great colleges for creative writing

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College Info

Finding a dedicated creative writing program at a school you're excited about can be a real challenge, and that's even before you start worrying about getting in. Nonetheless, there are some great options. In order to help you find the best school for you, this list rounds up some of the best colleges for creative writing in the United States .

The Best Creative Writing Programs: Ranking Criteria

You should never take college rankings as absolute truth —not even the very official-seeming US News ones. Instead, use these kinds of lists as a jumping-off place for your own exploration of colleges. Pay attention not just to what the rankings are but to how the rankings are determined.

To help with that, I'll explain how I came up with this highly unscientific list of great creative writing colleges. I started by narrowing my search down to schools that offered a specific creative writing major. (If you don't see a school you were expecting, it's likely because they only have a minor.)

In ranking the schools, I considered five major criteria:

• #1: MFA Ranking —If a school has a great graduate creative writing program, it means you'll be taught by those same professors and the excellent graduate students they attract. Schools with strong MFA programs are also more likely to have solid alumni networks and internship opportunities. However, many schools with great undergrad programs do not offer MFAs, in which case I simply focused on the other four options.
• #2: General School Reputation —The vast majority of your classes won't be in creative writing, so it's important that other parts of the school, especially the English department, are great as well.
• #3: Extracurricular Opportunities —One of the key advantages of majoring in creative writing is that it can provide access to writing opportunities outside the classroom, so I took what kind of internship programs, author readings, and literary magazines the school offers into consideration.
• #4: Diversity of Class Options —I gave extra points to schools with a variety of genre options and specific, interesting classes.
• #5: Alumni/Prestige —This last criterion is a bit more subjective: is the school known for turning out good writers? Certainly it's less important than what kind of education you'll actually get, but having a brand-name degree (so to speak) can be helpful.

The Best Creative Writing Schools

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of schools! The exact numbering is always arguable, so look at it as a general trend from absolutely amazing to still super great, rather than fixating on why one school is ranked #3 and another is ranked #4.

#1: Northwestern University

Northwestern's undergrad creative writing program boasts acclaimed professors and an unparalleled track record of turning out successful writers (including Divergent author Veronica Roth and short-story writer Karen Russell).

Outside the classroom, you can work on the student-run literary journal, intern at a publication in nearby Chicago, or submit to the Department of English's yearly writing competition . The university is also home to a top journalism program , so if you want to try your hand at nonfiction as well, you'll have plenty of opportunities to do so.

#2: Columbia University

Like Northwestern, Columbia is home to both a world-class creative writing program and a top journalism school (plus one of the best English departments in the country), so you have a wide range of writing-related course options. Columbia also benefits from its location in New York City, which is bursting at the seams with publishing houses, literary journals, and talented authors.

#3: University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's big draw is the infrastructure of its graduate Writers' Workshop, which is often considered the best MFA program in the country.

As an English and Creative Writing major here, you'll take classes from great young writers and established professors alike, and get to choose from a wide range of topics. This major provides transferable skills important for a liberal arts major with a creative focus. You'll also have access to the university's impressive literary community, including frequent readings, writing prizes and scholarships, and the acclaimed literary journal The Iowa Review .

#4: Emory University

Emory is renowned for its dedicated undergrad creative writing program , which draws the very best visiting scholars and writers. Students here have the chance to attend intimate question-and-answer sessions with award-winning authors, study a range of genres, compete for writing awards and scholarships, and work closely with an adviser to complete an honors project.

#5: Oberlin College

A small liberal arts school in Ohio, Oberlin offers very different advantages than the schools above do. You'll have fewer opportunities to pursue writing in the surrounding city, but the quality of the teachers and the range of courses might make up for that. Moreover, it boasts just as impressive alumni, including actress and writer Lena Dunham.

#6: Hamilton College

Hamilton is another small college, located in upstate New York. It's known for giving students the freedom to pursue their interests and the support to help them explore topics in real depth, both inside and outside the classroom. Hamilton's creative writing program takes full advantage with small classes and lots of opportunities to intern and publish; it also has one of the best writing centers in the country.

#7: Brown University

Brown's Literary Arts program offers one of the top MFAs in the US as well as an undergraduate major . For the major, you must take four creative writing workshops and six reading-intensive courses, which span an array of departments and topics, from music and literature to Middle East studies and Egyptology.

#8: Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University has an excellent creative writing MFA program, lots of super specific class options, and a number of scholarships specifically earmarked for creative writing students. This school’s undergraduate English program also offers a concentration in creative writing that allows students to specialize in a specific genre: poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction. If you’re interested in exploring your potential in a specific writing genre, Washington University could be a great pick for you.

#9: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT might not be a school you generally associate with writing, but it actually has an excellent program that offers courses in digital media and science writing, as well as creative writing, and provides plenty of guidance on how graduates can navigate the tricky job market.

Not to mention the school is located in Cambridge, a haven for book lovers and writers of all kinds. Though it probably isn’t a good fit for students who hate science, MIT is a great place for aspiring writers who want to build writing skills that are marketable in a wide range of industries.

#10: University of Michigan

University of Michigan is one of the best state universities in the country and has a top-notch MFA program. This school’s undergrad creative writing sub-concentration requires students to submit applications for admittance to advanced creative writing courses. These applications give students crucial practice in both building a writing portfolio and articulating their interest in creative writing to an audience who will evaluate their work. If you're looking to attend a big school with a great creative writing major, this is a fantastic choice.

#11: Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins is another school that's known more for engineering than it is for writing, but, like MIT, it has a dedicated writing program. As a major here, you must take not only courses in prose, poetry, and literature, but also classes on topics such as philosophy and history.

#12: Colorado College

Colorado College is a small liberal arts school known for its block plan , which allows students to focus on one class per three-and-a-half-week block. The creative writing track of the English major includes a sequence of four writing workshops and also requires students to attend every reading of the Visiting Writers Series.

Bonus School: New York University

I didn't include NYU in the main list because it doesn't have a dedicated creative writing major, but it's a great school for aspiring writers nonetheless, offering one of the most impressive creative writing faculties in the country and all the benefits of a Manhattan location.

How To Pick the Best Creative Writing School for You

Just because Northwestern is a great school for creative writing doesn't mean you should set your heart on going there. (The football fans are completely terrifying, for one thing.) So where should you go then?

Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking at creative writing programs to help you determine the best school for you:

Does It Have Courses You're Interested In?

Look at the course offerings and see whether they interest you. While you can't predict exactly what classes you'll love, you want to avoid a mismatch where what you want to study and what the program offers are completely different. For example, if you want to write sonnets but the school focuses more on teaching fiction, it probably won't be a great fit for you.

Also, don't forget to look at the English courses and creative writing workshops! In most programs, you'll be taking a lot of these, too.

What Opportunities Are There To Pursue Writing Outside of Class?

I touched on this idea in the criteria section, but it's important enough that I want to reiterate it here. Some of the best writing experience you can get is found outside the classroom, so see what kind of writing-related extracurriculars a school has before committing to it.

Great options include getting involved with the campus newspaper, working on the school's literary journal, or interning at the university press.

Who Will Be Teaching You?

Who are the professors? What kind of work have they published? Check teacher ratings on Rate My Professors (but make sure to read the actual reviews—and always take them with a grain of salt).

If you're looking at a big school, there's a good chance that a lot of your teachers will be graduate students. But that's not necessarily a bad thing: a lot of the best teachers I had in college were graduate students. Just take into consideration what kind of graduate program the school has. If there's a great creative writing MFA program, then the graduate students are likely to be better writers and more engaged teachers.

What Are the Alumni Doing Now?

If you have a sense of what you want to do after you graduate, see if any alumni of the program are pursuing that type of career. The stronger the alumni network is, the more connections you'll have when it comes time to get a job.

What About the Rest of the School?

Don't pick a school for which you like the creative writing program but dread everything else about it. Most of your time will be spent doing other things, whether hanging out in the dorms, exploring off campus, or fulfilling general education requirements.

Many schools require you to apply to the creative writing major, so make doubly sure you'll be happy with your choice even if you aren't accepted to the program.

What's Next?

Are you sure a creative writing major is the right fit for you? Read our post on the pros and cons of the major to help you decide what path to take in college.

For more general advice about choosing a college, check out our complete guide to finding the right school for you. Some major factors to consider include deciding whether you're interested in a small college or a big university , an in-state or out-of-state institution , and a public or private school .

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Alex is an experienced tutor and writer. Over the past five years, she has worked with almost a hundred students and written about pop culture for a wide range of publications. She graduated with honors from University of Chicago, receiving a BA in English and Anthropology, and then went on to earn an MA at NYU in Cultural Reporting and Criticism. In high school, she was a National Merit Scholar, took 12 AP tests and scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and ACT.

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Have you dreamed of starting a writing career since you were a kid? If your answer is yes, then listen up! 

You need more than just a natural talent for the written word to break into this industry. Choosing a robust writing or English program could be the best thing you do to kickstart your career. But with thousands of schools across the country, how do you know which one is the right pick? 

Don’t stress, we’ve done the research so you can focus on writing the next Great American Novel. 😉

Here are 25 of the best US colleges for aspiring writers!

1. Emory University

There’s a good reason why Emory seems to be part of every list of writing colleges — it has both a holistic and unique approach to developing great writers. The college’s program allows you to develop your technique through intimate reading sessions with notable authors and writing contests that could seriously beef up your portfolio. 

The university also has a beautiful, lush campus that’s perfect for anyone looking to meditate their way out of writer’s block. Have we mentioned that the state of Georgia is as vibrant and spirited as it gets? Whether it’s food, sports, or interesting traditions — your environment is bound to inspire you!

2. Columbia University

You wouldn’t expect anything less than a top-tier creative writing program from an Ivy League school like Columbia — so it’s a good thing the New York-based college lives up to the expectation! 

Since this university has been home to big names like J.D. Salinger, Langston Hughes, Eudora Welty, Jack Kerouac, and Allen Ginsberg, be prepared for a rigorous curriculum . Columbia has intensive writing workshops, fellowships, and teaching opportunities to bring out the best in you. 

On top of that, the city is filled with publishing houses and has a buzzing community of talented authors, something that you can take advantage of when you graduate!

3. Northwestern University

A faculty roster filled with acclaimed authors has solidified Northwestern’s claim as one of the finest writing college programs in the US. When you have published writers such as Sheila Donohue, Rachel Jamison Webster, and Chris Abani dissecting different literary genres and helping you perfect your craft, it’s easy (and downright exciting) to show up to early morning classes. 

Getting into this undergraduate program will rely on the quality of your submitted manuscript. But once you’re in, there’s so much to look forward to, like the school’s Annual Writers’ Festival . This campus event allows students to interact with three guest writers and attend public readings, conferences, and writing classes.

4. Oberlin College

Collaboration and creativity are fostered at this small liberal arts college, where creative writing has become an independent academic discipline .

Oberlin features dozens of courses designed to help new writers flourish, no matter their backgrounds or competencies, such as race and poetic innovation , digital storytelling , and false documents . Whether you’ve loved writing all your life or found a passion for it more recently, no one will be left behind in this program. 

Another upside of choosing this writing college is its RISE opportunities , which offer students access to exciting research openings, internships, and part-time jobs around the world.  

5. Hamilton College

Who says small colleges won’t get you anywhere? Hamilton prides itself on being home to literary great Ezra Pound alone. But it’s the school’s emphasis on small-sized classes, where the exchange and development of ideas are heightened, that produces proficient writing majors. 

The arts are truly celebrated at this writing college, with comprehensive courses tackling social and institutional hierarchies, history, and intermedia. Visit the school’s performing arts series to witness your fellow artists do their thing, whether that’s dance, music, or theater. 

6. Stanford University

When you think of Stanford, a degree in research or engineering is usually what comes to mind. But surprise! The college also has an incredible creative writing program, thanks to the efforts of 1972 Pulitzer Prize winner Wallace Stegner. 

Stanford’s Stegner Fellowship is a unique writing program offering 10 two-year fellowships (split between fiction and poetry) to fellows as they undergo intensive workshops to master their craft. While you won’t get a degree out of it, you will receive a stipend, and tuition is shouldered by the university.

This college’s undergraduate writing program also features three minor tracks in prose, poetry, and fiction into film, with courses like graphic novel writing, fiction into film, and young adult fiction offered each year. 

7. University of Iowa

If there’s one thing that will make the University of Iowa your top choice for writing colleges, it’ll be the Iowa Writers Workshop . 

This program was the first creative writing program on offer here in the US, with notable alumni like poets Dylan Thomas ( Do not go gentle into that good night ) and Robert Frost ( The Road Not Taken ). If you aren’t convinced yet, The Atlantic has called this two-year graduate degree “the best-known, most-established writing program in the country.” 

This university is also filled with impressive campus opportunities that can bring color to your academic journey, such as the Summer Writing Festival and the Patient Voice Project .

8. Dartmouth College

What do Shonda Rhimes ( Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal ) and Mindy Kaling ( The Mindy Project, The Office ) have in common? Great writing careers — and the fact that they both studied at Dartmouth College.

The New Hampshire-based school created its comprehensive English and creative writing program with only one thing in mind: to help students become capable writers and build their confidence step by step. 

Dartmouth has a nice selection of writing courses that differ each semester and creative writing awards , including the Sidney Cox Memorial Prize and the Academy of American Poets Prize, that undergraduates can compete for. 

9. Brown University

If you want to learn screenwriting, digital and cross-disciplinary writing, and much more, Brown is the way to go! But apart from having a stellar graduate and undergraduate curriculum , Brown also boasts a vibrant literary community that provides students with a continuous stream of readings, festivals, and performances. 

Its strong liberal foundation exposes emerging writers to relevant voices and perspectives in the current literary landscape. On top of that, Brown also has courses tackling new media such as political drama, electronic writing, and innovative narrative.

10. Washington University in St. Louis

Another excellent option for aspiring writers is to earn a Certificate in Creative Writing or join the MFA program at Washington University. Why? Because you could be taught by National Book Award finalists, Guggenheim Fellows, and National Book Critics Circle Award winners!

Admissions to this college writing program can be pretty competitive since they only accept five students per track (fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry). But once you’re in, you’ll become part of a close-knit community that can still be felt even after you graduate. 

The campus also has plenty to offer, including a well-known student newspaper and a prime location connecting you to Forest Park and local museums, perfect for when you need a little break from your studies.

11. Johns Hopkins University

The writing program at Johns Hopkins is a hidden gem. Sure, the Maryland-based university is known for its STEM-related disciplines, but it also has a great and flexible curriculum for students looking to master storytelling through the written word.

While challenging, courses at Johns Hopkins are designed to squeeze the best out of you. This has been proven by the sea of prolific poets, novelists, and screenwriters produced by the school, namely A Nightmare on Elm Street ’s Wes Craven, Growing Up ’s Russell Baker, and Love Medicine ’s Louise Erdrich.

12. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Are you surprised that MIT has a solid writing program on top of its reputation for excellence in engineering and physical sciences? The top-tier school can also offer you the best of both worlds with its graduate program in science writing . 

The curriculum introduces students to fundamental research and reporting skills as they learn how to make science accessible to the masses. This highly-selective program gives you a chance to publish science-related works, including documentaries, data visualization projects, radio shows, and long-form content.

What’s even better is that the lively Cambridge campus is a great place to arouse your creativity and quite simply write better. Plus, the 22 institutional libraries found in the city offer a good respite for literature lovers or hard-working science researchers.

