Creative Writing

Creative writing majors will focus on the generation of new literature, whether that be short story, poetry, novel, memoir, or any of the other literary forms. Focusing in creative writing will also involve analyzation of process and techniques of previously published work, as well as constructive criticism of fellow classmates’ work.

Majors in this area are, more often not, aspiring novelists, poets, scriptwriters, and the like, none of which actually require a degree to pursue, but entering the career without a degree is traditionally difficult. The the true perk of undertaking a degree in creative writing is simply this: the writer’s community. The expectation is to learn from published individuals (professors), receive a hearty supply of feedback on passages of your own writing (from professors and peers), and learn the art of discipline.

While often included in the same bucket as an English major, creative writing is the other side of the coin. English majors analyze and interpret literature, rarely being required to write anything original. Creative writing is the flipside—while students will be consistently reading and examining previously written work, as well, the primary focus will be on using the tools presented in literature to generate bona fide work. Creative writing comes in a variety of degrees, multiple types of associates, baccalaureates, and masters, as well in doctorate form.

Associate Level

While less common, some community colleges will offer an Associate of Arts (AA) in Creative Writing or, even more rarely, an Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Creative Writing. Almost every college offers a 2-year degree in professional writing, which can often include the option of creative writing courses.

Creative writing at this level will likely require 60 credits that include a variety of liberal arts courses. Within the major, students will often take workshops which center around peer review, as well as at least one interest-specific course such as playwriting or poetry. The AFA will likely culminate in a capstone project.  

Baccalaureate

The baccalaureate level will contain the same types of classes, but more in-depth. The opportunities to take specialized classes will increase and graduation often requires a thesis project that’s publication-ready.

Creative writing degrees are conferred one of two ways at this level, either as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Creative Writing. The difference between a BA and a BFA in this major is the same as any other major. A BA will have a ratio of of 60/40, liberal arts core classes to creative writing courses, while a BFA inverts that number, spending about 60% of students’ time in their designated major courses. BFAs are often classified as pre-professional degrees, designed to send students directly into the working world.

Careers for graduates with a BA/BFA in Creative Writing: Advertising Copywriter, Digital Copywriter, Editorial Assistant, Magazine Journalist, Newspaper Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Speechwriter, Technical Writer, Book Editor, Proposal Writer, Marketing Communications Specialist, Grant Writer, Content Strategist, Translator, Video Game Writer, Film Critic, Copy Editor, Social Media Specialist, Proofreader, Web Content Writer, Greeting Card Writer, Ghostwriter, Travel Writer

Master Level

There’s a small caveat when it comes to obtaining a degree in creative writing at the master’s level. A Master of Arts degree is typically offered in English Literature with a concentration in some facet of creative writing. It’s largely considered an academic degree with heavy research overtones. Again, as with an English degree, the focus is on analyzing already-published literature rather than creation. MAs in English typically take 2 years to complete attending full time.

The more direct approach to a graduate degree in creative writing major is a Master’s in Fine Arts. The whole focus is generally on creation of new work and intense workshops. Residencies or writer’s retreats are typically involved at this level, as well, and the degree culminates in a publication-ready dissertation varying anywhere between 40 to 200 pages. MFAs take anywhere between 2 to 3 years to complete.

The introduction of the MFA as the terminal degree in the creative writing world is more recent and there are still PhD programs available, though a doctorate as a requirement for work in the field is fading. Earning an MFA makes students eligible to teach at the university level, but publication is also often required to attain such a position.

Careers for graduates with an MA or MFA: Professor, Arts Administrator, Web Content Manager, Creative Director

Doctorate Level

A PhD in Creative Writing is much like an MFA with more emphasis on literary theory and research. There will likely be a heavy critical component to the final dissertation, which is, again, publication-ready, but more often book-length at this level of education. PhD programs take between 4 to 6 years to complete.

Careers for graduates with a PhD in Creative Writing include: Professor, Program Director

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Colleges

Aquinas College

Founded in 1886 by the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, Aquinas College is a Catholic liberal arts college in western Michigan. Aquinas offers undergraduate degrees in over 100 fields of study including the first Sustainable Business program in the...

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Goddard College

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Outstanding self-paced program.
More than helpful staff.
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Laguna College of Art and Design

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SUNY College at Potsdam

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University of Akron Main Campus

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Oregons best kept secret. A great education with great faculty in a great place to live. Education made easy in a place that you love.

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I am a current freshman at TWC. I feel like my academics have soared so much higher since high school. I feel everyday in class is not a waste.

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California College of the Arts

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Austin Community College District

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I have been learning a lot in my speech class, because I haven't had a speech class since the 8th grade. My teacher, Michelle Syltie, is fun and helpful in everything. However, my government class with Charles Miles is more of a repeat of all of my...

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Rocky Mountain College

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My English class is actually challenging, something I didn't expect to find in college since most of my friends seemed to have an easy time with their writing classes. The professor is infamous for being stingy with A's, but that's why the class is...

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A 'Wonderful' campus or online experience for women! The staff, Sister's, and fellow classmates are always willing to give a helping hand. The beautiful off-road campus compels you to become one with yourself and future goals.

