you and other students share your work for feedback and support.

Screenwriting

A screenwriting concentration prepares you to write for Hollywood productions, such as television shows, documentaries, short films and movies. With this concentration, you learn about story structure, character development and visual storytelling.

Common Courses in a Creative Writing Degree

Introduction to creative writing.

This course covers the essential mechanics of creative writing, such as point of view, setting, dialogue, imagery, scene development and characterization. As a student in this class, you can expect to read and critique your peers’ work and get feedback on your own.

Writing with Digital Media

Since digital media has become an essential medium for disseminating information, no creative writing program would be complete without a digital media course. This course covers writing and publishing across digital media formats and how to use audience, purpose and context in your writing.

Introduction to Screen and TV Writing

If you are interested in working as a screenwriter for films or television, this course helps get you started. It provides an overview of narrative screenwriting, the history and development of screenwriting, and storytelling principles used in writing for film and television.

Introduction to the Writing of Creative Nonfiction

Creative writing students need to know how to write both nonfiction and fiction. In this course, you learn the mechanics of writing original nonfiction while reading and studying contemporary nonfiction.

Fiction Writing Workshop

In this course, students explore writing different types of fiction pieces. They then share their work with each other and engage in discussion and group commentary.

Creative Writing Degree vs. English Degree: What’s the Difference?

While there are overlapping subjects in the English and creative writing disciplines, these degrees are a bit different.

An English bachelor’s degree focuses on both writing and literary studies. In this major, learners study various types of writing, such as creative, fiction, nonfiction, poetry, digital and professional writing. They also explore literature and build analytical, editorial and cultural literacy skills. It’s common for programs to offer English concentrations such as literature or creative writing.

A creative writing degree more narrowly hones students’ writing skills rather than focusing on literary subjects. This degree prepares learners for careers as screenwriters, novelists, journalists, poets and other writing professionals.

If you know you want to work in a creative writing career , a creative writing degree may be a good fit. If you prefer a broader degree that includes a more in-depth study of literature and literary theory in addition to writing, an English degree may be a better option.

What Can You Do With a Creative Writing Degree?

Below are a few popular jobs you can pursue with a creative writing degree. We sourced salary data for this section from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Payscale .

Writer or Author

Median Annual Salary: $73,150 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree; high school diploma sometimes acceptable Job Overview: The roles of authors and writers vary depending on the type of writing they do. They may write content for various mediums, such as books, magazines, advertisements, blogs, films, television programs, biographies or speeches. Writers often work closely with editors, advertising agencies and other stakeholders to create pieces for print or digital publication. Some writers are freelancers who work with multiple clients.

Median Annual Salary: $73,080 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree Job Overview: Editors review and revise written content to ensure clarity, concision and accuracy. They must have excellent grammar and proofreading skills. These professionals may also plan and develop story ideas and collaborate with writers to ensure high-quality final products. Editors often work for magazines, book publishers, advertising firms and television broadcasters.

Median Annual Salary: $55,960 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field Job Overview: Journalists write stories about current events and newsworthy issues to inform the public. Successful journalists have strong interviewing and investigative skills. They may work for broadcast news organizations, newspapers, magazines, or other print or digital publications. Some journalists are freelancers who write for multiple publications, and some work as columnists, news anchors or news correspondents.

Average Annual Salary: Around $57,300 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree; high school diploma sometimes acceptable Job Overview: Copywriters are persuasive marketing writers who craft copy that advertises or encourages readers to take a specific action, such as purchasing a product or signing up for a newsletter. These professionals often write advertisements, company slogans or taglines, website copy and marketing emails. Copywriters commonly work for advertising agencies or marketing departments; some are freelancers.

Screenwriter

Average Annual Salary: Around $71,000 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree; high school diploma sometimes acceptable Job Overview: Screenwriters , sometimes called script writers, write, revise and test scripts for television shows, commercials and films. These scripts may be original stories or stories based on books. Screenwriters need a firm grasp of dialogue and character development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About a Creative Writing Degree

How many years does it take to get a creative writing degree.

A bachelor’s in creative writing typically requires 120 credits and takes four years to complete. Your degree may take longer if you study part time, and accelerated programs may allow you to complete your degree faster.

How much do creative writers make?

Salaries for creative writers vary drastically depending on their job title. For example, a best-selling author earns much more than a small-town newspaper journalist. According to the BLS, writers made a median annual salary of $73,150 as of May 2022.

• How To Become A Journalist
• How To Become A News Anchor
• What Can You Do With A History Degree?
• What Can You Do With A Journalism Degree?
• Writing Careers: 6 Jobs To Check Out
• Where Can You Complete An Online Art Therapy Master's Program In 2024?
• Where Can You Earn An Online Art History Master's Degree?
• Best Online Creative Writing Degree Programs
• Best Online English Degrees
• Best Master's In English Online Programs
• Best Journalism Schools Online
• Best Master's In Math Education Online
• Best Online Master’s In History Degree
• Best Online Master’s In Interior Design
• Best Online Master’s In Journalism Programs
• Fashion Merchandising Degrees
• Earning A Master's In Creative Writing
• Earning An English Bachelor’s Degree
• Earning A Bachelor’s Degree In History
• Bachelor’s Degrees In Journalism
• Earning A Bachelor’s Degree In Music
• 9 Types Of Music Degrees, Plus Concentration Options

Where Can You Complete An Online Art Therapy Master’s Program In 2024?

Where To Earn An Online Photography Degree In 2024

Best Master’s In Math Education Online Of 2024

Best Online Master’s In Music Education Of 2024

Best Online Master’s In History Degrees Of 2024

Best Online Master’s In Journalism Programs Of 2024

Sheryl Grey is a freelance writer who specializes in creating content related to education, aging and senior living, and real estate. She is also a copywriter who helps businesses grow through expert website copywriting, branding and content creation. Sheryl holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Indiana University South Bend, and she received her teacher certification training through Bethel University’s Transition to Teaching program.

Popular Keywords

No Record Found

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing (4 years)

Offered by the Faculty of Arts and Letters – Department of Literature

Description.

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing is a four-year program that is designed to nurture and guide aspiring student writers in the four major genres: poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and drama. It will also teach them to write in the special forms of creative writing, like writing for children and young adults, scriptwriting for film and television, speculative fiction, literary journalism, travel writing, food writing, nature writing, and even literary translation. The creative writing classes consist of both lecture sessions, in which literary models (professional examples in the different types and forms of creative writing) will be analyzed, highlighting the effectiveness of their literary techniques and rhetorical strategies; and workshop sessions, in which the creative writing drafts of the students will be critiqued by the professor and their peers. The program also has a strong literature component which will expose students to literature subjects, like Philippine Literary History, The Great Books, Anglo-American Literature, Latin American Literature, etc., that will help them improve their own writing craft, The final intended learning outcome of the entire program is the production of a creative writing thesis in the form of a book-length manuscript of a collection of poems, short stories, CNF pieces, or plays. 

Becoming Part of the Program

The University of Santo Tomas, in pursuit of truth, guided by reason and illumined by faith, dedicates herself to the generation, advancement, and transmission of knowledge to form competent and compassionate professionals committed to the service of the Church, the nation, and the global community.

I am a Thomasian. I carry the SEAL of Thomasian education. I am a S ervant leader, an E ffective communicator and collaborator, an A nalytical and creative thinker, and a L ifelong learner. With Christ at the center of my formation as a Thomasian, I am expected to demonstrate the following Thomasian Graduate Attributes ( ThoGAs ): 

SERVANT LEADER 

• Show leadership abilities to promote advocacies for life, freedom, justice, and solidarity in the service of the family, the local and global communities, the Church, and the environment. 
• Implement relevant projects and activities that speak of Christian compassion to the poor and the marginalized in order to raise their quality of life. 
• Show respect for the human person, regardless of race, religion, age, and gender. 

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR AND COLLABORATOR 

• Express oneself clearly, correctly, and confidently in various environments, contexts, and technologies of human interaction.
• Work productively with individuals or groups from diverse cultures and demographics. 
• Show profound respect for individual differences and/or uniqueness as members of God’s creation. 

ANALYTICAL AND CREATIVE THINKER 

• Show judiciousness and resourcefulness in making personal and professional decisions. 
• Engage in research undertakings that respond to societal issues. 
• Express personal and professional insights through an ethical and evidence-based approach. 

LIFELONG LEARNER 

• Engage in reflective practice to ensure disciplinal excellence and professional development. 
• Exhibit preparedness and interest for continuous upgrading of competencies required by the profession or area of specialization. 
• Manifest fidelity to the teachings of Christ, mediated by the Catholic Church, in the continuous deepening of faith and spirituality in dealing with new life situations and challenges. 

Upon successful completion of the UST B.A. in Creative Writing program:

PILO 1 : The students will have learned the current developments in the discipline of creative writing. 

PILO 2: The students will be able to write competently, both in terms of craft and of philosophical/socio-political/moral insights. 

PILO 3: The students will have acquired a rich and formal background in literature (particularly Philippine literature and the genre in which they work), which will enable them to articulate their own poetics. 

PILO 4: The students will have acquired a broad understanding of the role of creative writing and literature in cultural and social development. 

PILO 5 : The students will be motivated to become leaders of the literary community, not just in the University but in the larger society. 

PILO 6 : The students will have a high level of professionalism. 

Application Period: July to December of each year

Application Website

Release of Results: January 28 of the following year

Go to  THIS PAGE and look for the “Faculty of Arts and Letters” tab for the tuition fees.

Career Opportunities

Academic and Commercial Publishing Houses

Business Companies/ International Agencies

Reporters Writers Editors Copyeditors Proofreaders

Researchers Writers Production assistants Program producers Newscasters

Editors of newsletters, company reports, and speeches Communication officers. Freelance writers Writers of personal biographies, company histories, histories of institutions, municipalities and provinces “Content writers” – blogs which get sponsors, websites, online publishers Publicists for personalities Doing press releases and building media campaigns Academician in universities and the secondary schools Facilitators of creative writing workshops in government and private agencies In some universities, Creative Writing is also considered an effective pre-Law course.

Student Experience and Support

The University of Santo Tomas provides student services that cater to academic, spiritual, and wellness concerns of students. These support units are found in the different parts of the campus and can be accessed by Thomasians. When the University shifted to distance learning, the services also transitioned to online services to continue addressing the needs of Thomasians.

Program Curriculum (New)​

Effectivity: A.Y. 2021-2022

This curriculum may have some changes upon the availability of new guidelines.

Effectivity: A.Y. 2019-2020

Effectivity: A.Y. 2018-2019

Program Policies

Policies of the Faculty of Arts and Letters

Please be guided with regard to the policies of the Faculty of Arts and Letters for its students ( Academic Policies.pdf ).

Code of Conduct (PPS 1027)

The University of Santo Tomas is the second home of the Thomasian students. Its task is mainly to inform and improve the students’ character, attitude and moral values, as well as to develop their intellectual, physical and psychological fitness. A proper norm of conduct is designed to inculcate these ideals.

Thomasian students are hereby expected, in the exercise of their rights and performance of their obligations, whether inside or outside the campus, to respect and act in accordance with the principles, traditions and ideals that are authentically Filipino and Catholic. They must abide by the rules of conduct and discipline formulated by the University. By faithfully observing such rules, they will internalize and cherish the core values of competence, compassion, and commitment.

This Code of Conduct applies to all students who have officially enrolled and to the students who have not been issued transfer of credentials by UST, nor separated from academic relations within the University.

Thomasian students must always observe the positive values upheld by the University intended to improve their character and attitude, as well as inculcate good behavior and moral self-discipline.

The students must always comply with the following rules at all times, even when they are outside the campus, especially when they are wearing the prescribed uniform of their Faculty/College/Institute/School.

Students must behave honestly and with integrity in accordance with UST’s Catholic and Dominican teachings which put high premium on the practice of honesty, truth-telling, truth-seeking and truth-doing. They should not engage in any form of dishonesty, directly or indirectly, nor facilitate or aid in the commission of thereof. They should report to the authorities any suspected dishonest activity by any party.

Students must, at all times, be courteous and respectful to others. Courtesy is an act of respect towards another in recognition of the fundamental human dignity. It creates a climate of goodwill and fellowship.

Students must honor their family and the University by being diligent in their studies. They should have a natural thirst for knowledge and view their attendance in the University as an opportunity to learn and grow holistically. They must be punctual; must be present in their classes and participate in school-initiated activities; and must be prepared for their lessons, out-of-class tasks, and assessments.

Decency and Modesty

Students must give, at all times, act with proper decorum and etiquette. They shall not engage in indecent or lewd conduct which contrary to the mores of Catholic behavior and morality.

Students shall not use foul, vulgar, or rough language in conversations and communications.

The University upholds the sanctity of human life, as well as the sanctity of the conjugal act within marriage. In case a student gets pregnant out of wedlock, she must inform and seek the help of the SWDC, Guidance Counselor, and Father Regent for emotional support, counseling, and spiritual direction. To give the student adequate time and space to prepare for her the challenges and responsibility of parenthood and to take care of herself and the child, she will take a leave of absence from school two months before and two months after the delivery of the child.

In case the father of the child is a Thomasian student, he and his parents will be advised to participate in the guidance, counseling, and spiritual direction of both students and their child.

Good grooming includes the wearing of the prescribed uniform, the authorized shoes, the ID, the male haircut, and other considerations that are similar to these.

THE PRESCRIBED UNIFORMS

There are three classifications of prescribed uniforms. As a general rule, if students are in doubt, they are advised to wear their Type A uniform.