13. Colorado College

Get ready for an intensive, multi-level approach to writing with Colorado College. Thanks to its innovative block plan structure , where students only face one class for three-and-a-half weeks, you will quickly master each discipline that interests you. 

Feeling low on creativity? Take a walk at one of the seven national parks nearby, where you can find secluded spaces perfect for reflection and discussion (even if you’re by yourself).

14. Brandeis University

If you want to get a handle on creative writing, your work must go through the wringer so it can improve. At Brandeis, you’ll be exposed to a rigorous curriculum and a renowned writing center to help you get started.

As soon as you get into the college’s creative writing program , take advantage of one-on-one sessions with supportive graduate-student consultants. With this peer-to-peer appointment, you can get your work dissected and sort out any writing issues with your structure, style, punctuation, or syntax. 

15. University of Virginia

For writers hoping to concentrate their studies on poetry or prose, the University of Virginia is a great pick. Whether you’re a full-fledged English major or a Science freshman interested in poetry, its undergraduate program can certainly accommodate you.

The college also has a stellar MFA program that accepts five students for poetry and five for prose. Apart from this school having terrific professors, graduate students receive $20,000 in fellowships or income each academic year.

Students also learn from visiting lecturers who take residence in the school for one week and offer craft talks and one-on-one manuscript consultations (where an MFA student’s work is given to visiting writers one week ahead). 

16. Colby College

At Colby, students are introduced to a strong culture of writing, teaching them to be skillful and effective in multiple genres. The college’s writing program provides students with expository writing workshops, writing labs , and word references forums to build their ability to communicate thoughtfully and skillfully.

Among the impressive resources available at Colby is Farnham’s Writing Center , where great writing is fostered through peer and faculty support. Working with peer writing tutors from the brainstorming phase to the final version is bound to make you a better writer!

17. Kenyon College

Kenyon’s mission is to nurture future poets and fiction writers, and it’s certainly achieved this with notable alumni like The Fault in Our Stars ’ John Green and Seabiscuit ’s Laura Hillenbrand.

This program’s main draw is the Kenyon Review , the college’s world-renowned literary magazine that offers highly coveted workshops and internships for student writers. Each year, a select number of faculty from Kenyon also teach workshops on poetry and prose for students in the English program . 

18. Beloit College

No matter how much you love writing, mastering this craft can be challenging. That’s why Beloit’s writing program is designed to support students of all kinds in their writing journey. 

At the college’s writing center , tutors approach their students’ learning with the understanding and consideration that everyone has different strengths and capabilities. With this hands-on mentorship comes a range of other great learning resources, like literary journals and student publications, that give you the chance to gain practical experience outside the classroom. 

19. University of Texas-Austin

This university’s three-year MFA program steals the show when it comes to creative writing. Known as the New Writers Project, this graduate-level degree only accepts a dozen students (with full funding) and hosts symposiums to connect them with editors and agents.

The New Writers Project also invites guest writers like Bluets’ Maggie Nelson, Voyager’s Srikanth Reddy, and Notes from No Man’s Land’s Eula Biss to interact with graduate students. 

But if you want to spend less time concentrating on fiction, poetry, and short stories? The University of Texas-Austin’s Certificate in Creative Writing or its Honors option is for you! 

20. Goddard College

Goddard College takes the gold when it comes to having a varied creative writing offering! This unconventional college writing program welcomes writers interested in screenplay writing, graphic novels, dramatic writing, libretto, speculative fiction, memoirs, and other hybrid genres. 

Trusting its students’ capabilities, Goddard was the first college to offer low-residency BFA and MFA creative writing degrees. This means that students are only required to complete an eight-day residency, where they can attend one-on-one sessions with advisors or participate in literary events on campus, before being able to complete the rest of their education at home.

21. Bucknell University

Although this college also boasts courses on comedy and satire, the human impact on the environment, and prose, Bucknell is renowned for its poetry offering. The Stadler Center for Poetry hosts the annual Bucknell Seminar for Younger Poets, which awards deserving students full-tuition scholarships. 

It also has the Philip Roth Residence Program named after Bucknell’s famous alumnus himself. Authors writing their first (or second) book are allowed to lodge in the Poets’ Cottage with a hefty $5,000 stipend as they work, but the program only lasts for four months.  

22. New York University

The star-studded core faculty at NYU’s creative writing program should be enough to get you on board with this college! Imagine learning the fundamentals of writing from award-winning poets, novelists, short story writers, and memoirists such as Joyce Carol Oates, Zadie Smith, Darin Strauss, Edward Hirsch, and Katie Kitamura.

Plus, with this program, you also get a shot at Writers in New York, a prized summer program that takes place at a townhouse in Greenwich Village where the likes of E.E. Cummings, James Baldwin, Willa Cather, and Mark Twain lived and worked. 

23. University of Michigan

Tagged as the best public university in the US, Michigan’s fantastic Helen Zell MFA Program exposes graduate students to several top-notch writers through a series taught by critically-acclaimed authors (who wouldn’t want to hear from Kazuo Ishiguro, Alice McDermott, Angela Flournoy, and Edward Hirsch?). 

Undergraduates can also apply for admission to a creative writing sub-concentration or a minor and partake in the prestigious Avery Hopwood Awards , one of the country’s most famous student writing prizes.

24. University of Miami

For aspiring writers interested in expressing themselves in a language other than English, the creative writing program at the University of Miami’s curriculum is uniquely inspired by nearby multilingual communities. Polyglot writers are encouraged to explore literature in their own languages.

This university also welcomes double majors so that students can pursue their love for the craft on top of their other interests. Miami’s also great because this campus is jam-packed with extracurriculars that students can jump on to hone their skills. Mangrove , the school’s literary magazine, allows students an opportunity to perform their original work through hosting contests and mic nights.

25. Hamline University

Minnesota residents with a passion for writing consider this small university in Saint Paul a haven for creatives. Why? Because this college is home to the only bachelor’s degree in this field in the entire Twin Cities region (and the only one in the state offered by a private institution). 

Hamline has three fine arts degrees for aspiring authors: a BFA and MFA in Creative Writing, plus a low-residency MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults. These courses cover a range of literary genres that enable students to gain a diverse knowledge of the practice.

Writing requires dedication, passion, and a conducive environment where your talents can flourish. All the schools on this list have built outstanding creative writing programs but choosing what suits you best is important. 

Make sure the school you pick can help you reach your full potential. Good luck!

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2024 Best Creative Writing Schools

In 2024, College Factual analyzed 215 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Creative Writing Schools ranking. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 6,817 degrees in creative writing during the 2020-2021 academic year.

What's on this page: * Degree-Level Rankings

• Best Overall Creative Writing Schools List

Choosing a Great Creative Writing School

In order to find the schools that are the best fit for you, you may want to filter to one of the degree levels below.

Creative Writing Rankings by Degree Level

The creative writing school you choose to invest your time and money in matters. To help you make the decision that is right for you, we've developed a number of major-specific rankings , including this list of the Best Creative Writing Schools. More interested in schools in a specific area of the country? Filter this list by region or state .

To further help you make the college decision, we've developed a unique tool called College Combat that allows you to compare schools based on the factors that matter the most to you. Go ahead and give it a try, or bookmark the link so you can check it out later.

Read more about College Factual's methodology .

Best Schools for Creative Writing in the United States

The schools below may not offer all types of creative writing degrees so you may want to filter by degree level first. However, they are great for the degree levels they do offer. Only those schools that rank in the top 15% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.

25 Top Schools in Creative Writing

Every student who is interested in creative writing needs to check out Johns Hopkins University. Located in the city of Baltimore, Johns Hopkins is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #23 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Johns Hopkins is a great university overall.

There were approximately 84 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Johns Hopkins in the most recent year we have data available.

Any student pursuing a degree in creative writing needs to look into University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus. Pitt is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Pittsburgh. This university ranks 7th out of 109 colleges for overall quality in the state of Pennsylvania.

There were roughly 125 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Pitt in the most recent data year.

Any student who is interested in creative writing needs to check out Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Pittsburgh. A Best Colleges rank of #9 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Carnegie Mellon is a great university overall.

There were roughly 18 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Carnegie Mellon in the most recent year we have data available.

Any student pursuing a degree in creative writing needs to take a look at University of Chicago. UChicago is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Chicago. A Best Colleges rank of #2 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means UChicago is a great university overall.

There were roughly 36 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at UChicago in the most recent data year.

Columbia is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of New York. A Best Colleges rank of #14 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means Columbia is a great university overall.

There were approximately 134 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Columbia in the most recent data year.

Located in the small city of Evanston, Northwestern is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #5 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Northwestern is a great university overall.

There were about 17 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Northwestern in the most recent data year.

Brown is a large private not-for-profit university located in the midsize city of Providence. A Best Colleges rank of #21 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means Brown is a great university overall.

There were about 35 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Brown in the most recent year we have data available.

Located in the city of Los Angeles, USC is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #11 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means USC is a great university overall.

There were about 45 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at USC in the most recent data year.

Located in the small city of Iowa City, Iowa is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 2nd out of 40 colleges for overall quality in the state of Iowa.

There were about 54 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Iowa in the most recent data year.

UMN Twin Cities is a very large public university located in the city of Minneapolis. This university ranks 1st out of 52 schools for overall quality in the state of Minnesota.

There were roughly 9 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at UMN Twin Cities in the most recent data year.

Located in the town of Oxford, Miami University - Oxford is a public university with a large student population. This university ranks 3rd out of 96 schools for overall quality in the state of Ohio.

There were about 55 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Miami University - Oxford in the most recent data year.

Located in the city of Cambridge, Harvard is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #6 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means Harvard is a great university overall.

There were roughly 17 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Harvard in the most recent year we have data available.

Emory is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Atlanta. A Best Colleges rank of #28 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Emory is a great university overall.

There were about 43 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Emory in the most recent year we have data available.

Located in the small city of West Lafayette, Purdue is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 2nd out of 42 colleges for overall quality in the state of Indiana.

There were roughly 19 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Purdue in the most recent year we have data available.

UW Seattle is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Seattle. This university ranks 1st out of 51 colleges for overall quality in the state of Washington.

There were roughly 58 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at UW Seattle in the most recent data year.

WUSTL is a large private not-for-profit university located in the suburb of Saint Louis. A Best Colleges rank of #17 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means WUSTL is a great university overall.

There were approximately 30 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at WUSTL in the most recent year we have data available.

Notre Dame is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large suburb of Notre Dame. A Best Colleges rank of #20 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Notre Dame is a great university overall.

There were approximately 7 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Notre Dame in the most recent data year.

Located in the city of Nashville, Vanderbilt is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #19 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means Vanderbilt is a great university overall.

There were roughly 6 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Vanderbilt in the most recent year we have data available.

Wellesley is a small private not-for-profit college located in the suburb of Wellesley. This college ranks 12th out of 63 colleges for overall quality in the state of Massachusetts.

There were about 12 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Wellesley in the most recent data year.

UT Austin is a fairly large public university located in the city of Austin. This university ranks 2nd out of 115 colleges for overall quality in the state of Texas.

There were approximately 86 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at UT Austin in the most recent year we have data available.

Iowa State is a very large public university located in the small city of Ames. This university ranks 1st out of 40 schools for overall quality in the state of Iowa.

There were approximately 12 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Iowa State in the most recent data year.

Located in the city of Boston, Boston U is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. This university ranks 6th out of 63 colleges for overall quality in the state of Massachusetts.

There were roughly 18 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at Boston U in the most recent data year.

Located in the large city of Cincinnati, UC is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 5th out of 96 colleges for overall quality in the state of Ohio.

There were roughly 53 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at UC in the most recent year we have data available.

University of Arizona is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Tucson. This university ranks 3rd out of 26 schools for overall quality in the state of Arizona.

There were approximately 84 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at University of Arizona in the most recent data year.

Located in the town of Bowling Green, BGSU is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 23rd out of 96 colleges for overall quality in the state of Ohio.

There were approximately 26 creative writing students who graduated with this degree at BGSU in the most recent year we have data available.

Rest of the Top Best Creative Writing Schools

Honorable Mentions

These are some additional schools worth mentioning that are also great but just didn't quite make the cut to earn our top Best Creative Writing Schools award.

Creative Writing by Region

View the Best Creative Writing Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Associate degrees in creative writing, master's degrees in creative writing, bachelor's degrees in creative writing, doctor's degrees in creative writing.

View All Rankings >

Rankings in Majors Related to Creative Writing

One of 4 majors within the Writing Studies area of study, Creative Writing has other similar majors worth exploring.

Majors Similar to Creative Writing

View All Creative Writing Related Majors >

Notes and References

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
• Credit for the banner image above goes to KOKUYO .

More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

List of All U.S. Colleges with a Creative Writing Major

Writing has been my passion practically since I learned to read in kindergarten. I would write stories about princesses and my family dog, Gansett. When it came time to look at colleges, I was set on attending one with a strong creative writing program. Ultimately, I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a B.A. in Writing Seminars.

Today, colleges across the country offer creative writing as a major. Because writing skills are essential for a wide range of careers, and because most curricula emphasize broad liberal arts competencies, a degree in creative writing can set you up for success in numerous fields, whether you want to be an editor or a lawyer.

Interested in majoring in creative writing? Learn which schools offer the major and what to look for in a program.

Overview of the Creative Writing Major

Creative writing is about more than spinning tales. For your major, you’ll generally need to pursue a curriculum grounded in literature, history, foreign language, and other humanities courses, along with distribution courses, if the college requires them.

Most creative writing majors must participate in workshops, in which students present their work and listen to peer critiques, usually with a certain number of advanced courses in the mix. In some cases, colleges will ask you to specialize in a particular genre, such as fiction, poetry, or playwriting. 

To succeed in creative writing, you’ll need to have a tough spine, in order to open yourself up to feedback from your classmates and instructors. You may need to give readings in public — if not as an undergraduate, certainly during your career. Of course, a passion for creating is essential, too, as is a willingness to revise your work and learn from the greats and your peers.

A creative writing major opens up doors to many careers, including journalism, content marketing, copywriting, teaching, and others. Even careers that don’t center around writing often have a strong writing component: you’ll need to write reports, deliver presentations, and so on.

Some writers go on to earn an MFA, which will help you hone your craft. It’s also often a prerequisite for teaching creative writing at the college level.

What to Look for in a College as a Creative Writing Major

Published authors on faculty.

Many world-renowned authors have another claim to fame: professorships. Writers who have taught their craft include (among many others):

• Maya Angelou (Wake Forest University)
• Colson Whitehead (many colleges, including Vassar College and Columbia University)
• Stephen Dixon (Johns Hopkins University)
• Viet Thanh Nguyen (University of Southern California)
• Eula Biss (Northwestern University)
• Toni Morrison (Princeton University)

Be aware that as an undergraduate, you may not be able to learn from the greats. That’s why it’s important to look into which courses these faculty teach before you have dreams of being mentored by Salman Rushdie — who is a Distinguished Writer in Residence at NYU.

Genres Offered

While many schools that have creative writing majors offer fiction and poetry courses and tracks, there are some niche genres that could be more difficult to find. If you’re interested in playwriting, for example, you won’t find that at every school. Before you decide on a program, be sure it includes the genres you’d like to explore further, whether that’s flash fiction, creative nonfiction, or something else.

