english creative writing degree online

Online English – Creative Writing, BA

Get more information.

• Name * First Last
• Degree * English - Creative Writing, BA
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Privacy Notice

Program at a Glance

• In State Tuition
• Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

Inspire and engage others through your creative writing skills.

You’re full of bold ideas, innovative concepts and compelling thoughts. In studying the craft of creative writing you are taking your place beside those who use language, literature and writing to shape our world.

Through UCF Online’s creative writing courses, you’ll become an expert communicator with a deep appreciation of fiction, poetry and non-fiction prose. This program will guide you through an understanding of rhetoric, communication and literary structure within a diverse array of texts. You’ll also stretch your imagination as you hone your own craft, learning how to construct poignant arguments, think critically and develop original creative content for fiction and nonfiction genres.

Written communication is one of the most enduring, flexible and sought-after skills in today’s employment landscape. With your online creative writing degree you’ll be poised for a career in a variety of fields, including law, editing and publishing, teaching, consulting and more. Get started today and earn your BA in Creative Writing.

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Ready to get started, course overview, fiction writing workshop.

An intermediate level fiction writing workshop for English majors; group analysis and criticism; close reading of contemporary fiction and fiction theory.

Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop

Intensive writing practice in poetry. Peer critique and group discussion of original manuscripts.

History of Prose Style

Close study of style and craft in exemplary works of fiction and creative nonfiction from various time periods.

Skills You'll Learn

• Learn how to self-edit and provide constructive feedback to others, helping you refine your writing and improve your overall craftsmanship.
• Generate unique ideas, explore unconventional perspectives, and approach problems from various angles.
• Cultivate your ability to gather relevant data, evaluate sources and critically assess different perspectives, which can be applied to various professional settings.

Career Projections

Annual Job Openings

Job Growth Between 2019 - 2029

Source: Lightcast™ . 2024

Career Opportunities

• technical writer

Related Online Programs

• Writing and Rhetoric, BA
• Career and Technical Education, BS
• English - Technical Communication, BA

2024 Best Colleges with Online Creative Writing Degrees in America

• Direct Admissions
• College Quiz
• Best student life
• Top party schools
• Best academics
• Best colleges
• Best professors
• Hardest to get into

Best programs

• Accounting/finance
• Agricultural sciences
• Anthropology
• Architecture
• Communications
• Computer science
• Criminal justice
• Culinary arts
• Engineering
• Engineering technician
• Environmental science
• Film/photography
• Global studies
• Health care management
• Information technology
• International relations
• Kinesiology/therapy
• Performing arts
• Political science
• Public health
• Public policy
• Religious studies
• Sports management
• Most diverse
• Most liberal
• Most conservative

Social scene

• Best greek life
• Best campuses
• Best college dorms
• Best college food
• Best locations
• Safest campuses
• College athletics
• Best for student athletes

1-24 of 24 results

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   1,358 reviews

Freshman: It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be transformative and rewarding. Instead of focusing on the negatives, perhaps you could consider exploring constructive criticism or discussing specific areas for improvement in the college experience. This approach allows for a more balanced and productive discussion that can lead to positive changes and improvements in the education system. If you have specific concerns about your college experience, it might be helpful to address them directly with the appropriate channels within your institution or seek support from counselors or advisors. Remember, challenges are a natural part of any educational journey, and there are often resources available to help navigate them. ... Read 1,358 reviews

• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 6%

Net price $14,578

SAT range 1480-1570

Blue checkmark.

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

1358 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be... .

Read 1358 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 6% ,

Net Price : $14,578 ,

SAT Range : 1480-1570 ,

National University

La Jolla, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   1,174 reviews

Graduate Student: I am in the teacher credential program and I am loving it. I used to get overwhelmed and bored with standard semester classes but at NU, I take 1 class every 4 weeks. I focus on the information for 1 class at a time and the course progresses quickly so I don’t get bored and the course requirements are reasonable, especially since most of the class participants work full time and have families. This has been a wonderful experience! ... Read 1,174 reviews

• grade  A Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 55%

Net price $9,966

SAT range 750-1170

LA JOLLA, CA ,

1174 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says I am in the teacher credential program and I am loving it. I used to get overwhelmed and bored with standard semester classes but at NU, I take 1 class every 4 weeks. I focus on the information for 1... .

Read 1174 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A ,

Acceptance Rate : 55% ,

Net Price : $9,966 ,

SAT Range : 750-1170 ,

University of Missouri - St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO •

• • Rating 3.57 out of 5   1,046 reviews

Senior: I have been an online student at UMSL for 4 years now and it has been an incredibly rewarding and satisfying experience from start to finish. Aside from a few individual professors, the classes have been knowledgeable and have propelled me forward. The best thing that UMSL does is provide so many resources for students to access and utilize on their journey. For me, several advisors came together to give me all the necessary help and guidance I needed to complete my time here and make all the work manageable. All in all, UMSL is an excellent school that is both rewarding and challenging without ever being overwhelming. ... Read 1,046 reviews

• grade  B+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 57%

Net price $10,525

SAT range 1020-1300

SAINT LOUIS, MO ,

1046 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Senior says I have been an online student at UMSL for 4 years now and it has been an incredibly rewarding and satisfying experience from start to finish. Aside from a few individual professors, the classes have... .

Read 1046 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 57% ,

Net Price : $10,525 ,

SAT Range : 1020-1300 ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   1,358

Anderson University - South Carolina

ANDERSON, SC

• • Rating 3.8 out of 5   997

Tompkins Cortland Community College

• • Rating 3.71 out of 5   349

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA •

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   8,351 reviews

Graduate Student: I have had a wonderful experience in the Counselor Education & Supervision PhD program at Liberty! My program started as intensive based, but because of the pandemic, we online met online. I loved the time we had in the intensives (week only in-class instruction each semester). I had fabulous professors that really focused on our strengths and built us up rather than tear us down. Don’t get me wrong, they were fair in their assessments of us as students. The program was rigorous, accredited, and focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Yes, it’s Christian based, but all are welcome and the focus is not shoving Christianity down someone’s throat or beating people over the head with the Bible till they believe. The program I was in was fair, objective, personal, and followed counseling ethics set forth by the American Counseling Association. ... Read 8,351 reviews

Acceptance rate 99%

Net price $27,891

SAT range 1040-1250

LYNCHBURG, VA ,

8351 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says I have had a wonderful experience in the Counselor Education & Supervision PhD program at Liberty! My program started as intensive based, but because of the pandemic, we online met online. I loved... .

Read 8351 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 99% ,

Net Price : $27,891 ,

SAT Range : 1040-1250 ,

Minnesota State College Southeast

Winona, MN •

• • Rating 3.96 out of 5   122 reviews

Alum: Professors cared about students being successful and connected with us as people. Proud to be a graduate of Southeast! ... Read 122 reviews

• grade  B Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 100%

Net price $14,965

SAT range —

WINONA, MN ,

122 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Professors cared about students being successful and connected with us as people. Proud to be a graduate of Southeast! .

