2023 Best Colleges for Creative Writing Undergrad Degrees
Creative Writing is a field where writers explore their imagination and express ideas through words. Creative Writing is an excellent degree for anyone interested in writing, regardless of whether your passion lies in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, playwriting, or nonfiction. This flexibility is one reason why creative writing degrees have become very popular over the years.
If you're here, you're probably wondering what college you should attend for writing. We've compiled an excellent lineup below highlighting colleges that offer an undergraduate degree in Creative Writing, colleges that offer English majors with an Emphasis in Creative Writing, as well as minors, certificates, and a smattering of MFA program shoutouts.
About the Best Creative Writing Degree Programs
The best creative writing programs are those that have been around for a while and have established themselves as leaders in the field. They also tend to be highly selective, which means they only accept students who are genuinely passionate about writing.
These programs are usually led and taught by distinguished professionals like award-winning novelists, short story writers, journalists, and poets. And they typically have thriving writing centers and options for students to enter writing competitions and grow alongside one another within their community.
But there's also a degree of subjectivity to any "best" list. So we recommend reading through the schools and programs below and asking yourself some essential questions as you narrow your list.
Self-evaluate undergraduate writing programs:
- Does the Program Have the Courses You Want?
- What Will You Learn? Will that help you build a career?
- Who Will Be Teaching Those Classes?
- Would you Feel at Home on the College Campus?
Common Questions About Creative Writing Programs
Before we jump into our extensive list- we can't help it. We love writing, and there are a lot of great schools and programs out there- we want to answer a few common questions we hear.
Is Creative Writing a BA, BFA, or BS Degree?
Generally, a creative writing degree is a BA degree. But occasionally, we've seen a few BFAs. In addition, technical writing programs sometimes offer BS degrees.
What is the Best Creative Writing Degree?
The answer to this question is it depends. It depends on what you want to do with your skills and experiences when you graduate. As you read through our list, you'll see that some degrees and programs tailored toward poetry or prose, while others would set you up nicely for a career in nonfiction writing.
We recommend evaluating any program and college, as mentioned above, to make your decision on the best degree.
How Much Does a Creative Writing Degree Cost?
Like any other degree program, the cost of tuition will vary wildly depending on the institution, location, and how much financial aid you're eligible for.
Tuition and cost information is readily available across the internet, but what a student's family actually pays is based on a variety of factors. Cappex offers personalized tuition and cost estimations based on information like expected family contribution, location, and GPA. Click here to create a free Cappex account and learn how much you'd pay for a creative writing degree at these schools.
Best Colleges for a Creative Writing Undergraduate Degree
Now for our list of best undergraduate programs for creative writing.
University of Iowa
The University of Iowa offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English and Creative Writing and a Literary Publishing Track. You'll also be earning your degree in writing in a UNESCO City of Literature which hosts an annual Book Fest, as well as numerous other opportunities to get involved with the flourishing literary community in Iowa City.
Most widely known for the famous Iowa Writers' Workshop, it's less known that you don't have to be a graduate student to take advantage of the boatloads of experience in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. Better yet, this is one of the few public universities on the list.
Northwestern University
Nestled within the English Department at Northwestern University , the Creative Writing Major is considered a concentration, but admission is very competitive. Students can study it as a major, minor, or sequence-only student. Benefits of majoring include one-on-ones with visiting writers, senior honors, and participation in the winter senior readings series.
Students can apply for admission no earlier than the spring semester of their sophomore year and must complete specific prerequisites to be considered. Accepted students will study with accomplished professors, and visiting writers from the Annual Writers' Festival held during the Evanston Literary Festival.
Columbia University
Columbia University in the City of New York offers an undergraduate Creative Writing program that combines intensive workshops with seminars to produce works of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction students can opt to major in a Single or Cross-Genre course of study. Students can also take workshops in dramatic writing and screenwriting.
The program is modeled after the graduate Writing Division of The School of the Arts, which offers a high-ranking MFA program. Any student may apply to join the program regardless of their major upon entering Columbia. Located in New York City, students also have the advantage of being close to the major publishing houses in the industry.
Emory University
Celebrating its 29th birthday this year, the Emory University undergraduate Creative Writing Program encourages students to approach the study of literature creatively, including through their own personal interests in specific genres such as poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, playwriting, and screenwriting.
Every year, the Creative Writing Program sponsors the Creative Writing Reading Series, bringing four to six internationally renowned and prize-winning authors to Atlanta, GA, to discuss writing with Emory students.
Oberlin College
Oberlin College's department of Creative Writing offers the program as both a major and a minor. With 57 courses and nine associated faculty, students can fully explore fiction, poetry, nonfiction, playwriting, and screenwriting. One of the standouts in this program versus others is the 5 Study Away program is the department collaborates with many Creative Writing programs that discourage students from heading abroad.
The program can be competitive, even once you've been accepted. Students must submit an application for all upper-level workshops with 12 pages of their best work. The students with the best applications will be rewarded with a seat in a classroom at the picturesque Peters Hall at this Ohio institution.
Hamilton College
Named for the now-famous-thanks-to-Lin-Manuel-Miranda Alexander Hamilton, Hamilton College's Literature and Creative Writing Department offers a creative writing curriculum that emphasizes small classes to go along with the development of superior reading and writing skills.
Students can take advantage of research opportunities in writing, as well, and apply for the college's Emerson Grants program. Located in Clinton, NY, Hamilton, students are just over four hours away from the publishing industry.
Stanford University
The Creative Writing Program at Stanford University was founded by Wallace Stegner, a noted writer, and environmentalist, in 1946. For students earning an undergraduate degree, Stanford offers a major in English with an Emphasis on Creative Writing. A minor in Creative Writing is also offered for students taking majors outside of English, featuring tracks in prose and poetry.
The Stegner Fellowship is a major offered by the Creative Writing Program, accepting five fiction and five poetry fellows per year. While there's no degree attached to this, it functions as a writer-in-residence opportunity and receives the guidance of Stanford faculty.
Brown University
The Literary Arts program at Brown University offers a concentration in Literary Arts within their English Department, but the primary focus is on MFA students. To complete the undergrad concentration, students need to take a mix of reading intensive and writing workshop classes. But as you'd expect from a liberal arts college with such a stellar reputation, an undergrad concentration in creative writing from Brown would be a worthwhile endeavor.
The University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh Writing Program is one of the oldest in the nation and offers three tracks for students to pursue: fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Each track has three levels of classes and is topped off with a senior seminar capstone experience.
Undergraduate students are eligible for four writing awards at the University of Pittsburgh and can also participate in events such as the Pittsburgh Contemporary Writers Series. The institution also features an MFA program.
The University of Miami
The University of Miami College of Arts and Sciences features a Bachelor's in English with a Creative Writing Concentration. In addition, students can opt for a Thesis or non-thesis track. Still, both routes feature courses with a multilingual aspect, whether it's an entirely different language or an English vernacular from other communities. UM's MFA program is the only nationwide program with a broad, multilingual focus.
Mangrove, a national undergraduate literary magazine, allows students to get hands-on learning, and they can also utilize USpeak, UM's open mic night, to read original work aloud.
Kenyon College
Located in Gabier, OH, and home to the Kenyon Review, Kenyon College features an English major with an Emphasis on Creative WritinIn addition, tenTen faculty members teach workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.
While at Kenyon College, students can apply for internships with the Kenyon Review Student Associates Program, apply for the Kenyon Review Writers Workshop, submit to The Kenyon Collegian, and more. Students can also take advantage of the Kenyon-Exeter program to study abroad.
Brandeis University
Brandeis University also offers the whole enchilada: a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. It's been taught at Brandeis since 1951 and became its own major in 2003, with classes offered entirely by established writers.
Workshops have a maximum of 14 students, and the program is very active, with sponsored reading series', student awards, panel discussions, publishing workshops, and journal and performance opportunities.
Bucknell University
Home to the Stadler Center for Poetry and Literary Arts, Bucknell University 's Creative Writing major, housed in the English department, gets support both on and off campus. Students can take workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, participate in a lively reading series, internship opportunities, and garner knowledge from writers-in-residence.
Located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, students study contemporary texts just three hours from the publishing capital, NYC.
Washington University in St. Louis
Students at Washington University in St. Louis can earn a Certificate in Creative Writing comprised of 16 units. Acceptance to the MFA program is highly competitive but comes with several perks.
UT-Austin offers a Certificate in Creative Writing and an Honors option addition, the The New Writers Project is a 3-year MFA program that offers concentrations in poetry and fiction.
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins has a writing program that allows you to explore many different writing styles, including poetry, literature, and prose. But the program also weaves in philosophy, history, and music courses, including amusing-sounding classes like "Reintroduction to Writing: On Bullshit," and "Reintroduction to Writing: The Cost of Free Speech."