Workshopping Opportunities

The core of most quality creative writing curriculum is workshopping. This means sharing your work in your classes and listening to your peers discuss and critique it. While this may sound intimidating, it can do a lot to help you hone your work and become a better writer. Look for colleges that make this the bedrock of their curriculum.

Showcasing Opportunities

Are there opportunities to present your work, such as college-sponsored readings where undergraduates can participate? Or, perhaps the school has a great literary journal. At my school, students could submit their plays and have them performed by fellow students. 

List of All U.S. Colleges With a Creative Writing Major

What are your chances of acceptance.

No matter what major you’re considering, the first step is ensuring you’re academically comparable to students who were previously accepted to the college or university. Most selective schools use the Academic Index to filter out applicants who aren’t up to their standards.

You’ll also want to demonstrate your fit with the school and specific major with the qualitative components of your application, like your extracurriculars and essays. For a prospective creative writing major, the essay is particularly important because this is a way to demonstrate your writing prowess. Activities might include editing your school’s newspaper or literary journal, publishing your work, and participating in pre-college writing workshops.

Want to know your chances of being accepted to top creative writing schools? Try our Chancing Engine (it’s free). Unlike other calculators, it takes your individual profile into account, including academic stats and qualitative components like your activities. Give it a try and get a jumpstart on your journey as a creative writing major!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

What to Know About Creative Writing Degrees

Many creative writing degree recipients pursue careers as authors while others work as copywriters or ghostwriters.

Tips on Creative Writing Degrees

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Prospective writing students should think about their goals and figure out if a creative writing degree will help them achieve those goals.

Many people see something magical in a beautiful work of art, and artists of all kinds often take pride in their craftsmanship. Creative writers say they find fulfillment in the writing process.

"I believe that making art is a human need, and so to get to do that is amazing," says Andrea Lawlor, an author who this year received a Whiting Award – a national $50,000 prize that recognizes 10 excellent emerging authors each year – and who is also the Clara Willis Phillips Assistant Professor of English at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts.

"We all are seeing more and more of the way that writing can help us understand perspectives we don't share," says Lawlor, whose recent novel "Paul Takes the Form of a Mortal Girl" addresses the issue of gender identity.

"Writing can help us cope with hard situations," Lawlor says. "We can find people who we have something in common with even if there's nobody around us who shares our experience through writing. It's a really powerful tool for connection and social change and understanding."

Creative writing faculty, many of whom are acclaimed published authors, say that people are well-suited toward degrees in creative writing if they are highly verbal and enjoy expressing themselves.

"Creative imaginative types who have stories burning inside them and who gravitate toward stories and language might want to pursue a degree in creative writing," Jessica Bane Robert, who teaches Introduction to Creative Writing at Clark University in Massachusetts, wrote in an email. "Through formal study you will hone your voice, gain confidence, find a support system for what can otherwise be a lonely endeavor."

Read the guide below to gain more insight into what it means to pursue a creative writing education, how writing impacts society and whether it is prudent to invest in a creative writing degree. Learn about the difference between degree-based and non-degree creative writing programs, how to craft a solid application to a top-notch creative writing program and how to figure out which program is the best fit.

Why Creative Writing Matters and Reasons to Study It

Creative writers say a common misconception about their job is that their work is frivolous and impractical, but they emphasize that creative writing is an extremely effective way to convey messages that are hard to share in any other way.

Kelly Caldwell, dean of faculty at Gotham Writers Workshop in New York City, says prospective writing students are often discouraged from taking writing courses because of concerns about whether a writing life is somehow unattainable or "unrealistic."

Although creative writers are sometimes unable to financially support themselves entirely on the basis of their creative projects, Caldwell says, they often juggle that work with other types of jobs and lead successful careers.

She says that many students in her introductory creative writing class were previously forbidden by parents to study creative writing. "You have to give yourself permission for the simple reason that you want to do it," she suggests.

Creative writing faculty acknowledge that a formal academic credential in creative writing is not needed in order to get writing published. However, they suggest, creative writing programs help aspiring authors develop their writing skills and allow space and time to complete long-term writing projects.

Working writers often juggle multiple projects at once and sometimes have more than one gig, which can make it difficult to finish an especially ambitious undertaking such as a novel, a play for the screen or stage, or a well-assembled collection of poems, short stories or essays. Grants and fellowships for authors are often designed to ensure that those authors can afford to concentrate on their writing.

Samuel Ace, a published poet and a visiting lecturer in poetry at Mount Holyoke, says his goal is to show students how to write in an authentic way that conveys real feeling. "It helps students to become more direct, not to bury their thoughts under a cascade of academic language, to be more forthright," he says.

Tips on Choosing Between a Non-Degree or Degree-Based Creative Writing Program

Experts note that someone needs to be ready to get immersed in the writing process and devote significant time to writing projects before pursuing a creative writing degree. Prospective writing students should not sign up for a degree program until they have reached that sense of preparedness, warns Kim Todd, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota College of Liberal Arts and director of its creative writing program.

She says prospective writing students need to think about their personal goals and figure out if a creative writing degree will help them achieve those goals.

Aspiring writers who are not ready to invest in a creative writing degree program may want to sign up for a one-off writing class or begin participating in an informal writing workshop so they can test their level of interest in the field, Todd suggests.

How to Choose and Apply to a Creative Writing Program

In many cases, the most important component of an application to a writing program is the writing portfolio, writing program experts say. Prospective writing students need to think about which pieces of writing they include in their portfolio and need to be especially mindful about which item they put at the beginning of their portfolio. They should have a trusted mentor critique the portfolio before they submit it, experts suggest.

Because creative writing often involves self-expression, it is important for aspiring writing students to find a program where they feel comfortable expressing their true identity.

This is particularly pertinent to aspiring authors who are members of minority groups, including people of color or LGBTQ individuals, says Lawlor, who identifies as queer, transgender and nonbinary.

How to Use a Creative Writing Degree

Creative writing program professors and alumni say creative writing programs cultivate a variety of in-demand skills, including the ability to communicate effectively.

"While yes, many creative writers are idealists and dreamers, these are also typically highly flexible and competent people with a range of personal strengths. And a good creative writing program helps them understand their particular strengths and marketability and translate these for potential employers, alongside the more traditional craft development work," Melissa Ridley Elmes, an assistant professor of English at Lindenwood University in Missouri, wrote in an email.

Elmes – an author who writes poetry, fiction and nonfiction – says creative writing programs force students to develop personal discipline because they have to consistently produce a significant amount of writing. In addition, participating in writing workshops requires writing students "to give and receive constructive feedback," Elmes says.

Cindy Childress, who has a Ph.D. in English from the University of Louisiana—Lafayatte and did a creative writing dissertation where she submitted poetry, says creative writing grads are well-equipped for good-paying positions as advertising and marketing copywriters, speechwriters, grant writers and ghostwriters.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual compensation for writers and authors was $63,200 as of May 2019.

"I think the Internet, and writing communities online and in social media, have been very helpful for debunking the idea that if you publish a New York Times Bestseller you will have 'made it' and can quit your day job and write full time," Elmes explains. "Unless you are independently wealthy, the odds are very much against you in this regard."

Childress emphasizes that creative writing degree recipients have "skills that are absolutely transferable to the real world." For example, the same storytelling techniques that copywriters use to shape public perceptions about a commercial brand are often taught in introductory creative writing courses, she says. The ability to tell a good story does not necessarily come easily to people who haven't been trained on how to do it, she explains.

Childress says she was able to translate her creative writing education into a lucrative career and start her own ghostwriting and book editing company, where she earns a six-figure salary. She says her background in poetry taught her how to be pithy.

"Anything that we want to write nowadays, particularly for social media, is going to have to be immediately understood, so there is a sense of immediacy," she says."The language has to be crisp and direct and exact, and really those are exactly the same kind of ways you would describe a successful poem."

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Best Creative Writing colleges in the U.S. 2024

Creative writing is about artistically sharing emotions, thoughts, and opinions on a subject; not just relaying information. Courses include American literature, editing and proofing, fundamentals of writing, world literature, Shakespeare, screenwriting fundamentals, fiction fundamentals, writing nonfiction, and poetry writing. Creative writing covers both nonfiction and fiction, but the predominant types of creative writing are poetry and fiction, which includes novels, short stories, novellas, and flash fiction. Playwriting, screenwriting, journaling, and memoirs are other typical forms.

Students will learn how to use written language to communicate more clearly in their professional and personal lives and move beyond proficient mechanics to writing craftily in an attempt to evoke emotions and express points of view. Careers for creative writers?outside of being a creative writer?include blogger, journalist, composition teacher, copywriter, scriptwriter, and novelist. Creative writers must understand the importance of deadlines and have well-researched writing samples in order to move up the career ladder. The median annual wage of writers and authors was more than $50,000 in May 2010. Religious, professional, and civic industries employed the most writers followed by newspapers and book industries. Creative writers may also be freelance writers. Freelance writers are self-employed individuals who make a living selling their content to publishers. They may simultaneously work on multiple assignments for numerous companies depending on individual financial goals.

Best Creative Writing colleges in the U.S. for 2024

The University of Alabama offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 14 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 14 Master's degrees.

University of Alaska Anchorage offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 4 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 4 Master's degrees.

University of Alaska Fairbanks offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 5 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 5 Master's degrees.

Alaska Pacific University offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 2 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 2 Bachelor's degrees.

Arizona State University Campus Immersion offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 8 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 8 Master's degrees.

University of Arizona offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 73 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 60 Bachelor's degrees, and 13 Master's degrees.

Glendale Community College offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, public, two-year college in a large suburb. In 2022, 2 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 1 Associate's degree, and 1 Certificate.

GateWay Community College offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a small, public, two-year college in a large city.

Mesa Community College offers 3 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, public, two-year college in a large city. In 2022, 3 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 3 Certificates.

Northern Arizona University offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 27 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 15 Master's degrees, and 12 Certificates.

Find local colleges with Creative Writing majors in the U.S.

List of all creative writing colleges in the u.s..

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The 13 Best Colleges for Creative Writing Degrees

• 16-minute read
• 23rd February 2023

So, you want to pursue a creative writing degree program in the United States. Wonderful! If you are passionate about writing and you’re an avid reader, a career in fiction writing would be the way to go! When it comes to choosing the right MFA (Master of Fine Arts) program – in this case, creative writing – you might be wondering which schools have the best program. What career opportunities are there after graduation? What courses will I take in the program? What’s the admission process like?

A creative writing program will immerse you in your craft, help you develop writing discipline, and provide critical feedback on your writing. The program should also be highly reputable and produce top-quality writers.

You must decide whether you want to attend a public or a private college . This choice can be important because of student population size, tuition fees, and reputation. Private colleges will be considerably more expensive than public ones. Do you want to attend college in a small town or a big city? Is the school located somewhere that can provide ample writing inspiration? It’s important to know that some schools provide more student opportunities in their program, yet others have stronger networking connections. This distinction can be crucial once you’ve graduated from the program.

This post will highlight the benefits of a creative writing degree, including career opportunities after graduation. We’ll also discuss what you’ll need to apply. Finally, we’ll highlight our top list of creative writing schools in the United S tates. After you’ve read this post, you’ll better understand the opportunities these schools provide.

What Is a Creative Writing Degree?

A creative writing degree prepares you for a career as a writer of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, or drama. It’s also suitable for those wishing to enter the field of editing or publishing. The program immerses students in writing and provides valuable writing opportunities and feedback.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates usually find jobs as authors, copywriters, journalists, editors, columnists, or screenwriters. Additionally, graduates find opportunities to become editors for big publishing agencies, which work with some of the most famous best-selling fiction authors.

What Subjects Are Typically Covered?

You can expect to take plenty of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry workshops. Almost all programs provide compulsory introduction to fiction and poetry classes. In addition, you’ll likely take courses in screenwriting, medieval literature, and traditions in fiction. Finally, some courses focus on writing prompts (a daddy for writing inspiration).

Factors to Consider in Choosing a College for a Creative Writing Degree

Although the following factors will vary from college to college, you should consider them carefully:

●  Location and campus culture

●  Faculty and resources available

●  Alumni network and professional connections

●  Internships and work opportunities (internships will provide valuable work experience)

Admission Process

You should know that many creative writing degree programs are very selective. For this reason, you’ll need to prove your passion for writing and reading. First, you’ll need to apply to the college of your choice. This will mean submitting an admission essay as well as the application form. Creative writing degree programs will also want a writing sample, such as a poem or a short story. However, these don’t have to be works you’ve published.

Additionally, you’ll need to submit the following to your chosen college:

●  Referee information (must not be a friend or a relative)

●  Official transcripts

●  TOEFL or IELTS test results (if English is not your native language)

●  GRE scores

Gathering all required documentation for admission will be time-consuming, so you’ll want to get started early. Ideally, you should start applying nine months before your program begins. For example, if the program starts in August, you should begin applying in November of the previous year.

1. Northwestern University

Established in 1851, Northwestern University is located in Evanston, Illinois (just outside Chicago). With approximately 22,000 students, it’s a private institution with a six-to-one student-to-faculty ratio. Professors in the creative writing program are award-winning authors. Northwestern is known for producing successful authors such as Karen Russell and Veronica Roth . It also features a top journalism program. Students in the creative writing program can get involved with the student-run literary journal, intern at a Chicago publication, or submit an entry to the yearly writing competition of the English Department.

Additionally, students can learn from talented writers at the Annual Writers’ Festival . Students can even submit their work to the school’s annual writing competition. So, if gaining professional writing experience is important, Northwestern might just be what you’re looking for! Plus, Chicago’s iconic landmarks and lakeside beaches provide robust inspiration for writers!

“My Northwestern creative workshops, where I honed my editorial skills, were instrumental in setting me down a career path in publishing.”

–  Laura Biagi, Class of 2009

2. Columbia University

Located in New York City (known colloquially as the Big Apple), Columbia was established in 1754. It’s the fifth-oldest American institution of higher learning. It has around 36,000 students, and people consider it one of the great elite private colleges in America. Like Northwestern, Columbia has a world-class creative writing program and a top journalism school. Great writers have attended Columbia, including J.D. Salinger and Federico Garcia Lorca. The creative writing curriculum includes rigorous writing workshops at all levels and seminars exclusively for creative writing students. In these workshops, students produce original works of writing and submit them to classmates and professors for critical analysis. To study at Columbia is to be part of a distinguished group of like-minded writers.

If that isn’t enough to convince you, many consider New York City America’s literary capital. It’s home to major publishing houses, literary journals, picturesque parks, iconic landmarks, and talented authors from around the globe. The Big Apple has no shortage of inspiration for prospective writers!

“Before being accepted into the program, I didn’t have the confidence to critique my work seriously.”

–  Mary Mann, Class of 2015

3. University of Iowa

If you prefer to study in a location away from the hustle and bustle of a big city, the University of Iowa might be your answer! Founded in 1847, this public institution has about 31,000 students. It’s located in Iowa City, and the nearest major city is Chicago. However, studying in Iowa can provide an opportunity to go off the beaten path.

Here are some highlights of the university and Iowa City:

●  Iowa City is a designated UNESCO City of Literature.

●  The city’s annual Book Festival attracts people from across the American Midwest.

●  The MFA of the university’s nonfiction writing program has been voted number one in creative nonfiction in the United States.

●  Students have access to the university’s literary community, which offers frequent readings, writing prizes and scholarships, and The Iowa Review , an acclaimed literary journal.

