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Creative Writing

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

What is Creative Writing?

As a Creative Writing major, you’ll learn how to develop your own individual voice. You'll also learn to produce original works in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Coursework consists of creative writing classes, and classes in English, history, and culture. Small writing workshops that focus on giving and receiving feedback will teach you to communicate your ideas to others. You’ll also develop your skills in these areas:

  • Communication
  • Problem-solving 

Career Options

  • Arts administration
  • Communications
  • Creative writing
  • Entertainment
  • Library & information science

Post-Graduation Success 1

80% employed or continuing education

60% employed after graduation

18% attending graduate school

2% volunteering

$39,000 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, School of Labor and Employment Relations, University of Illinois at Chicago, College Of Dentistry, XciteSteps View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of California, Irvine, University of San Francisco View All

Program Resources

Review criteria, first-year major-specific criteria.

  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Graduation & retention 2.

4.0 years to degree

93% first-year retention rate

72% four-year graduation rate

85% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs 3

Illinois resident.

  • Tuition: $12,712
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses: $18,222
  • Total: $35,862

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $31,832
  • Expenses: $18,562
  • Total: $55,322

International

  • Tuition: $34,280
  • Total: $57,770

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative , which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website . For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the My Next Move website .

2 Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website . To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website .

Employer List

Grad school list, want more info.

u of i creative writing

General Catalog

Creative writing (iowa writers' workshop).

u of i creative writing

This is the first version of the 2024–25 General Catalog. Please check back regularly for changes. The final edition and the historical PDF will be published during the fall semester.

Graduate degree: MFA in English

Faculty: https://writersworkshop.uiowa.edu/faculty

Website: https://writersworkshop.uiowa.edu/

The Creative Writing Program (Iowa Writers' Workshop) is a world-renowned graduate program for fiction writers and poets. Founded in 1936, it was the first creative writing program in the United States to offer a degree, and it became a model for many contemporary writing programs. In addition to its Master of Fine Arts program, it also offers writing courses for undergraduates.

The Iowa Writers' Workshop has been home to thousands of remarkable writers, including Flannery O'Connor, Raymond Carver, Rita Dove, John Irving, James Alan McPherson, Philip Levine, Jane Smiley, Michael Cunningham, Sandra Cisneros, Denis Johnson, Jorie Graham, Ann Patchett, Lan Samantha Chang, D.A. Powell, Nathan Englander, Yiyun Li, Eleanor Catton, Angela Flournoy, Garth Greenwell, Yaa Gyasi, and Jamel Brinkley. The program's faculty and alumni include winners of virtually every major literary award, including seventeen winners of the Pulitzer Prize, six recent U.S. Poets Laureate, and numerous winners of the National Book Award, MacArthur Foundation Fellowships, and other major honors. In 2003, the Iowa Writers' Workshop received a National Humanities Medal from the National Endowment for the Humanities—the first awarded to a university and only the second given to an institution rather than an individual.

The Creative Writing Program offers courses for students from other programs of study; summer courses are open to undergraduate and graduate students.

To learn more about the Creative Writing Program's history and faculty, visit the Iowa Writers' Workshop website.

Graduate Program of Study

  • Master of Fine Arts in English

Creative Writing—Writers' Workshop Courses

The Creative Writing Program offers courses for undergraduates as well as graduate students. Enrollment in some graduate-level courses requires admission to the MFA program. See "Courses" in the Department of English section of the catalog for course descriptions and prerequisites to enrollment.