University of Michigan
When you join the creative writing program at the University of Michigan , you're walking in the same footsteps as well-known American writers such as Theodore Roethke, Arthur Miller, Marge Piercy, and Jane Kenyon.
According to their website, courses are designed to expose students to essential works from the past and innovative new works. In addition, the University of Michigan English Department is home to the Avery Hopwood Awards , one of the country's most famous student writing prizes. All students enrolled in writing courses are eligible to enter the contests.
University of Virginia
The University of Virginia offers a fully-funded 2-year MFA program that is highly competitive — it only admits five poets and five fiction writers per year. However, through the English program, undergraduates can major in English and choose a concentration in poetry or literary prose. Going in the poetry direction allows writers to pursue serious study of the craft of poetry writing and poetics. In contrast, literary prose writing or literary prose allows English majors to specialize in the art of narrative writing.
Honorable Creative Writing Program Mentions:
University of Rochester: The Department of English offers a track in Creative Writing. Students must apply to a specific Creative Writing advisor and receive written approval to pursue the concentration.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology: In the Comparative Media Studies department, students can major in Writing. MIT offers several different writing genres but has several unique classes in science writing in particular.
Colorado College: A track within the English major, students at Colorado College can complete 15 courses to get awarded the distinction of Creative Writing at graduation.
Colby College: The Creative Writing concentration at Colby College is provided for English majors. Students can earn an Honors designation, as well.
University of Texas-Austin: UT-Austin offers a Certificate in Creative Writing, as well as an Honors option. The New Writers Project is a 3-year MFA program that offers concentrations in poetry and fiction.
Paying for Your Creative Writing Degree
Now that you have a good idea of what's out there in terms of degree options, you'll want to be sure to connect with scholarship money and accurate degree program cost details. That's where Cappex comes in. Create a free Cappex account to compare costs and access scholarships and our $1,000 easy-apply scholarship we offer every month. There’s no essay or GPA required to apply. Click the button below to get started. Here’s to the easiest $1000 you'll earn for college!
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Bachelors of Arts
Creative Writing
"An English/Creative Writing degree exposes you to diverse perspectives. It teaches you to think critically, to be quick on your feet, and adapt. These are the sort of skills that are applicable to nearly anything and can only support your interests, no matter what they might be." –B.A. in Creative Writing alumna
See Alumni Stories
Learn about contemporary writing and poetry from award-winning authors and develop your writing skills in small faculty and student workshops.
About the Major
Become a creative, powerful writer. As a student pursuing a B.A. in Creative Writing, you will develop your writing craft under the guidance of award-winning writers at one of the top-ranked creative writing programs in the country. In addition, you will build skills in writing, creativity, critical thinking, research, literary analysis, and independent thinking.
Areas of Study
You'll take introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as courses in literature, language, literary analysis, publishing, and elective courses in a range of topics in the research specialties of our internationally renowned faculty. After your first year in the program, you will choose to specialize in either fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.
As a Creative Writing major, taking electives is part of the program, so we’ve also grouped together several unofficial “specialization areas” that emphasize skills, research directions, and preparation for potential careers. You can follow one specialization area, mix-and-match between them, come up with your own, or else ignore the whole thing entirely. Overall, these are just potential recommendations for anyone interested. Likewise, there’s no need to “declare” a specialization – just enroll in your chosen electives.
See degree requirements CW Specialization Area Courses
Double Major Options
The writing and analytical skills you'll learn as a Creative Writing major can pair nicely with a second major in almost any field. Many of our students also double major in both Creative Writing and English ( see double major requirements ).
Career Pathways
Our graduates gain valuable skills that make them the top candidates for various employment opportunities and graduate programs. Your skills in creative writing, critical thinking, and literary analysis can be applied in a broad spectrum of industry and services. And you receive excellent training for graduate programs in creative writing, English, public policy, foreign service, rhetoric and composition, education, and many others.
Recent UA Creative Writing majors have put their degree to use in a wide variety of careers, including screenwriting, editing, publishing, technical writing, video game design, marketing, journalism, teaching, business, and professional writing.
Some of the career fields uniquely open to graduates with a Creative Writing B.A. include:
- Speech writer
- Grant writer
- Video game script writer
Read more about career possibilities in our alumni stories .
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Creative Writing Degree Online Bachelor of Arts
Write Your Own Story
- $320/credit (120 credits)
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Receive credit for prior learning
- 4 genre options for concentrations
- Advanced writing workshops
- No application fee or SAT/ACT scores required
Creative Writing Degree Program Overview
If you have a passion for storytelling and want to pursue a career using your writing talents, the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English program can help you get on the right path.
You'll develop your writing skills alongside students from across the country, who represent an incredible range of voices and experiences. Together, you'll participate in workshops, producing work and presenting it to your peers for commentary and discussion.
"Everything I learned during my degree journey added to my understanding of how to write and boosted my creativity," said Aubrie Arnold '20 , a graduate of the creative writing program. "I now feel like I can and will write novels – I’m working on that now – and I feel like I have the correct tools to make those novels successful.”
This degree is also an attractive option for transfer students, as it offers a number of free electives.
What You'll Learn
- Essential writing and critical-thinking skill sets
- Literary analysis to inform the application of storytelling elements
- Literary form, genre, structure and style
- Conventions and techniques used by varying genres
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Concentration Options
When you choose to study creative writing at SNHU, you have the option to stay with the general track – which gives you the flexibility to study a variety of genres – or you can opt to add one of our 4 concentrations to your degree : fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenwriting.
Creative Writing & English (BA) - Fiction Aspiring authors and storytellers who are looking for a way to gain inspiration and foster their imaginations will find the online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Fiction Writing to be the perfect balance of craft and critical analysis. This BA program emphasizes the craft of fiction writing and helps you develop an appreciation for all forms of fiction while honing your writing skills and philosophy of composition. You'll gain insights into publishing technologies and the industry as you enhance your fundamental knowledge of fiction writing's most crucial elements. This comprehensive program gives you a powerful understanding of plot, character development, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing. Studying fiction writing at Southern New Hampshire University doesn't just focus on developing your skill and technique. This program also gives you the opportunity to explore your creative boundaries, perfect your craft and dive deeper into your preferred genre. From fantasy to sci-fi and mystery to young adult, you can embrace the style of writing that you're drawn to and bring your original stories to life. The format of this BA program encourages collaboration and direct interaction with faculty and peers. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Nicholas Patterson '22 found peer interaction through writing workshops to be a favorite part of his program. "I have learned tons of new skills," he said, "but most importantly learned how to grow from constructive criticism." Career outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median 2021 salary for writers and authors was $69,510. 1 The BLS notes that a degree and publication is typically required for a full-time writing position. Writers who concentrate in fiction have career opportunities in a range of professions, including content writing, editing, copywriting, publishing, communications and more. Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Fiction Writing Workshop Intermediate Fiction Writing Workshop Advanced Fiction Writing Workshop Request Info Apply Now Creative Writing & English (BA) - Nonfiction Discover your niche with a nonfiction writing degree online at Southern New Hampshire University. Our online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Nonfiction delves into a wide variety of styles and subjects – everything from the personal essay to autobiography, memoir, travel writing and magazine features. Our creative writing online program can help you combine research and reflection with compelling storytelling. You'll also gain insights into publishing technologies and the industry, explore your creative boundaries and develop a unique voice. A solid foundation in the broader scope of creative writing is critical to the craft of nonfiction writing. In our comprehensive nonfiction writing program, you'll acquire a powerful understanding of research, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing. The online nonfiction writing degree program's format encourages collaboration and ongoing interaction with faculty and peers. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Career outlook: The median 2021 salary for writers and authors was $69,510, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1 Nonfiction writers can publish in magazines, newspapers, and literary journals, as well as find career opportunities in digital content writing, social media/communications, copywriting and editing. Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Nonfiction Writing Workshop Intermediate Nonfiction Writing Workshop Advanced Nonfiction Writing Workshop Request Info Apply Now Creative Writing & English (BA) - Poetry The online Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry degree program is an opportunity for aspiring poets to find inspiration, engagement and creative collaboration with peers and faculty alike. Our specialized program enables you to hone your craft and unleash your imagination, helping you create imagery in verse. While a poetry degree is valuable in and of itself, it can also prepare you for many professional paths. You can explore careers in creative writing, advertising, journalism, publishing and advertising copywriting. Southern New Hampshire University also offers an online Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry. As a student in our poetry degree online program, you'll begin taking writing courses during your first year. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Career outlook: Career paths with a BA in creative writing include work as a creative writer, advertising copywriter, journalist, publisher or poet. Writers have also found careers in communications, digital content writing and editing. Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Poetry Writing Workshop Intermediate Poetry Writing Workshop Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop Request Info Apply Now Creative Writing & English (BA) - Screenwriting Whether you have dreams of writing blockbusters, developing documentaries or working with other writers on sitcoms, the online BA in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Screenwriting is an excellent way to hone your writing skills and put your passion to work. The classes in this specialized online screenwriting degree are based on a comprehensive study of creative writing, with a special focus on story structure, character development and the visual medium of film. You'll have the opportunity to explore all of the forms that screenwriting takes – feature-length and short films, television episodes and miniseries, commercial and internet-based video. While creative writing is at the core of this program, your screenwriting classes will place a special emphasis on visual storytelling. Designed by experienced and distinguished faculty, this creative writing program will give you a powerful understanding of how story, character, theme, action, visuals and dialogue intertwine to create a compelling moment in time. The format for the screenwriting degree online program encourages collaboration and direct interaction with faculty and peers. You'll also have the chance to get published and learn from experienced authors through The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. Career outlook: Blockbuster movies, independent films and shorts, commercials, television dramas and sitcoms all rest their success on the backbone of their scripts. Screenwriters have lots of options when it comes to navigating their careers. You could pursue independent work and make your stories come to life – or you could develop scripts for specific projects that need a writer's touch. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors earned a median salary of $69,510 in 2021. 1 Courses may include: New Media: Writing and Publishing Introduction to Screenwriting Workshop Intermediate Screenwriting Workshop Advanced Screenwriting Workshop Request Info Apply Now if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('a7db942c2ff94e9783a92e9b328572c0')); Career Outlook
Use storytelling skills to write everything from children’s books and novels to biographies, essays and memoirs.