●  Tennessee Williams is an alumnus of the program.

●  Like Columbia, the University of Iowa strongly values the workshop method.

We recommend checking out this video for a deeper dive into the world of creative writing at Iowa.

4. Emory University

Emory, founded in 1836, is a private research university in Atlanta, Georgia. If you prefer a university in a warm climate, Atlanta is a good choice. Compared with cities in the northern states, Atlanta experiences mild winters, though you might get cold snaps and the odd snowfall. Emory has around 15,000 students and has an affiliation with the United Methodist Church.

Emory’s dedicated undergraduate creative writing program draws distinguished visiting scholars and writers. Other notable program highlights include:

●  Opportunities to attend intimate question-and-answer sessions with award-winning authors

●  Faculty who are professional practitioners in the writing field

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●  Studies in a range of genres, such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and playwriting

●  Annual writing contests

●  Writing awards and scholarships

●  The opportunity to work closely with an adviser to complete an honors project

Students will also find writing opportunities outside the classroom in the Atlanta area. The city has several writing organizations and clubs, such as the Atlanta Writers Club , the Georgia Writers Association , and Village Writers Group.

5. Oberlin College

Founded in 1833, Oberlin is a small liberal arts college in Oberlin, Ohio, 31 miles south of Cleveland. It has just under 3,000 students. If you’re seeking a really small school, Oberlin is worth pursuing! It’s known for the robust quality of teachers and the variety of courses in the creative writing program. Two of the courses are Plot and Structure and Race and Poetic Innovation. In addition, you’ll find a robust workshop culture at Oberlin. The downside is that the city lacks opportunities to pursue writing. However, great opportunities exist in other Ohio cities, such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Moreover, Ohio is the home of the late American novelist Toni Morrison.

It’s worth mentioning that Oberlin’s creative writing program has notable alumni, such as Lena Dunham , an actress and writer.

“I feel so consistently lucky to have such dedicated professors. Everyone I’ve worked with in the Creative Writing Program deeply cares about their students both as writers and as people. Classes are small, so you’re able to actually know and trust each other, which is important for productive workshopping.”

–  Fiona Warnick, Class of 2022

6. Hamilton College

Chartered as a college in 1812, Hamilton is in the upstate New York village of Clinton, between Syracuse and Albany. It has 2,000 students and 1,350 acres of campus space. Hamilton strongly believes in giving students the freedom to pursue their own interests, an ethos that explains why the college’s motto is “Know Thyself.”

Hamilton’s creative writing program is known for its small classes and plentiful opportunities to intern and publish. Hamilton also has one of the best writing centers in the nation. Students take courses that balance literary study with poetry and prose workshops. The program emphasizes learning to write with attentiveness to form and genre. Students write a creative project that demonstrates originality and attention to language.

If you like a creative writing school that’s “current with the times,” Hamilton has recently renovated List Hall, which houses the program. The hall features collaborative spaces for students and a new landscaped entrance.

7. Brown University

Founded in 1764, Brown is a leading research university in Providence, Rhode Island. Brown’s student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose make it distinct. In fact, many American high schoolers dream of studying at Brown! It has just under 10,000 students, and its literary arts program is one of the top MFAs in the United States. Students can choose one of three tracks: fiction, poetry, or digital/cross-disciplinary writing – a plus if your aim is fiction writing, for example! Although students must take certain classes, they can design much of their curriculum. Brown also provides financial aid to students in the program through a first-year fellowship. Additionally, students can teach undergraduate workshops during their second year. Brown is a special place for writers who envision new paths in fiction, poetry, and digital language arts.

8.  Washington University in St. Louis

It might surprise you that Washington University is in St. Louis, Missouri, rather than Washington, DC. Since 1853, Washington University has dared to challenge the unknown and taken great pride in its teaching, research, and service to society. The university has a renowned creative writing program with several scholarships. The undergraduate English program also offers a concentration, which allows students to specialize in a specific writing genre: fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction. The program even has a special concentration in publishing! Students often find internships with companies such as Atlantic Media, Business Insider, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

Washington University should be on your list if you already have a specific writing genre in mind!

9.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

You might not associate writing with an institute of technology. However, MIT has a wonderful program that features courses in digital media, science writing, and creative writing. Since its incorporation in 1861, MIT has been educating future leaders with a three-to-one student-to-faculty ratio in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Apologies if you were expecting MIT to be in Boston. However, don’t let Cambridge put you off. The city is a haven for book lovers and writers from all walks of life, so you’ll find plenty of writing pursuits outside of class! And when it comes to finding work after graduation, the program provides lots of guidance for navigating the tricky job market.

10.  University of Michigan

If you’ve ever watched NCAA football, you’re probably familiar with the University of Michigan. Founded in Detroit in 1817, Michigan is ranked the third-best national undergraduate public university. The university’s main campus is in the small city of Ann Arbor, ranked the number one best small college town in America.

The University of Michigan has a top-notch MFA program. The undergrad creative writing sub-concentration requires students to submit applications for admittance to advanced creative writing courses. These applications provide crucial practice in building a writing portfolio and articulating an interest in creative writing. In addition, the university has two student-run literary journals: Xylem Magazine and Fortnight Literary Press . Both publish students’ best works – an excellent way to get your writing noticed!

Screenwriter Jennifer Freides graduated from the program. “I learned to read fast, manage my time, think critically, organize my thoughts, and speak with clarity at U-M.”

With nearly 50,000 students, the University of Michigan is a top choice for those looking for a big school with a great MFA program!

11.  Johns Hopkins University

This private research university was founded in 1876 in Baltimore, Maryland, and it takes its name from nineteenth-century Maryland philanthropist Johns Hopkins. With 24,000 students, Johns Hopkins (or JHU, its more common name) ranks consistently among the most prestigious universities in the United States. Novelists John Barth and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie graduated from here, as did the famous horror film director Wes Craven.

Although people know JHU more for its engineering program, it does have a reputable writing program. Students in the program take courses in philosophy and history in addition to classes in prose, poetry, and literature. The creative writing program has journalism, the arts, and publishing internship opportunities. Additionally, short story writers might be interested in the program’s Danielle Alyse Basford Writing Prize .

Baltimore is no stranger to the literary world, as the American writer Edgar Allan Poe spent several years here. His poem The Raven is the namesake of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. You can visit the Poe House and Museum to see the writing desk and chair where Poe created some of his famous work!

12.  Colorado College

Colorado College was founded in 1874 and is in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It’s a small liberal arts college with over 2,000 students. People know the college mainly for its Block Plan , which allows students to focus on one class per three-and-a-half-week block. Students will find that the creative writing track interweaves craft, imagination, and a lively literary framework. It includes a sequence of four writing workshops and mandatory attendance at the Visiting Writers Series. Attending readings at the Visiting Writers Series will deeply immerse students in the written word at Colorado College. In addition, students will find plenty of opportunities within the program, from AMC college writing contests to the student-led spoken word group, SpeakEasy. If you’re an outdoorsy writer, you’ll love Colorado Springs! It’s surrounded by picturesque hiking opportunities, including Garden of the Gods ! If you envision taking one class at a time at a small liberal arts school, you should consider Colorado College!

13.  New York University

New York University (NYU) is another prestigious university in New York City. It was established in 1831 and is currently the largest private university in the United States, with more than 11,000 students. It even has campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. As mentioned, New York is the American literary epicenter. Although NYU doesn’t offer a creative writing major, it’s an excellent school for aspiring writers. You’ll still find workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Classes are small, with a maximum of 15 students, and the school has a student-edited literary journal called West 10 th . The school also offers intensive summer writing programs in Florence and Paris, so students can develop their craft while living the writer’s life in Italy or France. The faculty consists of award-winning poets, short story writers, and novelists, and many of them have received Pulitzer Prizes and NEA Fellowships. So, although NYU lacks a creative writing major, it has a fine reputation, small classes, and ample opportunities to develop your writing craft!

So, there you have our list of top creative writing schools. Let’s recap key points from our post:

●  Creative writing programs are pretty selective, so you should be genuinely passionate about reading and writing.

●  Private schools have the best reputation and small classes. However, they can be really expensive.

●  You will need to submit at least one writing sample as part of your application.

●  Creative writing programs are heavy in workshop culture.

●  New York City is America’s literary capital.

●  Most programs have literary journals where you can submit your work.

●  A faculty of professional writers will be your teachers.

●  Graduates often go on to become authors, editors, and copywriters. Getting into publishing is also a possibility.

Whichever school you choose, it must be the right fit for you! While one might be great for some people, it might not resonate with you. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to visit the school if possible. Even a virtual tour will suffice. We also suggest reaching out to current professors for more information. You can even reach out to current or past students through LinkedIn. Finally, take your time when researching schools. Got more questions about creative writing? We recommend this video !

Thanks for reading!

1. How important is location when you are considering a creative writing program?

You’ll want to prioritize a location with a vibrant literary scene rather than one with a warm climate. There should be plenty of opportunities to engage with writing in the community outside the classroom. There should also be various career opportunities within the community after graduation.

2. What is the cost of attending a creative writing program in the United States?

The cost will depend on whether the school is public or private. Public school tuition will be roughly $17,000 to $20,000 US. On the other hand, private schools will be considerably more expensive, especially Columbia and Hamilton. You can expect tuition to be between $50,000 and $69,000 US.

 3. Where can I get feedback on my college application?

Great question! We recommend leaving this to our team of proofreading experts at Proofed! They can check for grammar and punctuation errors and ensure perfect spelling. They will also ensure that the application uses appropriate academic language. Consider submitting a 500-word document for free today!

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Best Colleges for Creative Writing

Bookworms and aspiring writers can pursue an undergraduate degree in creative writing where they will tackle coursework covering the reading and writing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry as well as the theory and history of the craft. While becoming the next J.K Rowling, Stephen King, or George R.R. Martin may be the goal, holders of creative writing degrees end up on a variety career paths. This can include: publishing, editing, journalism, web content management, advertising, or for those who “make it” as writers—the next generation of literary superstars. Our list of Best Colleges for Creative Writing goes beyond the most famous writer-factories like the University of Iowa and Columbia University, providing you with more than 25 institutions known for their stellar programs in this field.

Click the links below for more information about each college’s creative writing program. Click here to read our methodology. Finally, note that although some of the colleges featured below do not offer a formal major in creative writing, their undergraduate offerings in this subject area are so strong that they warrant inclusion on our list.

Brown University

Boston University

Colby College

Colorado College

Columbia University

Cornell University

Duke University

Emerson College

Emory University

Grinnell College

Hamilton College

Johns Hopkins University

Kenyon College

Macalester College

Middlebury College

New York University

Northwestern University

Oberlin College

Princeton University

Sarah Lawrence College

University of Iowa

University of Michigan

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Southern California

University of Texas at Austin

University of Virginia

University of Wisconsin

Washington University

Williams College

Yale University

Colleges Worth Your Money

2024 edition.

A Guide to What America's Top Schools Can Do for You

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College Success

12 Best Colleges for Creative Writing [2023]

02.03.2023 • 11 min read

Nick Griffin

Subject Matter Expert

Learn about the top colleges for creative writing, tips on what to consider when choosing a creative writing major, and answers to frequently asked questions.

In This Article

The Best Creative Writing Programs

What to consider about college for creative writing majors, best literary colleges faqs.

Writing well is a tremendous asset in nearly every industry. In fact, one of the top skills employers look for in employees is the ability to communicate clearly and effectively through writing .

Completing a degree at one of the top colleges for creative writing can deliver more career opportunities than you may think. You could work in publishing, media, higher education, or marketing and advertising.

You can also use your storytelling and creative thinking skills to work as a freelancer. As an independent contractor, you can set your own rates and choose your work hours.

This introduction to 12 of the best colleges for creative writing majors will help you select the right program for your career goals. We’ll even tell you what to look for when comparing some of the leading literary colleges. Let’s get started!

Students who choose to enroll in a creative writing program are looking at factors like location, curriculum, and the quality of the instructors.

While many differences exist, all creative writing degree programs offer instruction in the primary literary forms:

Creative nonfiction

Some schools offer instruction in additional forms, including:

Screenwriting

Playwriting

Digital writing

When selecting a program you would enjoy, also make sure the instruction fits your learning needs.

Some schools offer seminars, resident writers, literary journals, and other perks beyond the standard workshops and courses.

The following 12 programs currently rank among the best writing programs offered in the U.S.

1. Columbia University

The Undergraduate Creative Writing Program at Columbia University boasts one of the most prestigious literary histories.

Well-known writers like J.D. Salinger, Federico Garcia Lorca, Eudora Welty, Langston Hughes, and Jack Kerouac have taken creative writing courses at the university. The roster of instructors in the undergraduate program is equally as impressive.

The program offers seminars designed for creative writers plus courses in the following writing forms:

Literary nonfiction

Dramatic writing

Students also have access to a thriving School of Arts and can move on to the prestigious MFA (Master of Fine Arts) in Creative Writing program.

2. Emory University

The Undergraduate Creative Writing Program at Emory University started more than 30 years ago. It remains one of the most reputable colleges for aspiring writers ready to start professional careers.

The university requires an application and instructor permission to enter all creative writing courses. Students can major in creative writing or participate in creative writing workshops while completing other degree programs.

The school provides writing workshops and courses in the following disciplines:

3. Brown University

Brown University is one of the leading universities for English literature and creative writing. They are also among the best colleges for writers interested in music, performance arts, and visual arts.

The Undergraduate Department of Literary Arts offers cross-disciplinary courses in all of those disciplines for students pursuing degrees in creative writing. Students can select from a diverse catalog of creative writing workshops, literature courses, independent study courses, and honors workshops.

Creative writing courses are available in the following disciplines:

Cross-disciplinary writing

4. Colorado College

Colorado College offers a creative writing track for English majors who wish to focus on creative writing. The program offers more than the typical writing workshops and seminars at some of the other best colleges for creative writing. In fact, many of the elective courses are taught by guest professors. These distinguished guests are writers themselves.

Students benefit from multiple literary resources exclusive to the college, including:

Hairstreak Butterfly Review and other magazines and publications

Visiting Writers Series

Writing contests

Literary publishing practicum

Student-led spoken word group (SpeakEasy)

Campus printing press studio

Fine Arts Center

Specialized library collections

These benefits make Colorado College one of the leading colleges for creative writing majors able to attend classes in Colorado Springs. The creative writing faculty includes some published authors, making it a top choice for authors as well.

5. Duke University

Duke University may offer the best creative writing program for students with a shared interest in theater and performance arts. Students have access to courses in theater and documentary studies.

The school also has a collection of writing courses, workshops, and seminars in the following writing forms:

Travel writing

Documentary writing

Students at Duke have many opportunities to learn from other writers through the writers-in-residence program. The university also invests heavily in conferences, readings, and visiting speakers for the creative writing program.

6. Cornell University

Cornell University allows students to enroll as English majors with a concentration in creative writing. Students can also complete courses from the creative writing program as minors.

Writing workshops are available in the following literary forms:

Narrative writing

The university is home to a reputable reading series where multiple published authors visit for live readings and social receptions. This college is excellent for authors interested in networking with other authors.

7. Northwestern University

Northwestern University was one of the first colleges in the U.S. to offer an undergraduate creative writing program. Today, the school has a highly competitive creative writing major . It serves as a concentration within the English department.