TYPE A  – for regular schooldays and formal University Events (e.g., accreditation, St. Thomas More Lecture, Major Exams)

• Official white blouse with lambda; Official A-line navy blue skirt; Black closed shoes
• Official polo barong; Black slacks (not jeans, not skinny); Plain white undershirt (no big colored prints); black closed shoes (leather is preferred; no rubber shoes)

TYPE B  – worn during:

• First Term: as announced (only for 2nd year and higher levels)
• Second to Third Terms: from the day after Ash Wednesday until the end of the term (for all levels)
• Official Type B shirt of the Faculty of Arts and Letters; Prescribed Jeans; Closed Shoes

TYPE C –  Tiger Day Attire – worn on days specified by the Office of the Secretary-General

• Black / Yellow / White / Combination of Black, Yellow, White / Tigerprint Shirt or Blouse; Prescribed Jeans; Closed Shoes
• If the Tiger Day is specifically announced as Yellow Day, students are to wear a yellow shirt.

CIVILIAN ATTIRE

Given the implementation of online learning, students are reminded to wear modest clothes during Online Sessions.

The following are generally not allowed:

• micro-mini skirts (three inches or more from the kneecaps); short shorts; cycling pants; tube; sleeveless; plunging neckline / see-though blouses; halter tops; backless tops; tank tops; leggings; sandos; sleeveless jerseys; slippers

Hair Style / Hair Color

Students’ hair style should be clean, combed, and neatly trimmed or fixed. Unconventional hair colors are not permitted. Male students are not allowed to sport long hair. Hair should not touch the collar or neckline of the uniform. The use of hairpins, pony tails, headbands, and the like by male students is likewise not allowed.

In compliance with Memorandum S006-00-ME21 (AY 2019-2020) released by the Office of the Secretary-General, manifesting the clarification on the item stipulated in the Student Handbook 2018, Item 4 (which discusses about hair style/ color under the heading Good Grooming of the PPS 1027 Code of Conduct), specifically on the term unconventional hair colors, all are enjoined, as necessary to limit their hair color to the following color spectrum: from Level 1 (Darkest Black) to Level 5 (Dark Brown).

For your reference, please go to this link: http://bit.ly/2Va6SPo

In particular cases when there is a need for a different hair color, for purposes of employment, theatrical plays, and other school-related requirements, a permit must be secured from the Office of the Student Welfare and Development Council.

Upon submission of the necessary requirements, the student will be issued a temporary pass which contains, among others, the period that he/she is allowed to have the hair color that is not within the above-mentioned spectrum.

TATTOO / BODY PIERCINGS / EARRINGS

Tattoo and unusual body piercing are strictly prohibited. Male students are not allowed to wear earrings and other accessories ordinarily used by females.

Students must wear the official University identification card at all times within the University premises. Loss of the identification card must be reported immediately to the local Student Welfare and Development Coordinator (SWDC).

The students shall join or form only student organizations whose objectives uphold the vision and mission of the University. Students shall join only organizations duly recognized by the University.The students shall join or form only student organizations whose objectives uphold the vision and mission of the University. Students shall join only organizations duly recognized by the University.

University-wide Fraternities/Sororities are prohibited from recruiting high school students and first-year students in the undergraduate programs. Fraternities and sororities of the Faculty of Civil Law and the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery are prohibited from recruiting members from students in the undergraduate program(s).

Duly recognized organizations may recruit members only during the period as prescribed by the OSA for the university wide or the Dean’s office of the College/Faculty/Institute for college-based organization.  Duly recognized organizations may recruit members only during the period as prescribed by the OSA for the university wide or the Dean’s office of the College/Faculty/Institute for college-based organization.

Parents/guardians shall be informed by the organization through its adviser about participation of his/her child/ward in fraternities/sororities.

Every student organization must submit the required application paper for recognition (Refer to the Student Organization Handbook) and financial statements prepared by the organization’s treasure and auditor certified by the faculty adviser of the organization, endorsed by the Dean/Director, and Regent.

Only duly recognized student organizations may organize and/or engage in any approved group activity. The organization should follow the University’s policies on Approval of Student Activities.

Students shall not use the name “University of Santo Tomas,” its seal and official logo, in any activity (i.e. fair, seminar, field trip, tour, contract, announcement, etc.) or on any manufactured item, unless duly authorized by the Office of the Secretary-General. Students shall not use the name “University of Santo Tomas,” its seal and official logo, in any activity (i.e. fair, seminar, field trip, tour, contract, announcement, etc.) or on any manufactured item, unless duly authorized by the Office of the Secretary-General.

Organizations are prohibited from engaging in hazing (any physical or psychological suffering, harm or injury) inflicted on a recruit, member, neophyte or applicant for admission or continuing membership into the fraternity, sorority or organization.

Only duly recognized student organizations may post announcements at designated bulletin boards within the premises of their respective faculties/colleges/institutes/schools subject to the approval of the Dean and Regent. However, the approval of the Office of the Secretary-General (OSG) should be obtained for posters, streamers, signboards that will be displayed or put up only at designated bulletin boards within the University premises.

Only duly recognized student organizations may use the faculties of the University but only upon prior approval of the OSA, Office of the Dean/Director, Facilities Management Office (FMO) as the case may be.Only duly recognized student organizations may use the faculties of the University but only upon prior approval of the OSA, Office of the Dean/Director, Facilities Management Office (FMO) as the case may be.

An organization shall not be allowed to operate nor join any activity, including freshmen orientation, after the expiration of its recognition.

Organization(s)/officer(s)/member(s) with on-going administrative case(s) or with penalties of suspension to expulsion shall not be allowed to take part in any organization related activity.

Students must give due regard to the rules and regulations formulated and implemented by the University authorities to ensure that peace and order may prevail.

Student shall not impede, obstruct, prevent or defeat the right of a faculty member to teach his/her course or the right to attend his/her classes or any official activity.

Students shall behave properly at all times, refrain from making unnecessary noise and avoid loitering along corridors especially when classes are on-going. Students are allowed, when necessary, to stay in the campus only until 9:30 p.m. except during University activities.

Students shall observe University traffic rules and regulations.

Students are prohibited from using electronic and communication devices during regular class hours and most especially during examinations unless authorized by the faculty member. Students are prohibited from using electronic and communication devices during regular class hours and most especially during examinations unless authorized by the faculty member.

Students shall not bring, carry or possess any deadly weapon/s inside or outside the campus; shall not engage or get involved in any violence; shall not threaten, bully, or inflict physical or psychological harm/suffering/injury on any person whether inside or outside the campus; and in general, shall not commit any illegal act or wrongdoing.

Students shall not use or be in possession of any substance prohibited under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act 2002 (Republic Act 9165). Students shall not use or be in possession of any substance prohibited under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act 2002 (Republic Act 9165).

All first-year students are required to submit themselves to drug testing as a condition precedent for their admission to the University. All other students of higher years may randomly be required to submit themselves to drug testing. Drug testing shall be conducted by the UST Health Service.

Students must actively participate in keeping the campus clean and in preventing pollution or other environment degradation. Thus, they are enjoined to design programs, projects and activities adhering to Pope Francis’ Encyclical on the Environment (Laudato Si).

The leaders or organizers of the student assembly/activity shall be responsible for the upkeep of the venue, before, during and immediately after the event.

For Parents

• Let children facilitate their own transactions with the University.
• Let children directly correspond with their professors.
• Ask your children for updates on the recent circulars released by the University/Faculty.
• Class suspensions are officially announced by the government or the University through mainstream media sources. (TV, radio, internet). 
• Official UST Website  
• Official UST Facebook Page 
• Official UST Twitter Account 
• Request your child to arrange/schedule our appointments with the Dean’s Office or other University offices on our behalf, and ahead of time. Otherwise, call the Dean’s Office or email local SWDC ([email protected]).
• Let us help each other in teaching our children to become responsible adults.

The University of Santo Tomas is one of the leading private research universities in the Philippines and is consistently ranked among the top 1000 universities in the whole world. With academic degrees and research thrusts in the natural, health, applied, social, and sacred sciences, as well as business and management, the University continuously strives to make a positive impact on the society.

Visit Us: Espana Blvd., Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines 1008

Be Informed. Subscribe.

Send us your feedback.

© Copyright 2019. University of Santo Tomas. All Rights reserved. | Powered by Communications Bureau

Online Students

For All Online Programs

International Students

On Campus, need or have Visa

Campus Students

For All Campus Programs

Online Creative Writing Degrees Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Cost per credit $330

Total courses 40

Term length 8 weeks

Program Overview Why get a bachelor's in creative writing online?

Unleash your creativity while honing your writing skills in the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English program at Southern New Hampshire University. Whether you simply have a passion for storytelling or want to pursue a career using your talents, the online creative writing program offers a supportive community, comprehensive curriculum and flexible format that can help you achieve your goals.

Skills you'll learn:

• Writing and editing techniques
• Literary analysis and critical-thinking
• Application of storytelling elements
• Literary form, genre, structure and style
• Use of genre conventions and techniques
• Professional portfolio building

Courses & Curriculum Online creative writing courses built for aspiring writers

In the online BA Creative Writing program, you'll push your creative boundaries, develop a unique voice and gain insights into the publishing industry. You'll also have the opportunity to have your work published in The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. And with 4 concentrations to choose from, you can choose to focus your studies in fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenwriting.

Plus, this program offers a significant number of free electives, helping you maximize transfer credits and explore topics that interest you.

BA Creative Writing concentrations

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 add one of our 4 concentrations to your degree : fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenwriting.

Explore your creative boundaries, perfect your craft and dive deeper into your preferred genre in the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Fiction Writing . From fantasy to sci-fi, mystery to young adult, you'll be tasked with developing an appreciation for all forms of fiction while embracing the style of writing that you're drawn to and bringing your original stories to life.

Balancing craft and critical analysis, this concentration helps you hone your writing skills and study philosophy of composition. You'll enhance your fundamental knowledge of fiction writing's most crucial elements — giving you a powerful understanding of plot, character development, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing.

Career outlook:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a degree and publication is typically required for a full-time writing position. 1 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

Combine research skills and reflection with compelling storytelling when you enroll in the 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. Through this program, you'll acquire a powerful understanding of research, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing.

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.

• Nonfiction Writing Workshop
• Intermediate Nonfiction Writing Workshop
• Advanced Nonfiction Writing Workshop

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.

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.

• Poetry Writing Workshop
• Intermediate Poetry Writing Workshop
• Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop

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 sharpen 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, commercials and internet-based video.

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.

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.

• Introduction to Screenwriting Workshop
• Intermediate Screenwriting Workshop
• Advanced Screenwriting Workshop

Online creative writing courses for aspiring writers

In your major courses, you'll learn the terminology, conventions and techniques needed to strengthen your skills in literary analysis, writing and editing. You'll also develop these skills and gain valuable feedback in collaborative workshops with peers and faculty from all over the country. 

Visit the course catalog to view the full BA in Creative Writing & English curriculum .

The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program

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.

PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements

Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements

Additional Information:

• 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. 

Licensure and Certification Disclosures

SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page .

Apply for free in minutes

Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!

Upcoming term starts: January 06, 2025 | March 03, 2025

Next term starts: Oct. 28, 2024

Online student experience what’s it like going to snhu.

Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.

What to expect:

.b{fill:#21386d;}.c{fill:#21386e;} 8-week terms, .cls-1 { fill: #21386e; } learn around your schedule, .st0{fill:#f1f2f2;} .st1{fill:#f2bb44;} .st2{fill:#23386e;} .st3{fill:none;stroke:#23386e;stroke-width:2.5;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st4{fill:none;stroke:#f1f2f2;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st5{fill:#25396a;} .st6{fill:#21386d;} .st7{fill:none;} .st8{fill:#f1bb45;} .st9{fill:#21396d;} .st10{fill:#22356b;} .st11{fill:none;stroke:#23386e;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st12{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st13{fill:none;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st14{fill:#21376d;} .st15{fill:none;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st16{fill:none;stroke:#23386e;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st17{fill:none;stroke:#21386d;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st18{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#21386d;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st19{fill:none;stroke:#23386e;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st20{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st21{fill:none;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st22{fill:none;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st23{fill:none;stroke:#21386e;stroke-width:0.75;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st24{fill:none;stroke:#091c38;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st25{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#23386e;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st26{fill:#091c38;} .st27{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:4;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st28{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#23386e;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st29{fill:#ffffff;stroke:#21376d;stroke-width:2;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-miterlimit:10;} .st30{fill:#ffffff;} 24/7 online support, what does an online course look like.

You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:

• Schedule of weekly assignments
• Discussion boards
• Instructor announcements

What support services are available?

• Chat with your advisors Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors.
• Drop in for tutoring Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary.
• Learn from industry professionals Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away.
• Use the online library Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7.
• Reach out for accessibility help Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities.
• Focus on your well-being Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.

Learn from faculty with a passion for writing

SNHU's creative writing faculty have a shared passion for writing and student success. 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.

Featured Faculty

Position Associate Dean, Creative Writing

Joined SNHU 2014

• MFA in Creative Writing-Fiction from Boise State University
• BA in Creative Writing with a minor in English Literature from Grand Valley State University

What our instructors have to say

"Throughout the creative writing program, students are given tools, resources, and lots of valuable feedback to strengthen their writing skills."

Chris Sullivan , adjunct instructor at SNHU

At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 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.

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 2024 Most Innovative University in the North
• The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology
• Google.org Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth

Founded in 1932 , Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.

Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free

No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.

All it takes is 3 simple steps

It's easy, fast and free.

Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)

After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.

Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU  | [email protected]

Accreditations

SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) , which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.

Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think

As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.

Online undergraduate tuition

*before previously earned credits are applied

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.