Read 122 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B ,

Acceptance Rate : 100% ,

Net Price : $14,965 ,

Mesa Community College

• • Rating 3.89 out of 5   2,006 reviews

Freshman: I was initially nervous about starting college because transitioning from high school isn't easy. I liked that they had resources to make the transition easier for students. The professors and staff are very supportive. However, I would like to see more mental health awareness, especially since school can become stressful with assignments and time management. ... Read 2,006 reviews

Net price $11,733

2006 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I was initially nervous about starting college because transitioning from high school isn't easy. I liked that they had resources to make the transition easier for students. The professors and staff... .

Read 2006 reviews.

Net Price : $11,733 ,

• Will you get in? Understand your chances of getting accepted into any college in the country, and it's completely free

Weber State University

Ogden, UT •

• • Rating 3.78 out of 5   2,255 reviews

Junior: So far I've had a great experience with the majority of my professors! They all want me to succeed and reach my goals! The dance department isn't the strongest, while it's a small program, it is still in working to improve. The administrators do their best to provide the dancers with opportunities that extend beyond the university to help prepare us for the professional work field of dance. The program also provides a lot of diversity in dance by offering classes ranging from ballet to African dance. The University has free parking available for students in a further lot just outside of campus, and they provide transportation in and out of campus by bus, which is great when parking is full. WSU is always looking to improve and wants to hear the students' voices! Resources like Wifi, the gym, a stress relief center, computer labs, math tutoring, and writing labs are offered. They even host job fairs regularly. This is a beautiful college campus that is lively and full of opportunities! ... Read 2,255 reviews

Net price $10,493

OGDEN, UT ,

2255 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says So far I've had a great experience with the majority of my professors! They all want me to succeed and reach my goals! The dance department isn't the strongest, while it's a small program, it is... .

Read 2255 reviews.

Net Price : $10,493 ,

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH •

• • Rating 4.36 out of 5   4,397 reviews

Alum: SNHU was the best thing that ever came in my life and I will forever cherish my time with this school! Before SNHU I was in and out of community colleges and wanted to give up until I saw my job offered a degree through SNHU. My advisor was my side kick the whole way through and was always one dial away. The professors I had were pretty good, you were expected of the best and nothing less. I was also able to take advantage of a lot of the acceleration options to speed up my degree. Fast forwarding to now I just walked across the stage in Manchester, NH for my BS in Business Administration and might come back for my MBA. Thanks SNHU for all you do to help working students succeed academically and opening new doors in life. ... Read 4,397 reviews

• grade  B minus Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 92%

Net price $21,502

SAT range 870-1060

MANCHESTER, NH ,

4397 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says SNHU was the best thing that ever came in my life and I will forever cherish my time with this school! Before SNHU I was in and out of community colleges and wanted to give up until I saw my job... .

Read 4397 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B minus ,

Acceptance Rate : 92% ,

Net Price : $21,502 ,

SAT Range : 870-1060 ,

Central Washington University

Ellensburg, WA •

• • Rating 3.63 out of 5   1,618 reviews

Freshman: I am a freshman, and I've found that there are a lot of great opportunities for friendship, connections, and team building on campus! They have great food, but their hiring process for on-campus jobs is absolutely terrible. A good school all around, though! ... Read 1,618 reviews

Acceptance rate 88%

Net price $17,645

SAT range 930-1150

ELLENSBURG, WA ,

1618 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I am a freshman, and I've found that there are a lot of great opportunities for friendship, connections, and team building on campus! They have great food, but their hiring process for on-campus jobs... .

Read 1618 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 88% ,

Net Price : $17,645 ,

SAT Range : 930-1150 ,

Black Hills State University

Spearfish, SD •

• • Rating 3.53 out of 5   639 reviews

Freshman: Black Hills State University, as a whole, is a great school. The student life is great, as I've met many people here who I love to spend time with when I can. Professors are great and are very helpful if you don't understand the lessons. There are so many opportunities to get help academically that it's really hard to not get help. Only critiques I have is the fact that there's rarely anything going on during the weekends if there isn't a home sporting event, so that makes a lot of students leave on the weekends, making this place feel empty when there's no classes, and lack of jobs on campus for students because they fill quickly. Overall, great school, would recommend to anyone. ... Read 639 reviews

• grade  C+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 97%

Net price $15,895

SAT range 970-1150

SPEARFISH, SD ,

639 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Black Hills State University, as a whole, is a great school. The student life is great, as I've met many people here who I love to spend time with when I can. Professors are great and are very... .

Read 639 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : C+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 97% ,

Net Price : $15,895 ,

SAT Range : 970-1150 ,

PennWest Clarion

Clarion, PA •

• • Rating 3.59 out of 5   1,043 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience at PennWest Clarion has been great! I am currently enrolled in the 4 year BSN program, and I have found my future career path. The Nursing professors are extremely educated, and willing to teach as much as they can to their students. They want to see their students succeed, and they are able to help their students achieve all of their academic wishes. I have made so many great friendships along the way, with my fellow classmates as well as my professors. All of the professors are easy to contact and they are able to answer all questions for their students! Clarion has recently altered their Nursing program, one of the newest things they added to the program were the length of clinical experience. Before, the Nursing students began clinical at the end of their junior year. Now the Nursing students begin their clinical experience in the Spring semester of their sophomore year. I think this alteration and other alterations were the best decisions for the students. ... Read 1,043 reviews

Net price $13,840

SAT range 940-1130

CLARION, PA ,

1043 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says My overall experience at PennWest Clarion has been great! I am currently enrolled in the 4 year BSN program, and I have found my future career path. The Nursing professors are extremely educated, and... .

Read 1043 reviews.

Net Price : $13,840 ,

SAT Range : 940-1130 ,

Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Coon Rapids, MN •

• • Rating 3.74 out of 5   529 reviews

Other: I attended ARCC as a Post Secondary Education Opportunity student in my junior and senior years of high-school. My time at ARCC has helped me to prepare myself for a 4-year university that I will attending in the fall. I did not have an experience with any of the staff at ARCC that was unsavory or turned me away. They all are super helpful and I felt comfortable asking my professors for help if I needed it! ... Read 529 reviews

Net price $10,929

COON RAPIDS, MN ,

529 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I attended ARCC as a Post Secondary Education Opportunity student in my junior and senior years of high-school. My time at ARCC has helped me to prepare myself for a 4-year university that I will... .

Read 529 reviews.

Net Price : $10,929 ,

• Sponsored Find Student Loan Options
• 4 Ways to Pay for College
• 2024 Top Party Schools

Rio Salado College

Tempe, AZ •

• • Rating 3.91 out of 5   507 reviews

Other: I was living in a very rural part of California, and my local community college did not offer any nursing prerequisites. A coworker told me that Rio Salado offers science courses with labs online, and I was able to complete all my nursing prerequisites through them: Anatomy & Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, and Nutrition. It was not very cheap, but it allowed me to do something that I would not have otherwise been able to accomplish. Now, I am about to start University of Washington's BSN program. Thank you Rio Salado for making science courses available to folks in rural areas! ... Read 507 reviews

Net price $9,426

TEMPE, AZ ,

507 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I was living in a very rural part of California, and my local community college did not offer any nursing prerequisites. A coworker told me that Rio Salado offers science courses with labs online,... .

Read 507 reviews.

Net Price : $9,426 ,

Calvary University

Kansas City, MO •

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   51 reviews

Alum: I enjoyed it very much. If I had any issues, they were handled immediately leaving me to feel that I was important. Great school! ... Read 51 reviews

Acceptance rate 59%

Net price $14,117

SAT range 870-1370

KANSAS CITY, MO ,

51 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I enjoyed it very much. If I had any issues, they were handled immediately leaving me to feel that I was important. Great school! .