Students have access to workshops and courses in the following disciplines:

Cross-genres

This university ranks as one of the best literary colleges in part because the faculty includes award-winning authors. The school hosts a Festival of Writing every spring, and students have opportunities to network with and learn from visiting writers.

8. Oberlin College

The creative writing program at Oberlin College offers a collaborative and immersive experience for writers who want the freedom to experiment.

The program focuses on workshops where students learn from one another while preparing for several literary careers. It’s a studio environment best suited to students who want to work closely with a small group of peers.

Oberlin also offers a wide variety of courses in the following disciplines:

Translation

Hybrid forms

9. Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University is home to one of the most reputable graduate programs for writing. It only makes sense they also made the list of the top colleges for creative writing undergraduate programs.

The 16-credit creative writing certificate can be taken with any bachelor’s degree major and offers students a workshop model of instruction. Students in this program learn how to become better writers by writing alongside current professional writers.

The program focuses on courses within the 3 primary forms of writing:

All creative writing courses take the form of workshops. This format allows students to read and critique one another’s work in a professional and inclusive environment. Instructors are professional writers with qualifications well-suited to guiding new writers toward lucrative writing careers.

10. Wichita State University

Wichita State University is an outstanding college for writers who want to complete undergraduate and graduate degrees from the same institution. The school offers a studio-academic Master of Fine Arts program for students studying fiction or poetry at the most advanced level.

The program allows undergraduate students to major or minor in creative writing. They have access to visiting writers, a school literary journal, and national press internships.

This program's course selection covers the 3 primary forms of writing

11. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is an excellent choice for writers interested in transferring credits from other institutions or online programs. The creative writing degree program allows students to transfer up to 90 credits and offers competitive pricing per credit hour for the remaining courses.

Unlike the other programs in this list, all courses at SNHU are virtual. SNHU is one of the best colleges for creative writing majors who value the flexibility of online classes.

Four concentration options are available for this program:

12. Boise State University

The creative writing program at Boise State University is ideal for students who want to learn from acclaimed writers with bestselling novels and prize-winning poetry collections to their credit.

The program offers theory classes with a wide range of modern writing disciplines, including speculative fiction and graphic novels. Most courses focus on the following writing forms:

Boise State is also home to the literary journal The Idaho Review and the Free Poetry chapbook series. Students may have the opportunity to work with those publications to gain experience prior to graduation.

What exactly are you looking for when comparing the finest literary colleges? Consider these ‌factors to help you select the right programs.

Transferable Credits

You can save money on your education by completing some courses online. But make sure the credits are transferable to the school offering your creative writing program.

For example, Golden Gate University’s Degrees+ powered by Outlier allows students to take courses online at a fraction of the price of traditional college. Students can earn their associate degree and transfer their credits into over 500 different institutions to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

School Reputation

The best creative writing programs have a reputation for high-quality education from prestigious and trustworthy instructors. Make sure you align with the values and vision of your chosen institution.

Keep in mind many quality schools out there to look into. Take the time to do some research, ask former students, and speak with an advisor.

Course Variety

The top colleges for writers will offer a wide selection of courses related to writing, literature, liberal arts, history, and more. They may also give writers the chance to earn certifications to enter into lucrative careers.

Favorable Outcomes

An exceptional creative writing program produces successful graduates. Look at the percentage of students who complete their degree and how many go on to graduate school or successful careers in writing, editing, research, or reporting.

Can you make it to on-campus classes without neglecting other responsibilities like managing a full-time job while going to school ? Are there options to attend some or all courses online for your convenience? Figure out what your needs are and make sure you can commit to your education.

Many high-quality college programs come with a high price tag. But you can cut your college costs. Fill out a FAFSA —Free Application for Federal Student Aid—and look into grant and scholarship opportunities to get free money to help pay for school.

What can I do with a creative writing degree?

A bachelor’s degree in creative writing can prepare you for a career in technical or creative writing, reporting, editing, or proofreading. You can build a career writing everything from novels and short stories to technical manuals and marketing materials for businesses.

Several editing and reporting jobs are available to writers with a solid command of grammar and a high level of writing ability. Almost any career you may go into in the future will value your writing skills.

What is the best degree for creative writing?

Degrees in creative writing and literature are among the most popular for those interested in building careers in writing. Other excellent degree options include journalism, liberal arts, and even history.

College history programs are notorious for demanding written papers, and the knowledge gained may allow graduates to specialize in historical writing.

Studying the sciences is another lucrative career option, combining writing with specialized knowledge. As of December 2022, science writers earned an average of $63,331 per year.

Science writers may:

Edit a science journal

Research and write grant proposals

Write training material and research summaries in the medical field

Is it worth it to major in creative writing?

Being able to articulate yourself and your ideas clearly is an in-demand skill in nearly any industry. No matter if you are considering going back to school in your 40s or pursuing writing right out of high school, a creative writing degree is a solid investment.

A creative writing degree is worth the investment if you’re serious about building a new career based on writing. You can also select a minor or earn a professional certificate to hone your skills and specialize in a field of interest.

By graduating college with such a sought-after skill, you’ll set yourself up for career success.

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12 Best Colleges for Creative Writing Degrees in 2024

By: Author Candice Zhang

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Categories College

Here are the top 12 best college for creative writing degrees plus a list of factors to consider when making your choice for higher education.

Have you ever considered becoming the next novelist or best-selling author? Do you dream of a writing career contributing to literary journals or becoming a journalist?

If you have, you  may wonder about choosing a creative writing program. So you browse the internet, research a few schools, and bam-tons of options with different colleges and programs pop up. 

As you navigate all of these websites, you start to feel like a small fish in a big pond. There’s simply so much to choose. But what is the best undergraduate program option for your bachelor’s degree and to begin your writing career? Let’s look at the best school options and undergraduate degree programs!

12 Best Colleges in the United States for Creative Writing

Harvard university .

Harvard continues to rank amongst the top 10 schools worldwide for their humanities’ programs. They have one of the best creative writing programs. Many poets, essayists, and successful writers such as TS Eliot, Margaret Atwood, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Robert Lee Frost studied at Harvard. And their faculty also consists of writers, authors and scholars. 

Although Harvard does not offer a specific creative writing major, it does offer an English program for english majors, along with creative writing workshops. This is a great option, especially if you are interested in writing fiction.

The genre fiction workshop caters towards undergraduate students who are passionate about sci-fi, fantasy and speculative fiction . Horror lovers can also apply for a workshop which specifically focuses on writing about supernatural and paranormal stories.

For grad school hopefuls, the department offers an option to participate in the Honors Creative Thesis . There are many programs offered from professional writers for creative writing majors to take.

These opportunities allow students to discover different genres within the creative writing realm. However, the caveat is that Harvard is a private institution: Tuition is more than $50k USD a year .  

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor 

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor continues to rank as one of the top universities in the world, especially in the field of creative writing. On QS University Rankings, UMich is currently in 21st place which is good news for creative writers. 

At the undergraduate level, UMich offers the Creative Writing and Literature major . Many students decide to specialize in a specific genre as the program is structured in four specific tracks: Fiction/creative non-fiction, poetry, digital storytelling, and honors. Students in the digital storytelling track have the option to take courses in photography, digital media, and tech. These creative writing courses are highly ranked and sought after.

But other than interesting courses, UMich also offers students opportunities to improve their craft. There are “ engaged learning opportunities ,” which are practical, field-based coursework for students to interact with their local communities. And for students looking for work experience, the summer undergraduate internship program can be a good option. 

As a result, UMich continues to produce alumni who become writers, or other working professionals in related fields. Some writers who have attended the university include William McPherson, Robert Aspirin, and Margaret Hillert. 

Emory University 

Emory’s creative writing program recently celebrated its 32nd anniversary. Their creative writing core faculty is composed of poets, novelists, and a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist . 

Other than a myriad of workshops, Emory also offers an individualistic approach towards their creative writing students. As soon as a student enters the program, they are matched with a faculty advisor, who will specialize in the student’s interests. Students also have the option to change faculty advisors just in case their passions have changed throughout the program. 

Having a faculty advisor to mentor you is crucial for academic success: You’ll have someone to discuss about career and postgraduate opportunities. And if you’re going through tons of personal challenges, you can reach out to your advisor. 

But with that being said, it’s also good to note that Emory is a private research university. And similar to other private schools, tuition can be more than $50k a year. 

Swarthmore College 

Swarthmore is a private liberal arts college founded in 1864. The school is known for its creative writing program, which was founded over four decades ago. Students will be amazed by the diverse amount of courses offered within the department: Other than studying the main creative writing genres, students have the option to combine both literature and creative writing. 

There’s the historical aspect of writing, which students can study, throughout their program at Swarthmore. Some faculty members specialize in Old English and Medieval studies, American and Ethnic studies, and Modern and Contemporary Poetry of English and Ireland. 

Moreover, Swarthmore is closely connected to the literary community. Guest speakers such as authors and Nobel Prize winners often visit classes, deliver speeches, and judge writing competitions.  

However, since Swarthmore is a private school, the tuition is still on the expensive side of the spectrum. Students can expect to pay over $55,000 USD a year for their tuition. 

Indiana University Bloomington 

Indiana University Bloomington has a creative writing concentration under the department of English. The faculty comprises of poets, playwrights, and authors. And the university is often known for its diverse and unique programs. 

The creative writing department is said to be close-knit. Within the English department, students can take courses such as media studies, planetary fiction, editing and publishing, and literary history . These courses will allow a student to explore more of their interests within writing and gain more inspiration. 

Another perk is that Indiana University Bloomington is a public research university, which often means that tuition is cheaper, especially for Indiana residents. In-state tuition is around $12k, while out of state tuition is around $40.5k . 

University of Iowa

Ranked number two on US News , the University of Iowa in Iowa City is another school worth considering for a creative writing program. After all, the university pioneered the first creative writing degree program through the Writers’ Workshop . Many alumni have won plenty of writing awards, including seventeen winners of the Pulitzer prize. 

Students can take a variety of undergraduate courses which include science fiction, business communication, writing for specific industries, popular culture, and writing for musicians . Moreover, students can also choose to participate in workshops in poetry writing, fiction, and general creative writing. 

The University of Iowa is also one of the more affordable colleges as well. Local tuition is usually less than $10k USD, and out-of-state tuition is around $30k USD. 

Brown University 

Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown is consistently ranked as one of the best creative writing schools nationally. The college has tons of opportunities for students who plan to immerse themselves in the creative fields, including the performing arts. 

Within the Literary Arts program, students can select different concentrations and learn more about the visual arts, theatre, and speech and music. However, there are courses which cater towards a global perspective: Some reading courses focus on literature from regions around the world . 

Instead of learning about creative writing in a Westernized perspective, students have the opportunity to learn about ancient global literature and history. 

However, the downside is that Brown is a private university, so tuition continues to be on the higher end. Currently, tuition is above $60k a year . 

Washington University in St. Louis 

Washington has one of the best MFA programs within the country. Their department of English, at the undergraduate level, offers a concentration in creative writing. And students have three choices in terms of specialties: fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry . 

But that’s not all – there are also electives for students to choose from. For those looking to work in the publishing industry, they can choose courses on publishing where they constantly act with professionals. And for students who want to write comedy, there’s a humor writing course available. 

Outside of classes, students can engage in various extracurricular activities and professional internships. 

But the opportunities do come with a cost. Something to consider is that the school is a private institution, so tuition is currently around $60k a year . 

Colleges Outside of the United States

Are you looking to study outside of the United States? Lots of schools in Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom have excellent creative writing programs. So if you feel that you’re catching a travel bug, feel free to pack your bags and apply to universities abroad. 

Why study in a different country? 

Studying in a different country can open up new experiences for you: You’ll have the opportunities to visit new places, try new food, and make new friends. Not to mention that studying in another country can be a resume booster as well because it’s something super unique and distinguishable. 

Additionally, you may be surprised to hear that tuition, even as an international student, is actually cheaper than some of the private institutions. 

So if you’re interested in exploring a new country, here are some universities known for their creative writing programs: 

Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) 

Formerly known as Ryerson University (RU), TMU is known for its media programs. Situated in the middle of downtown Toronto, students can explore a vibrant location. Within their English program, students can take courses in creative writing and attend workshops. 

The curriculum covers a broad range of genres including contemporary fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, and print and digital culture . Students who want to participate in campus activities further can join their literary journal, White Wall Review, where they can collaborate with graduate students. 

For students who aim to learn more about the global perspective of literature, TMU offers courses where you can analyze and learn about literature from the United States, all the way to the Middle East. And if you’re a Disney fan, you can take a fairytale course too!

If you’re an international student, tuition for the English program is around $20k USD a year, which is way less than most private universities. 

University of Waterloo (UWaterloo)

Many say that UWaterloo is known for its engineering, computer science, and math programs. Though that may be true, the school still has a robust English department. 

The Creative and Professional Writing program was introduced in Fall 2023: Students can choose to specialize in the creative writing area, where they’ll learn fiction, screenplays, poetry, drama, and literary nonfiction. 

Another component which distinguishes UWaterloo from most universities is their co-op program: Students will be paid to do a work placement over a semester or two in their field of study. Being in co-op allows students to practice their networking, interview, and communication skills, while dipping their toes in the industry. 

For international students, the program costs around $37k USD . Co-op students will have to pay an extra fee for the resources. 

University of Melbourne 

If you want to visit the Land Down Under, now’s your time-the University of Melbourne in Australia offers a creative writing program perfect for those who want to be a little more experimentative and adventurous with their work. 

You’ll be able to master the craft of novel writing, as well as learn about life writing , which is a form that encompasses genres from blogging to autobiographies, all centered around lived experiences. 

Moreover, a capstone is available for students looking to research more about Australian and global writing. Instead of classes, writers and other professionals will visit and present a weekly panel. 

For international students, tuition at the University of Melbourne per semester is around $25k USD for the creative writing program.

University of Leeds 

The University of Leeds is one of the biggest institutions in the United Kingdom (UK). They have a reputed master’s program in creative writing. And students can choose to take their English Literature with Creative Writing program. 

Within this program, students not only have a chance to hone their creative writing skills but explore more about social issues. Texts on race and ethnicity, climate change, gender, and disability are covered . 

Moreover, plenty of well-known authors have graduated from the program at the University of Leeds: JRR Tolkien, Geoffrey Hill and Jon Silkin are notable alumni. 

For international students, tuition is around $30.6k USD a year . 

Factors To Consider When Choosing a College

When choosing a school, it’s important to consider what you’re comfortable with and your current situation.  Great writers don’t have to go to the top colleges to be successful. There are plenty of places to refine your skills with the written word without breaking the bank.

So, ask yourself a few questions including: 

• Do I want to stay in state or move out of state? 
• What am I looking for in a college? 
• What extracurriculars do I hope to participate in? 
• Do I want to focus more on academics or student life?
• How do these colleges support these students in terms of academics, mental health, and other personal matters? 
• Am I looking to commute or stay in a dorm?
• Do I want to attend a public or a private college?  

After considering all of these questions, you perhaps have a better idea of what you’re looking for. And if you’re dead set on creative writing, you can consider some other factors before choosing your college. 

What are some of these factors? 

When choosing a college program, most students look at one outcome: employability. Sure, finding work after graduation is important, but for students who have a different goal other than employment, they may need to consider other criteria. Here are some of them, which we considered, when choosing the schools: 

Curriculum Offerings 

Other than poetry, fiction, short stories, or prose, you may want to learn more about other styles of writing or examine literary works. 