**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.

Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700

If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750

If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800

If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850

If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900

How we estimate your tuition cost:

We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.

Ways to save on online tuition

Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.

Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)

Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of a 30% online undergraduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.

Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.

Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. And consider asking your employer about tuition reimbursement.

Career Outlook What can I do with a bachelor's in creative writing?

With storytelling at the heart of communication, the bachelor's in creative writing program can help set you up for success in a variety of roles in writing, editing, publishing and beyond. And with today's remote work opportunities, it's easy for writers and authors to work from just about anywhere they have internet access – meaning jobs aren't limited to major cities anymore.

From the entertainment industry to marketing and tech, employers of all kinds seek skilled writers for a variety of positions. In addition to the technical skills you'll gain in a creative writing degree program, your courses will help you develop in areas like creativity, critical-thinking, persuasion and social perceptiveness — skills that are valuable in any career.

Occupations

If exploring creative careers sounds appealing, an online creative writing degree can prepare you for a variety of positions, including:

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.

Use the power of writing to create visual and auditory experiences for everything from major blockbuster films to television episodes and commercials.

Write speeches for business leaders, politicians and others, using words to engage with and move an audience.

Increase in writer and author opportunities through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1

Median annual pay for writers and authors as of May 2023, according to the BLS. 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.

What SNHU students are saying

Frequently Asked Questions

There are a wide variety of writing degrees that can help prepare you for your ideal writing career, including a BA in Creative Writing and graduate programs such as our online MA and MFA in creative writing programs and low-residency MFA in fiction or nonfiction.

A creative writing bachelor’s degree will give you a strong foundation of writing skills and help you hone your craft. You’ll also gain a better understanding of the publishing industry and build a portfolio of writing samples you can use when applying for jobs.

SNHU's creative writing degree offers 4 concentrations to help you focus on a specific genre, improve your knowledge, develop genre-specific skills and help you become more marketable in the workforce.

“It’s important to have a degree in writing or English because you’ll learn how to write properly and get practice writing in all different forms,” said Anne-Marie Yerks , adjunct faculty for the MFA in fiction writing program at Southern New Hampshire University.

As a creative writing major, you'll build a strong understanding of the English language and learn how to use the elements of storytelling to write everything from nonfiction essays to poetry.

But writing won't be your only subject of study. You'll also read well-known literature, analyzing the work of writers like Shakespeare to inspire and inform your own writing.

You'll learn from professors with real-world experience as authors, publishers and literary critics and will explore the workings of the publishing industry.

Nicholas Patterson '22 , has found that many of his professors are passionate about the subjects they teach.

"For example," he said, "I took a Shakespeare class and my professor had been studying Shakespeare for most of his life and shared his passion in the course by encouraging his students and their ideas."

As a creative writing major, you'll graduate with the key critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills you need for a career as a journalist, editor, copywriter, author and more.

The best writing degree is the one that helps you prepare for the job you want and gives you a strong foundation of writing skills and experience.

At Southern New Hampshire University, creative writing students dive deep into the English language and great works of literature. By reading and analyzing great works of literature, you'll be able to learn the art of storytelling and develop your own writing style.

Interested in a particular writing career? Degree concentrations allow you to focus your learning on a specific genre of creative writing and can give you a leg up when applying to writing jobs.

If you dream about becoming a novelist, a bachelor’s degree in fiction writing will prepare you for a life of storytelling, helping you hone your writing skills and enhance your understanding of plot, narrative voice and character.

A bachelor’s degree in nonfiction writing can prepare you for a career as a journalist, author or communications manager, helping you combine research and observation with compelling storytelling.

If poetry is your passion, a creative writing bachelor’s degree with a poetry concentration will help you develop your personal style and build a portfolio. You’ll study the poetry of others and regularly write, read and critique poems with your peers in poetry workshops.

A screenwriting degree offers a special focus on story structure, character development and the visual medium of film. You’ll explore writing for feature-length and short films, television episodes, commercials and internet-based video.

It depends. SNHU’s creative writing bachelor’s degree program requires 120 credits to graduate and typically takes about 4 years to complete.

If you’ve attended college before, you may be able to transfer credits to your degree program and save time (and money). We accept up to 90 transfer credits toward your program here, with free transfer credit evaluations that let you see how your existing credits can be applied to your new degree.

It's also important to consider your other responsibilities. If you can attend school full time and take on a full course load each semester, you’ll complete your degree faster. If you work full time or have a family and need to fit your learning into an already busy schedule, you may need to complete your degree at a slower pace.

Starting a writing career doesn’t have to mean becoming an author. In fact, writers are needed across a variety of industries, from business and entertainment to engineering and marketing.

The many writing jobs you may explore include:

• Author: Use storytelling skills to write everything from children’s books and novels to biographies, essays and memoirs.
• Editor: Apply your understanding of the written word to plan, review and revise content for publication in books, periodicals or online platforms.
• Copywriter: Promote a product, service or organization with content for advertisements, marketing campaigns or websites.
• Journalist: Research topics, investigate story ideas and interview sources to write compelling nonfiction articles for newspapers, magazines, blogs and television news programs.
• Screenwriter: Use the power of writing to create visual and auditory experiences for everything from major blockbuster films to television episodes and commercials.
• Speechwriter: Write speeches for business leaders, politicians and others, using words to engage with and move an audience.
• Technical writer: Prepare instruction manuals and how-to guides to clearly communicate complex ideas and technical information.

Of course. Screenwriting requires a strong foundation of writing skills and creativity to take a film, television episode or commercial from an idea to the screen.

Screenwriters are the storytellers of the entertainment industry. As a screenwriter, you’ll use character, dialogue, setting and other visuals to engage an audience.

A screenwriting degree can help set you apart from others in the industry and give you the skills you need to bring a story to life on screen.

“Everybody in Hollywood has a screenplay in their drawer,” said Freeman. “I want to pull mine out and get them made. No more hiding.”

SNHU’s Fall Fiction Contest is an annual short story competition that provides writers a chance to show off their skills and be rewarded for it with an SNHU scholarship and publication in The Penmen Review . Beginning and seasoned authors alike (excluding SNHU faculty and staff) are welcome to enter if they are 18+ and based in the continental United States. All guideline-abiding submissions are carefully evaluated by a panel of experts and put to a public vote based on criteria like originality and character arc. The end result? Five lucky winners who gain both bragging rights and tier-based prizes!

Learn more about SNHU’s Fall Fiction Contest  and what you could win.

Related Programs

Related articles.

Sources & Citations

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/writers-and-authors.htm (viewed April 19, 2024)

Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

• University Home
• Parsons School of Design
• Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts
• College of Performing Arts
• The New School for Social Research
• Schools of Public Engagement
• Parsons Paris
• Milano School of Policy, Management, and Environment
• School of Media Studies
• Julien J. Studley Graduate Programs in International Affairs
• Creative Writing Program (MFA)
• Bachelor’s Program for Adults and Transfer Students

Creative Writing (BA)

Take the next step.

• How to Apply
• Request Information

Admission Events

Explore upcoming webinars and other events for prospective students. Learn more

Admission Contact Office of Undergraduate Admission 72 Fifth Avenue, 1st floor New York, NY 10011 [email protected] 212.229.5150 or 800.292.3040

Program Contact

Joyinn Paulin 66 West 12th Street, room 918  New York, NY 10011 [email protected] Laura Cronk 66 West 12th Street, room 503  New York, NY 10011 [email protected] 212.229.5611 Ext. 2435

Related Links

• Program Blog
• Tuition and Fees
• Funding Opportunities
• Check Application Status
• View Courses
• Download Catalog

The BA in Creative Writing is awarded upon the completion of 120 credits, 30 of which must be in Creative Writing and Literature. The major consists of four literature courses, four creative writing workshops, the two-credit Writer's Life Colloquium course, and a four-credit capstone course.

Creative Writing students can choose writing workshops and literature courses in a wide variety of genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, writing for children and young adults, journalism, playwriting, arts writing, and more. Undergraduate BA in Creative Writing students share resources and programming with graduate MFA in Creative Writing students and join an active community of writers that extends beyond the classroom. Creative Writing majors often apply for the Writing & Democracy Honors Program , which is highly compatible with the major and includes scholarship funding.

Literature Courses

Students have the freedom to take literature courses—in subjects ranging from contemporary writing linked to the Creative Writing Program’s event series to single-author explorations—that support their own writing interests and expand their understanding of what is possible in their own work. Students may take any NLIT course or any other undergraduate literature-focused course at the university as available.

The Writing Workshop

Guided by an experienced writer-teacher, students focus on their writing, both in the workshop and in individual conferences with the instructor. The emphasis is on the creative acts of self-editing and revision. Structure and content are adapted to the genre of the workshop.

The Writer's Life Colloquium

Creative Writing majors participate in a semester-long colloquium of visiting writers, critics, writing teachers, editors, and publishers. Students attend readings and events and reflect on their experience and the kind of life they want to build as writers outside of the classroom in an asynchronous online course. The colloquium programming reflects the wide range of cultural activity at The New School and the belief that students benefit from exposure to many voices and genres. Examples of regular events included in the Writer's Life Colloquium are public readings and award ceremonies co-sponsored with the National Book Critics Circle, the Cave Canem Poetry Foundation, The Story Prize, Kundiman, the Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP), PEN America, the Academy of American Poets, and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and public readings and discussions in the many genres of study offered through the Creative Writing Program. Students write critical and reflective essays about the events they attend.

Capstone Project

The Creative Writing Capstone is the culmination of the undergraduate degree, giving students the chance to revise, reconsider, and build upon the writing produced over the course of the major. Students develop their skills as editors, focusing on copy editing and reexamining the scope, form, and content of their final project. In conversation with their faculty advisors, students also consider next steps for their writing after completing their degrees.

Take The Next Step

• Request Info

Submit your application

Undergraduates.

To apply to any of our undergraduate programs (except the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students and Parsons Associate of Applied Science programs) complete and submit the Common App online.

Undergraduate Adult Learners

To apply to any of our Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students and Parsons Associate of Applied Science programs, complete and submit the New School Online Application.

To apply to any of our Master's, Doctoral, Professional Studies Diploma, and Graduate Certificate programs, complete and submit the New School Online Application.

• San Francisco State University
• Search SF State Search SF State Button

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing

Program learning outcomes.

• Creative Work: Students will produce a written creative work demonstrating growth as writers.
• Professional Preparation: students will demonstrate skills in fields related to literature and/or creative writing, including publishing, writing, teaching, editing, book arts, and/or arts management.
• Literature: Students will read, discuss, and analyze the work of a broad range of writers from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds, and explain how literature in general, and their own genre in particular, relates to larger human experience.
• Craft Elements: Students will write and revise creative nonfiction, fiction, plays, and/or poetry using the elements of craft to embody their individual and universal visions as well as analyze and discuss craft elements in their peers’ work.

Creative Writing (B.A)— 42 units

A. fundamentals (6 units).

Fundamentals of Creative Writing and Fundamentals of Creative Reading are prerequisites to all other Creative Writing courses. C W 302 is also a prerequisite to all upper-division English literature courses. C W 302 must be taken at SF State. Upon completion of C W 302 , courses from Section G may be taken at any time. C W 301 and  C W 302 may be taken concurrently.

B. Craft (3 units)

One course in the Craft Area selected from the following must be taken after C W 301 and C W 302 and before the workshop course.

C. Creative Process/Workshop (12 units)

Select four courses from the following:

D. Variable Topics Course (3 units)

Select one:

E. Revision Course (3 units)

F. Capstone Course (3 units)

G. Courses in the Literature Areas (12 units)

 May be taken for two semesters of credit.

May be taken for three semesters of credit.

Complementary Studies

Bachelor of Arts students must complete at least 12 units of Complementary Studies outside of the primary prefix for the major. (Note: Students may not use an alternate prefix that is cross-listed with the primary prefix for the major.)

Creative Writing majors will satisfy this requirement from within the major by taking 12 units of literature classes required in the major, which are recognized in the major list of any or all of the following prefixes: ENG, AFRS, CWL, LTNS, WGS, HUM, AAS, MGS, or AIS.

Students who have earned AA-T or AS-T degrees and are pursuing a similar B.A. degree at SF State are required to fulfill the Complementary Studies requirement as defined by the major department. Students should consult with a major advisor about how transfer units and/or SF State units can best be applied to this requirement in order to ensure degree completion within 60 units.

First-Time Student Roadmap (4 Year)

The roadmaps presented in this Bulletin are intended as suggested plans of study and do not replace meeting with an advisor. For a more personalized roadmap, please use the Degree Planner tool found in your Student Center .

First-Time Student Roadmap

Transfer Student Roadmap (2 Year)

For students with an AA-T in English . ENGL ADT Roadmap

This degree program is an approved pathway (“similar” major) for students earning the ADT in English

California legislation SB 1440 (2009) mandated the creation of the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) to be awarded by the California Community Colleges. Two types of ADTs are awarded: Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T). 

Note: no specific degree is required for admission as an upper-division student. However, the ADT includes specific guarantees related to admission and graduation and is designed to clarify the transfer process and strengthen lower-division preparation for the major.

An ADT totals 60 units and in most cases includes completion of all lower-division General Education requirements and at least 18 units in a specific major. (The Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science AS-T degrees defer 3 units in lower-division GE area C and 3 units in lower-division GE area D until after transfer.) Students pursuing an ADT are guaranteed admission to the CSU if minimum eligibility requirements are met, though not necessarily to the CSU campus of primary choice.

Upon verification that the ADT has been awarded prior to matriculation at SF State, students are guaranteed B.A. or B.S. completion in 60 units if pursuing a “similar” major after transfer. Determinations about “similar” majors at SF State are made by faculty in the discipline.