Apply your understanding of the written word to plan, review and revise content for publication in books, periodicals or online platforms.
Promote a product, service or organization with content for advertisements, marketing campaigns or websites.
Research topics, investigate story ideas and interview sources to write compelling nonfiction articles for newspapers, magazines, blogs and television news programs.
Screenwriter
Use the power of writing to create visual and auditory experiences for everything from major blockbuster films to television episodes and commercials.
Speechwriter
Write speeches for business leaders, politicians and others, using words to engage with and move an audience.
Technical writer
Prepare instruction manuals and how-to guides to clearly communicate complex ideas and technical information.
And with today's technology, it's easy for writers and authors to work from just about anywhere as long as they have internet access – meaning jobs aren't limited to major cities anymore.
In addition to the writing skills you'll develop in a creative writing degree program, you could also pick up a handful of other career skills 1 the workforce desperately needs, like:
- Adaptability: Adapt to updates in software platforms and programs, including various content management systems (CMS).
- Creativity: Develop interesting plots, characters or ideas for new stories.
- Critical-thinking skills: Understand concepts that must be conveyed through writing.
- Determination: Gain the focus to meet deadlines.
- Persuasion: Convince others to feel a certain way about a good or service – especially if you choose a career in advertising.
- Social perceptiveness: Develop an understanding of how readers respond to and connect with your work.
"This [program] not only allowed me to explore my creativity through writing," said Nicholas Patterson '22 . "It taught me the fundamentals of the industry and how to pursue a career in it."
Job Growth and Salary
Prospects for writer and author occupations appear promising in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry shift from print to online media should result in employment growth. 1
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for writers and authors is expected to grow 4% through 2031 — that's as fast as average for all occupations. 1
In 2021, the median annual wage for writers and authors was $ 69,510 . 1
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Creative Writing Degree
Why snhu for your creative writing degree flexible with no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. affordable as part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. in fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. prior coursework could also help you save time and money. snhu’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. you could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience , or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you. respected founded in 1932 , southern new hampshire university is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. snhu is accredited by the new england commission of higher education (neche), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality. recently, snhu has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education: u.s. news & world report named snhu the 2021 most innovative university in the north and one of the nation's "best regional universities" awarded the 21st century distance learning award for excellence in online technology by the united states distance learning association (usdla) a $1 million grant from google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth network at southern new hampshire university, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities. 93.6% of online students would recommend snhu (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). discover why snhu may be right for you . admission requirements expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. that’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials: completed free undergraduate application prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you test scores are not required as part of your application acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms . how to apply if you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going: complete a free undergraduate application submit any additional documents required work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through the application process if you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email [email protected] . if (typeof accordiongroup === "undefined") { window.accordiongroup = new accordion(); } accordiongroup.init(document.getelementbyid('06235c05b74e467bb258c6a2eee81259')); what snhu students are saying.
"I came [to SNHU] originally to have more freedoms and explore my creativity in a new environment. This program has given me that and more – this program has enabled me to improve myself in every facet of writing, from brainstorming a new idea to learning about genres and even how to market myself and my writing."
Courses & Curriculum
Southern New Hampshire University is home to one of the largest creative writing programs in the country.
Our unique online creative writing degree allows you to take writing courses from the start. The program features 4 writing workshops, including an advanced workshop in which you'll complete a polished piece in the genre of your choice.
The courses in our BA in Creative Writing can help develop your talent for creating stories, novels and characters and turning them into finished, professional pieces. Whether you choose the general track or a specific genre, you'll learn from published writers with valuable industry insights.
In addition to the courses and electives within the major, SNHU's online writing degree program includes 30 credits of free electives. This leaves you with room to choose courses or a minor in an area of study that you'd like to write about – like history or psychology – or the opportunity to complement your studies with career skills, such as graphic design or marketing. The amount of free electives also makes our creative writing degree an attractive option for transfer students.
Throughout your program, you'll learn from published writers, professional editors, publishers and established literary critics – subject-matter experts who can help guide you to improving your craft.
As a bonus at SNHU, you can choose to further your study of creative writing with one of our popular graduate programs:
- Online MA in English and Creative Writing: Building on the learnings from your bachelor's degree, you can choose from the same 4 concentrations – fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting or poetry – in this 36-credit online master's in writing program, which allows you to develop creative works that can contribute to your professional advancement.
- Online MFA in Creative Writing: Gain both the writing skills and the professional skills to succeed in areas like marketing, publishing, content writing, teaching and freelancing in this fully online, 48-credit online MFA in creative writing program. You can also focus on a wide range of fiction genres – such as contemporary, romance, young adult or speculative – plus you'll add one of two embedded certificates to your program: professional writing or the online teaching of writing.
- Low-Residency MFA in Fiction or Nonfiction: This highly focused 2-year program consists of 4 workshops and 4 in-person, weeklong residencies in New Hampshire. Within the 60-credit low-residency MFA program, you'll complete both a manuscript suitable for submission to editors and a critical essay that's ideal for literary journals.
Curriculum Requirements & Resources
General education.
All bachelor's students are required to take general education classes. Through these foundation, exploration and integration courses, students learn to think critically, creatively and collaboratively, giving you the edge employers are looking for.
Technology Resources
We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments .
Earn Math Credits
Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type PC (Windows OS) Apple (Mac OS) Operating System Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. Currently supported operating system from Apple. Memory (RAM) 8GB or higher 8GB or higher Hard Drive 100GB or higher 100GB or higher Antivirus Software Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. SNHU Purchase Programs Visit Dell Visit Apple Internet/ Bandwidth 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency Notes: Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility. Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10. Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government. Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers. if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); University Accreditation
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, $150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
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DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH
- Undergraduate
- Creative Writing
The Creative Writing Major
The Creative Writing Major is an undergraduate concentration within the English Department at Northwestern University and one of the first and finest undergraduate Creative Writing programs in the country. Its reputation is based on the accomplishments of its graduates, the generosity of its accomplished professors, and a pedagogy that creates a fruitful symbiosis between close reading and inventive writing. Award-winning authors teach poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction, as well as courses that cross genres, guiding students to examine literary works as writers and encouraging them to study the best literary models. Professors and students work in a close-knit community as they write their own stories, novellas, poems and essays within the living tradition of literature.
Most Creative Writing Majors begin taking creative writing courses in their sophomore year and complete the yearlong “sequence” of study during their junior year, and some have the opportunity to complete an additional honors project before graduation (see Recommended Schedule for Prospective Writing Majors below). Students also learn from prominent visiting writers at our annual Festival of Writing in the Spring. Recent graduates of the program include MacArthur “Genius” Award Winner Karen Russell; Veronica Roth, whose bestselling novel “Divergent” was first drafted while she was a student; poet Peter Kline; and award-winning essayist Angela Mears.
Current Creative Writing faculty include Chris Abani , Brian Bouldrey , John Bresland , Averill Curdy , Sheila Donohue , Reginald Gibbons , Juan Martinez , Shauna Seliy , Charif Shanahan , Natasha Trethewey , Daisy Hernández , and Rachel Jamison Webster .