If you’re more into movies or TV shows, you’re perhaps more interested in taking a screenwriting course, which is only offered in a few schools. Although this may not matter at first, you’ll notice that as your academic career progresses, you may want to try something new.

So when there are plenty of courses to choose, there is often more room to explore and determine what you’re passionate about. 

Opportunities for Students 

Colleges should have many opportunities for you to apply your studies from the course material. These opportunities include workshops, writing competitions, and internships. 

As an aspiring writer, internships are a great way to network and collaborate with other writers within the industry. They not only provide you with some experience on a resume, but allow you to explore the field and learn some tips and tricks. 

Having these opportunities as a creative writing student is an asset in terms of building your written communication skills. 

Faculty and Alumni 

Another important factor when considering a creative writing program is the faculty and alumni of the school. Some universities consist of faculty members who are authors of best-selling novels, while others may consist of editors of magazines. 

Having faculty members who excelled in the industry will allow you to learn their tricks and techniques to make your own mark as an author. 

Consider looking at alumni and faculty of each school on LinkedIn. Are they people you’d like to be connected to and learn from? This is a good place to start when determining your professors and potential connections.

Cost and Affordability 

Cost is an important factor when deciding on an institution for many students. Some students may be funding their studies on their own, which often means that they will have to be on a tight budget as soon as the semester starts. 

So although some private schools are known for their top-notch education or classes, they may be way more expensive than a public institution with a well-known program. After all, it’s important to be able to afford education and learn new concepts without splurging your wallet. 

It’s also important to consider the location of your school. Do you plan to stay in this area post-grad? Or will you be looking for employment opportunities elsewhere?

Are there opportunities nearby for internships where you can get more hands-on experience in your industry? Or will you need to travel somewhere else, like New York City or Los Angeles for example, to get more experience for your resume.

You can also consider what going to school in a different country would mean for your career path. This might be a good study abroad opportunity as well.

In Summary: Best Colleges for Creative Writing

Choosing to major in creative writing is a fun and challenging endeavor. Throughout your program, you’ll definitely learn to analyze different texts, and gain better critical thinking skills. And by constantly learning new material, you may surprise yourself with some of your assignments. 

However, when choosing a college, it is best to choose what you’re most comfortable with. A strong undergraduate creative writing program is only one factor to consider, among may. After all, you’ll be spending four years there, and you need to ensure that those four years are full of fun and change. 

If your goal is to become a writer, you’ll want to think about what your career looks like. What kind of company would you like to work for? What are your best options for earning potential? Do you want to write your own book or series? Consider all of these things as you begin your career journey!

Whether you’ll be the next bestselling author, you’ll never know what legacy you’ll leave your school with. So, it’s best to choose wisely and enjoy your adventure. Good luck! 

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About the Author

Candice is currently attending school for social service work. One of her passions is helping others through my writing. In her downtime, you'll find her listening to music, watching random YouTube videos, and writing about career goals and resumes. She hopes to start freelancing for writing and obtain a leadership position in a public services sector.

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MFA in Writing

Read. Write. Be Read.

One of the top low-residency programs in the country, the Bennington Writing Seminars is a  two-year, rigorous exploration of craft. You commit as much to reading as to writing and critical literary analysis. You create bold new works of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, and may work in a dual-genre . You finish with a polished thesis and a critical paper. All this with the expert 1:1 guidance of acclaimed authors who develop a stake in your work. Our alumni, faculty, students, and staff publish work at the highest levels. Applications accepted March 1 and September 1.

What our Alumni Say

“There’s such an unparalleled and unwavering sense of support.”

Models & Mentors

Our faculty-student ratio of 1:1 provides true mentorship. You work closely with a faculty member who is an accomplished writer and a distinguished teacher.

Develop Your Skills

You may focus on one or more genres at Bennington. While most choose to specialize in fiction , nonfiction , or poetry , others work across two genres through our Dual-Genre Degree .

You may apply to begin during either of the 10-day residency sessions in 2024-25: Summer term  (residency: June 6-16, 2024) or Winter term (residency: January 9-19, 2025). Application deadlines are September 1  to begin in January and March 1 to begin in June.

Inclusive Community

We are committed to increasing access to our program for students from diverse backgrounds and to building community through sustained dialogue and practice. We offer  scholarships, and fund the emerging voices we want to support and read .

Bennington offer a self-directed pace that allows you to develop a sustainable, lifelong writing practice. We know how important it is for MFA students to gain teaching experience so we've developed the Residential Teaching Fellows program—a first-of-its-kind teaching opportunity among low residency MFA programs , among others.

Scholarships, Fellowships, Loans

We offer a range of scholarships  and  federal financial aid loans . All applicants are considered for merit scholarships.  Please contact us with any questions .

What Our Faculty Members Say

Nonfiction faculty member and MFA alum Hugh Ryan explains how the low-residency format worked for him.

@BennMFA_Writing

Need a Good Read? Author and McGee Professor Rone Shavers Defies Convention

Prof. Rone Shavers

Davidson College McGee Professor of Creative Writing  Rone Shavers produces convention-defying work across multiple genres. He is the author of the experimental Afrofuturist novel  Silverfish  (Clash Books), which was a finalist for the 2021 CLMP Firecracker Award in Fiction, a Big Other Book Award finalist, and one of  The Brooklyn Rail ’s “Best Books of 2020.” 

March is National Reading Month!

March is designated as National Reading Month – a celebration that encourages people of all ages to read every day. 

As Davidson’s McGee Professor of Creative Writing , Shavers’ courses focus on “what fiction can do and precisely how it does it,” and why creative writing matters to individuals and society. His most recent creative work is  Ten Crônicas , a chapbook collection of prose poems published by The Magnificent Field.

Here, find out more about Shavers’ influences and sources of inspiration, advice to students and recommended reads.

What inspired you to become a writer? 

I remember wanting to write when I was kind of young, but I really didn't think it was a viable thing until I was maybe about 16 or 17. To be honest, though, I still kind of get inspired. There are still books that I'll read that will make me go, "Wow." I like to think that I just create. Because I teach, I don’t feel confined by commercial publishing pressures. I write because I love the form, and the art of it.

Who were some of your favorite authors early on? 

I remember being in my teens and reading Catcher in the Rye , Jack Kerouac and the Beats, all that kind of stuff. But it was one of my professors in college, Maura Spiegel was her name, who introduced me to some authors and books that really blew my mind. I mean, like, really brain-melty, mind-exploding stuff. She attempted to teach a course on William Gaddis' JR , Herman Broch's The Sleepwalkers , Georges Perec's Life: A User's Manual,  and Thomas Pynchon’s Gravity’s Rainbow . I dropped that course like a hot potato about two weeks in, but I had the books and I read them after graduation. Mind. Blown. 

In college I was also reading things like Balzac, Stendhal and Flaubert. So, on one hand I was reading all of these 19th century French works, and on the other, all of these postmodern works, books that weren't following the conventional 19th century model of fiction, which I still get really excited about. I tend to like work that plays around with literary form. Lately I’ve been voraciously reading really formally inventive works by authors of color, texts like Ishmael Reed's Mumbo-Jumbo , or the novels of Karen Tei Yamashita. I think people don't pay enough attention to them.

You said people don't pay enough attention to authors of color who are doing experimental work. Why?

The movie American Fiction is based on the novel Erasure , by Percival Everett. Both the movie and film are about a Black writer of experimental fiction whose books keep being rejected because people, Black and white, keep telling him that his books aren’t Black enough. When you say “experimental fiction,” people think Joyce, Pynchon, David Foster Wallace. It's always code for whiteness and White males from either elite liberal arts or Ivy League schools, with just enough women on the list to have them constitute a minority, but only a small one. The postmodern novel is supposedly this huge thing written by some guy in tweed — somebody straight out of central casting for a Wes Anderson movie. But plenty of people write experimental work. In fact, one of the things I do, with an author named Kenning JP Garcia, is host a roving panel-discussion series called “Form and (Dis)Content,” where we showcase experimental authors of color.

Do you have any thoughts on Octavia Butler’s influence?

When you talk about Afrofuturism, Octavia Butler is very prominent because she’s the godmother of Afrofuturism. She influenced so many writers. When we talk about these movements, a lot of times the people actually doing the real, on-the-ground work are women. And they tend to get marginalized or written out of the picture. When I say Octavia Butler was really influential, it’s partly because you had a lot young Black girls reading her stuff who then totally picked up the torch. For example, another influential Afrofuturist is Sheree Renee Thomas. Sheree was influenced by Octavia, and around 20 years ago Sheree edited two seminal anthologies called Dark Matter: Speculative Fiction from the African Diaspora,  and Dark Matter: Reading the Bones . These anthologies were groundbreaking because they were the first to collect and highlight works of speculative fiction written solely by Black people. Despite Octavia Butler’s success, prior to the Dark Matter series, the publishing industry really didn’t try to market Black speculative fiction authors because of the misguided belief that “Black people don’t read sci-fi.” Well, the Dark Matter anthologies proved them wrong. A lot of writers and Afrofuturist authors that we now take as household names, like Tananarive Due, Honorée Fanonne Jeffers, Nalo Hopkinson, Nnedi Okorafor, and Nisi Shawl all appeared in the Dark Matter anthologies’ pages. 

How do you advise students who want to create work within a specific genre?

I tell students that the best genre work actually stretches the boundaries of its genre. I tell them that you can't depend on the supposed rules of a genre to do all these things in your work that your own writing really needs to do. Working within a genre is not a way to avoid actually doing the real work of writing because, well, if you write a mystery, it has to be successful not only as a mystery, but also as a compelling, complete   work of fiction. You just can't say, "Well, since it's a mystery, I don't have to write well-rounded characters." Yeah, you do. The example I usually use is Stephen King. What Stephen King did for the horror genre was bring a level of psychological depth to it that was missing, and that's what made his work stand out. I sometimes tell students to just do the work that they want to do, but make sure that they do it really, really well. In a perfect world, it's going to be a critic who will show you how everything fits together and who will assign you a genre, especially if you want to do stuff that's a little off the beaten path.

Do aspiring poets or novelists need to have a technical mastery of all of the forms before they can produce good work?

Yes and no. The benefit of school is, I think, more than just learning about literature and literary forms — in school you will definitely learn literary forms — you’ll also learn how you can deviate from them. Equally as important is learning about poetics in general, which you do maybe need school for, unless you want to go out and spend hours in a library reading other people’s work. But that's the good part of school — you learn what has come before you. You're studying the history of poetry, and what poetry is and what poetry has done. Then you're able to write yourself into that lineage, or even, if it’s what you want to do, write against it. You don’t necessarily need to go to school for such things, but formal study makes for a much quicker, easier road to any sort of mastery. For example, when I read student work, I can straight-up tell which students read books and which students don't — and sometimes even what literary styles or periods a student may like to read — just by sentence structure alone. We all tend to follow certain language and syntactic models when writing that we’ve gotten from absorbing years of books. The avid book readers are the ones who will give you a lot of sentences that vary in length, tone and style.

The power of language is a prominent theme in Silverfish .

Yeah. I'm a bit of word nerd, and I like code-switching. I'm always code switching. Part of the book came to me because I tend have the radio on at dinnertime, and one of the things that would always come on would be [the NPR show] “Marketplace,” and I remember just hearing a completely different language. I was like, "What the hell is a 10-year T-note?" I know what it is now, but part of what really struck me was repeatedly hearing the language of finance. If you don’t know it, it’s incredibly obfuscating, sometimes intentionally so.   With Silverfish , I was imagining what the world would look like if we took the language of finance and all of these neoliberal policies and ideas to their logical conclusion. That's where I started. That’s what sparked my imagination. In American culture, there’s so much of this neoliberal, neo-corporatist language that has just become part of everyday parlance. We need to think about how we're using language.

I'm kind of still working it out, but maybe that's one of the projects I'm always going to be working out. I'm really interested in thinking about our own thinking — what educators sometimes call metacognition — when and how we do it and when and how we don't. I don't have the answers. In fact, I don’t think I have any answers. I just want look at the problems and reasons and ways that we delude ourselves into doing certain things, and more important, why.

Is there anything else you'd like to tell students?

Read broadly. It’s a little cliché — but there's some truth to this cliché — and that's if you like a particular author, research them and find out who influenced them, who they were reading, and then go back and read that work, too. Be sure to read the classics, contemporary literature — if you like popular or genre fiction, that's fine, too— but just make sure you read some literary works once in a while. It's all going to help inform your work, and your writing, and your thinking. The brain is a wonderful spongy little instrument that will soak up whatever you choose to dip it in, so be sure to dip it in some good stuff.

A Brief, Non-Exhaustive List of Contemporary Black Fiction Totally Worth Checking Out

Recommendations by Rone Shavers, McGee Professor of Creative Writing

• Fat Time , by Jeffery Renard Allen
• The Salt Eaters , by Toni Cade Bambara
• The Sellout , by Paul Beatty
• Parable of the Sower , by Octavia Butler
• I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem , by Maryse Condé
• Babel-17 and Empire Star , by Samuel R. Delany
• Potted Meat , by Steven Dunn
• Erasure , by Percival Everett
• Event Factory , by Renee Gladman
• Midnight Robber , by Nalo Hopkinson
• Middle Passage , by Charles Johnson
• Annotations  and Counternarratives , by John Keene
• How Soon is Black Future Month , by N. K. Jemisin
• Dunfords Travels Everywheres , by William Melvin Kelley
• Black Imagination , by Natasha Marin
• Mama Day , by Gloria Naylor
• Mumbo Jumbo , by Ishmael Reed
• Oreo , by Fran Ross
• Heads of the Colored People , by Nafissa Thompson-Spires
• The Intuitionist , by Colson Whitehead
• March 13, 2024
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Creative Writing @ Lehman College

Fall ’19 fiction writers.

Fiction Writers and Radical Honesty

Radical Honesty is a term created by Bianca Williams, an Associate Professor of Anthropology at the CUNY Graduate Center. It is a “Black Feminist approach to truth-telling that can enable us to embrace emotions as we learn.”

  When I step into the classroom… I bring my energy that is excitement…I bring myself and all that I am. I am a mom who is doing her best to be an example for her 2 children who one just started college and one a junior in high school…I bring with me the hope that this semester will be an easy one; College can be brutal but “rewarding”  (or so they say, that is still to be determined)…I bring you my overwhelmed self today because someone dear to me just passed away yesterday and his love for his family and amazing laughter still will linger in my memory for ages to come… I bring you a woman that has grown into who she is and accepts her flaws. I bring my emotions because writing helps me cope… As of a year ago, I felt ready to write about myself which I struggled with for a long time. At first, it was uncomfortable and scary, but at the same times refreshing because finally I was telling my truth…I bring my lifelong dream to be a writer…I am very introverted and a private person which makes the process of sharing writing which is so personal with a group of strangers very challenging…My genuine greatest dream and goal is to write a novel by the end of the school year. I am a science major and my career goals are not related to creative writing at all but I have stayed a fifth year in order to see the dream through… I can visualize each scene perfectly down to the smallest detail. However when it’s time to take those visions and get them on paper it all becomes one-dimensional and a bit dull. It’s like all of the color and dimension got lost in translation…I bring my fake it until you make it attitude to the classroom…I am very reserved and try my best to speak out and be the person I want to be.