Degree completion in 60 units cannot be guaranteed when a student simultaneously pursues an additional major, a minor, certificate, or credential.

A sample advising roadmap for students who have earned an ADT and continue in a "similar" major at SF State is available on the Roadmaps tab on the degree requirements page for the major. The roadmap displays:

• How many lower-division units required for the major have been completed upon entry based on the award of a specific ADT;
• Which lower-division requirements are considered complete upon entry based on the award of a specific ADT;
• How to complete the remaining 60 units for the degree in four semesters.

Students who have earned an ADT should seek advising in the major department during the first semester of attendance.

General Advising Information for Transfer Students

• Before transfer, complete as many lower-division requirements or electives for this major as possible.
• a course in U.S. History
• a course in U.S. & California Government

For information about satisfying the requirements described in (1) and (2) above at a California Community College (CCC), please visit  http://www.assist.org . Check any geographically accessible CCCs; sometimes options include more than one college. Use ASSIST to determine:

• Which courses at a CCC satisfy any lower-division major requirements for this major;
• Which courses at a CCC satisfy CSU GE, US History, and US & CA Government requirements.

Remedial courses are not transferable and do not apply to the minimum 60 semester units/90 quarter units required for admission.

Additional units for courses that are repeated do not apply to the minimum 60 units required for upper-division transfer (for example, if a course was not passed on the first attempt or was taken to earn a better grade).

Before leaving the last California Community College of attendance, obtain a summary of completion of lower-division General Education units (IGETC or CSU GE Breadth). This is often referred to as a GE certification worksheet. SF State does not require delivery of this certification to Admissions, but students should retain this document for verifying degree progress after transfer.

Credit for Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or College-Level Examination Program courses: AP/IB/CLEP credit is not automatically transferred from the previous institution. Units are transferred only when an official score report is delivered to SF State. Credit is based on the academic year during which exams were taken. Refer to the University Bulletin in effect during the year of AP/IB/CLEP examination(s) for details regarding the award of credit for AP/IB/CLEP.

Students pursuing majors in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines often defer 6-9 units of lower-division General Education in Areas C and D until after transfer to focus on preparation courses for the major. This advice does not apply to students pursuing associate degree completion before transfer.

Transferring From Institutions Other Than CCCs or CSUs

Review SF State's lower-division General Education requirements. Note that, as described below, the four basic skills courses required for admission meet A1, A2, A3, and B4 in the SF State GE pattern. Courses that fulfill the remaining areas of SF State’s lower-division GE pattern are available at most two-year and four-year colleges and universities.

Of the four required basic skills courses, a course in critical thinking (A3) may not be widely offered outside the CCC and CSU systems. Students should attempt to identify and take an appropriate course no later than the term of application to the CSU. To review more information about the A3 requirement, please visit bulletin.sfsu.edu/undergraduate-education/general-education/lower-division/#AAEL .

Waiting until after transfer to take a single course at SF State that meets both US and CA/local government requirements may be an appropriate option, particularly if transferring from outside of California.

Bachelor of Arts in English and Creative Writing

Great readers make great writers—and great writers build fulfilling lives and successful careers.

In the English and Creative Writing major, you'll explore literature in all its forms—and apply what you discover to your own expression. 

You may write poetry, fiction, nonfiction, drama, or something totally unique. Maybe you've been writing for years, or you might dream of starting. No matter your background or your goals, in this popular major you'll learn to transform the craft of writing into the artistry of literature. 

Your professors will be some of today's hottest bestselling authors and magazine journalists. You'll experience small classes and personalized attention. You'll learn the methods of Iowa's world-famous Writers' Workshop, Nonfiction Writing Program, and Playwrights Workshop. And you'll belong to a supportive, inclusive, and engaged community. 

Request Info

Requirements

The Bachelor of Arts in English and Creative Writing requires a minimum of 120 semester hours (s.h.), including at least 42 s.h. of work for the major. Of the 42 s.h., at least 36 s.h. must be selected from the Department of English courses (prefix ENGL, CNW, CW). Students must maintain a GPA of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. They also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core . 

Transfer students must earn at least 30 s.h. work for the major at the University of Iowa, with at least 15 s.h. of course work in English literary study and 15 s.h. of course work in creative writing taken in residence at the University of Iowa.

Students are encouraged to explore multiple genres, including fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and playwriting.

Students earning the major in English may not earn the major in English and Creative Writing and students completing the English and Creative Writing major may not earn a second major in English. Please note that "creative writing" encompasses ENGL 37** and 47** (creative writing courses in fiction, non-fiction, playwriting, translation, poetry, and special topics), CW courses (fiction and poetry), CNW (creative non-fiction), and some THTR (playwriting) and CINE (screenwriting). Search accordingly when looking for coursework.

For more specific information on courses, curriculum, and requirements of the Bachelor of Arts in English and Creative Writing, visit the UI General Catalog .

Learning Outcomes

The goal is for students who graduate from the Department of English to demonstrate the skills of reflective reading, critical and creative thinking, compelling writing, and engaged citizenship.

Reflective Readers

• Analyze literary and cultural texts through close reading.
• Gain broad knowledge of several fields of literature.
• Grasp formal elements of key literary genres.
• Learn to read comparatively to illuminate aesthetic, social, and cultural contributions of texts.

Critical and Creative Thinkers

• Approach texts with a spirit of critical inquiry and flexibility.
• Formulate productive questions.
• Use textual evidence to support individual interpretations.
• Draw upon several different critical approaches to literature in English.
• Effective Speakers
• Express opinions about the texts they read through discussion and written assignments.
• Listen respectfully to others’ opinions.
• Work in class—whether through active listening or discussion—to learn by synthesizing a range of texts, insights, and opinions.

Compelling Writers

• Express themselves in clear, fluent, and lively writing.
• Organize their ideas effectively.
• Use textual evidence to illustrate and support their insights and arguments.
• Are able to write in different modes appropriate to varied genres and aesthetic traditions.
• Engage properly with relevant scholarship and creative work.
• Use research skills that include an understanding of methods, craft, technology, and conventions.
• Demonstrate the ability to create in modes that are appropriate to various genres.

Engaged World Citizens

• Communicate respect and understanding for the literatures and cultures of diverse historical periods, geographical regions, and cultures.
• Explore ethical issues raised by literature.
• Practice collaborative and ethical literary citizenship.
• Reflect on the ways that literature addresses issues of social justice.
• Use reading, speaking, and writing skills to engage with the ethical concerns raised by literature in their daily and professional lives.

NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity working to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Creative Writing offers a comprehensive learning experience for aspiring writers.

Creative Writing majors develops skills in fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction. Students have opportunities to study with talented writers on Marshall’s faculty and share their own writing in workshops with other writers.

This degree helps strengthen skills in communication, analysis and critical thinking. These are skills that are valuable for a career in writing—and important to professional work across a wide range of fields.

• Find out which of our academic programs is right for you.
• Meet some of our current students and hear about their favorite Marshall moments.
• Receive invitations to special events for future students.
• Get help with the application and enrollment process.

The Marshall University Writing Center, where students can work with specially trained writing tutors, is a tremendous resource for Creative Writing majors to sharpen their writing skills. Advanced Creative Writing students can apply to tutor at the Writing Center, gaining solid professional experience.

Our curriculum allows you to tailor your studies to align with specific interests and career goals—whether it’s creative writing, editing, publishing, screenwriting or other writing-intensive fields.

Junior and senior level writing workshops help students develop their writing in a collaborative workshop setting.

Through the Creative Writing bachelor’s degree program, students develop skills in critical thinking and analysis, communicating clearly, writing effectively and more, all of which serve as excellent preparation for work in a variety of fields. A Creative Writing major can lead to much more than writing books, although Marshall graduates certainly do this, too.

• Business owners
• Journalists

• Search SF State Search SF State Button SF State This Site

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing

Our new B.A. in Creative Writing path is being offered to students who enroll beginning in Fall 2021 and beyond. To review the previous degree please take a look below at the B.A. in English: Creative Writing section.

• B.A. in Creative Writing
• B.A. in English: Creative Writing
• Community Projects in Literature

To review the degree requirements and roadmap options please visit our  academic bulletin .

If you are reviewing your Degree Progress Report and the courses taken do not reflect in their corresponding areas, please email Katherine Kwid at  [email protected]  to look into getting that updated.

Last offered in the Spring 2021 semester, the undergraduate major of English; Creative Writing combines the academic specifications of the traditional English major with the experiential needs of the writing student. If you joined our major before the Fall 2021 semester please read below for information about your degree. If you have joined us in Fall 2021 or after, please review the B.A. in Creative Writing page to find your degree requirements.

Students who enter this program should do so only under the strongly held assumption that they have abilities as writers that may be fostered and trained by such a discipline as described here. It is hoped that this combined program of writing and literature will lead students to a cohesive study and discipline that combines breadth with intensity. Accordingly, some greater latitude of choice in literature courses is allowed in the creative writing major. Studies will lead them to a degree in English with a creative writing emphasis. Ample guidance of the creative writing advisors helps insure that students will not be deprived of a sense of the history of literature. In this regard they will continue to be fully qualified as potential graduate students in English as well as prepared should they wish to continue as M.A. or M.F.A. candidates in a creative writing program.

The 42 unit B.A. balances 27 semester units of writing courses with 15 semester units of literature courses designed to increase the student's depth and breadth of knowledge. The required 9 semester hours of Creative Process classes can be chosen from topics such as: Personal Narrative, American Poetics, Contemporary World Poetry, Style in Fiction, The Short-Short Story and Plays: Reading and Viewing. Also required is a course chosen from one of two areas: "Theory and Language" or "Writing from the American Experience," which includes a selection of courses from the departments of English, Ethnic Studies and Women Studies.

Being sheltered doesn’t cut down on opportunities to volunteer for literary organizations: it creates new ones. Many organizations are interested in working at a distance with our students this fall. Early in my search for workable community engagement, quite a few organizations have stepped forward to express interest in CW 675 and 875 students:

These include Nomadic Press, Associated Writing Programs (AWP), Writeaways Residency, Foglifter Magazine, Poetry Flash, Berkeley Poetry Festival, Lyrics and Dirges Reading Series, the Milvia Street Journal, two different organizations that connect writers to incarcerated people, Amnesty International: these are some of the new organizations.

Students will also be free to make their own connection for a writing projects that sustain us through COVID. Class meets at the beginning and end as a group; you do your community project in the middle and contribute through I-Learn to an ongoing discussion of your project. Email Andrew Joron, [email protected]  if you want to get your own community project idea approved before the class.

CW 675/875 Community Projects in Literature is an opportunity to gain experience in the fields of publication, teaching and arts administration which will make valuable additions to your resume. Though each internship will be individually shaped you will make a commitment of at least six hours a week for the length of the semester to earn three units credit.

Below is link to a list of organizations which you may use as a guide to finding a community project or you can find one on your own. This list includes on-campus  opportunities such as the Poetry Center. You also may create your own project as well; for example, teaching writing workshops in community, institution or school settings or creating a reading series.

Typically, the organizations listed will ask you for a brief resume; try to give them some idea of the kinds of experience you already have.  For example, did you work on a campus journal, can you operate a computer, file and write clearly?

View our list of  Community Projects Leads .

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: (415) 338-1891

Office Hours

Quick links.

• Undergraduate Advising Center
• SF Bulletin
• Academic Calendar

Academic Catalog Toggle navigation Menu

Academic catalog, ba in creative writing.

UTEP offers a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing through a curriculum that combines literary studies with intensive writing workshops. The program emphasizes the rigorous study of literature alongside the acquisition of skills in the writing of fiction, poetry, essays, plays, screenplays and literary translation. As such, the degree plan strikes a balance between theory and practice, between critical and imaginative thinking. As students progress in their degree plan, they are free to place emphasis on or specialize in the study and writing of a specific genre. The creative-writing faculty is comprised of well-published, active writers who also have a passion for teaching. They believe in closely mentoring students to give them a quality experience as writers in the making.

Marketable Skills 

• Students will be able to write using clear and compelling language.
• Students will be able to write and speak effectively for specific audiences and purposes.
• Students will be able to communicate complex ideas in creative ways.
• Students will develop empathy and communications skills.
• Students will understand the mechanics of narrative storytelling and poetry.
• Students will learn to see situations and problems from multiple perspectives.
• Students will be able to focus on and analyze details as a means to understanding complex situations.
• Students will be able to perform applied research, gather data, and compose articulate narratives based on their findings.
• Students will be able to collaborate and work in groups to solve problems.
• Students will be able to understand cultural differences and learn strategies to bridge them constructively.
• Students will have the skills to critically analyze information.
• Students will demonstrate the capacity to think outside of the “box”.

Learning Outcomes

Creative Writing students who complete the major or minor will be able to demonstrate competency in several of the following outcomes:

• Understand and explain principles and techniques of various genres of creative writing, including fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and more.
• Apply these techniques and principles to produce fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and more.
• Read, interpret and evaluate contemporary writing and the works of peer writers from the perspective of literary craft and the study of creative writing.
• Apply principles of creative writing to improve communication in a variety of contexts, including personal, academic, and public life.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the creative process as a forum for critical and intuitive thinking, and as a means of creative problem-solving.
• Perform applied research, gather data, and compose articulate narratives based on these findings.
• Demonstrate awareness of the literary, cultural, and historical context within which contemporary writing takes place, including past and present literary forms, techniques, and traditions that inform contemporary writing.
• Learn the workshop process of self and group evaluation and critique.
• Demonstrate knowledge of editing and revision techniques.

This degree plan includes the general requirements for a BA degree in Creative Writing.