The Creative Writing program also offers two minors; the Sequence-based Minor and, for those not pursuing one of the year-long sequences, the non-application based Cross-genre Minor in Creative Writing .
See past and upcoming Creative Writing events.
Undergraduate publication opportunities
Recommended Schedule for Prospective Writing Majors
Courses for prospective creative writing majors, in a recommended order..
*Denotes courses that are REQUIRED for the Creative Writing Major
ENG 202-Introduction to Creative Writing
(can be taken in Fall quarter of Freshman year. This provides an introduction to all three genres and prepares you for our other CW courses.)
ENG 210-1,2 - English Literary Traditions or ENG 270-1,2 - American Literary Traditions
(While not required for creative writing, these are excellent background courses for writing students, and also serve as prerequisites for the English literature major.)
* ENG 206 - Reading and Writing Poetry
* ENG 207 - Reading and Writing Fiction
* ENG 208 - Reading & Writing Creative Nonfiction
(You are now able to take 206, 207, or 208 in any order. Majors will take all three of these intro-courses.)
Students may apply to the Creative Writing Program in the Spring of your Sophomore Year or in the Spring of your Junior Year.
Some students fulfill their requirements--of 206, 207 and 208--well before the time of application to the program. If that happens, we recommend that you stay in writing practice and continue building your portfolio by taking one of our 300-level writing courses, English 306, 307, 308, or 309. Please see Juan Martinez , Director of Creative Writing, for further suggestions and help with course planning.
Initial Required Courses
All students interested in the Creative Writing Major must take two introductory writing courses, one in poetry (ENG 206) and one in either fiction (207) or creative nonfiction (208), before applying to the program. Students may not apply to the creative writing program in their first year. On the 200-level, no prior knowledge of the genre is required.
- No English Department creative writing course may be audited or taken pass/fail.
- The School of Professional Studies also offers courses under the titles ENG 206, 207 and 208. These do not count toward any course of study within the Creative Writing program.
- Seniors may not register for English 206 until add/drop week.
Admission to the Program
Admission to the next stage of the Creative Writing Major or the Sequence-based Minor in Creative Writing, the year-long 300-level advanced course sequences, is competitive. Admission to the program is granted primarily on the basis of manuscript quality and the student’s promise. An applicant may be admitted to study as a major, a minor, or a sequence-only student.
No preference in admission is currently given to those who apply to the sequences, though there are later opportunities open only to Creative Writing Majors, including participation in senior honors, one-on-one conferences with visiting writers-in-residence, and the winter senior readings series. Students may apply for admission to the sequence courses no earlier than the spring of their sophomore year. Applications are available online at the beginning of spring quarter.
The Sequences
Theory and Practice of Poetry (ENG 393), Fiction (394), and Creative Nonfiction (395):
These year-long sequences of courses ask students to pursue a rigorous program that includes close reading of literary texts, explication and critical writing, imitation and modeling, and original creative work. The sequences are arranged in three consecutive quarters.
They begin in the fall with specialized courses in the fundamental technical and rhetorical bases of each genre. Poetry students study the uses of metaphor and mode, and the theory of prosody (including both the major form of poetry in English-accentual-syllabic verse-and the minor forms, accentual, syllabic, and free verse). Fiction students consider the tenets of realism and its alternatives, and practice different approaches to style, characterization, structure, and point of view. Creative nonfiction students focus on essay forms, logical method, authorial tone, and techniques of discourse and description. In all genres, imitations and models of great writers are assigned.
The second half of the sequence in each genre is devoted to intensive writing of a longer original work-a poem of at least 120 lines or an essay or novella of 25 to 35 pages.
Note that in the event further work in fiction, creative nonfiction or poetry is desired outside the year-long sequence, ENG 206, 207, and 208 may be repeated up to two times for WCAS credit. Advanced one-quarter courses in creative writing (ENG 306, 307, 308, 309) are also offered for non-majors.
The application will be available here at the beginning of spring quarter. We accept applications to all three sequences to late April.
Other Required Courses for MAJOR Students
In addition to the sequences, creative writing majors must take:
ENG 392 - The Situation of Writing
“The Situation of Writing,” which is typically offered in the winter quarter, investigates the writer’s relation to the culture, both currently and historically. The course addresses such questions as the relation of criticism to imaginative literature, the rise and fall of specific literary genres, the effect of the university on the production and consumption of literary works, the state of the publishing industry, and international literary contexts. Third-Genre Intro Course (either ENG 207 or ENG 208, whichever has not been completed)
The “Third-Genre Intro” Course
English 207 or 208, whichever introductory course was not completed before application to the sequences. This requirement ensures that writing majors will have had experience reading and writing in all three major non-dramatic modes of imaginative writing.
Six 300-level literature classes
These courses must be “pure literature”; that is, courses in which the bulk of the reading is literature and not criticism or theory. They must be selected from English Department offerings ONLY:
- Two on material written prior to 1830
- Two on material written after 1830
- Two from either period
Two non-literature courses related to one another, taught in other department(s).
These courses, in areas such as history, art, classics, and gender studies, broaden the student’s background for the study of literature. These must be approved by a creative writing advisor.
Other Required Courses for Sequence-Based MINOR students
In addition to the sequences, creative writing sequence-based minors must take:
Two 300-level literature classes
- One on material written prior to 1830
- One on material written after 1830
The Cross-genre Minor in Creative Writing
Other program features.
The Annual Writers' Festival gives students the chance to learn from and interact with guest Writers-in-Residence for a three-day celebration of master classes, public readings, and a panel discussion on craft. The festival is situated within the larger Evanston Literary Festival, which hosts a number of literary events throughout the city.
Writing by students at Northwestern is recognized by the award-winning student literary magazine, Helicon, and by the Department of English Annual Writing Competition , held in the spring.
Creative Writing Alumni Testimonials
-- Veronica Roth, author of the bestselling Divergent series
“I still believe our program at Northwestern is as good as any graduate program in the country. It was nice to have the opportunity when I was 19 to spend so much time reading and writing with these other writers. There was such a serious sense of purpose. That’s a testament to Brian and Sheila and the rest of the faculty. They really could create a community.” --Karen Russell, author of Swamplandia!, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, and winner of a MacArthur Genius Award.
“As a Creative Nonfiction student in the Creative Writing program, I was pushed hard -- by my professors and fellow writers -- to find my voice. Not just my voice as a writer, but as a person and advocate of my life and experiences. More than anything else, I learned that I am still learning. I am still finding that voice, and always will be. I learned that this fact is okay, it is right, it is what makes me write.” --Danielle Littman, 2013 graduate.
"We're not just educating people for professional tracks; we're educating them for their lives." --Professor Mary Kinzie, Founder of the Creative Writing Program and award-winning poet.
45 Bachelor of Arts Programs in Creative Writing
- Creative Writing
Earning a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing is an ideal opportunity for individuals with a passion for writing and a desire to pursue a career using their writing talents. Students earning a degree in creative writing learn about the industry from published authors, share creative ideas with other students, and study literature through a diverse variety of courses. What is a BA in Creative Writ… Read more
Earning a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing is an ideal opportunity for individuals with a passion for writing and a desire to pursue a career using their writing talents. Students earning a degree in creative writing learn about the industry from published authors, share creative ideas with other students, and study literature through a diverse variety of courses.
What is a BA in Creative Writing? The Bachelor of Arts degree involves the study of the history of literature, with a focus on fiction, nonfiction, poetry and scriptwriting. Furthermore, students are provided various opportunities to improve upon and cultivate their talents and writing skills. Program participants learn about the basics of effective writing styles while engaging in an imaginative enterprise. Spending time with agents, editors, and publishers and participating in readings, workshops, and networking events equips program participants with the tools for success in a creative writing career.
There are various reasons that students choose to enroll in a Bachelor of Arts program. For instance, if an individual enjoys writing, then engaging in workshops taught by published writers expands their imagination and writing skills through experimentation, practice, critical reading, and discussion.
The program costs vary depending on the facility. Typically the course length is between one and three years. Prospective students should thoroughly research each school prior to deciding on a program to ensure that the goals align with their career plans.
Students can work in numerous professional areas after earning their degree. For example, individuals can explore career paths in publishing, journalism, screenwriting, copywriting, and communications. Often graduates pursue careers in education and professional editing.
There are many international options available for the program through a diverse selection of universities. Online coursework provides an ideal option for individuals living around the world with limited access to an institution. Additionally, Internet-based learning opportunities offer flexible schedules for students who work or have a family. To get started, search for your program below and contact directly the admission office of the school of your choice by filling in the lead form.