Read 51 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 59% ,

Net Price : $14,117 ,

SAT Range : 870-1370 ,

Linfield University - Online & Continuing Education

Mcminnville, OR •

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   14 reviews

Junior: Great format for online learning. I would like to see classes have more similar formats of homework and submission so that a student does not have to figure out a new method for each class. ... Read 14 reviews

• grade  unavailable Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate —

Net price —

MCMINNVILLE, OR ,

14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says Great format for online learning. I would like to see classes have more similar formats of homework and submission so that a student does not have to figure out a new method for each class. .

Read 14 reviews.

Anoka-Ramsey Community College Online

2 Year (Online)

2 Year (Online) ,

BHSU Online

4 Year (Online)

4 Year (Online) ,

Central Washington University Online Learning

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Alum: Background: full time worker, gets degree done in about 5 years. The online course are fairly challenging due to the work load, I have pretty good plan but remember the work load is more than the classroom, so I did my reading and turn on my laptop every night, no weekend, no slack off. Just work, gym, and study to keep my GPA high to keep my scholarship. The class are good pace, I have 8 week course in other school which I hate (too fast) but 16 weeks are way too slow. The quarter pace is just right for me, and summer class also worth taking. Good luck. CWU online is worth it and it works for me. ... Read 3 reviews

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Background: full time worker, gets degree done in about 5 years. The online course are fairly challenging due to the work load, I have pretty good plan but remember the work load is more than the classroom, so I did my reading and turn on my laptop every night, no... The class are good pace, I have 8 week course in other school which I hate (too fast) but 16 weeks are way too slow. The quarter pace is just right for me, and summer class also worth taking. Good luck. CWU online is worth it and it works for me. .

Read 3 reviews.

Liberty University Online

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   97 reviews

Senior: Every single person on campus and in online classes has been outstanding to interact with. Not one negative thing, only exceedingly abundant blessings! ... Read 97 reviews

97 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Senior says Every single person on campus and in online classes has been outstanding to interact with. Not one negative thing, only exceedingly abundant blessings! .

Read 97 reviews.

Mesa Community College Online

• • Rating 4 out of 5   5 reviews

Sophomore: Mesa Community College has been an overall great school that has helped me to achieve my academic goals. I have been able to interact with students and teachers in meaningful ways and prepare to transfer to Grand Canyon University. My online college experience has given me the flexibility I have needed to work from home. ... Read 5 reviews

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says Mesa Community College has been an overall great school that has helped me to achieve my academic goals. I have been able to interact with students and teachers in meaningful ways and prepare to... .

Read 5 reviews.

National University Online Education

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Read 1 reviews.

Rio Salado College Online Learning

• • Rating 4.63 out of 5   16 reviews

Junior: What I like about this college is the teachers are very understanding and easy to work with. Even though online learning can be overwhelming, the teachers make it so much less difficult. I feel like I was able to do things on my own time and what worked best for me. I was teaching myself and it was a lot more work but it was rewarding. The benefits is you do not need to go to the school but rather you can work where is comfortable for you without any distractions. You chose what is best on your behalf and that is what I think helped me out because when I am comfortable, I am more likely to want to learn and do the homework. It was my first time doing school online and I recommend it completely. I was able to work a full time job while being a full time student so I was not missing out on money, which is something I stress about being in college. Overall, I loved doing college online and I felt a lot less stressed. Highly recommend. ... Read 16 reviews

16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says What I like about this college is the teachers are very understanding and easy to work with. Even though online learning can be overwhelming, the teachers make it so much less difficult. I feel like... .

Read 16 reviews.

SNHU Online

• • Rating 4.95 out of 5   38 reviews

Alum: From day one, although all my courses and communications were online, I felt welcome. The office/school employees and instructors were very supportive. I felt connected to a network of educational resources. I would recommend taking online courses here to anyone looking for the accessible way to complete career advancement or knowledge advancement curriculum. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the in-person graduation ceremony, but I was glad to find out my family was able to join in virtually. ... Read 38 reviews

38 Niche users give it an average review of 4.9 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says From day one, although all my courses and communications were online, I felt welcome. The office/school employees and instructors were very supportive. I felt connected to a network of educational... .

Read 38 reviews.

Weber State University Online

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   6 reviews

Freshman: I love that it allows me to still work full time, and allows me to still learn everything but on my time when it’s most convenient when I’m not at work. All of my teachers are so nice and helpful and it’s a beautiful school with so many nice students that always help me out! ... Read 6 reviews

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I love that it allows me to still work full time, and allows me to still learn everything but on my time when it’s most convenient when I’m not at work. All of my teachers are so nice and helpful and... .

Read 6 reviews.

Showing results 1 through 24 of 24

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

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

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

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

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

Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Creative Writing Degree Program

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

Colorado Christian University

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

Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Florida International University

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

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

Grand Canyon University

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

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

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

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

Missouri State University

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

Missouri State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Southern New Hampshire University

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

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

Southwest Minnesota State University

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

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

University of Arkansas – Little Rock

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

UA Little Rock is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Central Florida

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

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

University of Wisconsin – Superior

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

UW-Superior is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online Creative Writing Degrees

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

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

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

• Film scripts
• Nonfiction pieces
• Short stories

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

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

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

Writing Careers & Salaries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bachelor of Creative Writing Curriculum & Courses

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

Your curriculum might include:

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

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

Admissions Requirements

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

In addition, you might submit the following:

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

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

Online Creative Writing Programs Accreditation

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

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

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

Financial Aid and Scholarships

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

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

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

What Can You Do with a Creative Writing Degree?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should I Major in Creative Writing?

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Creative Writing Degree Worth It?

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

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

Getting Your Bachelor in Creative Writing Degree Online

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

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

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

Online Students

For All Online Programs

International Students

On Campus, need or have Visa

Campus Students

For All Campus Programs

Online MFA in Creative Writing Master of Fine Arts

Earn an MFA in Creative Writing Online

• $637/credit (48 credits total)
• Transfer up to 12 graduate credits
• 100% online – no residency required
• Four fiction genres to choose from
• Career-focused certificate included
• No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required

Online MFA in Creative Writing Program Overview

Share your story with the world and let the power of storytelling take your career to new heights with an online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing . As one of the only programs available that encourages a focus on genre fiction, our online MFA lets you hone your craft in an area specific to your strengths and interests. You'll also learn about the business side of creative writing, preparing you to market your work in the real world.

While most MFA programs require a residency, Southern New Hampshire University's online MFA in Creative Writing can be completed entirely online, with no travel necessary.

“Traditional MFA programs, whether full-time or low residency, are out of reach for many writers,” said Paul Witcover , associate dean of creative writing. “The SNHU online MFA was designed to make the MFA experience accessible to all fiction writers, opening the door to diverse voices excluded for too long from the literary conversation. Our program is dedicated to giving writers the tools to succeed on the page and beyond it.”

Graduates leave the program with a completed and revised novel in one of our four offered genres: Contemporary, Young Adult, Romance and Speculative. With the included certificates in either online teaching of writing or professional writing , you'll have the skills to support your writing career, no matter where it takes you.