Course List
Course # Title Hours
Creative Writing for Non-Native English Speakers3
Creative Writing Studio Workshop3
Creative Writing3
Special Topics Workshop3
Fiction Writing3
Poetry Writing3
Writing and Reading Romance Fiction3
Writing and Reading Young Adult Fiction0,3
Writing and Reading Science Fiction3
Writing and Reading Fantasy Fiction3
Professional and Creative Business Communication3
Writing from Life3
Creative Writing for the Health Professions3
Creative Writing and Popular Culture3
Creative Writing for New Media3
Working Writers in Conversation3
Advanced Fiction Writing3
Advanced Poetry Writing3
The Sentence: Strategies for Writing3
Creative Writing for the Musician3
The Art of Revision: Rewriting Prose for Clarity and Impact3
Undergraduate Writers' Workshop: Fictionarr.
Undergraduate Writers' Workshop: Poetryarr.
Undergraduate Writers' Seminararr.
Undergraduate Project in Creative Writingarr.
Novel Writing3
Form of Fiction3
Form of Poetry3
Seminar: Problems in Modern Fictionarr.
Seminar: Problems in Modern Poetryarr.
Fiction Workshoparr.
Poetry Workshoparr.
Special Topics Seminar3
Teaching Assistant Pedagogy Colloquium1-2
Graduate Project in Creative Writingarr.
MFA Thesisarr.

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Academic Advising Center

Undergraduate studies, main navigation, english: creative writing.

Unleash your imagination with a minor in Creative Writing through the University of Utah. This program will give you the skills you need to take the characters and adventures in your head and turn them into written, communicable stories. The U’s Department of English is committed to developing well-rounded writers, with training in literature of multiple genres: students must complete courses in literary history and creative writing, in addition to workshops in writing fiction, poetry, or non-fiction.  At the undergraduate level, students are assured of small workshops and intensive focus on their writing, as well as the opportunity to submit manuscripts for publication in the department’s two literary magazines.

The department offers many opportunities for students to publish their work: the Canticle is an undergraduate literary journal, and Quarterly West is a graduate student-managed journal of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction and review. Upon completion of the program, students can continue their creative writing endeavors by pursuing careers as authors of prose and poetry. The Creative Writing minor will also prepare you for jobs in editing, journalism, and technical writing.

- Intro to Creative Writing - Intro to Literary History I - Intro to Literery History II

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Writers Workshop

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Welcome to the Writers Workshop!

Reserve your appointment now.

The Writers Workshop provides free support to all writers in the campus community across all forms of academic and professional writing, at any stage of the writing process. We offer writing groups, writing-related presentations, and writing consultations where we provide feedback on essays, research papers, personal statements, cover letters, theses and dissertations, manuscripts for publication, presentations, digital compositions, and anything between and beyond.

To receive feedback on your writing, you can select:

  • In-Person Consultation by Appointments , where you’ll reserve a 50-minute appointment at one of our locations in the Main Library, Grainger Library, or MCB Learning Center.
  • Live Online Consultation by Appointments , where you’ll reserve a 50-minute appointment to meet with a consultant in real-time via videoconferencing.
  • Written Feedback Appointments , where you’ll reserve an appointment, upload your document(s), complete a detailed appointment form, and receive written feedback at the end of your appointment time. There is no live interfacing with the consultant in this format.
  • Drop-In Consultations , where you’ll meet with a consultant in a 15-30 minute, first-come, first-served session.

Find information about our locations and hours here .

Please view our calendar to learn more about upcoming events or learn more about requesting workshops and class presentations .

We are committed to providing accessible services. To request accommodations, please contact Dr. Carolyn Wisniewski at [email protected] or call 217-333-8796.

New to the Writers Workshop? Click here for more information on how to register and create an appointment.

Make an Appointment

Summer Events 6/18 Find Your Flow: Revising for Argument & Structure 6/26: Writing with Style: Revising for Polished academic prose 7/2: publishing your first journal article 7/9: Writing effective personal statements 7/11: writing dissertation proposals 7/18: writing literature reviews

Upcoming Events

See all events.

Summer Events 6/18 Find Your Flow: Revising for Argument & Structure 6/26: Writing with Style: Revising for Polished academic prose 7/2: publishing your first journal article 7/9: Writing effective personal statements 7/11: writing dissertation proposals 7/18: writing literature reviews

Summer Events

Read More...

Hours: Sun 2-8p Mon/Wed 1-8p Tue/Thu 2-7p

Summer Hours

u of i creative writing

Have a great summer!

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Department of English

English department.