45 Results in Creative Writing
Ba english with creative writing.
Students undertaking English with Creative Writing at Queen’s explore literature in English in the widest possible sense and work with some of the leading writers working in t ... +
BA in English Literature with Creative Writing
Develop your writing skills alongside the study of literature past and present.
BA (Honours) in English Literature and Creative Writing
This degree offers a stimulating and wide-ranging introduction to English literature and creative writing. You’ll have the opportunity to study and interpret literature from d ... +
Earn a scholarship worth up to $10,000
Ba in creative writing.
Thorough. Challenging. Substantive. These are some terms independent reviewers have used to describe Susquehanna’s creative writing program, one of the most rigorous and succe ... +
English (BA) with emphasis in Creative Writing
A Creative Writing Emphasis at Lindenwood University requires 36 credit hours of coursework in a range of courses including study in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. You will ... +
Bachelor of Arts in English (Literature and Creative Writing)
Trevecca’s Bachelor of Arts in English prepares you to enter any of the numerous fields that prize creativity, critical thinking, writing acumen, and the ability to create and ... +
BA (Hons) Creative Writing
Every lecture, seminar, and event on our Creative Writing degree course will inspire you to develop your writing voice across various media, from stories and poetry to plays a ... +
Bachelor of Arts in Creative and Professional Writing
The Creative and Professional Writing Programme at HKBU is the first UGC-funded undergraduate programme in Hong Kong tertiary institutions dedicated to creative and profession ... +
Bachelor of Arts in English: Emphasis in Creative Writing
Allegheny’s English Department prepares students for an unknown future through the study of literary citizenship. Our program is oriented on flexibility and deep thinking, ded ... +
BA in English with Creative Writing
BA (Hons) in Creative Writing and English Literature
Study on a degree that combines theoretical study with the development of your own creative voice as a writer. Taught by experienced poets and novelists, our Creative Writing ... +
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English: Creative Writing
The Creative Writing major at Loras College offers extraordinary depth and range, together with the kind of close, sustained faculty mentoring which is only possible at a smal ... +
Bachelor of Arts in English - Creative Writing Option
English is a general major designed to give proficiency in skills that traditionally have been among the most highly prized by society: an ability to read with comprehension a ... +
B.A. in Writing
The best writers take new chances, seek feedback and have the ability to write articulately for every audience. The Writing Program at UW-Superior promotes this potential by p ... +
Bachelor of Arts in English - Creative Writing Specialization
English at Thiel College is a versatile, dynamic, and rewarding program that produces top-notch writers, communicators, critical thinkers, artists, and leaders. As one of the ... +
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Creative Writing
The Creative Writing program at Seattle University takes the stand that good readers make good writers. Rather than offering a stand-alone writing degree, the Seattle University English Department offers a literature-focused English major with a Creative Writing concentration in the belief that developing critical reading and analytical skills is essential to a writer’s evolution.
Program Benefits
- Literature-focused undergraduate English/Creative Writing degree
- Personal attention from faculty
- Classes in multiple genres
- Seattle University/Elliott Bay Book Company Reading Series
- Visiting writer/professors
- Fragments literary magazine
- Portfolio completion
Emphasizing the craft of writing and the close reading of classic and contemporary texts, Seattle University’s Creative Writing program includes core English classes in British, American and ethnic literature as well as writing courses in multiple genres, including fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, and playwriting or screen writing.
As a result Creative Writing students not only acquire experience writing creatively, they also hone their skills writing about the great works of literature they encounter as English majors.
Why study Creative Writing? To think outside the norm. To develop the ability to write with wit and grace. To learn to tell compelling stories. These are some of the great benefits of studying Creative Writing. Students who study English and Creative Writing develop strong research, reading and writing skills—skills that easily translate into careers in fiction writing, journalism, academia, marketing, advertising, and technical writing, as well as government, law and business. Learn more about career possibilities here .
Degrees offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in English/Creative Writing
- Bachelor of Arts in English/Creative Writing with Departmental Honors
- English/Creative Writing minor
The Uniquely Seattle University Experience: Creative Writing Students English majors who read and respond to literature in class and in writing, and in the process learn to see how great writers make language work for them.
The program offers creative writing classes across genres including fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry and script writing as well as in special topics such as the graphic novel, science fiction, literary fiction, screenplay writing and others.
While Creative Writing students will have the opportunity to work closely with English and Creative Writing faculty in the English department, they will also have the chance to study with visiting professors from the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant artistic community. Visiting writers have included fiction writer Kathleen Alcalá, Washington State Poet Laureate Sam Green, comic/graphic novelist Peter Bagge, detective fiction writer Skye Moody, science fiction author Steven Barnes, and screenplay writer Stewart Stern.
As part of their program, students can acquire additional experience by contributing to the 50-plus-year-old Fragments literary magazine , attending literary readings at the nearby Elliott Bay Book Company, competing for the Gerald Manley Hopkins SJ writing prize, participating in internships at publishing companies, magazines and arts organizations, studying abroad in Paris or Ireland and other locales, attending the opera and building portfolios of their work.
Students also will have the chance to become part of the dynamic cultural and literary community that thrives in Seattle, Washington.
Come join us! Contact Dr. Susan Meyers, Director, Creative Writing Program, Department of English, [email protected] .
Susan Meyers, PhD Director 206.296.5416 [email protected]
Charles Tung, PhD Chair 206.296.2684 [email protected]
Shawn Bell Administrative Assistant 206.296.5420 [email protected]
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The BA in Creative Writing and English combines classic literature with writing exploration and technique. Students in the major are challenged to explore creative writing in many forms, from poetry and short fiction to playwriting, memoir and avant garde techniques.
Creative writing majors work with nationally and internationally recognized faculty and meet inspiring writers, poets, memoirists and editors who visit campus to lecture and teach.
Resources and Awards
Honors program.
"The size of the Creative Writing program allows students to find comfort and identity in their work. No one is simply an assignment or an object being lectured at. Each assignment and professor engaged my skills as a writer in ways I didn’t even know possible, introducing me to writers, styles, and opportunities that I never thought I’d have. The thesis program is rigorous yet personalized, and I feel so lucky to have fostered as many close relationships, with professors and students alike, in my time with the department."
Maryam Gilanshah BA '21
Application Process
Interested students should contact the director of creative writing at their earliest opportunity. The director serves as the official advisor for all majors and minors in Creative Writing & English, although individual students work closely with and may seek advice from all members of the faculty.
Course Requirements
The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs .
Program-specific curriculum:
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- English and Creative Writing, Bachelor of Arts
English and Creative Writing, B.A.
- English, Bachelor of Arts
- English, Minor
- English, Master of Arts
- English (creative writing), Master of Fine Arts
- English (nonfiction writing), Master of Fine Arts
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- Teaching and Learning
The major enables students to experience the historical, traditional, and innovative aspects of literature in English and the relationship between critical reading and creative writing. The major provides the transferable skills important for a liberal arts major, including the ability to think deeply and creatively, read complex texts with comprehension, and master writing and speaking skills at an advanced level.
The English and creative writing major introduces students to the wealth of resources associated with the University of Iowa and the Iowa City writing communities. For over 75 years, the Department of English and the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop have been leaders in the area of writing. The M.F.A. offered by the Nonfiction Writing Program and administered by the Department of English has been voted the top M.F.A. program in creative nonfiction in the United States. Likewise, the M.F.A. program in the Writers’ Workshop is annually noted as the top graduate program in the country.
The international reputation of writing at Iowa is boosted by synergy across colleges, with the International Writing Program hosting published writers each fall from countries around the world and each spring traveling to other countries, taking Iowa writing on the road. This synergy helps the University and Iowa City draw writers of all ages and nationalities to its writing community. The community is bolstered by the strong readings series offered by the Nonfiction Writing Program, the Writers’ Workshop, and Prairie Lights Books, with hundreds of readings archived by the Iowa Digital Library, creating a resource for future writers and scholars.
The status of Iowa City as a UNESCO City of Literature also has enriched the writing community, with people from across the Midwest visiting the city during the annual Book Festival. The recent Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) offered by the Department of English, “Every Atom: Walt Whitman’s Song of Myself” and “Walt Whitman and the Civil War,” as well as the International Writing Program’s online series called “How Writers Write,” have enrolled thousands of students and adult learners from around the world, enhancing the reputation of the University of Iowa as the "Writing University." The Iowa Summer Writing Festival, Iowa Young Writers' Studio, the Certificate in Writing, the Center for the Book, the Iowa Playwrights Workshop, and the Iowa Youth Writing Project all help to turn Iowa City into a destination for writers, who are drawn to the city for its heritage and for its current community of writers.