I am fearful… of failure and a fear of being criticized for my vulnerability. I will always try to give my best in what I write even though it might come out harsh and some times as a run-on sentence and a lot of my Colombian accent…. Of another person reading something I have worked hard on and criticizing it too harshly… When I think of the amount of work I have to face, and the torture my body will have to go through as I go through the journey…Of Bugs, (which in the grand scheme of things are not really that terrifying because I can just step on them) but the fear is there nonetheless. I am also afraid that my fears will stop me from reaching my greatest potential, so I do my best to let them go…My pieces won’t be good enough. I sometimes feel like I don’t know enough words or how to translate my thoughts to meaningful words or ideas…Being misunderstood…When I have to speak in front of or share things with people sometimes I feel like I am constantly being judged and I don’t like to be the center of attention. I know that I have to work harder at being comfortable with sharing but I am not confident in my writing. I come from a family that can be judgmental and often tend to point out flaws so I do not like when others can see my flaws even though it makes us human…Of harsh disapproval or criticism about my writing. I always hear English majors say they thought they were good writers until one teacher says otherwise. Going on this journey of being a writer is scary and unpredictable. I honestly always feel like I have no idea what I am doing is right. Teacher always say be open. Even writing this as I feel as if I should be guarded… Presenting my writing… Of failing as a mother, teacher, and student…that the things I write about are too personal and don’t or won’t have relevance with anyone else…of failure because of my age and the fear that I will not accomplish my goals on time because I look at other people’s life and what they are doing and what they are accomplishing and my mindset is built on my dreams to succeed and go far in life…Of failure because I give my all to pass and better myself I feel like a nobody when I feel fail at something… of what the future has for me. I want to do so much with my social worker degree and I have many opportunities presenting themselves. I just hope I can do my best and bring the skills I learned in the classroom to the field…of not having good ideas for things to write about or sharing something I wrote with someone who criticizes it a lot. I am not great at criticizing other people’s writing or receiving criticism because when I put work into something I become attached to it and do not want to think it is weak or poorly written…of not succeeding or being seen as not successful with what I do with my life. It has taken me years to complete this degree…

I get overwhelmed… with my recent raw feelings of missing my mom. Although I lost her nearly 10 years ago I am only dealing with that now. As I become older and as I go through certain things I find myself wishing for her advice…overwhelmed when I have a lot on my plate: job work, school work, church work, housework, helping parents, being a wife… Speaking in front of the class… when I overthink or I have a little time to finish so many things…when I have many problems from all aspects of my life combined and come crashing down on me.

I feel confident when… I think positively…I am prepared for class and when I get positive feedback…I can use my words to effectively tell my story without just the play-by-play. I can tell it and include my narrative with events and make it make sense…I am free to be honest… when I achieve the goals I set for myself…I achieve at least parts of my goals. Whether they are big or small. I do believe in myself but the world we live in and the people in it make it difficult to keep my head up through those hard times… when I am on the field playing softball that is the only place where I’m not nervous or fearful I know I’m great at what I do on the field…

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2024 Best Colleges with Creative Writing Degrees in California

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1-24 of 24 results

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   4,030 reviews

Freshman: I like the diverse, really friendly community, thoughtful curriculum, experienced teachers, and good campus life. I feel that the community is supportive and that I have many avenues to learn, change and grow here. The people are really nice! What I would like to see changed is a better work environment for the students and staff, more mediated spaces for discussions on difficult topics, and a better-organized structure for knowing what opportunities I have to contribute to the community or make the most of my educational experience. ... Read 4,030 reviews

• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 13%

Net price $26,021

SAT range 1410-1540

#7 Best Colleges in California .

Blue checkmark.

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

4030 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I like the diverse, really friendly community, thoughtful curriculum, experienced teachers, and good campus life. I feel that the community is supportive and that I have many avenues to learn, change... What I would like to see changed is a better work environment for the students and staff, more mediated spaces for discussions on difficult topics, and a better-organized structure for knowing what... .

Read 4030 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 13% ,

Net Price : $26,021 ,

SAT Range : 1410-1540 ,

National University

La Jolla, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   1,166 reviews

Freshman: As someone that lives on their own in the Bay Area that works full-time, I definitely needed to find a school that was flexible due to my hectic schedule. National University genuinely provides that for me. The teachers and staff are always willing to help and accommodate hours for their students. Though the workload is still heavy, it only makes me so proud of myself after the classes are over. I accomplished the course! Instead of being upset that I didnt make it to class and now my grade is getting lower or getting booted out of a class because life happens. ... Read 1,166 reviews

• grade  A Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 55%

Net price $9,966

SAT range 750-1170

#13 Best Colleges in California .

LA JOLLA, CA ,

1166 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says As someone that lives on their own in the Bay Area that works full-time, I definitely needed to find a school that was flexible due to my hectic schedule. National University genuinely provides that... .

Read 1166 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A ,

Acceptance Rate : 55% ,

Net Price : $9,966 ,

SAT Range : 750-1170 ,

Foothill College

Los Altos Hills, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   515 reviews

Freshman: Foothill College has changed my view to greater education. The process has thought me my education credentials matters more than the school I attend. The importance of economical educations over a prestigious nationwide university, to feel proud of the knowledge and remember the impact we hold for society with the knowledge acquire at foothill. Many professors understand not all student have a supportive family therefore they check in with their students. All my professors have offer office hours to ensure all students are learning the material and know they are supported. The STEM center is available to all students to seek a snack or tutoring every weekday from 11-5 pm. All the needed resources to succeed at in Foothill. ... Read 515 reviews

• grade  A minus Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 100%

Net price $9,820

SAT range —

#1 Best Community Colleges in California .

LOS ALTOS HILLS, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Freshman says Foothill College has changed my view to greater education. The process has thought me my education credentials matters more than the school I attend. The importance of economical educations over a... .

Read 515 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A minus ,

Acceptance Rate : 100% ,

Net Price : $9,820 ,

Adams State University

ALAMOSA, CO

• • Rating 3.45 out of 5   601

Concorde Career College - San Bernardino

SAN BERNARDINO, CA

• • Rating 4.05 out of 5   60

California State University - Monterey Bay

SEASIDE, CA

• • Rating 3.52 out of 5   1,759

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA •

• • Rating 3.76 out of 5   1,360 reviews

Alum: It's a beautiful location, loved the campus! People were amazing, kind, generous, fun. The professors were very approachable and connected with the student community, plus small class sizes. It was a nice community and there were a lot of fun things to do. It doesn't have as many opportunities as bigger schools on campus--even the academics are very limited compared to a state university. The international programs are excellent! It would be nice if it were more diverse in population and thought. ... Read 1,360 reviews

Acceptance rate 53%

Net price $40,945

SAT range 1260-1440

#21 Best Colleges in California .

MALIBU, CA ,

1360 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says It's a beautiful location, loved the campus! People were amazing, kind, generous, fun. The professors were very approachable and connected with the student community, plus small class sizes. It was a... .

Read 1360 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 53% ,

Net Price : $40,945 ,

SAT Range : 1260-1440 ,

Las Positas College

Livermore, CA •

• • Rating 3.83 out of 5   633 reviews

Sophomore: I love LasPo! The faculty are very well-read and supportive, there's a lot to do in terms of student life and campus activities/extracurriculars, and there's a lot of diversity. The campus itself is also in a nice location. The counselors are particularly helpful, and walk you through every detail of your academic path to make sure you're on track for your goals. Overall a great experience and would definitely recommend to anyone thinking of attending community college! ... Read 633 reviews

Net price $7,675

#2 Best Community Colleges in California .

LIVERMORE, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Sophomore says I love LasPo! The faculty are very well-read and supportive, there's a lot to do in terms of student life and campus activities/extracurriculars, and there's a lot of diversity. The campus itself is... .

Read 633 reviews.

Net Price : $7,675 ,

Chapman University

Orange, CA •

• • Rating 3.7 out of 5   2,287 reviews

Freshman: I love chapman for their academic and opportunities, but it is seriously lacking in terms of housing, food, and accessibility. You will need a car at Chapman by Sophomore year, but Freshman year can be miserable without one. The housing has mold, electrical issues, pipes bursting, and we are crammed into triples. The party scene was better than expected, but socially it feels like high school sometimes. If you are in the film school, your academic are amazing. Great resources and professors. I can’t speak on other schools here but people seem to like them. The Honors program is very different from other schools. It focuses on interdisciplinary studies and is basically just a different way to take Gen-Ed classes. ... Read 2,287 reviews

Acceptance rate 60%

Net price $40,451

SAT range 1210-1410

#25 Best Colleges in California .

ORANGE, CA ,

2287 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I love chapman for their academic and opportunities, but it is seriously lacking in terms of housing, food, and accessibility. You will need a car at Chapman by Sophomore year, but Freshman year can... .

Read 2287 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 60% ,

Net Price : $40,451 ,

SAT Range : 1210-1410 ,

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

University of California - Riverside

Riverside, CA •

• • Rating 3.64 out of 5   3,689 reviews

Sophomore: I have had the pleasure of attending UCR, and my overall experience has been incredibly positive. The sense of community at the campus is truly remarkable. Everyone, from fellow students to faculty members, is not only friendly but also genuinely helpful. One standout aspect of my time at UCR has been the exceptional professors. I consider myself privileged to have had instructors who go above and beyond to create a supportive learning environment. These professors are not only knowledgeable but also remarkably nice and understanding. Their approachability has made a significant difference in my academic journey, fostering an atmosphere where I feel comfortable seeking guidance and asking questions. The friendliness and approachability of the entire UCR community have created a welcoming environment. Whether in classrooms, common areas, or during campus events, there is a palpable sense of camaraderie. ... Read 3,689 reviews

• grade  B+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 65%

Net price $13,502

SAT range 1080-1280

#27 Best Colleges in California .

RIVERSIDE, CA ,

3689 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says I have had the pleasure of attending UCR, and my overall experience has been incredibly positive. The sense of community at the campus is truly remarkable. Everyone, from fellow students to faculty... One standout aspect of my time at UCR has been the exceptional professors. I consider myself privileged to have had instructors who go above and beyond to create a supportive learning environment.... The friendliness and approachability of the entire UCR community have created a welcoming environment. Whether in classrooms, common areas, or during campus events, there is a palpable sense of... .

Read 3689 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 65% ,

Net Price : $13,502 ,

SAT Range : 1080-1280 ,

City College of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA •

• • Rating 3.8 out of 5   1,022 reviews

Freshman: My college experience was transformative. I appreciated the diverse academic offerings, extracurricular opportunities, and the chance to meet people from various backgrounds. The supportive faculty, engaging courses, and access to resources like libraries and research facilities enriched my learning journey. However, I believe there's room for improvement in terms of mental health support services, as well as more emphasis on practical skill development and real-world application of knowledge. Additionally, fostering a more inclusive and equitable campus culture would enhance the overall experience for everyone. Overall, my college experience was positive, but there's always room for growth and enhancement. ... Read 1,022 reviews

Net price $9,261

#8 Best Community Colleges in California .

SAN FRANCISCO, CA ,

1022 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says My college experience was transformative. I appreciated the diverse academic offerings, extracurricular opportunities, and the chance to meet people from various backgrounds. The supportive faculty,... .

Read 1022 reviews.

Net Price : $9,261 ,

California Baptist University

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   2,899 reviews

Freshman: I am not a party person so I am enjoying it here! Outside of parties, there are plenty of things to do, and I love that the school tries to get students involved in college life! Riverside often feels a little sketchy, but I do not worry about such things on campus. I love how understanding the professors are; they are always willing to listen and give different opportunities for you to try your best. The food can get a bit repetitive but there are different options so it is always nice being able to grab something different. I love the people I have met here and I am enjoying my time here! ... Read 2,899 reviews

Acceptance rate 64%

Net price $23,494

SAT range 990-1210

#31 Best Colleges in California .

2899 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I am not a party person so I am enjoying it here! Outside of parties, there are plenty of things to do, and I love that the school tries to get students involved in college life! Riverside often... .

Read 2899 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 64% ,

Net Price : $23,494 ,

SAT Range : 990-1210 ,

Cerritos College

Norwalk, CA •

• • Rating 3.88 out of 5   1,342 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience at Cerritos College has been a very good one so far! The professors I have taken were very willing to help you succeed in their classes. The college also have numerous support services for students who might be facing some kind of insecurity at home, or if they simply want to get their grades up. As for food choices, there aren't many on campus and I wish there were more, but there are plenty of restaurants outside of campus. ... Read 1,342 reviews

Net price $9,557

#15 Best Community Colleges in California .

NORWALK, CA ,

1342 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says My overall experience at Cerritos College has been a very good one so far! The professors I have taken were very willing to help you succeed in their classes. The college also have numerous support... .

Read 1342 reviews.

Net Price : $9,557 ,

Cypress College

Cypress, CA •

• • Rating 4.07 out of 5   1,060 reviews

Junior: Cypress College is very diverse and accepts anyone, no matter how different we may all be. Though, it may not have everything we may be looking for but I think it's very inviting. I've even noticed too, for those in high school or even in elementary, they would tour them to see how their future may be. I think it's an excellent strategy! ... Read 1,060 reviews

Net price $7,951

#19 Best Community Colleges in California .

CYPRESS, CA ,

1060 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says Cypress College is very diverse and accepts anyone, no matter how different we may all be. Though, it may not have everything we may be looking for but I think it's very inviting. I've even noticed... .

Read 1060 reviews.

Net Price : $7,951 ,

Long Beach City College

Long Beach, CA •

• • Rating 3.74 out of 5   1,763 reviews

Sophomore: My experience with Long Beach City College has been exceptional. The unwavering support from the staff showcases their dedication to student success. Whether facing academic challenges or life obstacles, the staff serves not just as educators but as mentors, offering a plethora of resources. From addressing food and housing needs to providing convenient tutoring support, Long Beach City College has created a nurturing environment that fosters both educational and personal growth. Looking ahead, I hope to see continued improvements through increased funding for the school and students, ensuring the ongoing enhancement of the valuable resources and support they provide. ... Read 1,763 reviews

• grade  B Overall Niche Grade

Net price $6,550

#30 Best Community Colleges in California .

LONG BEACH, CA ,

1763 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says My experience with Long Beach City College has been exceptional. The unwavering support from the staff showcases their dedication to student success. Whether facing academic challenges or life... .

Read 1763 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B ,

Net Price : $6,550 ,

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Monterey Peninsula College

Monterey, CA •

• • Rating 3.94 out of 5   597 reviews

Sophomore: As a returning adult learner, I was both hesitant and eager to return to school. My goal to pursue a dream career of becoming an RN seemed attainable at Monterey Peninsula College. In part, due to the amazing faculty and the overall resources provided to students. I had the pleasure of connecting with a great advisor that helped build my confidence and worked with me to create an attainable education plan. I am a single mother and work full-time. I needed guidance to help incorporate my educational goals into my already busy life. I was able to make it work thanks to the diversity of schedules offered at MPC. I am on my second year and going strong. All the professors I’ve encountered have been amazing mentors. The MPC website and registration process has been a breeze. I highly recommend anyone looking to return to college or just starting, to consider MPC. The beautiful campus will draw you in! It’s great to be a Lobo! ... Read 597 reviews

Net price $12,007

#41 Best Community Colleges in California .

MONTEREY, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Sophomore says As a returning adult learner, I was both hesitant and eager to return to school. My goal to pursue a dream career of becoming an RN seemed attainable at Monterey Peninsula College. In part, due to... .