Physical Address: 200 Brink Hall

Mailing Address: English Department University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 1102 Moscow, Idaho 83844-1102

Phone: 208-885-6156

Email: [email protected]

Web: English

English (B.A./B.S.)

Career information is not specific to degree level. Some career options may require an advanced degree.

Current Job Openings and Salary Range

in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Entry-Level

Senior-Level

salary-range plot chart graphic

  • Career Options
  • English Language and Literature Teacher, Postsecondary
  • Secondary School Teacher, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
  • News Analyst, Reporter, or Journalist
  • Technical Writer
  • Writer or Author
  • Poet, Lyricist or Creative Writer

Regional Employment Trends

144K

149K

150K

153K

155K

Employment trends and projected job growth in ID, WA, OR, MT & HI

*Job data is collected from national, state and private sources. For more information, visit EMSI's data sources page .

  • Degree Prep

It is helpful for English degree seekers to have foreign language experience and to love reading and writing.

  • Degree Roadmap
  • B.A. English
  • B.S. English 
  • Scholarships

The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences provides annual scholarship awards totaling approximately $1,600,000. For information on specific scholarships, please email  [email protected] .

You can find general need- and merit-based scholarships on the Financial Aid Office's scholarships page.

All students are automatically considered for David scholarships ($1,000 - $2,000). Students interested in teaching can apply for Nixon scholarships ($2,500).

To learn more about FAFSA deadlines and processes, available scholarships, and financial aid program types and eligibility requirements, please visit the University of Idaho Financial Aid Office .

  • Hands-On Learning
  • Sigma Tau Delta honors society
  • Writing for Vandalism undergraduate literary magazine
  • Interning for Fugue national literary magazine
  • Sharing creative and academic work at public events.
  • Hands-on work writing grant proposals for real clients.
  • Working as peer tutors in the Writing Center
  • Internships

Internships are available to students at the Fugue literary magazine; service learning opportunities in the community, such as writing for local businesses; and writing opportunities for on-campus publications.

  • Job Openings and Salary Range
  • Employment Trends

Shaping the Written Word

The University of Idaho English Department has opportunities for a flexible and fulfilling education with a broad range of options. Students can choose either a B.A. or B.S. degree path. The B.A. allows you to earn a general English degree or select from four possible concentrations (18 credits of their total 45 for the major) in creative writing, linguistics, literature, or professional writing. The B.S. allows you to specialize in either Technical Writing or earn a general English degree; it is available either fully online or in-person in Moscow.

In each area of English studies, students will find dynamic classes, engaged professors, and plenty of opportunities for student involvement and internships. In addition, the Department of English offers several scholarships and awards to help finance your education.

  • Outstanding mentorship by award-winning faculty in small classroom settings
  • Capstone courses in which you work to create a collaborative literary or creative project or a professional project with local clients
  • Scholarships, awards and service learning opportunities
  • Active national honor society chapter (Sigma Tau Delta) with award-winning outreach project
  • Classes available both in-person and online

Concentrations and Specializations

For the B.A. degree, you can earn a general English degree or you may choose from four possible concentrations:

Creative Writing

In the Creative Writing Concentration, you will work with our internationally famous faculty to analyze and practice the craft of writing in three different genres: fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry. Along with a range of literature courses that will help you develop analytical skills and a deep understanding of literary history, you will take our introductory creative writing class, ENGL 290, and at least five upper-division writing classes.

Students should consult the English B.A. entry in the catalog for more information on course requirements for this concentration area. 

Linguistics

The Linguistics Concentration will engage you in the formal study of languages. In addition to completing coursework that covers language structures, language development and language use in society, you will examine the connection between language acquisition and pedagogy.

Students should consult the  English B.A. entry in the catalog  for more information on course requirements for this concentration area. 

Students in the Literature Concentration develop critical thinking, analytical and writing skills through deep study of literature, history and theory. Students can take a range of courses — including surveys of American, British, Caribbean, African and Native American literatures — as well as seminars on diverse subjects like Shakespeare, critical theory, environmental writing, women’s poetry, and literature of the American West.