Learning Outcomes
The goal is for students who graduate from the Department of English to demonstrate the skills of reflective reading, critical thinking, effective speaking, compelling writing, and engaged citizenship.
Reflective Readers
- Analyze literary and cultural texts through close reading.
- Gain broad knowledge of several fields of literature.
- Grasp formal elements of key literary genres.
- Learn to read comparatively to illuminate aesthetic, social, and cultural contributions of texts.
Critical Thinkers
- Approach texts with a spirit of critical inquiry and flexibility.
- Formulate productive questions.
- Use textual evidence to support individual interpretations.
- Draw upon several different critical approaches to literature in English.
Effective Speakers
- Express opinions about the texts they read through discussion and written assignments.
- Listen respectfully to others’ opinions.
- Work in class—whether through active listening or discussion—to learn by synthesizing a range of texts, insights, and opinions.
Compelling Writers
- Express their ideas in clear, fluent, and lively prose.
- Organize their ideas effectively.
- Use textual evidence to illustrate and support their insights and arguments.
- Demonstrate the ability to write in different modes that are appropriate to particular contexts.
- Engage properly with relevant scholarship and creative work.
- Use research skills that include understanding of methods, technology, and conventions.
Engaged World Citizens
- Communicate respect and understanding for the literatures and cultures of diverse historical periods, geographical regions, and cultures.
- Explore ethical issues raised by literature.
- Reflect on the ways that literature addresses issues of social justice.
- Use reading, speaking, and writing skills to engage with the ethical concerns raised by literature in their daily and professional lives.
The Bachelor of Arts in English and creative writing requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including at least 42 s.h. of work for the major. Of the 42 s.h., at least 36 s.h. must be selected from the Department of English courses (prefix ENGL, CNW, CW). Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. They also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core . Transfer students must earn at least 30 s.h. work for the major at the University of Iowa.
Students earning a major in English and creative writing may not earn a major in English.
For more information about teaching in elementary and/or secondary schools, see "Teacher Licensure" below. Students who plan to teach in elementary and/or secondary schools should consult with an advisor in the College of Education as early as possible; contact the Office of Student Services . The B.A. in English education requires that students choose particular courses in the English and creative writing major in order to meet all related requirements; both degrees may be earned at the same time. Separate application to each degree program is required.
Students pursuing the B.A. in English and creative writing can choose to complete requirements for the publishing track; see "Publishing Track" below for information.
Only courses numbered above 2000 count toward the English and creative writing major. The following courses do not count toward the major.
The B.A. with a major in English and creative writing requires the following coursework.
Introductory Courses
Students complete both of the following.
Literature Core Courses
Core courses help students to learn and practice critical reading and analysis, to understand the relation of literature to history and culture, and introduce students to the context and tradition of literature written in English.
The area and historical periods for English courses are identified under English Courses in this section of the Catalog and in the MyUI course descriptions. Since most courses satisfy both an area requirement and a historical period requirement, most students complete these requirements with the same courses.
Area Requirement
A minimum of 3 s.h. must be completed from each of the following five areas of English literary study for a minimum total of 15 s.h. of coursework:
- American literature and culture,
- literary theory and interdisciplinary studies,
- medieval and early modern literature and culture,
- modern British literature and culture, and
- transnational literature and postcolonial studies.
Historical Period Requirement
A minimum of 3 s.h. from each of the following three historical periods in English literary study (total of 9 s.h.) must be completed:
- early literatures through the 17th century,
- 18th/19th-century literature, and
- 20th/21st-century literature.
Multiethnic Literature and Culture Requirement
Students must complete at least one course (3 s.h.) from the following.
The following courses may fulfill the Multiethnic Literature and Culture requirement depending on course content, which varies by semester; consult MyUI for semester-specific information.
Creative Writing Core Courses
The creative writing core provides courses in a range of literary genres. Students choose a minimum of 9 s.h. in electives and a minimum of 9 s.h. in advanced courses, as listed below. Students also can count any course from the "Advanced Requirements" list below as an elective (where appropriate) if they take more than the three required advanced courses.
Creative Writing Electives
The creative writing electives give students flexible choices to focus on fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or other genres of writing, and allow students to experiment across genres. Courses focus on the particulars of craft, tradition, and innovation. Many of the courses are repeatable, enabling students to further develop in a particular writing form. Some of these courses have prerequisites.
Students must select a minimum of 9 s.h. from the following.
Advanced Requirements
Students must first complete the two introductory courses— ENGL:2010 Foundation of the English Major: Histories, Literatures, Pleasures and ENGL:2020 Foundations of Creative Writing: Craft, Practice, Pleasure —before they enroll in advanced courses. Advanced courses give students flexible choices so they can focus on fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or other genres of writing, and provide the opportunity to experiment across genres. Courses focus on the particulars of craft, tradition, and innovation. Most of the advanced courses are repeatable and most have prerequisites.
Students must select a minimum of 9 s.h. in advanced creative writing courses from the following.
Publishing Track
The world of publishing includes many different careers: editors, designers, agents, even sales representatives. Students who are interested in these careers may wish to pursue the publishing track. By selecting courses carefully, students may complete the track without adding additional semester hours to their total credit required for graduation.
Courses range across print and digital media, exposing students to the history and practice of literary publishing while developing their skills in editing, proofreading, and writing with clarity and purpose. Internships and hands-on class learning offer students the opportunity to produce their own publications and gain practical experience.
Students in the publishing track must complete the following.
Literary Publishing
Editing, book design, or revision, history of the book and the publishing industry, career preparation.
Students should consult the department's advisor for information about completing the English and creative writing major with the publishing track.
Teacher Licensure
Students interested in teaching in elementary and/or secondary schools should seek admission to the Teacher Education Program (TEP) in the College of Education.
To qualify for licensure in secondary teaching, students in the TEP complete a degree in education as well as a related College of Liberal Arts and Sciences degree. See Apply on the College of Education website for details on requirements and deadlines for applying to the College of Education and about TEP choices of majors leading to licensure.
Honors in the Major
Students have the opportunity to graduate with honors in English and creative writing and thereby enhance their course of study through honors seminars. All those interested in taking honors coursework are welcome to apply to the English Honors Program as soon as they qualify. The process begins with an online application; visit English Honors Programs on the Department of English website.
Students take three honors seminars and must achieve a University of Iowa g.p.a. of at least 3.33 and a departmental g.p.a. of at least 3.50.
Each year the department offers between four and six creative writing seminars covering a wide range of genres, modes, and styles. Small and often workshop-oriented, these honors courses are open only to English and creative writing majors who have completed at least 24 s.h. of college-level work. Seminars are limited to 16 students, carry 3 s.h. of credit, and meet three hours each week.
Two of the three honors seminars are chosen from these selective admission courses. Early in the previous semester, those interested apply with a portfolio of their creative work; no minimum g.p.a. is required, and decisions are made in time for preregistration. Successful applicants then register for ENGL:4011 Honors Seminar: Creative Writing through ENGL:4014 Honors Seminar in Creative Nonfiction . Students may apply for only one seminar per semester.
The second of the two creative writing seminars may be replaced by ENGL:4030 Undergraduate Honors Project in Creative Writing , a capstone project. For this independent study option, interested students should seek out possible mentors in their junior year.
The third required honors course is a scholarship and criticism seminar chosen from courses numbered ENGL:4001 Honors Seminar: American Literature, 20th/21st Century through ENGL:4009 Honors Seminar: Medieval and Early Modern Literature, Early Literature/17th Century , courses that offer a wide range of subjects, authors, methods, and eras. Limited to 16 students, these courses also carry 3 s.h. of credit, meet three hours each week, and encourage class discussions that are lively and knowledgeable. Substantial reading and research are required and culminate in a 15-20 page essay.
To register for a scholarly seminar, honors students in English and creative writing are encouraged to have a University of Iowa g.p.a. of at least 3.33. They also must have completed at least three courses: ENGL:2010 Foundation of the English Major: Histories, Literatures, Pleasures ; ENGL:2020 Foundations of Creative Writing: Craft, Practice, Pleasure ; and a third departmental course of their choosing.
University of Iowa Honors Program
In addition to honors in the major, students have opportunities for honors study and activities through membership in the University of Iowa Honors Program. Visit Honors at Iowa to learn about the University's honors program.
Membership in the UI Honors Program is not required to earn honors in the English and creative writing major.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core requirements provide students with a broad foundation of knowledge and a focused practice of transferable skills necessary for a lifetime of learning.
GE CLAS Core courses are particularly valuable for students making the transition into the University of Iowa. They help students understand the academic expectations of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences while providing the knowledge and skills needed for more advanced work in the major.
All students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences who wish to earn an undergraduate degree—Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), or Bachelor of Music (B.M.)—must complete the requirements of the GE CLAS Core.