Degree Plan

Complete prior to taking any other CRW courses.

A course can be taken up to two times.

Course may be included with approval.

French and Spanish majors must fulfill this requirement in a language other than their major.

BA in Creative Writing w/a Concentration in 7-12 ELA Certification

Minor in Secondary Education for students majoring in Creative Writing—Students will follow the requirements of the School of Education.

4306 honors seminar may be included with approval.

University Core Curriculum ( A program may recommend specific courses. All courses require a C or better.)

I. communication (six hours).

II. American History (six hours)

III. Language, Philosophy & Culture (three hours)

IV. Mathematics (three hours)

V. Life & Physical Sciences (six hours)

VI. Political Science (six hours)

VII. Social & Behavioral Sciences (three hours)

VIII. Creative Arts

IX. Component Area Option (six hours)

Block Electives

(core courses and courses from major or minor area cannot be counted as block electives), fine and performing arts.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

 The courses below will apply to different blocks based on the term and section completed

• CHIC 4350 Topics in Chicano Studies
• WS 3390 Women's Studies:Special Topics

4-Year Sample Degree Plan

• Broken Arrow

Graduate College

Gather here. go far.

With locations in Tahlequah, Muskogee and Broken Arrow, NSU is Oklahoma’s immersive learning institution. Choose from in-person, blended or online learning options.

Scholarships

NSU is committed to assisting students in applying and earning scholarships. Whether you are an incoming freshman or a continuing/returning student, NSU has a wide variety of scholarship options for students to choose from.

Clubs and Organizations

From networking to leadership opportunities, NSU’s over 80 clubs and organizations allow our students to build lasting relationships while getting the full college experience.

100th Homecoming

In 1924, NSU hosted its first-ever homecoming. One hundred years later, NSU and the Alumni Association invite you to return to NSU for the centennial celebration - Forever Green.

Whether transitioning to graduate school or returning to higher education, NSU’s graduate college is your next step. Choose from over 25 master's degrees and several certificate programs.

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing

The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing guides students in the theory and practice of creative writing, providing immersive learning in foundational techniques, collaboration, and application of advanced craft. The major involves coursework in creative writing, literature, and professional writing across multiple departments.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Study in-depth the major genres of creative writing-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, playwriting, and creative non-fiction.
• Learn core and advanced concepts of theory and craft as they relate to the pursuit of creative writing, relying heavily on application of concepts via the workshop model.
• Complete deadline-oriented writing projects requiring the application of craft and theory
• Prepare for post-collegiate study and the job market by studying literature, rhetoric, technical writing, and/or professional writing.
• Complete a capstone project of significant length and complexity that demonstrates the summation of practice and learning in the field of creative writing.

There are no options for this degree.

There is no Accelerated Degree Program for this degree.

A minor is required for the Creative Writing Major.

There are no certifications related to this degree. 

Future Students

Request Information

Degree Available At

Transferring to nsu.

Make your transition to NSU as smooth and seamless as possible.

Visit Transfer Student Services for more information.

Career Services

What can I do with a major in Creative Writing?

PROGRAM CHAIR

Christopher Murphy [email protected] (918) 444-3538

School of Arts and Humanities

Literature with creative writing concentration (ba).

Students who complete the major in Literature receive a thorough grounding in literary ideas and methods, competence in particular national literatures, as well as the ability to work across literatures and languages. By engaging literary texts appropriate to one of the country's most diverse campuses, this major teaches both specialized knowledge and the skills to deepen and broaden knowledge of literature that is new or unfamiliar. The ideal graduate would be able to approach an English-language text from anywhere in the world with a set of intelligent questions and the capacity to produce equally intelligent answers to interpretative problems. By selecting a variety of courses from a variety of headings, students are able to combine courses in criticism and interpretation, in writing and translation, and in English and foreign languages. Students may also be certified to teach.

Since the following catalog course descriptions are very general, students are urged to consult the detailed course descriptions available on the web site for the School of Arts and Humanities. At least one-half of the semester credit hours for a major must be taken at UT Dallas.

Unless otherwise noted, courses in Literature are open to all students in the University.

Bachelor of Arts in Literature with Creative Writing Concentration

Degree Requirements (120 semester credit hours) 1

View an Example of Degree Requirements by Semester

FACG> ah-humanities-literary-studies-ba

Professors: Milton A. Cohen @mcohen , Sean J. Cotter @sjc010100 , Fred I. Curchack @curchack , Pamela Gossin @psgossin , Ming Dong Gu @mdg073000 , Dennis M. Kratz @dkratz , Manuel (Manny) Martinez @mlm160630 , Zsuzsanna Ozsváth @zozsvath , David A. Patterson @dxp103120 , Rene Prieto @rxp113230 , Timothy (Tim) Redman @redman , Rainer Schulte @schulte , Theresa M. Towner @tmtowner , Frederick Turner @fturner

Associate Professors: John C. Gooch @jcg053000 , Charles Hatfield @cxh074100 , Jessica C. Murphy @jxm092000

Assistant Professors: Ashley Barnes @axb162631 , Erin Greer @exg180013

Professor Emeritus: Michael S. Simpson @msimpson

Clinical Professor: Dennis Walsh @dpw031000

Clinical Associate Professor: Kenneth Brewer @klb092000

Associate Professors of Instruction: Zafar Anjum @zxa110730 , Lorena Camacho-Guardardo @lxc163230 , Bei Chen @bxc152730 , Peter (Jay) Ingrao @jingrao , Thomas M. Lambert @tml017100 , Christopher (Chris) Ryan @cxr088000 , Sabrina Starnaman @sxs090100

I. Core Curriculum Requirements: 42 semester credit hours 2

Communication: 6 semester credit hours

RHET 1302 Rhetoric

And choose one course from the following:

COMM 1311 Survey of Oral and Technology-based Communication

COMM 1315 Public Speaking

Mathematics: 3 semester credit hours

Select any 3 semester credit hours from Mathematics Core courses

Life and Physical Sciences: 6 semester credit hours

Select any 6 semester credit hours from Life and Physical Sciences Core courses

Language, Philosophy and Culture: 3 semester credit hours

LIT 2331 Introduction to World Literature 3

Or select any 3 semester credit hours from Language, Philosophy and Culture Core courses

Creative Arts: 3 semester credit hours

Select any 3 semester credit hours from Creative Arts Core courses

American History: 6 semester credit hours

Select any 6 semester credit hours from American History Core courses

Government/Political Science: 6 semester credit hours

Select any 6 semester credit hours from Government/Political Science Core courses

Social and Behavioral Sciences: 3 semester credit hours

Select any 3 semester credit hours from Social and Behavioral Sciences Core courses

Component Area Option: 6 semester credit hours

Select any 6 semester credit hours from Component Area Option Core courses

II. Major Requirements: 48-51 semester credit hours beyond Core Curriculum

Major Preparatory Courses: 6-9 semester credit hours beyond Core Curriculum

LIT 2350 Close Reading

Choose 6 semester credit hours from the following three:

LIT 2320 Survey A: Literature in English

LIT 2321 Survey B: Literature in Translation

Concentration Core Course: 3 semester credit hours

CRWT 2301 Introduction to Creative Writing

Major Core Courses: 12 semester credit hours

LIT 3300 Western Literary Tradition

LIT 3339 Writing Literary Studies

LIT 4329 Single Author

LIT 4390 Capstone

Major Distribution and Elective Courses: 12 semester credit hours

3 semester credit hours from the following "Research and Writing" courses:

ARHM 3342 Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies in the Arts and Humanities

LIT 3338 Literary Theory and Aesthetic Philosophy

Any upper-division creative writing workshop (prefix CRWT )

6 semester credit hours from the following "Contexts" course:

LIT 3319 Contexts 4

3 semester credit hours from the following "Comparisons" courses:

LIT 3328 Ethics in Literature

LIT 3334 Literature of Science

CRWT 3330 Translation Workshop

LIT 3337 Comparisons

Creative Writing Concentration Requirements: 15 semester credit hours

12 semester credit hours of upper-division creative writing workshops in at least two genres (e.g., poetry and fiction).

3 semester credit hours of foreign language, upper-division LIT, or CRWT electives.

IV. Elective Requirements: 27-30 semester credit hours

Free Electives: 27-30 semester credit hours

Both upper-division and lower-division courses may be used as electives, but students must complete at least 51 semester credit hours of upper-division courses to qualify for graduation.

Incoming freshmen must enroll and complete requirements of ARHM 1100 . 1

1. Incoming freshmen must enroll and complete requirements of UNIV 1010 and the corresponding school-related freshman seminar course. Students, including transfer students, who complete their core curriculum at UT Dallas must take UNIV 2020.

2. Curriculum Requirements can be fulfilled by other approved courses from institutions of higher education. The courses listed are recommended as the most efficient way to satisfy both Core Curriculum and Major Requirements at UT Dallas.

3. A required Preparatory course that also fulfills a Core Curriculum requirement. Semester credit hours may be counted in Core Curriculum.

4. LIT 3319 may be repeat for credit as topics vary

• Download page as a PDF, opens a new tab
• Download page as a DOCX (MS Word) file
• Open page in a printable window, opens a new tab
• Compare Versions

• Bachelor of Arts in English
• Requirements
• Honors Information
• Selected Theses and Essays
• Learning Goals
• Alumni Profiles
• Undergraduate Departmental Representatives
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Career Resources
• Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing
• Creative Writing Honors Information

Internships

• Beyond the Classroom
• Connected PhD
• Selected Dissertation Defenses
• Abstracts By Alumni
• Recent Course Listings
• Graduate Student Directory
• Recent Alumni
• Graduate Alumni Classnotes
• Graduate Student Conferences
• Faculty List
• Faculty by Interest
• OpenBook: An English Dept. Podcast
• Faculty Projects
• Upcoming Events
• Challenging Racial Knowledge in the University
• Challenging Anti-Blackness in Literary Studies
• Brandeis Novel Symposium
• Past Brandeis Novel Symposiums
• Past Events - Spring '24
• Past Events - Fall '23
• Degree Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Brandeis Online
• Summer Programs
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Summer School
• Centers and Institutes
• Funding Resources
• Housing/Community Living
• Clubs and Organizations
• Community Service
• Brandeis Arts Engagement
• Rose Art Museum
• Our Jewish Roots
• Mission and Diversity Statements
• Administration
• Faculty & Staff
• Alumni & Friends
• Parents & Families
• Campus Calendar
• Directories
• New Students
• Shuttle Schedules
• Support at Brandeis

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 — 12 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

Distinguished faculty.

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, Grace Talusan, Porsha Olayiwola, and Christopher Castellani. Krysten Hill is the current Jacob Ziskind Visiting Poet-in-Residence and Marjan Kamali is the visiting Fannie Hurst 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.

Program Faculty

• Co-Director Elizabeth Bradfield
• Co-Director Stephen McCauley
• Jacob Ziskind Poet-in-Residence  Krysten Hill
• Fannie Hurst Writer in Residence  Marjan Kamali
• Adjunct Assistant Professor Marc Weinberg
• Professor Emerita Olga Broumas
• Professor Emerita Mary Baine Campbell

Contact the Undergraduate Department Representatives

• Vincent Lian
• Jingyi Wang  

“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

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing

Our degree in creative writing enables you to channel artistic passion into professional output..

Oakland University’s degree in creative writing equips you to make a good living while you explore your potential as a writer. You will receive intensive training in fiction, poetry, memoir, essay and screenwriting from a nationally recognized college writing program, while acquiring marketable skills that are trending up in the job market. Our creative writing degree features intimate, graduate-style workshops led by successful authors and poets. But you can also acquire hands-on training and internship experience in digital storytelling, social media strategy and multimedia production. Whether you’re bound for the workforce or a graduate writing program, our bachelor’s degree in creative writing gives you a practical foundation for your future.

Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing: The Oakland University Advantage

Oakland’s creative writing program has won national attention for its pioneering embrace of new storytelling forms. You’ll get the opportunity to apply classical narrative forms in modern contexts that have both artistic and commercial merit, including podcasting, YouTube and other digital media.

Our bachelor’s degree in creative writing also allows you to:

• Hone your craft. You’ll learn the nuts and bolts of storytelling in our creative writing program , with the freedom to focus on the genre(s) and style(s) that interest you most. You’ll master the fundamentals and then move beyond them, with the chance to experiment and grow artistically. 
• Get one-on-one mentoring from active writers. Our degree in creative writing is built around small, interactive workshops that are led by senior faculty (not graduate students). You’ll get personal attention from published writers who can help you channel creative passion into professional output.
• Get real-world experience. Oakland’s creative writing program maintains an exceptionally robust list of internship opportunities. We have placed creative writing majors in professional settings that involve hands-on practice in teaching, tutoring, social media management, corporate and technical writing, public relations and many other skills.
• Showcase your talent. Oakland University has a vibrant arts scene that includes five literary journals, student film festivals, theatrical productions and more. In addition, our faculty often help creative writing majors prepare their work for submission to magazines, journals, websites and other publications.
• Belong to a supportive community. Our degree in creative writing operates on principles of inclusion and mutual support. We actively nurture a culture in which students respect each other’s talent, challenge each other to improve and take pride in each other’s successes.

What Can You Do With a Degree in Creative Writing?

If you aspire to attend graduate school, Oakland’s degree in creative writing offers excellent preparation. Nearly one-fourth of our creative writing majors go on to graduate school, with the majority receiving full-ride funding.

If you’re seeking to build income after graduation, there is a growing range of jobs you can get with a creative writing degree due to the growing demand for content for social media, websites and other digital platforms. Oakland University’s degree in creative writing provides you with a strong professional background that enables you to make a good income while you pursue artistic and creative growth.