Professional Writing

The Professional Writing Concentration will help you develop the analytical skills and broad cultural perspective that make up the cornerstone of the English major. In this emphasis, however, you will also gain extensive practice in writing for a variety of audiences, purposes and genres including both written and oral workplace communication.

Students should consult the general English B.A. requirements. For this concentration, they must select 18 of their 45 credits from the following list: 

  • at least one of ENGL 207, ENGL 208, ENGL 241, ENGL 290
  • at least two of ENGL 309, ENGL 313, ENGL 316, ENGL 317, ENGL 318, ENGL 393
  • at least two of ENGL 402, ENGL 419, ENGL 486, ENGL 496, ENGL 498

For the B.S. degree, you can specialize in technical writing or earn a general English degree. The B.S. is available either fully online or in-person in Moscow.

Meet Our Students

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Bachelor of Arts in English and Creative Writing

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

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

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

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

Request Info

Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

Learning Outcomes

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

Reflective Readers

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

Critical and Creative Thinkers

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

Compelling Writers

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

Engaged World Citizens

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

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

Welcome to the MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Houston

M.F.A. in Creative Writing

Get an m.f.a. in creative writing.

Our creative writing M.F.A. allows students to focus on creative writing in a specific genre while also studying a broad and diverse range of literatures in English. This degree is not a studio degree. It offers students preparation for the following areas:

  • Creative publication
  • Expert teaching in creative writing and literature
  • Leadership in communication for business, education, and arts organizations
  • Advanced studies in literature and creative writing in a doctoral program.

Admission to our creative writing program is extremely competitive, with up to 20 new students across the two genres selected each year from the hundreds of applications received from around the world. The curriculum for M.F.A. students emphasizes creative writing and literary study.

The city of Houston offers a vibrant, multi-cultural backdrop for studying creative writing at the University of Houston. With a dynamic visual and performing arts scene, the Houston metropolitan area supplies a wealth of aesthetic materials. 

Overview of Admissions Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission.

  • B.A. degree
  • 3.0 GPA in undergraduate studies 

Application Deadline

Applications to the M.F.A. in Creative Writing program are due January 15.

For more admissions information, visit the How to Apply web page for our M.F.A. in Creative Writing.

History of the Creative Writing Program

CW Reading Event

Over the years many more internationally acclaimed writers have made the Program their home, including Mary Gaitskill, Richard Howard, Howard Moss, Linda Gregg, Adam Zagajewski, Daniel Stern, David Wojahn, Edward Hirsch, Alan Hollinghurst, Mark Strand, David Wagoner, Philip Levine, Charles Wright, Claudia Rankine, Kimiko Hahn, Mark Doty and Ruben Martinez.

Current faculty includes Erin Belieu, Robert Boswell, Audrey Colombe, Chitra Divakaruni, Nick Flynn, francine j. harris, Antonya Nelson, Alex Parsons, Kevin Prufer, Brenda Peynado, Martha Serpas, Roberto Tejada, and Peter Turchi.

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Program Breakdown

Program Breakdown & Degree Requirements

Financial Aid

Financial Aid

How to Apply

How to Apply

Inprint Student Writing Awards

Inprint Student Writing Awards

Creative Writing

Greer Baxter and Mandy Gonzalez

The Program in Creative Writing takes a comprehensive approach to the study of contemporary literature, criticism, and theory from a writer’s perspective, and provides rigorous training in the fundamental practices of creative writing. In our courses, students work with established poets and prose writers towards these pursuits, and both the major and minor in Creative Writing provide ample opportunities for interdisciplinary work across University departments. The program’s commitment to interdisciplinary work and academic rigor, coupled with an emphasis on teaching the elements of creative writing that underlie all genres, accounts for the program's vitality and explains why Creative Writing at Chicago is currently the largest initiative in the humanities for the College. The Program in Creative Writing offers workshops and seminars in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, as well as an increasing number of translation workshops.