.st0{fill:#21386D;} What You'll Learn

• The business and technical sides of professional writing
• How to navigate the publishing ecosystem, identify agents and editors, and market your work to appeal to decision-makers
• Using social media to gain a following and build your brand
• How to teach writing in a classroom setting

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } How You'll Learn

At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.

The Value of an Online MFA

Emily Jones ’20 embraced a transformational experience through the online MFA in Creative Writing program, which supported her in taking her writing career to the next level. “I can now say, without even a hint of imposter syndrome, that I am a writer,” said Jones. “And that is because of Southern New Hampshire University.”

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors made a median annual salary of $69,510 in 2021, while editors made $63,350. 1

“Our mission is to give students a degree and associated practical skills they can use to forge successful pathways in academia, business, or by blazing their own career trail,” said Paul Witcover , associate dean of creative writing.

Earning one of the included certificates in online teaching of writing or professional writing will also be an invaluable addition to your resume for part-time, full-time and freelance jobs in a variety of fields, including:

• Higher education. Instruct writing courses in higher education settings. In 2021, postsecondary teachers made a median annual wage of $79,640, and you can expect to see a 12% growth in available positions through 2031, according to the BLS. 1
• Advertising. Use your storytelling skills in a way that influences consumer action. As a copywriter, you could find yourself doing any number of writing projects from crafting emails and ads to writing entire commercials.
• Marketing. If you're more comfortable with long-form prose, many businesses have invested in content writers who create quality content such as blog posts, ebooks and podcasts to attract and retain customers.
• Entertainment. Good at building suspense or setting up punchlines? From movies and plays to comedy and podcasts, being a good storyteller and writer is important to finding success in the entertainment industry.
• History. Every person's life has a plot, but it takes writers like you to tell their stories in a compelling way. Help readers relive the experiences of historic figures and pop culture icons as a biographer.

Higher Education

Instruct writing courses in higher education at a college or university, either in-person or online.

Advertising

Influence consumer action through copywriting, from print ads to digital advertising and broadcast commercials.

Create written content such as blog posts, ebooks and podcasts to attract and retain customers.

Entertainment

From movies and plays to comedy and podcasts, writers often find success in the entertainment industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts favorable job growth in postsecondary education. And while statistics are not available for all job settings mentioned above, the BLS reports the following:

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Job Growth

The BLS predicts an 8% growth in available postsecondary teaching positions through 2032. 1

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Potential Salary

Writers and authors made a median annual salary of $73,150 in 2022, while editors made $73,080 and postsecondary teachers made $80,840. 1

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

Start Your Journey Toward an Online MFA in Creative Writing

If you're looking to earn your Master of Fine Arts online, you've found the right program. Even though there are no residency requirements, you'll still interact frequently with other students and faculty members in asynchronous discussions, critique workshops and within our online writer’s community, where students come together to share industry news, extend writing tips and develop critique partnerships.

"I liked MFA-514 (Advanced Studies in Genre Literature) best," said student Jamilla Geter . "It was a great look into the different genres. It really helped me narrow down what genre I wanted to write in."

"Though it was not writing exactly, its connection to it – especially in our digital world – was made clear almost immediately," she said. "Writing is not just providing content of value to your readers, but also creating avenues of access so those readers can find your content. This course helped me to understand that and to learn how I can create those avenues."

Besides allowing you to focus on your own creative interests, part of our 48-credit online MFA curriculum requires you to choose from 2 certificate offerings designed to round out your education and better prepare you for a multitude of writing-related careers.

The first choice is a Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching of Writing , which is tailored to those who see themselves teaching in an online classroom setting as a supplement to their writing careers. Students practice approaches to editing and coaching, learning how to establish a virtual instructor presence and cultivate methods for supporting and engaging students within online writing communities.

Learn more about the online teaching of writing graduate certificate .

Students can also choose the Graduate Certificate in Professional Writing , which highlights the technical and business opportunities available to writers. Students will develop a range of skills, such as copywriting, social media, marketing principles and/or content generation, learning many of the freelancing skills integral to today’s project-driven economy.

Learn more about the professional writing graduate certificate .

All of our courses are taught by accomplished authors and industry professionals who know both the craft and business of creative writing. They will work closely with you to develop both your creative and professional skill set.

"All instructors within my program were extremely knowledgeable and helpful," Warden said. "I learned a lot about the different career paths my instructors chose. ... The course instruction, along with their anecdotal experiences, helped in offering knowledge in different areas of our field.

MFA Program Thesis

The thesis for the Online MFA in Creative Writing is required to be a novel of at least 50,000 words in one of the four genres the program offers: Contemporary, Young Adult, Romance, and Speculative.

Every Southern New Hampshire University online MFA student who graduates from the program will do so with a revised novel manuscript in their chosen genre, which is completed in a three-course thesis series. Throughout your tenure in the program, you can either work on a singular idea that you will develop during the three thesis courses, or you can begin a new project for your thesis. You can also combine elements of the four genres offered in the program for your thesis. For example, your thesis might be a YA Speculative Fiction novel.

"My three thesis classes for the MFA degree were the most helpful," said Kathleen Harris '21 . "I was actually writing a book as my thesis, so it was both enjoyable and advantageous for the degree. And it was the end of a very long milestone of accomplishments."

Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type   PC (Windows OS)   Apple (Mac OS)   Operating System  Currently supported operating system from Microsoft.   Currently supported operating system from Apple.  Memory (RAM)  8GB or higher  8GB or higher  Hard Drive  100GB or higher  100GB or higher  Antivirus Software  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  SNHU Purchase Programs  Visit Dell   Visit Apple   Internet/ Bandwidth  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  Notes:   Laptop or desktop?   Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.  Note:   Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.  Office 365 Pro Plus  is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for  Microsoft 365 plans  for business, education and government.  Antivirus software:  Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.  if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); University Accreditation

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. We offer a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional Costs: Course Materials ($ varies by course). Foundational courses may be required based on your undergraduate course history, which may result in additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Poetry Important? Celebrating National Poetry Month

Actor Stephanie Gould Surprised Onstage With Diploma Delivery

Associate Dean of Liberal Arts Dr. Robert Denning: A Faculty Q&A

Related programs.

English (Creative Writing), BA

On this page:.

At a Glance: program details

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

• Initial Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics

Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map on-campus archive

eAdvisor Tracking Tool

Program Description

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

Students gain practical experience through writing workshops and internship opportunities.

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

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

Admission to the Creative Writing Concentration (Fiction & Poetry)

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

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

About the Creative Writing Concentration

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portfolio Submission: How to Apply

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

1.     COVER SHEET (Available Online)

2.     CREATIVE WRITING SAMPLE

     a.      Poetry Sample: 5 poems

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 .      SUBMIT: SPRING 2023 CREATIVE WRITING CONCENTRATION

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

Further Information  

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

Portfolio Review Guidelines

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Transfer Options

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

Change of Major Requirements

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

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

Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options.