After completing your bachelor’s degree in creative writing , you’ll be qualified for work in fields such as:

• Website content development
• Social media
• Copywriting
• Corporate communication
• Education and tutoring
• Digital storytelling

Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing: What You’ll Learn

The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing with specialization in fiction includes five creative writing workshops and two courses in literary history, plus four electives in English. You have the option to substitute a sixth writing workshop for one of the electives.

Creative writing workshop options cover many genres, including:

• Screenwriting
• Television writing
• Literary nonfiction
• Play Writing

Electives in English are similarly diverse, with dozens of courses available. A brief sample of course titles includes:

• The English Novel
• Early American Literature
• Modern Fiction
• African American Literature
• Modern Drama
• Modern Poetry
• Adaptation: Fiction, Drama, Film
• Ethnic Literature

Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing Program Resources

• Major requirements
• Minor requirements
• Department of English
• College of Arts and Sciences

Programs Related to the Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing

Not sure if the degree in creative writing is right for you? Check out these other undergraduate programs at Oakland and contact our admissions team to discuss your options.

• Bachelor of Arts in English
• Bachelor of Arts in Professional and Digital Writing
• Bachelor of Arts in Cinema Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in Theatre

Current Creative Writing Internships

• Content Creator Support at Detroitisit
• Communications & Design Support at Detroitisit
• Research and Storytelling Internship Program at Midstory
• Marketing Assistant at Bush Seyferth PLLC
• UX writer（Only for non-Chinese students studying in China） at Trip.com Group
• Panel and Presentation Logger at American Blackguard, Inc.
• Marketing Intern SEO at Cmczona LLC
• Corporate Communications Summer Intern (Paid) (Fort Worth, TX) 2025 at BNSF Railway
• Student Trainee Public Affairs at Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS)
• Spring 2025 - PR/Communications/Web & Social Media Course Credit Internship at Alfa Art Gallery / Alfa Art Center
• Corporate Communications Intern- Summer 2025- Hormel Foods- Austin, MN at Hormel Foods Corporation
• (#R24_0000001767) Strategic Marketing Intern at H.B. Fuller
• Marketing & Social Media Intern at Co-x3 Family Foundation
• Writing Intern at Co-x3 Family Foundation
• Cultivate Program Intern - SPRING INTERNSHIP at OneHope
• Marketing And Communications Intern at Downtown Dayton Partnership
• Marketing Internship at Grow Your Business
• Business Development Associate or Intern at SenseICs Corporation
• PR and Marketing Intern at Conifer Systems Inc.
• Junior Project Manager Intern at Cmczona LLC
• Business Data Analyst Internship at WebFX
• Digital Marketing Account Management Internship at WebFX
• Digital Marketing Strategy Internship at WebFX
• Spring 2025 - Marketing Course Credit Internship at Alfa Art Gallery / Alfa Art Center
• Social Media and Communications Intern, Student Athlete Preferred at BluChip
• FALL 2024 - Social Media Analytics Intern (REMOTE) at The Shark Group
• FALL 2024 - Social Media Content Creator Intern (REMOTE) at The Shark Group
• Community Manager at Smart Rewards Inc
• Campus Undergraduate-2025 Corporate Affairs & Communications Summer Internship New York, NY at American Express
• Program Development Intern/Volunteer at The Young Talons at The Young Talons
• Illinois Legislative Staff Intern (ILSIP Program) at University of Illinois Springfield
• Year Round Intern - Corporate Communications at Union Pacific Railroad
• Creative Writer Intern at BAD KIDS KORPORATION
• Comic Book Author Intern at BAD KIDS KORPORATION
• Content Writer Intern at Smart Rewards Inc
• Marketing Intern at Goodman Real Estate Services Group LLC
• Architectural Writing at OMA - Office for Metropolitan Architecture
• Fall 2024 Digital Marketing Internship at Premiere Creative
• Creative Psychology Writing Intern at Medtech Startup/Business Analytics & Science Writing at SENS Psychology
• Internships at Auto-Owners Insurance Company
• Research & Development Intern at BAD KIDS KORPORATION
• Film and Podcast Editor at BAD KIDS KORPORATION
• Newsletter Editor Intern at BAD KIDS KORPORATION
• Book Designer and Editor Intern at BAD KIDS KORPORATION
• Journalism (SEO Content and Editorial Intern) at Assuaged Foundation, Inc.
• Post Production Editor Intern (Film and Video) at Assuaged Foundation, Inc.
• Public Relations Intern at OMA - Office for Metropolitan Architecture
• Communications Intern at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley
• Creative Writing Intern at JBIER
• Marketing Analysis & Implementation Intern at Legacy Agencies
• Digital Marketing Internship - Video, Ecommerce, Advertising at Samoco Industries
• Issued Magazine, Editorial Intern at Issued Magazine
• Copywriting and Content Creation Intern at The Young Talons
• Country, Americana music writer at Country Standard Time
• Storyteller Intern at Love for Lane County
• Social Media Intern at College Football Dawgs
• Copywriter Intern at Nupixl
• Social Media Intern at Hitting Quota
• Modern Luxury Media Summer Marketing Internship at Modern Luxury
• Content Creation Intern at LIZ FE LIFESTYLE LLC
• Grant Writer Intern at Resilience, Inc.
• Instructional Design Intern at Danlaw, Inc.,
• Nursing E-book & Guides Creator at Multinurse
• Public Relations & Media Intern at Bandhouse Music Group
• Business Development & Public Relations Intern/Volunteer at The Young Talons
• Social Media Management Intern at Bandhouse Music Group
• Athletic Marketing Internship at UT/Toledo Rockets Athletics Marketing
• Assistant Editor at Insurance By Dentists
• Creative Writer at Resilience, Inc.
• Curriculum Development Content Writer at Resilience, Inc.
• Social Media Coordinator at Stepping Stone Academy Foundation
• Social Media and Marketing Coordinator at Give & Surf
• Marketing and Communications Fellow at Information Technology Industry Council (ITI)
• Video Editor Intern at Resilience, Inc.
• Automotive Blogger at Local Auto Solutions
• Public Relations/Marketing Internship (UNPAID) at Borgen Project
• Writer/Journalist Internship (UNPAID) at Borgen Project
• Grant Writing Intern at Techsgiving
• Editor - Job Training at Tunnel Vision Sports
• Design Editor/Layout Editor at The Young Talons
• Communications Officer at NPH USA
• Journalism Intern at SimWorld
• Entertainment Publicity and Promotions Intern at Allied Global Marketing
• Copywriting Internship - Write About The Outdoors! at Pathloom
• Social Media Marketing Intern at National STEM Honor Society (NSTEM)
• Public Relations Intern at National STEM Honor Society (NSTEM)
• Blogger/Writer/Content Creator/Digital Creator/Video Editor at Mecha Media/ SlapStik Comedy Entertainment

Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Creative Writing and English

The bachelor of arts (BA) in creative writing and English combines classic literature with writing exploration and technique. Students in the major are challenged to explore creative writing in many forms, from poetry and short fiction to playwriting, memoir, and avante garde techniques.

Creative writing majors work with nationally and internationally recognized faculty and meet inspiring writers, poets, memoirists, and editors who visit campus to lecture and teach.

Visit the program website for more information.

For information about the admission process, including deadlines, visit the  Office of Undergraduate Admissions website . Applications can be submitted via the  Common Application .

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Office of Undergraduate Admissions The George Washington University 800 21st St NW Suite 100 Washington, DC 20052

For questions visit undergraduate.admissions.gwu.edu/contact-us .

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under  Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs .

Program-specific curriculum:

In addition to the University General Education Requirement , undergraduate students in Columbian College must complete a further, College-specific general education curriculum—Perspective, Analysis, Communication (G-PAC) as well as the course CCAS 1001 First-Year Experience . Together with the University General Education Requirement, G-PAC engages students in active intellectual inquiry across the liberal arts. Students achieve a set of learning outcomes that enhance their analytical skills, develop their communication competencies, and invite them to participate as responsible citizens who are attentive to issues of culture, diversity, and privilege.

Coursework for the University General Education Requirement is distributed as follows:

One course in critical thinking in the humanities.

Two courses in critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, or scientific reasoning in the social sciences.

One course that has an approved oral communication component.

• One course in quantitative reasoning (must be in mathematics or statistics).
• One course in scientific reasoning (must be in natural and/or physical laboratory sciences).
• UW 1020 University Writing  (4 credits).
• After successful completion of UW 1020 ,  6 credits distributed over at least two writing in the discipline (WID) courses taken in separate semesters. WID courses are designated by a "W" appended to the course number. 

Coursework for the CCAS G-PAC requirement is distributed as follows:

• Arts—one approved arts course that involves the study or creation of artwork based on an understanding or interpretation of artistic traditions or knowledge of art in a contemporary context.
• Global or cross-cultural perspective—one approved course that analyzes the ways in which institutions, practices, and problems transcend national and regional boundaries.
• Local or civic engagement—one approved course that develops the values, ethics, disciplines, and commitment to pursue responsible public action.
• Natural or physical science—one additional approved laboratory course that employs the process of scientific inquiry (in addition to the one course in this category required by the University General Education Requirement).
• Humanities—one additional approved humanities course that involves critical thinking skills (in addition to the one course in this category required by the University General Education Requirement).
• CCAS 1001 First-Year Experience

Certain courses are approved to fulfill GPAC requirements in more than one category.

Courses taken in fulfillment of G-PAC requirements may also be counted toward majors or minors. Transfer courses taken prior to, but not after, admission to George Washington University may count toward the University General Education Requirement and G-PAC, if those transfer courses are equivalent to GW courses that have been approved by the University and the College.

Lists of approved courses in the above categories are included on each undergraduate major's  page in this Bulletin.

Majors in Creative Writing and English who wish to be considered for Special Honors must apply in writing in the spring semester of the junior year; they must meet the requirements stated under University Regulations and have a GPA of 3.25 in courses in the English Department at the time of applying. Candidates take the Creative Writing Senior Thesis ENGL 4220 in the spring semester. To be eligible for graduation with Special Honors, candidates must earn an A or A− on the Honors Thesis and have achieved a 3.4 grade-point average in courses in the English Department.

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

Download PDF of the 2023-2024 Bulletin

All pages in the 2023-2024 Bulletin.

• Study with UniSQ
• Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing)

Email me a pdf copy of this degree.

UniSQ is collecting the personal information on this form for support for students and prospective students and for marketing purposes. Further information concerning privacy is available.

Download a copy

Hang in there.

We're generating your PDF...

Your download is ready

If your download doesn't start automatically click the link below. We will also send you an email with a link to your PDF if you entered your email address.

Something went wrong!

It looks like there was an error while generating your brochure. Please try again later.

• Springfield
• 3 year(s) (or part-time equivalent)
• Feb, May, Sep

Career outcomes

Entry requirements, degree structure, fees and scholarships.

• The Creative Writing major provides you with an understanding of the practice of creative writing, as well as introduce you to the ideas, theories, and philosophies that inform professional writers and the writing industry. 
• Experiment with diverse forms, genres, and styles of writing and learn how to conceive, write, edit, and proofread your work to a publishable standard.
• Learn to think critically about how, why, where and when we write about experiences, landscapes or people; how to write creatively and critically; and how to produce compelling, professional narratives in both fiction and non-fiction. 
• You will join a vibrant and active online and on-campus community that will connect you with local and national writing communities.

Industry partners

You will work collaboratively with other emerging and established writers, editors, and publishers to produce online and print publications. You will also be exposed to industry opportunities such as internships and volunteer positions, writers’ panels and festivals, and other literary events.

Further study

Extend your study in creative writing in UniSQ's  Bachelor of Arts (Honours)  or the  Master of Research .

• Graduates are equipped for various roles across the creative and communications industries, as freelancers, or in corporate and community sectors such as arts, business, communications, law, education, and the media.
• Careers may include professional writer (fiction, non-fiction, or poetry), editor, publisher, travel writer, script writer, reviewer, corporate writer, game writer, workshop facilitator/teaches, media worker, digital copywriter, and the like.

Find the entry requirements most relevant to you.

Recent secondary education

To study this degree we assume you have sound knowledge in:

• English (Units 3 & 4, C) 

We assume that your knowledge is equivalent to a grade C or higher in Units 3 and 4 at high school level (typically studied in Year 12). Find out more about assumed knowledge .

Further admission information

Adjustments are additional points given in certain circumstances that may increase your Rank. Find out if you qualify for any  adjustment factor pathways  such as educational disadvantage where you live, and subjects you passed.

UniSQ is committed to greater admissions transparency. Learn more about the education and work experience, as well as average Ranks for this degrees' student cohort from the previous year.

Tafe (VET) qualification

If you have completed a qualification from a TAFE  or qualified private provider, you may be able to use these qualifications to meet UniSQ's entry requirements.

Work and life experience

You may be able to use your work experience  and other adjustment factors  to increase your selection rank and meet UniSQ's entry requirements.

English language requirements

You are required to satisfy the applicable English language requirements  and this degree requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent . If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program .

Recognition of prior learning or work experience

You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning  if you have previously studied or have relevant work experience. This will help to reduce the number of courses that you need to study to finish your program.

If you don't meet the entry requirements, we have pathway options available to you.

• Diploma of Arts
• Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies
• Tertiary Preparation Pathway

If you identify as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent you may be eligible to enter the Indigenous Higher Education Pathways Program (IHEPP) .

To complete this degree students must complete 24 units.

Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for courses to be studied and recommended enrolment patterns.  