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SUNY College at Plattsburgh

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I have met some of the most unique, peculiar, and interesting professors during my time at Plattsburgh, and I can say with full honesty that I have never regretted my choice to attend college at PSU. I learned an incredible amount of vital material...

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Tompkins Cortland Community College

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The professors I have had for all of my classes have been very well educated in the field of study and class they have taught. Many have brought life experiences into the room which makes me, as a student, feel more comfortable and able to...

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Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

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The professors are great! And I haven't had any large lectures, all small classes with real professors.

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LIU Brooklyn

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Reading Area Community College is a 2-year institution in southeast Pennsylvania. RACC features programs of study in six academic divisions: Business, Communications and Humanities, Foundational Studies, Health Professions, Social Studies, and STEM...

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Maharishi International University is built on the idea of “consciousness-based education,” which encourages students to gain deep self-knowledge while earning undergrad and advanced degrees. MIU has programs in 10 academic departments that all run...

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This college is has a great variety of classes, clubs, and activities. Yes, it is small, but you get a lot out of it. The professors are very professional and the campus is small enough to an extent where you could find your classes very easy. I...

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It is one of the most uplifting campus' I have ever been on, because everyone understands the importance of Christian Science. The small size of the campus means that you get one on one time with all your professors, and they are able to take a...

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Long Island University

Named for breakfast cereal magnate C.W. Post, LIU Post is a private school on Long Island’s north shore and the largest campus of Long Island University. LIU Post grants bachelor’s degrees in over 50 academic majors. In addition, LIU Post is home to...

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LIU Post is an exquisite school equipped with a full recreational center, gourmet food, and a club for everybody. Like all schools the work is diifficult but there are upperclass tutors and teachers available to assist in any problems you may have. I...

” – Khadija from Brooklyn, NY
University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee

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Linfield University

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The quality of education at Linfield is rich and diverse. The student body has very unique and open ways of thinking, making learning limitless and creative. The programs are somewhat limited, but not by much, and if Linfield does have a liberal arts...

” – Rachel from McMinnville, OR
Drew University

Drew University is more than a place to earn your degree—it is the beginning of a successful, purpose-driven life.
 
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” – Eve from North Bergen, NJ
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Antioch University-Santa Barbara is a 4-year liberal arts university and a regional campus in the AU system. The majority of the student population at AUSB are adult learners looking to train for a career change. AUSB offers four bachelor’s degree...

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Warren County Community College is a 2-year college in northern New Jersey. Warren County confers associate degrees in 32 fields of study as well as nine academic certificates. The college also pairs with The Rutgers School of Health Professions to...

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As the first institution of higher education established on Navajo Nation, Navajo Technical University is a tribal college in northwest New Mexico. In order to provide students an educational foundation in tribal traditions and history, NTU’s School...

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By far the best first college am attending and my instructors are awesome. Never thought this college was like this but am looking forward to finishing my major here. I wouldn't prefer any other college to attend other then here.

” – Rodney from Crownpoint, NM
Arts University Bournemouth

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This University takes pride in helping students push themselves in all areas of education and public service. The internships opportunities are fantastic and the faculty very supportive. If your looking for a University were one could skate by this...

” – Dar from Playa Vista, CA
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Originally founded as a night school, Terra State Community College is a 2-year institution in northwest Ohio. Terra State is home to academic divisions in Business, Humanities, & Industrial Technologies and Allied Health, Nursing, & Human Services...

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I love it! The instructors are knowledgeable. The curriculum is up to date and valid.

” – Catherine from Sandusky, OH
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Originally founded to serve the educational needs of a large group of returning World War II veterans, Ohio University Eastern is a regional campus in the OU system. OUE grants 13 bachelor’s and two associate degree programs entirely on campus as...

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Northern Vermont University Johnson is a public, 4-year institution established on a rural, 350-acre campus in Lamoille County. NVU Johnson offers nearly 40 major and minor areas of study, four graduate areas of study, and a variety of licensure and...

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Ohio University-Chillicothe is the original regional campus in the OU system and the first regional campus in the state. Ohio Chillicothe is home to more than 20 academic programs and foundational courses for degrees offered at other OU campuses. For...

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Calvary University is a Christian college with campuses in Missouri and Colorado that utilizes The Bible as its educational foundation. Calvary is home to over 50 bachelor’s degree programs and every class includes The Bible as a required textbook...

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This is one of the best places to get you basic Bible classes. The Professors here really know their stuff and it's a joy yo sit under the,

” – Kenneth from Forest View, IL
Cumberland University

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If you plan on attending all four years, you will make friendships and relationships with your professors who all know you by name and really do want you to be the best you can be. Every professor is looking out for your best interest. One of our...

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Founded in 1962 using a grant from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Institute of American Indian Arts is a tribal college focusing on Native American artwork. Alongside bachelor degrees in creative programs like Studio Arts and Creative Writing, the...

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I have learned so much from this school. It is the ONLY Native American art school in the world! At IAIA, all students are equally assured of the best opportunities for critical, professional and cultural development provided from a Native...

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CUNY Graduate School and University Center

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From its hilltop campus overlooking Vermont’s capital city of Montpelier, the Vermont College of Fine Arts is the only graduate school in America exclusively focusing on arts education. VCFA’s master’s degrees encompass a wide array of artistic...

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