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

English -->

Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

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

Next Steps to attend ASU

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

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

• nonprofit service

Graduates often find roles where they spend time:

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

Example Careers

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

Writers and Authors

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

English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

• Growth: 1.2%
• Median Salary*: 74280

Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers

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

• Median Salary*: 62360

Public Relations Specialists

• Growth: 6.1%
• Median Salary*: 67440

Search Marketing Strategists

• Growth: 13.4%
• Median Salary*: 68230

Technical Writers

• Growth: 6.9%
• Median Salary*: 79960

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

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

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

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

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

Program Contact Information

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

• [email protected]
• 480/965-3168

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing The Write Stuff for Writers

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Grow Your Writing Passion into a Career with Liberty’s Online MFA in Creative Writing

Many people write creatively, but few hone their skills to develop their writing craft to its highest form. Even fewer learn the other skills it takes to become a successful writer, such as the steps needed to get a book published and into the hands of readers. Liberty’s 100% online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing can help you develop your writing passion into a career so you can set your works free to impact culture and the world.

Employers in every industry need professionals who have strong writing skills, so you can be confident that your ability to write effectively can also help set you apart in your current career. With in-demand writing expertise and the ability to customize your degree with electives in literature or writing practice, Liberty’s online MFA in Creative Writing can help you achieve your professional writing goals.

Our online MFA in Creative Writing is designed to help you build on your writing skills with specific workshops dedicated to the craft of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, or screenwriting. With a work-in-progress approach to writing practice and mentorship from our faculty of experienced writers and scholars, you can learn the specific skills you need to make your writing stand out.

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

Why Choose Liberty’s MFA in Creative Writing?

Our online MFA in Creative Writing is mainly offered in an 8-week course format, and our tuition rate for graduate programs hasn’t increased in 9 years. Through our program, you can study the writing process and develop your creative skills through workshops with experienced writing professionals. With our flexible format, you can grow in your creative writing while continuing to do what is important to you.

As a terminal degree, the online MFA in Creative Writing can also help you pursue opportunities to teach writing at the K-12 or college level. You will gain comprehensive and in-depth exposure to writing, literature, publishing, and many other professional writing skills that you can pass on to students. Partner with the Liberty family and learn under faculty who have spent years in the field you love. Your career in professional writing starts here.

What Will You Study in Our MFA in Creative Writing?

The MFA in Creative Writing program is designed to help you become an excellent creative writer across the genres of creative fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and poetry. You can learn how to produce aesthetically and culturally engaged creative works while gaining professional knowledge and practice. You will also study foundational contemporary literature so that you have a background in studying important works to draw on for your writing.

To help you in your professional writing, you will also study many essential skills in editing, layout, and the business of publishing so that you can best position yourself for success in the market. Through your creative writing courses and workshops, you can develop your craft so that you will be ready for your thesis project.

Here are a few examples of the skills Liberty’s MFA in Creative Writing can help you master:

• Marketing your projects and pursuing new writing opportunities
• Organizing writing and adapting it to different types of writing
• Tailoring writing to specific audiences and markets
• Understanding what makes art effective, compelling, and impactful
• Writing compelling stories that engage readers

Potential Career Opportunities

• Book and magazine writer
• Business communications specialist
• Creative writing instructor
• Publications editor
• Screenwriter
• Website copy editor and writer
• Writing manager

Featured Courses

• ENGL 600 – Editing, Layout, and Publishing
• ENGL 601 – Writing as Cultural Engagement
• ENGL 603 – Literary Theory and Practice
• WRIT 610 – Writing Fiction

Degree Information

• This program falls under the College of Arts and Sciences .
• View the Graduate Arts and Sciences Course Guides (login required).
• Download and review the Graduate Manual for MFA .

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA)

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) .
• Unofficial transcripts can be used for acceptance purposes with the submission of a Transcript Request Form .
• Creative Writing Sample – A creative writing sample of one creative writing work of at least 2,500 words or a culmination of creative writing samples totaling 2,500 words.*
• 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 .

*A sample of one or more poems totaling a minimum of 750 words may also be submitted. Song lyrics are not accepted at this time as writing samples.

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your master’s degree after the last day of class for your bachelor’s degree.
• Complete a Bachelor’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official/unofficial transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show a minimum of 105 completed credit hours.
• If you are a current Liberty University student completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to submit a Degree/Certificate Completion Application .
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new master’s degree.

Dual Enrollment

Please see the Online Dual Enrollment page for information about starting graduate courses while finishing your bachelor’s degree.

Transcript Policies

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.

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

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 – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 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)

*Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an mfa in creative writing.

A Master of Fine Arts degree, or MFA, is a terminal degree in an artistic craft that demonstrates that you have achieved the highest level of training and skill in your discipline. Like a doctorate, an MFA often allows you to teach courses at the graduate level while also providing many opportunities for scholarship and leadership in education. If you want to grow your creative writing skills to become the best writer you can be, then the Master of Fine Arts can help you get there.

How will students work towards developing their writing skills?

With creative writing workshops and a thesis project, you will receive support and guidance to help you become the best writer you can be.

How long will it take to complete the MFA in Creative Writing?

You can complete the MFA in Creative Writing in just 48 credit hours!

Inner Navigation

• Why Choose Liberty?
• What Will You Study?
• 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, what program are you interested in, 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 full name.

Enter legal full 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

Creative Writing

Stanford’s Creative Writing Program--one of the best-known in the country--cultivates the power of individual expression within a vibrant community of writers. Many of our English majors pursue a concentration in creative writing, and the minor in Creative Writing is among the most popular minors on campus. These majors and minors participate in workshop-based courses or independent tutorials with Stegner Fellows, Stanford’s distinguished writers-in-residence.

English Major with a Creative Writing Emphasis

The English major with a Creative Writing emphasis is a fourteen-course major. These fourteen courses comprise eight English courses and six Creative Writing courses.

English majors with a Creative Writing emphasis should note the following:

All courses must be taken for a letter grade.

Courses taken abroad or at other institutions may not be counted towards the workshop requirements.

Any 190 series course (190F, 190G, etc.), 191 series course (191T, etc.), or 192 series course (192V, etc.) counts toward the 190, 191, or 192 requirement.

PWR 1 is a prerequisite for all creative writing courses.

Minor in Creative Writing

The Minor in Creative Writing offers a structured environment in which students interested in writing fiction or poetry develop their skills while receiving an introduction to literary forms. Students may choose a concentration in fiction, poetry.

In order to graduate with a minor in Creative Writing, students must complete the following three courses plus three courses in either the prose or poetry tracks. Courses counted towards the requirements for the minor may not be applied to student's major requirements. 30 units are required. All courses must be taken for a letter grade.

Prose Track

Suggested order of requirements:

English 90. Fiction Writing or English 91. Creative Nonfiction

English 146S Secret Lives of the Short Story

One 5-unit English literature elective course

English 190. Intermediate Fiction Writing or English 191. Intermediate Creative Nonfiction Writing

English 92. Reading and Writing Poetry

Another English 190, 191, 290. Advanced Fiction, 291. Advanced Nonfiction, or 198L. Levinthal Tutorial

Poetry Track

English 92.Reading and Writing Poetry

English 160. Poetry and Poetics

English 192. Intermediate Poetry Writing

Another English 192, or 292.Advanced Poetry or 198L.Levinthal Tutorial

Creative Writing minors should note the following:

To declare a Creative Writing minor, visit the Student page in Axess. To expedite your declaration, make sure to list all 6 courses you have taken or plan to take for your minor.