Read 597 reviews.

Net Price : $12,007 ,

University of La Verne

La Verne, CA •

• • Rating 3.89 out of 5   1,253 reviews

Alum: As a Alumni, your experience depends entirely on you and your choices. Your major and the activities you are involved in may measure and estimate your experience to be probably be better. Overall this school is extremely generous, they will help their students with out a doubt, whether it is financial, mental, or with grades. The campus is delicate, small, and is close fire department, police department, restaurants, places of worship, etc. You will feel very comfortable here. Everyone is friendly and knows their overall status of responsibility. If your not much as a talker, a introvert, or just not into people, buckle your belts because your going to talk, chat, conversate with classmates, and professors. Many people of culture, religion, class will be met here. There is a lot of freedom in this school, and is there for their students despite background . What i would like to see changed is cost if tuition! Its not cheap. ... Read 1,253 reviews

Acceptance rate 72%

Net price $22,538

SAT range 930-1150

#50 Best Colleges in California .

LA VERNE, CA ,

1253 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says As a Alumni, your experience depends entirely on you and your choices. Your major and the activities you are involved in may measure and estimate your experience to be probably be better. Overall... .

Read 1253 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 72% ,

Net Price : $22,538 ,

SAT Range : 930-1150 ,

Grossmont College

El Cajon, CA •

• • Rating 3.81 out of 5   1,288 reviews

Sophomore: As a 2nd year student at Grossmont, I've become acclimated to student life on campus. Since it is a community college, the activty levels are a bit lower compared to student activty at 4-year universities. The campus can be quiet at times, but when there is an event, it is excting and wholesome. I think the experience in classes and socially feels more intamite and personal since it is a smaller school. There are less students enrolled in community colleges genrally compared to univeristies, so the professors are able to focus more on each individual student. This is mice because I recieved personal advice and more guidance than I could ask for. It makes the school experience much more comfortable. ... Read 1,288 reviews

Net price $5,999

#48 Best Community Colleges in California .

EL CAJON, CA ,

1288 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says As a 2nd year student at Grossmont, I've become acclimated to student life on campus. Since it is a community college, the activty levels are a bit lower compared to student activty at 4-year... .

Read 1288 reviews.

Net Price : $5,999 ,

Dominican University of California

San Rafael, CA •

• • Rating 3.53 out of 5   848 reviews

Sophomore: Dominican is the most supportive college I have ever had the pleasure of attending. There are endless clubs for all sorts of interests and social justice rights. The students, faculty, and staff are something out of a dream. The student to teacher ratio is incredibly helpful when it comes to having a 1 on 1 connection and getting extra assistance in classes. The campus is nothing short of gorgeous, and the on campus living is phenomenal. The dorms and Edgehill Villeage are both conveniently located on the small campus, surrounded by beautiful trees. It almost feels like I get to live at summer camp every day. The classes have wonderfully passionate teachers, and not only that, but the counselors here are amazing as well. The school spirit is not as big as you would see it at other Universities, but it's intimate and more special in that way. There are endless opportunities here! It is a great place to be. ... Read 848 reviews

Acceptance rate 93%

Net price $45,001

SAT range 1070-1260

#57 Best Colleges in California .

SAN RAFAEL, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Sophomore says Dominican is the most supportive college I have ever had the pleasure of attending. There are endless clubs for all sorts of interests and social justice rights. The students, faculty, and staff are... .

Read 848 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 93% ,

Net Price : $45,001 ,

SAT Range : 1070-1260 ,

Berkeley City College

Berkeley, CA •

• • Rating 3.68 out of 5   403 reviews

Sophomore: I love how Berkeley city college is so alive compared to other community schools I've attended this one is the most were you definitely don't want to miss school because not sure the vibe but the faculty and students are very outgoing and helpful to one another. ... Read 403 reviews

• grade  B minus Overall Niche Grade

Net price $13,556

#68 Best Community Colleges in California .

BERKELEY, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Sophomore says I love how Berkeley city college is so alive compared to other community schools I've attended this one is the most were you definitely don't want to miss school because not sure the vibe but the... .

Read 403 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B minus ,

Net Price : $13,556 ,

American River College

Sacramento, CA •

• • Rating 3.79 out of 5   1,496 reviews

Sophomore: I have truly enjoyed my time here at American River College. The campus is very welcoming and diverse, there are many resources out there to help you in any given situation. If you're unsure what you want to pursue in life, this is a great place to start and figure it out. I had to opportunity to change my major and still be on track with graduating because of my access to counselors. With my new major, I have experienced the best professors who are here to help you with the road to success. Overall, amazing campus! ... Read 1,496 reviews

Net price $8,101

#74 Best Community Colleges in California .

SACRAMENTO, CA ,

1496 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says I have truly enjoyed my time here at American River College. The campus is very welcoming and diverse, there are many resources out there to help you in any given situation. If you're unsure what you... .

Read 1496 reviews.

Net Price : $8,101 ,

Laguna College of Art & Design

Laguna Beach, CA •

• • Rating 4.03 out of 5   215 reviews

Freshman: I will say that as a Game Art major this is exactly where I want to be. There is no other program in the nation that gets you up close and personal with current industry professionals like the one here at LCAD. It's insane to say but as a freshman I am confident in thinking I've met with more pros and AAA recruiters than most seniors at competing universities because of specialized courses here at LCAD. If you're a prospective freshman hoping to major in game developmental studies, PLEASE consider this school if you have the funds/aid to do so! However, this doesn't mean that the school is perfect. There is no cafeteria (so no meal plans), and the student housing is absolutely abysmal. You would definitely need some major aid if you don't come from an insanely rich family (which most students are), and sometimes the environment can be a little hostile towards students from low-income families- unfortunately I think that's normal for So Cal. ... Read 215 reviews

Acceptance rate 83%

Net price $40,669

LAGUNA BEACH, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Freshman says I will say that as a Game Art major this is exactly where I want to be. There is no other program in the nation that gets you up close and personal with current industry professionals like the one... .

Read 215 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 83% ,

Net Price : $40,669 ,

La Sierra University

• • Rating 3.54 out of 5   765 reviews

Freshman: The professors and faculty members exhibit considerable amiability and strive to comprehend the needs of students. Their office hours are deemed invaluable, and instances of them being unproductive are infrequent. Evaluation methods are generally equitable, and instances of lecturers rushing through course content are rare. Nonetheless, there's a need for reconsideration regarding the allocation of time for teaching duties, as there are occasions when it seems insufficient for fulfilling their responsibilities adequately. ... Read 765 reviews

Acceptance rate 66%

Net price $25,230

SAT range 880-1140

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

Featured Review: Freshman says The professors and faculty members exhibit considerable amiability and strive to comprehend the needs of students. Their office hours are deemed invaluable, and instances of them being unproductive... .

Read 765 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 66% ,

Net Price : $25,230 ,

SAT Range : 880-1140 ,

University of Redlands

Redlands, CA •

• • Rating 3.62 out of 5   927 reviews

Alum: My overall experience was great. I would recommend joining either an athletic team or sorority/fraternity because that really helps you meet people. It's a small school, which is nice, but there's always opportunity to meet new people. I saw people I knew whenever I was on campus, but was still making new friends and meeting new people all four years. The registrar is not super helpful so I would recommend having a good academic advisor. ... Read 927 reviews

Net price $21,578

SAT range 1110-1280

REDLANDS, CA ,

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

Featured Review: Alum says My overall experience was great. I would recommend joining either an athletic team or sorority/fraternity because that really helps you meet people. It's a small school, which is nice, but there's... .

Read 927 reviews.

Net Price : $21,578 ,

SAT Range : 1110-1280 ,

College of the Desert

Palm Desert, CA •

• • Rating 3.87 out of 5   1,018 reviews

Freshman: Overall, I enjoy my experience as a student at College of the Desert. Not only does this school provide numerous resources, but they do an effective job promoting and encouraging participation and use of resources. While I did not enjoy all of my professors, majority of the staff, like the counselors, are extremely helpful and knowledgeable! Very grateful for the education and support I am receiving here at College of the Desert. ... Read 1,018 reviews

Net price $14,179

#83 Best Community Colleges in California .

PALM DESERT, CA ,

1018 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Overall, I enjoy my experience as a student at College of the Desert. Not only does this school provide numerous resources, but they do an effective job promoting and encouraging participation and... .

Read 1018 reviews.

Net Price : $14,179 ,

California College of the Arts

• • Rating 3.57 out of 5   390 reviews

Sophomore: I am a second year transfer student, but with my experience so far even before the school year starts, I have had an amazing experience. So many people welcomed me to the school and helped me with any questions I had. I also took a tour in January and it was amazing. The environment is so welcoming and perfect for artists and it almost was like the place was calling to me. ... Read 390 reviews

• grade  C+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 78%

Net price $40,231

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

Featured Review: Sophomore says I am a second year transfer student, but with my experience so far even before the school year starts, I have had an amazing experience. So many people welcomed me to the school and helped me with... .

Read 390 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : C+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 78% ,

Net Price : $40,231 ,

National University Online Education

4 Year (Online)

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review
• grade  unavailable Overall Niche Grade

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4 Year (Online) ,

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

Read 1 reviews.

Roger Williams University

BRISTOL, RI

• • Rating 3.56 out of 5   1,034

University of San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

• • Rating 3.64 out of 5   2,336

Queens University of Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC

• • Rating 3.75 out of 5   612

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MOU Gymnasium No. 21 Elektrostal

Description of MOU Gymnasium No. 21 Elektrostal

• Location: Elektrostal, Russia
• Students age: from 7 to 18 years old
• School uniform
• Full-time education
• Stages of education: primary, basic and secondary.

Gymnasium No. 21 is located in the town of Elektrostal, Moscow Region. The beginning of the history of this educational institution is considered 1971 - then a secondary school was opened in the building of the gymnasium. Since 2014, gymnasium No. 21 has been included in the list of the best schools in the Moscow Region, has the title of "Smart School", and is the winner of many competitions in the field of education.

Programs and prices, tuition fees in MOU Gymnasium No. 21 Elektrostal

Primary general education (7 - 10 years): study of basic subjects, versatile personality education. In free time, the program includes excursions, festivals and project activities.

Basic general education (11 - 16 years old): a program consisting of basic subjects and preparation for passing the OGE. The program includes the study of two foreign languages - English and German.

Secondary general education (16 - 18 years old): a program includes basic subjects (as an additional one - astronomy) and in-depth study of the disciplines selected for passing the exam.

Grades 10 in the gymnasium are divided into profiles of in-depth study of subjects:

• Socio-economic - learning English, mathematics and economics
• Social and humanitarian - English and Russian languages, social studies.

Accommodation, meals, prices

The gymnasium organizes paid and reduced-price meals.

Reduced price meals (lunch) are received by:

• Students with disabilities
• Students who are under guardianship and not receiving benefits from the guardianship authorities
• Disabled children
• Pupils from large families
• Students with tuberculous intoxication
• Students receiving survivor's pension
• Students with diseases of the digestive organs (Hirschsprung's disease, gastric and duodenal ulcers, cholelithiasis, chronic hepatitis, Crohn's disease), chronic kidney diseases (glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis), blood diseases and disorders caused by chemical prophylaxis, respiratory diseases (bronchial asthma), diseases of the endocrine system (diabetes mellitus)
• Students from low-income families
• Students from disadvantaged families
• Children in difficult life situations
• Children of participants in the liquidation of the consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant.

Reduced meals (breakfast) are received by:

• Students in grades 1-4
• Students from large families
• Students receiving a survivor's pension.

To obtain the right to receive preferential meals from the parents / legal representatives of the child, you will need to provide an application completed in the name of the director and documents confirming belonging to one of the categories.

Activities MOU Gymnasium No. 21 Elektrostal

Circles and sections of gymnasium number 21:.

• General physical preparation
• Librarianship.

High school students also participate in:

• Subject Olympiads, including the All-Russian Olympiad for schoolchildren
• Career guidance before leaving school
• Delivery of TRP standards
• Sports and creative activities.
• Qualified teachers (holders of the title "Honored Teacher of the Russian Federation", medals and certificates of honor)
• Additional education in various fields
• Participation in olympiads and competitions
• Career guidance for applicants to universities and colleges.

Facilities and equipment at MOU Gymnasium No. 21 Elektrostal

Studying takes place in a four-story building built in 1970. The school is equipped with:

• Classrooms equipped with everything you need to learn
• Assembly, choreographic and sports halls
• Dining room
• Medical office
• Library with reading room
• Utility and technical rooms
• Sports ground on site.

The entrance is equipped with equipment for visiting the school by persons with disabilities.

Admission dates and extra charges

The academic year begins on September 1, and is divided into quarters.

Holidays between quarters:

• October 30-November 8
• December 28-January 8
• February 22-28 (only for 1 grade)
• March 26-April 2
• May 26/29 - August 31 (depending on the class).

Gymnasium №21 teaches on a five-day basis - from Monday to Friday. Lesson time:

• For 1, 4, 5, 7, 8a, 11 classes - 8: 30-15: 45 (max. 8 lessons)
• For grades 2, 3, 6, 8b, 9, 10 - 8: 15-15: 30 (max. 8 lessons).

Entry requirements, how to apply, what is required to enrol

To enroll in the gymnasium you will need to provide:

• Completed application in electronic or written form
• Parent's / legal representative's passport
• Child's birth certificate
• Certificate of registration of the child at the place of residence or at the place of stay in the assigned territory
• The conclusion and recommendations of the psychological, medical and pedagogical commission and the consent of parents / legal representatives to study according to the adaptive basic general education program (for children with disabilities).

Upon admission to grade 10, additional documents + profile testing may be required.

Institution on the map

Residence permits, citizenship and other services.

• Guardianship services during the studies
• Student supervision

Review about MOU Gymnasium No. 21 Elektrostal

Recommendations on when to apply, similar educational institutions.

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30 Best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Moscow, Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Moscow ranked based on their research performance in Mechanical Engineering. A graph of 269K citations received by 45.8K academic papers made by 30 universities in Moscow was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Mechanical Engineering

2. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

3. National Research University Higher School of Economics

4. Moscow Aviation Institute

5. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

6. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

7. National University of Science and Technology "MISIS"

8. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

9. Moscow State Technological University "Stankin"

10. RUDN University

11. Moscow Polytech

12. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

13. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

14. Moscow Medical Academy

15. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

16. mendeleev university of chemical technology of russia.

17. Russian National Research Medical University

18. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

19. National Research University of Electronic Technology

20. Moscow State Pedagogical University

21. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

22. State University of Management

23. Moscow State Institute of International Relations

24. Russian State Geological Prospecting University

25. russian state agricultural university.

26. New Economic School

27. Moscow State Technical University of Civil Aviation

28. Russian State University for the Humanities

29. Russian State Social University

30. Moscow State Linguistic University

Universities for Mechanical Engineering near Moscow

Engineering subfields in moscow.

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Elektrostal'

Elektrostal' Travel Guide

Experience elektrostal'.

The Moscow Kremlin

Krasnaya ploshchad'

St. Basil's Cathedral

State Historical Museum

Moscow Metro

Great Moscow State Circus

Moscow State University

Bolshoi Theatre

Cafe Vostochny Express

Kroshka Kartoshka

Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva

Fabrika Obedov

Beer Club Tolsty Medved

Cafe Antresole

Quest-Cafe 4 Komnaty

Prima Bolshogo

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