Other majors

• Anthropology
• Archaeology
• Archaeology (Extended)
• Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
• Criminology & Criminal Justice
• Criminology & Criminal Justice (Extended)
• English Literature
• Environment & Sustainability
• First Nations Australia
• International Relations
• Legal Studies
• Physiology & Human Movement
• Social Justice & Entrepreneurship
• Visual Arts Curation

Double degrees

• Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws
• Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science

Your actual fees may vary depending on the courses you select. We review our fees annually so these may be subject to change.

Approximate annual costs 1 for your first year of study (8 units) in this degree are:

1 These are indicative annual fees for 2024. 

Student services and amenities fees

You may need to pay student services and amenities (SA) fees  as part of your course costs.

Loan to help you pay your fees

You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP allows you to defer your fees until your income reaches a certain level.  Find out if you are eligible for HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP .

You may also be eligible to receive financial support from Centrelink .

Scholarships

At UniSQ, we offer a range of scholarships to support your success at university. Find a scholarship  that works for you.

How to apply

Apply via qtac.

Apply via QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre) if you:

• have never studied with UniSQ before, or
• are a Year 12 student, or
• want to transfer to UniSQ from another university.

Copy your QTAC code and continue through to the QTAC website to complete your application.

If you are applying via QTAC, please check our application closing dates .

Apply directly to UniSQ

You may be able to apply directly to UniSQ if you:

• are a current or previous UniSQ student returning to study with complete or incomplete qualifications (excluding Head Start students), or
• have recently graduated from TAFE.

You can select to start your study in Trimester 1, 2 or 3.

More information on applying  key dates  is available.

Further information

Discover further information on applying to study at UniSQ that is relevant to you.

Got questions?

Begin your study journey today with the university rated 5/5 stars for graduates starting salaries* and start the degree that’s right for you.

*Good Universities Guide 2024

Creative Writing

Have questions we make it easy to get in touch:.

800-837-1290

412-419-3772 (standard text/SMS rates will apply)

[email protected]

Request Information

Complete our Request for Information form

Or, answer a few questions and we will be glad to help.

Creative writing overview.

Students in Chatham’s creative writing program are given a supportive setting of faculty and students alike. The faculty take undergraduate work seriously, motivating students to develop their crafts and experiment with their voices. Students who major in creative writing graduate with an understanding of multiple literary genres, of how to revise and refine their creative and academic writing, and of how to get their work in print. —JESS TURNER ’17

Explore the Creative Writing Degree:

Highly qualified students may also be admitted to the five-year BFA/MA in Creative Writing with an option to complete the  MFA in Creative Writing  program through Chatham’s Integrated Degree Program. Both programs provide an immersive undergraduate creative writing experience enabling students to further their education and start their careers even faster.

Program Highlights

• You will be encouraged to present your academic and creative work at professional conferences through Sigma Tau Delta (the International English Honor Society) and other organizations, helping you develop your professional identity as you prepare to move on to employment or graduate work.
• Students have many opportunities to showcase their work in University publications, peer-reviewed journals and magazines, local events, and contests.
• Qualified students may apply for admission to our five-year BFA/MA in Creative Writing or our BFA/Master of Arts in Teaching program. Both programs give you an immersive undergraduate creative writing experience while enabling you to further your education and start your career even faster.
• Our dedicated and supportive faculty is comprised of published writers who serve as mentors, instructors, collaborators, and peers.
• You will benefit from being in community with Chatham's MFA in Creative Writing students, and be able to take advantage of speakers and events that the program hosts.

Sample Courses & Curriculum

Creative Writing I

Students present a selection of their work each week for class comment and criticism. In addition, special problem topics are assigned weekly to develop writing skills. Readings concentrate on contemporary prose and verse.

Literary Publishing

This course is an introduction to literary publishing through practice, reading, and discussion. All phases of the publishing process are addressed, especially copyediting, design, and marketing. The course is designed to allow students to gain experience and knowledge of the creative, technical, and professional aspects of publishing a literary journal.

Multi-Genre Writing

This is an upper-level course for BFA students focusing on creative writing for experienced writers, geared toward preparing a finished manuscript or portfolio of work for potential publication in the student’s primary genre. Students read and write in the craft of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.

View Full Curriculum 

Our Faculty

If one word could best sum up Chatham's faculty, it would be engaged. Professors bring experiences to relate the course lessons to real-world situations.

Chatham’s undergraduate literary magazine, Minor Bird , is student-managed, including copy editing, design, and marketing. All Chatham students are welcome to submit poetry, fiction, and nonfiction to the magazine.

Creative Writing Club

Chatham’s Creative Writing Club sponsors readings and events, such as open-mic nights at Rea Coffeehouse. The club welcomes first-year students.

Expanding Horizons

Creative Writing majors are encouraged to study abroad and to explore interests leading to a second major or a minor.

Summer Community of Writers

Qualified students may participate in Chatham's Summer Community of Writers (SCW), a 10-day experience that features daily workshops, dynamic craft lectures, faculty and student readings, and field trips to local points of interest. 

Integrated Degree Program

Qualified students can be admitted early to Chatham's  Master of Arts in Creative Writing   and other graduate programs in writing.

Alumni Profile: Brian Broome ’17

“I think sometimes older people make the mistake of thinking that young people don’t have anything worthwhile to say, and that is so untrue,” he says. “I also learned a lot about my own sexism, the way in which I was viewing women in my life and women’s role in society. That’s a lot of what I learned at Chatham. Hopefully I’m still learning how to look at it.”

Internship Opportunities

Students have interned in many settings, including Upstart Crow Literary, Inklings Literary Agency , Autumn House Press , Dzanc Books , Shaw Galleries, Pittsburgh Downtown Development Association, and Schenley, a digital content consultancy firm.

Publications in Journals, Magazines, and Anthologies

Chatham’s BFA students have published in literary journals, magazines, and anthologies, including: Ruminate Magazine • Pretty Owl Poetry • Pittsburgh Poetry Review • Rogue Agent • Three Rivers Review • Voices in the Attic • 1932 Quarterly • Pittsburgh Pride Magazine • Cold Creek Review • The Good Men Project • Impossible Archetype Literary Journal • Life in 10 Minutes • The Forge Literary Magazine • Underscore Review • Pennsylvania’s Best Emerging Poets Anthology (Z Publishing) • Honey Bee Review .

Do you have questions?

We make it easy to get in touch:.

[email protected]

Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing Push the Bounds of Your Creativity and Skill

Degree Options

View Degree Options

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 75% of the degree total

Hone Your Storytelling Skills and Expand Your Knowledge of Writing Practices Through a Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing Online Degree

Liberty’s online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Creative Writing degrees offer a comprehensive education in the English language and the tools you need to further develop your writing skills. There are several exciting specializations to choose from, allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests.

Study principles and practices in creative writing. Learn to craft different works such as poems, memoirs, and novellas. Develop skills in editing for publishing; print and digital publishing; writing for cultural engagement, theater, and film; and researching for writing. Partner with us here at Liberty University to build your portfolio and broaden your writing abilities.

What is creative writing?

Creative writing is a broad area of writing that requires the author to think imaginatively and typically falls outside of normal professional or academic writing. It is not bound by genre or solely utilized in fiction or non-fiction. Often, creative writing is employed to communicate a theme.

What Will You Study in Our Creative Writing Program?

In Liberty’s Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing online degree program, you can learn the fundamentals of creative writing, including fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, novellas, poetry, and screenwriting. The program emphasizes the importance of strong writing skills and provides opportunities for you to develop your craft through workshops and peer review.

You will also study editing for publishing; methods and materials of research; writing for theater and film; and writing for cultural engagement. The different specialization options give you a unique opportunity to tailor your studies to your interests with your future career goals in mind. Upon completion of the program, you can be equipped with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills necessary for a successful career in creative writing or related fields. 

Featured Courses

• WRIT 201 – Introduction to Creative Writing
• WRIT 306 – Writing for Theater and Film
• WRIT 400 – Editing for Publishing
• WRIT 417 – Writing for Cultural Engagement

Degree Information

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

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career Opportunities for Undergraduate Creative Writing Graduates

• Advertiser/marketer
• Article writer
• Magazine journalist
• Marketing executive
• Newspaper journalist
• Proofreader
• Screenwriter
• Speechwriter
• Technical writer
• Travel blogger/writer
• Web content writer/manager
• Writing coach/consultant

Degree Options for Our Creative Writing Online Program

No matter which specialization you choose, you will receive a quality education that can help equip you with a unique set of skills and help you prepare for a rewarding career where you can put your writing skills to use.

Christian Literature

The  Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature  specialization focuses on exploring the intersection of faith and literature. You can learn to analyze and interpret literary works from a Christian perspective. This includes studying the Bible as literature and exploring how the Christian worldview influences literature. You can also learn how to write literature that reflects your Christian beliefs, including creative writing that incorporates Christian themes and messages.

View the Degree Completion Plan .

The  Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – English  specialization offers a broad and comprehensive study of the English language, including literature, grammar, composition, and rhetoric. Your courses can help you develop skills in writing, critical thinking, communication, and analysis.

The  Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Journalism  specialization is designed for students who want to pursue careers in journalism, media, public relations, or communications. This degree helps provide a thorough understanding of the principles and practices of journalism, including research, reporting, and writing. Your courses can help you develop skills in multimedia storytelling, investigative journalism, and digital media. In addition to studying the traditional forms of journalism, you can also learn how to adapt to the changing media landscape, including social media and online journalism.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

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!

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Our BS in Creative Writing

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Students may be allowed to enroll in up to 12 credit hours with Liberty with the submission of our High School Self-Certification Form (login required – you will first need to claim your Liberty Account ) .
• Unofficial transcripts can be used for acceptance purposes with the submission of a Transcript Request Form .

Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

*Official high school transcript requirement may be waived with college transcripts from an accredited college/university showing at least 12 earned credit hours with an acceptable GPA.

Note: A 2.0 or above cumulative GPA is required for admission in good standing.

Transcript Policies

High school transcript policy.

Applicants may submit a High School Self-Certification Form in lieu of a final official high school transcript in order to enroll in up to 12 credit hours at Liberty University.

• Applicants may submit a college transcript showing 12 or more credits from an accredited institution and a High School Self-Certification Form in lieu of high school transcripts.

Students must submit official high school transcripts, or official college transcripts showing at least 12 credit hours earned with an acceptable grade point average (GPA) from an accredited institution, in order to register for additional courses.

The official high school transcript, GED requirement, and High School Self-Certification Form can be waived if the applicant has earned an associate degree or higher.

Final transcripts must reflect all coursework and final grades received for grades 9-12, a graduation date, and an overall GPA. (Mailed transcripts must be in a sealed and unopened envelope.)

Unofficial College Transcript Policy

Unofficial transcripts combined with a Transcript Request Form can be used for admission. Official transcripts are required within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first, and will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Before sending unofficial college transcripts, please make sure they include the following:

• Your previous school’s name or logo printed on the document
• Cumulative GPA
• A list of completed courses and earned credit broken down by semester
• Degree and date conferred (if applicable)

Official College Transcript Policy

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

If the student uses unofficial transcripts with a Transcript Request Form to gain acceptance, all official transcripts must be received within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first. Failure to send all official transcripts within the 60-day period will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Military Transfers

If you have military-only transfer credits (completed basic training and enlistment), you must request an official military transcript. Please go to the Military Transfer Credit webpage to request your military transcript.

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, you may be required to have your international transcripts reviewed. Information regarding the transcript evaluation process for international students can be found by visiting NACES .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9595 Fax

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected] Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service 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

*Not applicable to certificates.

Inner Navigation

• What Will You Study?
• Potential Careers
• Specializations
• Admission Information

Have questions?

Are you ready to change your future?

Apply FREE This Week*

Request Information

*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 certificate students.

Request Information About a Program

Request info about liberty university online, choose a program level.

Choose a program level

Bachelor’s

Master’s

Certificate

Select a Field of Study

Select a field of study

Select a Program

Select a program

Next: Contact Info

Legal first name.

Enter legal first name

Legal Last Name

Enter legal last name

Enter an email address

Enter a phone number

Full Address

Enter an address

Apt., P.O. Box, or can’t find your address? Enter it manually instead .

Select a Country

Street Address

Enter Street Address

Enter State

ZIP/Postal Code

Enter Zip Code

Back to automated address search

Start my application now for FREE

Bachelor of Arts in English: Creative Writing

• Creative Writing (BA)
• Creative Writing (Minor)
• Creative Writing (MFA)

Are you seeking the way to write your great novel, poetry or non-fiction?

Creative Writing is a studio program designed to help you publish your artistic work. Our creative writing students, while publishing artistic work, have found diversified careers in editing, publishing, grant writing, teaching, professional schools and more. Courses in  Technical Communication are complementary to these career interests.

At the heart of our programs is a passion for critical, creative, and professional understanding and use of the English language. The creative writing option emphasizes artistic expression. It builds the skills needed to produce imaginative and inspired, publishable poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.

Curriculum Map

What You'll Learn

The following information comes from the official EWU catalog , which outlines all degree requirements and serves as the guide to earning a degree. Courses are designed to provide a well-rounded and versatile degree, covering a wide range of subject areas.

Plan of Study

The following plan of study is for a student with zero credits.  Individual students may have different factors such as: credit through transfer work, Advanced Placement, Running Start, or any other type of college-level coursework that requires an individual plan.

Courses could be offered in different terms, checking the academic schedule is paramount in keeping an individual plan current.  Students should connect with an advisor to ensure they are on track to graduate.

All Undergraduate students are required to meet the  Undergraduate Degree Requirements .

This major requires the completion of the  World Language requirement .  Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree must complete two years of a single language in high school or one year of a single language in college.