Any 190 series course (190F, 190G, etc.), 191series course (191T, etc.), or 192 series course (192V, etc.) counts toward the 190, 191, or 192 requirement.

For more information, visit the Stanford Creative Writing Program.

• Utility Menu

• Creative Writing

The vital presence of creative writing in the English Department is reflected by our many distinguished authors who teach our workshops. We offer courses each term in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, screenwriting, playwriting, and television writing. Our workshops are small, usually no more than twelve students, and offer writers an opportunity to focus intensively on one genre. 

Apply to Creative Writing Workshops

Workshops are open by application to Harvard College undergraduates, graduate students, staff, and students from other institutions eligible for cross registration. Submission guidelines for workshops can be found under individual course listings; please do not query instructors.  Review all departmental rules and application instructions before applying.  

Fall 2024 Application Deadline: 11:59 pm ET on Sunday, April 7, 2024. Spring 2025 Application Deadline: TBD

Please visit our course listings for all the Fall 2024 workshops.

Our online submission manager (link below) will open for Fall 2024 applications on Friday, March 22 , 2024.

Students who have questions about the creative writing workshop application process should contact Case Q. Kerns at [email protected] .

Featured Faculty

Teju Cole  is a novelist, critic, and essayist, and is the first Gore Vidal Professor of the Practice. "Among other works, the boundary-crossing author is known for his debut novel “Open City” (2011), whose early admirers included Harvard professor and New Yorker critic James Wood." 

Faculty Bookshelf

How to change your mind: what the new science of psychedelics teaches us about consciousness, dying, addiction, depression, and transcendence by michael pollan (2018).

Once the Shore by Paul Yoon (2009)

The Emperor's Children by Claire Messud (2007)

Fast by Jorie Graham (2017)

Creative Writing Workshops

• Spring 2024

English CACD. The Art of Criticism

Instructor: Maggie Doherty Wednesday, 12:00-2:45pm | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site

This course will consider critical writing about art–literary, visual, cinematic, musical, etc.—as an art in its own right. We will read and discuss criticism from a wide variety of publications, paying attention to the ways outlets and audience shape critical work. The majority of our readings will be from the last few years and will include pieces by Joan Acocella, Andrea Long Chu, Jason Farago, and Carina del Valle Schorske. Students will write several short writing assignments (500-1000 words), including a straight review, during the first half of the semester and share them with peers. During the second half of the semester, each student will write and workshop a longer piece of criticism about a work of art or an artist of their choosing. Students will be expected to read and provide detailed feedback on the work of their peers. Students will revise their longer pieces based on workshop feedback and submit them for the final assignment of the class. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Sunday, April 7) Supplemental Application Information:  Please write a letter of introduction (1-2 pages) giving a sense of who you are, your writing experience, and your current goals for your writing. Please also describe your relationship to the art forms and/or genres you're interested in engaging in the course. You may also list any writers or publications whose criticism you enjoy reading. Please also include a 3-5-page writing sample of any kind of prose writing. This could be an academic paper or it could be creative fiction or nonfiction.

English CACW. Advanced Fiction Workshop

Instructor: Paul Yoon TBD | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Advanced fiction workshop for students who have already taken a workshop at Harvard or elsewhere. The goal of the class is to continue your journey as a writer. You will be responsible for participating in discussions on the assigned texts, the workshop, engaging with the work of your colleagues, and revising your work. Supplemental Application Information:   * Please note: previous creative writing workshop experience required. * Please submit ONLY a cover letter telling me your previous creative writing workshop experience, either at Harvard or elsewhere; then tell me something you are passionate about and something you want to be better at; and, lastly, tell me why of all classes you want to take this one this semester. Again, please no writing samples.

English CBBR. Intermediate Poetry: Workshop

Instructor:  Josh Bell   Monday, 12:00-2:45pm | Location: Barker 018 Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site

Initially, students can expect to read, discuss, and imitate the strategies of a wide range of poets writing in English; to investigate and reproduce prescribed forms and poetic structures; and to engage in writing exercises meant to expand the conception of what a poem is and can be. As the course progresses, reading assignments will be tailored on an individual basis, and an increasing amount of time will be spent in discussion of student work. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Sunday, April 7)

Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit a portfolio including a letter of interest, ten poems, and a list of classes (taken at Harvard or elsewhere) that seem to have bearing on your enterprise.

English CCEP. Ekphrastic Poetry: Workshop

Instructor: Tracy K. Smith Wednesday, 3:00-5:45 pm | Location: Lamont 401 Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site What can a poem achieve when it contemplates or even emulates a work of art in another medium? In this workshop, we'll read and write poems that engage with other art forms--and we'll test out what a foray into another artistic practice allows us to carry back over into the formal methods and behaviors of poetry. With poems by Keats, Rilke, Auden, Hughes, and Brooks, as well as Kevin Young, Evie Shockley, Ama Codjoe and other contemporary voices. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Saturday, August 26) Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit a writing sample of 5-10 poems and an application letter explaining your interest in this course.

English CCFC. Poetry Workshop: Form & Content

Instructor: Tracy K. Smith Tuesday, 12:00-2:45pm | Location: Sever 112 Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site

In this workshop, we’ll look closely at the craft-based choices poets make, and track the effects they have upon what we as readers are made to think and feel. How can implementing similar strategies better prepare us to engage the questions making up our own poetic material? We’ll also talk about content. What can poetry reveal about the ways our interior selves are shaped by public realities like race, class, sexuality, injustice and more? Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Saturday, August 26)   

Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit a writing sample of 5-10 poems and an application letter explaining your interest in this course.

English CCIJ. Intermediate Fiction Workshop

Instructor: Jesse McCarthy Thursday, 3:00-5:45 pm | Location: Barker 269 Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site This is an intermediate course in the art of writing literary fiction. Previous experience with workshopping writing is encouraged but not required. The emphasis of the course will be learning how to read literature as a writer, with special attention given to the short story, novella, or short novel. We will read these works from the perspective of the writer as craftsperson and of the critic seeking in good faith to understand and describe a new aesthetic experience. We will be concerned foremost with how literary language works, with describing the effects of different kinds of sentences, different uses of genre, tone, and other rhetorical strategies. Together, we will explore our responses to examples of literature from around the world and from all periods, as well as to the writing you will produce and share with the class. As a member of a writing community, you should be prepared to respectfully read and respond to the work of others—both the work of your peers and that of the published writers that we will explore together. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Saturday, August 26) Supplemental Application Information:  This course is by application only but there are no prerequisites for this course and previous experience in a writing workshop is not required . In your application please submit a short letter explaining why you are interested in this class. You might tell me a bit about your relationship to literature, your encounter with a specific author, book, or even a scene or character from a story or novel. Please also include a writing sample of 2-5 pages (5 pages max!) of narrative prose fiction.

English CCFS. Fiction Workshop

Instructor: Teju Cole Spring 2024: Tuesday, 6:00-8:45pm | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site Spring 2025: TBD This reading and writing intensive workshop is for students who want to learn to write literary fiction. The goal of the course would be for each student to produce two polished short stories. Authors on the syllabus will probably include James Joyce, Eudora Welty, Toni Morrison, Alice Munro, Jhumpa Lahiri, and Diane Williams.

Supplemental Application Information:   Please submit a cover letter saying what you hope to get out of the workshop. In the cover letter, mention three works of fiction that matter to you and why. In addition, submit a 400–500 word sample of your fiction; the sample can be self-contained or a section of a longer work.