GE CLAS Core Areas and Requirements
The GE CLAS Core has 11 required areas, grouped into three categories. Students must fulfill the requirements in each GE CLAS Core area. The requirements below are for students who entered the University of Iowa during Summer 2022 or after. Students who entered during a previous semester are held to different requirements as indicated on a student's degree audit.
Communication and Literacy:
- Diversity and Inclusion : a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Interpretation of Literature : a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Rhetoric : a minimum of 4 s.h.
- World Languages : required credit varies by language (see "World Languages" below)
Sustainability:
Students complete this requirement by choosing an approved GE CLAS Core course that integrates Sustainability (with no additional semester hours) with a course from the Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences category or the Culture, Society, and the Arts category.
Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences:
- Natural Sciences : a minimum of 7 s.h.; must include one lab
- Quantitative or Formal Reasoning : a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Social Sciences : a minimum of 3 s.h.
Culture, Society, and the Arts:
- Historical Perspectives : a minimum of 3 s.h.
- International and Global Issues : a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts : a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Values and Culture : a minimum of 3 s.h.
Students may count transfer credit and/or credit by exam toward some GE CLAS Core requirements. See CLAS Core Policies for details regarding use of transfer credit, credit by exam, and other policies for how GE CLAS Core requirements may be fulfilled.
Communication and Literacy
Diversity and inclusion.
Courses in the Diversity and Inclusion area help to develop students’ recognition of their positions in an increasingly pluralistic world while fostering an understanding of social and cultural differences. Students reflect critically on their own social and cultural perspectives while increasing their ability to engage with people who have backgrounds or ideas different from their own. Students also explore the historical and structural bases of inequality and the benefits and challenges of diversity.
Transfer credit is not accepted for the Diversity and Inclusion requirement; students must complete this requirement with coursework taken at the University of Iowa.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Diversity and Inclusion area. The following courses are approved for the area.
Interpretation of Literature
Courses in the Interpretation of Literature area focus on the major genres of literature (short and long fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama), improving students' abilities to read and analyze a variety of texts. Small group discussions in these courses challenge students to think critically, to share insights, and to listen thoughtfully to the arguments of others.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Interpretation of Literature area. The following courses are approved for the area.
Rhetoric courses develop speaking, writing, listening, and critical reading skills and build competence in research, analysis, and argumentation.
All entering first-year students are required to complete RHET:1030 Rhetoric (4-5 s.h.) . Because rhetorical skills lay the foundation for further study at the University, most students register for RHET:1030 during their first year at Iowa.
Students who must enroll in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses as determined by their English proficiency evaluation must complete all ESL courses before they may register for RHET:1030 Rhetoric .
Students who have transfer credit in composition, speech, and argumentation but have not been granted an A.A. degree must complete the equivalent of RHET:1030 Rhetoric and often must take RHET:1040 Writing and Reading or RHET:1060 Speaking and Reading in addition to their transfer courses in composition and/or speech.
Each entering student's degree audit shows the course(s) that must be completed in order to fulfill the Rhetoric requirement.
The following courses are approved for the Rhetoric area.
Transfer of Credit for Rhetoric
Transfer students who have been granted an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree from an Iowa community college, Waldorf College in Iowa, or Black Hawk College in Illinois have satisfied the Rhetoric requirement.
Transfer credit for students without an A.A. degree is evaluated as follows:
- transfer students who have completed composition I, composition II, and speech at another institution have satisfied the GE CLAS Core Rhetoric requirement of RHET:1030 Rhetoric ;
- transfer students who have completed only composition I must complete RHET:1030 Rhetoric at the University of Iowa;
- transfer students who have completed composition I and speech must complete RHET:1040 Writing and Reading at the University of Iowa;
- transfer students who have completed only speech must complete RHET:1040 Writing and Reading at the University of Iowa;
- transfer students who have completed composition I and II or only composition II must complete RHET:1060 Speaking and Reading at the University of Iowa;
- for transfer students who have completed any other course at another institution that may be equivalent to RHET:1030 Rhetoric , the University of Iowa Office of Admissions examines the content of the course and decides on equivalency based on the content of that course, conferring with the Department of Rhetoric on the correct equivalency, if necessary.
World Languages
GE CLAS Core courses in World Languages provide the practice of important communication skills in a second language as well as the knowledge of the cultures in which the language is spoken. This in-depth study allows students to better understand how languages as a whole function, encouraging students to learn more about their own first language, including how it creates both inclusion and diversity. To fulfill the GE CLAS Core requirement in World Languages, students may choose one of the following options:
- complete four years of a single world language in high school; or
- achieve the fourth level of proficiency in a world language by completing the appropriate sequence of courses offered at the University of Iowa; or
- achieve the fourth level of proficiency by completing appropriate courses at another college or university or through approved study abroad courses; or
- achieve an equivalent score on a related Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or other approved college-level examination accepted by the University of Iowa and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (see Credit By Exam Options on the Office of Admissions website); or
- earn an equivalent score on both a UI written placement test and on a UI oral proficiency exam in a language taught at the University of Iowa (see World Languages Placement Test (WLPT) on the New Student Services website); or
- earn an equivalent score on a proficiency exam in a language that is not taught at the University of Iowa (see Proficiency Examinations for Languages Not Taught at UI on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website).
A fourth level of proficiency is equivalent to the successful completion of an intermediate II language course (or of a second-year second semester course, for example) as taught at the University of Iowa. Depending on a student's placement test results and the language taken, a student may need to take four semesters of a language, starting with a beginning course and ending with a second semester intermediate course. Other students may be able to start elsewhere in the language sequence and complete the GE World Language requirement by taking two or three courses. See "World Languages Placement Tests" under Placement Tests on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website.
Semester hours earned for these courses vary by language. Students should be sure to take the placement test for the language of interest and should be aware of the course sequence required to fulfill the GE requirement in World Languages for that particular language.
Once the World Languages requirement is completed, a student may earn up to an additional 8 s.h. of college credit while studying a world language. See Furthering Language Incentive Program (FLIP) on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website.
Students may use the following language course sequences to fulfill the World Languages requirement. To avoid duplication or regression, consult the appropriate language department before registering for courses.
American Sign Language
Courses in American Sign Language (ASL) are offered by the American Sign Language Program. The following sequence fulfills the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students with previous knowledge of American Sign Language should consult the ASL program for placement.
Courses in Arabic are offered by the Department of French and Italian . The following sequence fulfills the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students with previous knowledge of Arabic should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Chinese are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures . For students without previous knowledge of Chinese, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students may use varied combinations of Chinese language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Heritage learners and students who have studied Chinese abroad may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting CHIN:2103 Accelerated Second-Year Chinese: First Semester and CHIN:2104 Accelerated Second-Year Chinese: Second Semester for CHIN:2101 and CHIN:2102 . Consult the department for more information.
Courses in French are offered by the Department of French and Italian . For students without previous knowledge of French, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students may use varied combinations of French language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of French may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting FREN:1010 First-Year French Review for FREN:1001 and FREN:1002 in the sequence above. Some students may be evaluated as ready for FREN:2001 or FREN:2002 . Consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in German are offered by the Department of German . For students without previous knowledge of German, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students may use varied combinations of German language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of German may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting GRMN:1010 First-Year German Review for GRMN:1001 and GRMN:1002 in the sequence above. Some students may be evaluated as ready for GRMN:2001 or GRMN:2002 . Consult the department for appropriate placement.
The department also offers GRMN:2020 Intensive Intermediate German, which may be appropriate for students with strong language learning abilities or experience. The intensive course may be combined with other courses to create other sequences that may be used to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Consult the department to identify an appropriate course sequence.
Courses in Greek are offered by the Department of Classics . Students without previous knowledge of Greek should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence.
Students with previous knowledge of Greek should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Italian are offered by the Department of French and Italian . Students without previous knowledge of Italian should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence.
Students with strong language learning abilities or a background in another Romance language may be able to complete the requirement by substituting ITAL:1103 Intensive Elementary Italian for ITAL:1101 and ITAL:1102 in the sequence above. Consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Japanese are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures . For students without previous knowledge of Japanese, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students may use varied combinations of Japanese language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of Japanese should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Korean are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures . For students without previous knowledge of Korean, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students with previous knowledge of Korean should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Latin are offered by the Department of Classics . Students without previous knowledge of Latin should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence. Students must take both CLSL:2001 and CLSL:2002 in order to fulfill the World Languages requirement. These courses require a similar knowledge of Latin, but one focuses on poetry and the other on prose. Other world languages permit a student to complete the last courses in the sequence to meet the GE CLAS Core requirement since the final course is more difficult than the previous ones. This is not true with the Latin sequence, and thus, both courses must be successfully completed.