University Graduation Requirements (UGR) and Breadth Area Course Requirements (BACR) courses may be less than 5 credits and additional credits may be required to reach the required 180 total credits needed to graduate.  Students should connect with an advisor to ensure they are on track to graduate.

Required English Literature Surveys–CRWR majors are required to choose three from the approved list.

Additional Creative Writing credits–choose from the approved list.

Curriculum and Requirements

Mission Statement : The Creative Writing Program develops students’ abilities in creative writing in the genres of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction on a foundation of study of significant literary texts in British, American, and world literature.

Creative Writing is a studio program designed to help students publish their artistic work. It is not intended to prepare a student for a specific career; however, our creative writing graduates, while publishing artistic work, have found diversified careers in editing, publishing, grant writing, teaching, professional schools and many fields less directly related to their writing abilities. Courses in technical communications are complementary to these career interests.

Note: two years of a single high school world language or one year of a single college-level world language is required.

Students in the Creative Writing option are encouraged to register for 5+ credits from the following list of Breadth Area Core Requirements: HUMN 210  or HUMN 211 or history courses appropriate to the student’s area of literary interest.

Some substitutions may be allowed.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of EWU’s Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing Program will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of the contemporary literary scene, at a level of proficiency sufficient for advancement to graduate work;
• offer constructive criticism of written works-in-progress within the genre at a level of proficiency sufficient for advancement to graduate work;
• produce texts that conform to the conventions specific to the genre being studied (literary fiction, literary nonfiction or poetry) at a level of proficiency sufficient for advancement to graduate work;
• synthesize an understanding of the publishing process, at a level of proficiency sufficient for advancement to graduate work;
• utilize the technical language of the craft pertinent to their chosen genre of study (literary fiction, literary nonfiction, poetry) to analyze works of literature within-genre at a level of proficiency sufficient for advancement to graduate work.

Sample Courses

Engl 385. mythology. 5 credits..

Pre-requisites: ENGL 201. A survey of classical Greek myths, with special attention to the stories used in literature, and an introduction to comparative mythology.

Catalog Listing

ENGL 389. WOMEN, LITERATURE AND SOCIAL CHANGE. 5 Credits.

Cross-listed: GWSS 389. Pre-requisites: ENGL 201. Satisfies: a university graduation requirement–diversity. Examines fictional images of women as these images reflect the changing roles and status of women from Greece to the present, focusing on the 19th and 20th centuries.

ENGL 347. WORLD LITERATURES. 5 Credits.

Pre-requisites: ENGL 201. The literature in this course represents a broad range of cultures and ethnicities. Students will read works in a variety of genre from across history and around the globe. Most syllabi in this course will not include British or American texts as those are considered in other surveys.

DESN 360. ZINE AND PUBLICATION DESIGN. 5 Credits.

Pre-requisites: ENGL 201. This course facilitates development of personal style and voice, as students design, edit, and create their own “zines” (reproducible hand-made booklets). Students practice graphic layout, typography, and professional book assembly. Analog production methods and desktop publishing software will be used. Student-made zines will be sold at “Spokane Zine Fest” and other in-person and digital outlets.

Lisa Denker

• Creative Writing (BA) Portfolio Process
• The Undergraduate Experience
• Undergraduate Advising

About Creative Writing at ASU

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, poetry, and creative nonfiction,
• diverse special topics courses, 
• internships with Hayden’s Ferry Review, ASU’s national literary journal, 
• and by participating in the many exciting writing events held on campus. 

About the Creative Writing Concentration

Interested students who have already taken the beginning and intermediate workshops in their genre of specialty, and who 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. 

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.

Students interested in pursuing more than one genre at the 400-level must check with their academic advisor to ensure that the necessary courses will fit their degree plan. Dual-genre students must submit two portfolios—one in each genre—to be considered for admittance into advanced coursework in both areas. 

Students pursuing the Creative Writing Concentration must either have selected 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 completing the concentration in creative writing must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher in their major.
• Concentration students must complete the two advanced courses in their genre. N ote that enrollment into these courses is restricted. Spaces are limited. Students must have submitted a portfolio and been selected to move forward. Completion of the concentration in creative writing is open only to those who pass through Portfolio Review. 
• 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 Portfolio Review will start their coursework in the following semester. Workshop classes cannot be taken simultaneously.  
• Students are only allowed to apply for the creative writing concentration twice during their time at ASU.

Portfolio Submission: How to Apply

Your portfolio should include:

• COVER SHEET
• Poetry Sample: 5 poems
• Fiction Sample: 1 piece of fiction of at least 5 double-spaced pages and not longer than 10 double-spaced pages
• Creative Nonfiction Sample: 1 piece of creative nonfiction of at least 5 double-spaced pages and not longer than 10 double-spaced pages 
• Discuss your interest in the relevant genre
• What do you hope to gain from the creative writing concentration
• Submit an essay on a single poem, short story, or short creative nonfiction work, focusing on an element of craft you identify in the piece, how that craft element works within the piece, and how this aspect of craft is pertinent to your own writing.
• Please provide textual examples (quotations) from the creative piece in your essay and make sure to closely read/explain their relevance. 
• A link will be provided each semester to students enrolled in the major and/or registered for the prerequisite creative writing workshops each term to submit for Portfolio Review. Specific submission dates will be included. 
• Fall: October-November
• Spring: March-April  

Santa Clara University

The jesuit university in silicon valley.

• Creative Writing Minor
• College of Arts and Sciences
• Academic Programs

The Creative Writing Program offers students a coherent course of study in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.

The creative writing minor is firmly grounded within the liberal arts tradition, integrating courses in poetry, fiction, screenwriting, and creative nonfiction writing within their broader literary and cultural context.

Introductory courses familiarize students with the practice and theory of creative writing. Advanced courses offer a workshop setting in which students write and critique one another’s work. Electives focus on particular genres of creative writing, such as Lifewriting, Fantasy and Science Fiction, and Screenwriting. All creative writing courses incorporate some study of literature as well as close attention to students’ own creative writing.

English majors who complete the Creative Writing minor may use their Creative Writing track courses for both the major and the minor.

*English majors who complete the Creative Writing minor may use their Creative Writing track courses for both the major and the minor.

Two Introductory Courses:

• English 71 . Fiction Writing

English 72. Poetry Writing

Two Sections of the Practicum Course:  

• English 91. Literary Review Practicum

One Advanced Course:

• English 171. Advanced Fiction Writing or English 172. Advanced Poetry Writing (may not double dip)

Three Electives From the Following:

• English 73. Lifewriting
• English 74. New Forms for Creative Writing
• English 170. Writing for Children and Young Adults
• English 171. Advanced Fiction Writing
• English 172. Advanced Poetry Writing
• English 173. Screenwriting
• English 175. Creative Nonfiction
• English 176. Creative Writing and Social Justice
• English 177. Writing Genre Fiction
• English 178. Creative Writing and Performing
• English 179W. Playwriting
• English 179. Advanced Playwriting

All SCU students have the opportunity to work on the University’s literary magazine. Published twice a year,  the Review includes fiction, essays, poetry, book reviews, art and photography from the Santa Clara University Community and the Bay Area. In the Literary Magazine Practicum, one-unit courses offered every quarter, students discuss submissions.

Each year three department literary prizes for undergraduates are given: the McCann Prize for the best short story, the Shipsey Prize for the best poem or group of poems, and the Academy of American Poets “Tamara Verga Poetry Prize” for the best poem or group of poems. In addition, SCU participates in the Ina Coolbrith Memorial Poetry Prize, choosing three finalists to compete with other California university undergraduates. The winning manuscripts receive cash awards and maybe published in the Santa Clara Review.

The Writing Forward Reading Series  brings creative writers with international, national, and regional reputations to the Santa Clara University campus for readings, classroom discussions, informal meetings with students, and interviews with the Santa Clara Review literary/arts magazine. This collaborative program between the English Department’s Creative Writing Program and the student-run Santa Clara Review is grounded in the Department’s and University’s commitment to involving undergraduate students in research collaboration with faculty, and is dedicated to reaching out to both the campus and local communities.

Poets and writers brought to campus include  Robert Hass  (U.S. Poet Laureate, Pulitzer Prize),  Carolyn Forché  (Yale Younger Poets, NEA and Lannan grants),  Khaled Hosseini  (NYT Bestseller List, SCU alumnus),  Viet Thanh Nguyen  (Pulitzer Prize, MacArthur Grant),  Tobias Wolff  (Pen/Faulkner Award, National Medal of the Arts),  Reyna Grande  (American Book Award, International Latino Book Award),  Gerald Stern  (National Book Award, Guggenheim),  Juan Felipé Herrera  (American Book Award, National Book Critics Circle Award, US Poet Laureate),  Dana Gioia  (American Book Award, Chair of NEA),  Rigoberto Gonzalez  (American Book Award, Guggenheim),  Raina Leon  (Cave Canem and MacDowell Fellow),  Jim Shepard  (Guggenheim Award, The Story Prize)  Alexandra Teague  (Stegner and NEA Fellowships), Norma Cantú (MLA Distinguished Scholar Award), and  Cheryl Dumesnil  (Agnes Lynch Starrett Prize, SCU alumna).

Students majoring or minoring in English and/or Creative Writing and those working on the Santa Clara Review from a variety of majors are actively engaged in planning, inviting, and organizing the series, in close collaboration with faculty. This involvement gives undergraduates hands-on experience with the fields of writing, publishing, and public relations, while also ensuring that the series continues to speak to our campus population. The faculty-student collaboration that undergirds the series is also mirrored in interdisciplinary collaboration on campus and in community collaboration off campus. 

In the last few years, over two dozen SCU students who have studied Creative Writing have been accepted into M.A., M.F.A., and Ph.D. programs in Creative Writing at University of Virginia, University of Iowa, Syracuse University, New York University, San Francisco State, University of Denver, University of Montana, University of Arizona, Bennington College, UC Davis, Brown University, San Diego State University, San Jose State University, USC, among others. Several have received prestigious fellowships and teaching assistantships to these universities. English major alumni include Neal Jimenez, who won first prize at the Sundance Film Festival for his film, Waterdance, and Jeff Brazil, who won a Pulitzer Prize in Journalism.

• Jerald Enos - Theater and Dance
• Francisco Jimenez, Tonia Riviello - Modern Languages
• Diane Dreher, Ron Hansen, Claudia MonPere McIsaac - English

Kirk Glaser, Claudia MonPere McIsaac, Cory Wade, Juan Velasco

Fiction and Screenwriting:

Kirk Glaser, Ron Hansen, David Keaton, Claudia MonPere McIsaac, Tim Myers, Juan Velasco

Nonfiction:

Simone Billings, Diane Dreher

For more information, contact:

Kirk Glaser

Director Creative Writing Program (408) 554-4384 Direct (408) 554-4837 Fax [email protected]

Visit the Health Advisories website for the latest vaccination and mask information and to Report a Case.

Department of English and Comparative Literature

MFA Program

Our Program and Literary Community

A 44 semester-unit, 2-year studio/research program: 

• A dual-genre program with concentrations in fiction, creative nonfiction , poetry, and playwriting/screenwriting.
• Curriculum includes writing workshops in primary and secondary genres, literature seminars, professional training courses, and internships.  
• First Year: All applicants are considered for six Graduate Steinbeck Fellowships (covers in-state tuition). 
• Second Year : Students can apply to be Teaching Associates in the English Department with a salary and tuition remittance.
• Connie L. Lurie Distinguished Visiting Author-in-Residence . Don George, Andrew Sean Greer, Nayomi Munaweera, and Faith Adiele (Spring 2020). Past visitors include: Vendela Vida, Cristina García, Ursula K. Le Guin, Ishmael Reed, Kim Addonizio, Simon Winchester, Tim Cahill, and Daniel Alarcón.
• Reed Magazine , the oldest student-run literary journal west of the Mississippi.
• Center for Literary Arts holds readings, discussions, and master classes with writers of exceptional voice and vision in San Jose since 1986. Guests since 2007 include E.L. Doctorow, Denis Johnson, ZZ Packer, Mary Roach, Salman Rushdie, Tracy K. Smith, Juan Felipe Herrera, Joy Harjo, T. C. Boyle, Viet Thanh Nguyen, William Finnegan, Paul Beatty, Marilyn Chin (Fall 2019), and Jonathan Franzen (Fall 2019).

Fall admission opens October 1.

Admission is based on a writing sample in the primary genre, in which the student will complete a full-length thesis.  Students must declare a primary and a secondary genre to apply for admission. 

• MFA Admission requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Our MFA Program?

• Be part of workshops and literature seminars (averaging 15-16 students) taught by actively publishing, available faculty . 
• Courses are taught in-person and via online modalities, and are offered weekly in the late afternoons and evenings to fit your busy schedule.
• Apply for a fellowship! All applicants are automatically eligible to be considered for one of six full in-state tuition Graduate Steinbeck Fellowships in their first year. 
• Take advantage of a plethora of opportunities, such as joining the editorial staff of REED Magazine , an award-winning student-edited annual literary journal.
• Become a teaching assistant. Teaching opportunities while completing the degree through the department’s Graduate Assistant and Teaching Associate programs .
• Hear from renowned authors in events presented by the Center for Literary Arts and from our annual Lurie Visiting Author-in-Residence who teaches a graduate workshop each Spring. Come join our supportive literary and social community !

Reading List

For the MFA exam you should be prepared to cite approximately 8 works in the primary (approximately 4 per essay) and 4 works in the secondary on our reading list.

Past MFA Events

From MFA Theses Readings to Legacy of Poetry, you can find recordings and slide decks from our past events!

Nick Taylor , Director of Creative Writing  (408) 924-5087  Faculty Offices 106  [email protected]