English CLPG. Art of Sportswriting

Instructor: Louisa Thomas Spring 2024: Tuesday, 9:00-11:45am | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site Spring 2025: TBD

In newsrooms, the sports section is sometimes referred to as the “toy department” -- frivolous and unserious, unlike the stuff of politics, business, and war. In this course, we will take the toys seriously. After all, for millions of people, sports and other so-called trivial pursuits (video games, chess, children’s games, and so on) are a source of endless fascination. For us, they will be a source of stories about human achievements and frustrations. These stories can involve economic, social, and political issues. They can draw upon history, statistics, psychology, and philosophy. They can be reported or ruminative, formally experimental or straightforward, richly descriptive or tense and spare. They can be fun. Over the course of the semester, students will read and discuss exemplary profiles, essays, articles, and blog posts, while also writing and discussing their own. While much (but not all) of the reading will come from the world of sports, no interest in or knowledge about sports is required; our focus will be on writing for a broad audience.  Supplemental Application Information:  To apply, please write a letter describing why you want to take the course and what you hope to get out of it. Include a few examples of websites or magazines you like to read, and tell me briefly about one pursuit -- football, chess, basketball, ballet, Othello, crosswords, soccer, whatever -- that interests you and why.

English CALR. Advanced Screenwriting: Workshop

Instructor: Musa Syeed Spring 2024: Wednesday, 12:00-2:45pm | Location: TBA Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site Spring 2025: TBD

The feature-length script is an opportunity to tell a story on a larger scale, and, therefore, requires additional preparation. In this class, we will move from writing a pitch, to a synopsis, to a treatment/outline, to the first 10 pages, to the first act of a feature screenplay. We will analyze produced scripts and discuss various elements of craft, including research, writing layered dialogue, world-building, creating an engaging cast of characters. As an advanced class, we will also look at ways both mainstream and independent films attempt to subvert genre and structure. Students will end the semester with a first act (20-30 pages) of their feature, an outline, and strategy to complete the full script.

Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit a 3-5 page writing sample. Screenplays are preferred, but fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, and plays are acceptable as well. Also, please write a short note to introduce yourself. Include a couple films/filmmakers that have inspired you, your goals for the class, as well as any themes/subject matter/ideas you might be interested in exploring in your writing for film.

English CNFR. Creative Nonfiction: Workshop

Instructor: Darcy Frey Fall 2024: Wednesday, 3:00-5:45 pm | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students. Course Site Spring 2025: TBD

Whether it takes the form of literary journalism, essay, memoir, or environmental writing, creative nonfiction is a powerful genre that allows writers to break free from the constraints commonly associated with nonfiction prose and reach for the breadth of thought and feeling usually accomplished only in fiction: the narration of a vivid story, the probing of a complex character, the argument of an idea, or the evocation of a place. Students will work on several short assignments to hone their mastery of the craft, then write a longer piece that will be workshopped in class and revised at the end of the term. We will take instruction and inspiration from published authors such as Joan Didion, James Baldwin, Ariel Levy, Alexander Chee, and Virginia Woolf. This is a workshop-style class intended for undergraduate and graduate students at all levels of experience. No previous experience in English Department courses is required. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm ET on Sunday, April 7)

Supplemental Application Information:   Please write a substantive letter of introduction describing who you are as writer at the moment and where you hope to take your writing; what experience you may have had with creative/literary nonfiction; what excites you about nonfiction in particular; and what you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses as a writer. Additionally, please submit 3-5 pages of creative/literary nonfiction (essay, memoir, narrative journalism, etc, but NOT academic writing) or, if you have not yet written much nonfiction, an equal number of pages of narrative fiction.

English CKR. Introduction to Playwriting: Workshop

Instructor: Sam Marks TBD | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students This workshop is an introduction to writing for the stage through intensive reading and in-depth written exercises. Each student will explore the fundamentals and possibilities of playwriting by generating short scripts and completing a one act play with an eye towards both experimental and traditional narrative styles. Readings will examine various ways of creating dramatic art and include work from contemporary playwrights such as Ayad Aktar, Clare Barron, Aleshea Harris, Young Jean Lee, and Taylor Mac, as well established work from Edward Albbe, Caryl Churchill, Suzan Lori-Parks, and Harold Pinter. Supplemental Application Information:  No experience in writing the dramatic form is necessary. Please submit a 5-10 page writing sample (preferably a play or screenplay, but all genres are acceptable and encouraged). Also, please write a few sentences about a significant theatrical experience (a play read or seen) and how it affected you.

English CACF. Get Real: The Art of Community-Based Film

Instructor: Musa Syeed Wednesday, 12:00-2:45pm | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 student Course Site

“I’ve often noticed that we are not able to look at what we have in front of us,” the Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami said, “unless it’s inside a frame.” For our communities confronting invisibility and erasure, there’s an urgent need for new frames. In this workshop, we’ll explore a community-engaged approach to documentary and fiction filmmaking, as we seek to see our world more deeply. We’ll begin with screenings, craft exercises, and discussions around authorship and social impact. Then we each will write, develop, and shoot a short film over the rest of the semester, building off of intentional community engagement. Students will end the class with written and recorded materials for a rough cut. Basic equipment and technical training will be provided.

Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Sunday, April 7)

Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit a brief letter explaining why you're interested to take this class. Please also discuss what participants/communities you might be interested in engaging with for your filmmaking projects. For your writing sample, please submit 3-5 pages of your creative work from any genre (screenwriting, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, etc.)

English CAFR. Advanced Fiction Workshop: Writing this Present Life

Instructor: Claire Messud Thursday, 3:00-5:45 pm | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site Intended for students with prior fiction-writing and workshop experience, this course will concentrate on structure, execution and revision. Exploring various strands of contemporary and recent literary fiction – writers such as Karl Ove Knausgaard, Rachel Cusk, Chimamanda Adichie, Douglas Stuart, Ocean Vuong, etc – we will consider how fiction works in our present moment, with emphasis on a craft perspective. Each student will present to the class a published fiction that has influenced them. The course is primarily focused on the discussion of original student work, with the aim of improving both writerly skills and critical analysis. Revision is an important component of this class: students will workshop two stories and a revision of one of these. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm ET on Sunday, April 7)

Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit 3-5 pages of prose fiction, along with a substantive letter of introduction. I’d like to know why you’re interested in the course; what experience you’ve had writing, both in previous workshops and independently; what your literary goals and ambitions are. Please tell me about some of your favorite narratives – fiction, non-fiction, film, etc: why they move you, and what you learn from them.

English CAKV. Fiction Workshop: Writing from the First-Person Point of View

Instructor:  Andrew Krivak Tuesday, 9:00-11:45 1m | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site This course is a workshop intended for students who are interested in writing longer form narratives from the first-person point of view. The “I” at the center of any novel poses a perspective that is all at once imaginatively powerful and narratively problematic, uniquely insightful and necessarily unreliable. We will read from roughly twelve novels written in the first-person, from Marilynne Robinson and W.G. Sebald, to Valeria Luiselli and Teju Cole, and ask questions (among others) of why this form, why this style? And, as a result, what is lost and what is realized in the telling? Primarily, however, students will write. Our goal will be to have a student’s work read and discussed twice in class during the semester. I am hoping to see at least 35-40 pages of a project —at any level of completion—at the end of term.  Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Sunday, April 7) Supplemental Application Information:  Please write a substantive letter telling me why you’re interested in taking this class, what writers (classical and contemporary) you admire and why, and if there’s a book you have read more than once, a movie you have seen more than once, a piece of music you listen to over and over, not because you have to but because you want to. Students of creative nonfiction are also welcome to apply.