Students with previous knowledge of Latin should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Portuguese are offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese . Two sequences in Portuguese are approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. All courses are open to entering first-year students.
Students may also substitute PORT:2010 Elementary Portuguese I and PORT:2015 Elementary Portuguese II for PORT:2000 in the sequence above.
Students with previous knowledge of Portuguese should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Russian are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures . Students without previous knowledge of Russian should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence.
Students with previous knowledge of Russian should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Courses in Spanish are offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese . For students without previous knowledge of Spanish, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
Students may use varied combinations of Spanish language courses to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of Spanish may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting SPAN:1003 Elementary Spanish Review for SPAN:1001 and SPAN:1002 in the sequence above.
The summer course SPAN:1004 Accelerated Elementary Spanish , which combines SPAN:1001 and SPAN:1002 , may be appropriate for some students.
The accelerated course SPAN:1503 Accelerated Intermediate Spanish , which combines SPAN:1501 and SPAN:1502 , may be appropriate for some students.
The accelerated course SPAN:1505 Intermediate Spanish for Heritage Speakers may be appropriate for other students.
Students with previous knowledge of Spanish should take the language placement test in Spanish to help determine proper placement.
Courses in Swahili are offered by the Department of French and Italian . The following sequence fulfills the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Each of these courses is open to entering first-year students.
Students with previous knowledge of Swahili should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Other Course Sequences
A student who successfully completes a four-semester world language sequence that has not been approved for the GE CLAS Core may have the sequence substituted for a proficiency test to fulfill the GE CLAS Core requirement.
Students who complete a world language sequence this way should notify the department that offers the sequence; the department will contact Graduation Analysis in the Office of the Registrar, which will update a student's degree audit to show fulfillment of the World Languages requirement.
Sustainability
Courses in the Sustainability area focus on identifying concepts and terminology associated with sustainability and systems-thinking, investigating the interconnectedness of human and natural systems, and evaluating how students’ own actions affect and are affected by society’s ability to meet sustainability goals. Students also investigate institutional and/or cultural processes or natural systems processes.
Sustainability learning outcomes are integrated with the outcomes for another GE CLAS Core area so that one approved course satisfies this requirement without adding semester hours. Students complete this requirement by choosing one of the following courses that have been approved for Sustainability and another GE CLAS Core area.
Sustainability and Natural Sciences
Sustainability and Social Sciences
Sustainability and Historical Perspectives
Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences
Natural sciences.
Courses in the Natural Sciences area explore the scope and major concepts of a scientific discipline. Students learn the attitudes and practices of scientific investigators: logic, precision, experimentation, tentativeness, and objectivity. In courses with a laboratory component, students gain experience in the methods of scientific inquiry.
All students must complete at least 7 s.h. of coursework in the Natural Sciences area, including at least one natural science lab component. The following courses are approved for the area; courses with a lab component are noted "(lab)."
Quantitative or Formal Reasoning
Courses in the Quantitative or Formal Reasoning area help develop analytical skills through the practice of quantitative or formal symbolic reasoning. Courses focus on presentation and evaluation of evidence and argument; understanding the use and misuse of data; and organization of information in quantitative or other formal symbolic systems, including those used in computer science, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, and statistics.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Quantitative or Formal Reasoning area. Students also may fulfill this GE CLAS Core requirement by completing a course that lists an approved GE CLAS Core course as a prerequisite. The following courses are approved for the area.
Social Sciences
Courses in the Social Sciences area focus on human behavior and the institutions and social systems that shape and are shaped by that behavior. Courses provide an overview of one or more social science disciplines, their theories, and their methods.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Social Sciences area. The following courses are approved for the area.
Culture, Society, and the Arts
Historical perspectives.
Courses in the Historical Perspectives area help students comprehend the historical processes of change and continuity; develop the ability to generalize, explain, and interpret historical change; and understand the past in its own terms.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Historical Perspectives area. The following courses are approved for the area.
International and Global Issues
Courses in the International and Global Issues area focus predominantly on countries or issues outside the United States, encouraging students to understand contemporary issues from an international perspective. Students develop knowledge of one or more contemporary global or international issues, gain a greater awareness of varied international perspectives, and improve their skills of analysis and critical inquiry.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the International and Global Issues area. The following courses are approved for the area.
Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts
Courses in the Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts area provide students with opportunities to appreciate the arts and to analyze them within their historical and theoretical contexts. They also help students develop the analytic, expressive, and imaginative abilities necessary for understanding, appreciating, and creating art.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts area. The following courses are approved for the area.
Values and Culture
Courses in the Values and Culture area focus on how culture shapes the human experience and the role of values in society, with students asking fundamental questions regarding the human experience while exploring their own values and beliefs.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Values and Culture area. The following courses are approved for the area.
The English and creative writing major prepares students for a wide variety of career paths including teaching, medicine, law, graduate school, and jobs in the private and nonprofit sector where writing, organization, research, and communication is highly valued. Within a year of graduation, over 92 percent of Department of English students are employed or in graduate programs.
The department's advisor helps guide students in their career path. The Department of English partners with the Pomerantz Career Center to introduce career development strategies and offer resources to help students find internships and jobs. For more information, students are encouraged to explore Career Planning for English Majors on the Department of English website, or enroll in the 1 s.h. course, ENGL:2040 English at Work .
Four-Year Graduation Plan
The following checkpoints list the minimum requirements students must complete by certain semesters in order to stay on the University's Four-Year Graduation Plan .
Before the fifth semester begins: at least six courses in the major, including ENGL:2010 Foundation of the English Major: Histories, Literatures, Pleasures ; ENGL:2020 Foundations of Creative Writing: Craft, Practice, Pleasure ; and an approved introduction to creative writing course (consult advisor).
Before the seventh semester begins: at least four more courses in the major and at least 90 s.h. earned toward the degree.
Before the eighth semester begins: at least two more courses in the major.
During the eighth semester: enrollment in all remaining coursework in the major, all remaining GE CLAS Core courses, and a sufficient number of semester hours to graduate.
Sample Plan of Study
Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI .
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A PDF of the entire 2022-23 catalog.
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Bachelor of Arts in English, Creative Writing Concentration
On this page:
- Why Choose Creative Writing Concentration in English?
Real-World Experience
Success stories, academics and curriculum, why choose creative writing concentration in english .
The Creative Writing concentration in English offers students a full series of introductory and advanced creative writing courses, in addition to practical guidance on publication. Building on a strong basis in literature and language studies, students have the opportunity to develop their skills in either fiction writing or poetry writing as well as to take elective coursework in playwriting and creative non-fiction. The majority of courses are intensive workshops with a focus on peer and faculty comments, the study of craft, and the reading of contemporary and classic literature. The concentration culminates in a capstone course and the completion of an extended creative project. Graduates of our program include novelists Chitra Bannerjee Divakaruni and Alexandria Constantinova Szeman and poet Rachel Danielle Peterson. The English Department Visiting Writers Series brings nationally known poets and writers to campus for readings and workshops. The English Club, an organization open to all students, hosts open mikes and coffee-house style readings each year.
View the English program profile for sample occupations, average salary, and employment projections.
Some recent real-world projects for English Department students include:
- A grant-funded pilot episode of a children’s television show to air on PBS ThinkTV.
- A series of videos focused on veteran experiences.
- New Media Incubator paid internships producing videos, audio, and other digital media assets for local businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Writing internship opportunities exist with local organizations. Past organizations have included The Antioch Review, Heavy Feather Review, Antioch Writers’ Workshop, The Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, Dayton Visual Arts Center, and elsewhere.
- The Vibrant Visiting Writers’ Series open to the public. Past writers have included Xhenet Aliu, Philip Metres, Kaveh Akbar, Paige Lewis, Amina Gautier, and others.
View the Bachelor of Arts in English program information and degree requirements in the Academic Catalog.
Graduation Planning Strategy (Four Year Plan) (PDF)
Any student eligible for admission to the College of Liberal Arts is eligible for admission to the Creative Writing, Literature, Professional Writing, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages concentrations in English. Non-native speakers of English seeking admission to any undergraduate major program in English must meet one of the following minimum language proficiency requirements:
- PEARSON PTE: 58, or
- Students who show proof of successful completion of an Intensive English Program from an accredited Institution or program accepted by international admissions are exempt from the requirement to take an approved English Proficiency exam.
Review the admission requirements and complete the admission application . Identify whether you will be majoring in English.
If you are a current student and wish to change majors, go to the WINGS Express major/minor change request form and change your major. If you are an undecided/exploratory student, talk to your advisor about majoring in English.
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