English CCSS. Fiction Workshop: The Art of the Short Story

Instructor: Laura van den Berg Tuesday, 12:00-2:45 pm | Location: TBD Enrollment: Limited to 12 students Course Site This course will serve as an introduction to the fundamentals of writing fiction, with an emphasis on the contemporary short story. How can we set about creating “big” worlds in compact spaces? What unique doors can the form of the short story open? The initial weeks will focus on exploratory exercises and the study of published short stories and craft essays. Later, student work will become the primary text as the focus shifts to workshop discussion. Authors on the syllabus will likely include Ted Chiang, Lauren Groff, Carmen Maria Machado, and Octavia Butler. This workshop welcomes writers of all levels of experience. Apply via Submittable  (deadline: 11:59pm EDT on Sunday, April 7) Supplemental Application Information:  Please submit a letter of introduction. I’d like to know a little about why you are drawn to studying fiction; what you hope to get out of the workshop and what you hope to contribute; and one thing you are passionate about outside writing / school. Please also include a very brief writing sample (2-3 pages). The sample can be in any genre (it does not have to be from a work of fiction). 

Write an Honors Creative Thesis

Students may apply to write a senior thesis or senior project in creative writing, although only English concentrators can be considered. Students submit applications in early March of their junior year, including first-term juniors who are out of phase. The creative writing faculty considers the proposal, along with the student's overall performance in creative writing and other English courses, and notifies students about its decision in early mid-late March. Those applications are due, this coming year, on TBA . 

Students applying for a creative writing thesis or project must have completed at least one course in creative writing at Harvard before they apply. No student is guaranteed acceptance. It is strongly suggested that students acquaint themselves with the requirements and guidelines well before the thesis application is due. The creative writing director must approve any exceptions to the requirements, which must be made in writing by Monday, February 7, 2022. Since the creative writing thesis and project are part of the English honors program, acceptance to write a creative thesis is conditional upon the student continuing to maintain a 3.40 concentration GPA. If a student’s concentration GPA drops below 3.40 after the spring of the junior year, the student may not be permitted to continue in the honors program.

Joint concentrators may apply to write creative theses, but we suggest students discuss the feasibility of the project well before applications are due. Not all departments are open to joint creative theses.

Students who have questions about the creative writing thesis should contact the program’s Director, Sam Marks .

Events Gallery

• Guide for Concentrators
• Declare English
• Secondary Field
• Alumni Features and Careers
• Prizes and Fellowships
• Research, Resources, and Forms

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Online Writing Lab at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

A Message From the Assistant Director of Content Development 

The Purdue OWL® is committed to supporting  students, instructors, and writers by offering a wide range of resources that are developed and revised with them in mind. To do this, the OWL team is always exploring possibilties for a better design, allowing accessibility and user experience to guide our process. As the OWL undergoes some changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions by email at any time.

Please don't hesitate to contact us via our contact page  if you have any questions or comments.

All the best,

Social Media

Facebook twitter.

• Future Students
• Parents/Families
• Alumni/Friends
• Current Students
• Faculty/Staff
• MyOHIO Student Center
• Visit Athens Campus
• Regional Campuses
• OHIO Online
• Faculty/Staff Directory
• Excellence in Health Care
• Chillicothe
• Calendar of University Events
• Building Directory
• Emergency Information
• Office of the President
• Executive VP and Provost
• Board of Trustees
• Undergraduate
• Study Abroad/Away
• Academic Calendar
• Course Catalog and Registration
• Academic Advising
• Career Network
• Experiential Learning
• Research Division
• Research Centers and Institutes
• Research and Sponsored Programs
• Research News
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• LEO Electronic Awards Administration
• Undergraduate Athens
• Online Programs
• Transfer Students
• Schedule a Visit
• Virtual Tour
• Campus/Parking Map
• Tuition Guarantee
• Scholarships and Financial Aid
• Admitted Students
• Transfer Your Credits
• Confirm Your Intent
• Student Organizations
• Diversity on Campus
• Campus Recreation
• Employment Opportunities
• Athens Community
• Culinary Services
• Housing and Residence Life
• Off-Campus Living
• Transportation
• Campus Safety Resources
• Campus Care
• Counseling and Psychological Services
• Emergency Alerts

Helpful Links

Navigate OHIO

Connect With Us

Creative Writing Workshops

Creative writing workshops offer students the chance to explore their creativity and experience the writing process among fellow writers. Students have the choice to focus on different genres: poetry, fiction or literary nonfiction.

These courses are offered through the English Department in the College of Arts and Sciences in the fall and spring semesters.  

The courses are offered in the fall and spring semesters.

Academic Credit

Each course is worth 3 credits.

More Information

Experience tags, industry focus:, experience type:, eligible class years:, college affiliation:, related experiences.

Global Leadership Certificate

WOUB Public Media (PBS/NPR)

Work with The Athena Cinema

Looking for a different kind of experience.

Go to the full experience directory

80-year-old grandmother of 15 earns master’s degree, plans to finish memoirs

(Gray News) – A woman from Utah is proving that age doesn’t matter when it comes to learning.

At 80 years old, Beth Dayley was the eldest Spring 2024 graduate of Southern New Hampshire University.

She’s a mother of five, grandmother of 15, and great-grandmother of six.

Dayley traveled with one of her daughters to New Hampshire last weekend to cross the stage and receive her diploma after earning a master’s degree in creative writing.

“I’m very excited,” she said. “This is one of the things on my bucket list.”

As a military wife and lifelong learner, Dayley earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in her 40s while her family was stationed in Italy.

She passed her love of learning on to her family and often took her grandchildren on special trips to celebrate their academic achievements.

When her grandchildren were old enough to go to college, Dayley sent them each $100 a month and told them to use it to do something fun.

“Because it is a journey going to college and often it’s financially difficult,” Dayley said. “But I’m hoping they can enjoy it and have a little fun while they’re learning.”

Dayley said her grandchildren and children were very supportive of her going back to school and thought it was exciting she was earning her master’s degree.

“School is very important to me. I think it’s important that I keep learning and keep my mind fresh,” she said.

Now, she hopes her master’s degree will keep her mind sharp as she finishes her memoirs.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Jesse Taylor, drug thief who tampered with police computers, busted again

Over a dozen illegal gambling machines found in Enterprise

Minor damage in wake of Friday morning storms

Storms knock power out around the Wiregrass

4Warn Weather Night declared for Thursday, May 9 into Friday, May 10

Latest news.

New homeowner says he can’t move in because former tenants won’t leave

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs asks judge to dismiss ‘false’ claim that he, others raped 17-year-old girl

Federal judge temporarily halts Biden plan to lower credit card late fees to $8

News4 Hometown Tour 2024 - Abbeville | Abbeville native shares motivational words for city

Wiregrass Area Food Bank preparing for Stamp Out Hunger Day