Students who graduate with the bachelor of arts in Creative Writing will both be skilled in writing in a major literary genre and have a theoretically informed understanding of the aesthetic, historical, social, and political context of a range of contemporary writing. Students who are not English Language and Literature or Creative Writing majors may complete a minor in English and Creative Writing.

  • Creative Writing in the College Catalog
  • Minor in Creative Writing in the College Catalog
  • Creative Writing Home Page

u of i creative writing

Best Creative Writing colleges in the U.S. 2024

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

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

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

u of i creative writing

Brown University offers 3 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 48 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 38 Bachelor's degrees, and 10 Master's degrees.

u of i creative writing

Northwestern University offers 3 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 11 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 10 Master's degrees, and 1 Bachelor's degree.

u of i creative writing

Johns Hopkins University offers 4 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 80 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 47 Master's degrees, 29 Bachelor's degrees, and 4 Certificates.

u of i creative writing

University of Southern California offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 37 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 37 Bachelor's degrees.

u of i creative writing

University of Notre Dame offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large suburb. In 2022, 4 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 4 Master's degrees.

u of i creative writing

University of Virginia-Main Campus offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 6 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 6 Master's degrees.

u of i creative writing

Columbia University in the City of New York offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 174 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 124 Master's degrees, and 50 Bachelor's degrees.

u of i creative writing

The University of Texas at Austin offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 100 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 81 Certificates, and 19 Master's degrees.

u of i creative writing

Cornell University offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 7 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 7 Master's degrees.

u of i creative writing

Vanderbilt University offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 6 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 6 Master's degrees.

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

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

School Average Tuition Student Teacher Ratio Enrolled Students
Providence, RI 5/5 12 : 1 11,189
Evanston, IL 5/5 15 : 1 23,161
Baltimore, MD 5/5 22 : 1 31,275
Los Angeles, CA 5/5 23 : 1 48,945
Notre Dame, IN 5/5 10 : 1 13,105

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The English Major: Creative Writing Option

Many pink blossomed cherry trees in bloom and many students.

Note!  The requirements below took effect in Summer 2022 .  If you declared your major before then, please see the old requirements .  If you have questions about which version of the major applies to you, please contact HAS .

The Creative Writing Concentration prepares students not only to be more effective communicators and artists, but also creative problem solvers and more nuanced critical thinkers. By situating small, student-oriented writing workshops alongside literary models, Creative Writing classes enhance the broader study of literature and critical theory, helping students gain a greater understanding of the social and cultural forces informing their work. A student completing the program is more able to situate themselves in a larger aesthetic and social context and make more meaningful, informed decisions about their own artistic practice. In addition, through the intense practice of creative writing, students are able to see the world more clearly, in a more nuanced and meaningful manner, and apply these skills to a wide variety of work and life situations.

This page describes the English Major Concentration in Creative Writing. For the major's other option, see English Language, Literature, and Culture ,.

Students enrolled in the Creative Writing Concentration will complete a major consisting of 65 ENGL credits, at least 30 of which must be completed in residence at the University of Washington. A maximum of 20 credits in 200-level courses may count toward the English major, and may be used to fulfill the distribution requirements.

Creative writing students’ coursework is distributed as follows:

  • ENGL 202: Introduction to English Language and Literature
  • A sequence of creative writing workshops: ENGL 283: Beginning Verse Writing, ENGL 284: Beginning Short Story Writing, ENGL 383: The Craft of Verse, and ENGL 384: The Craft of Prose
  • 15 credits in Historical Depth
  • 15 credits in Power and Difference
  • Two 400-level Creative Writing seminars ( Please see the  400-level Creative Writing workshop registration instruction page  for instructions on registering for these courses)

Please note: Creative writing students do *not* need to complete either ENGL 302 (satisfied by 383 & 384) or the senior capstone (satisfied by two 400-level CW classes), required for the major in Language, Literature, and Culture. All creative writing courses satisfy the Genre, Method, and Language distribution area, so Creative Writing students do not need to complete this area separately.

Applying to Creative Writing:

Applicants to the Creative Writing option must have already declared, or be eligible to declare, the English: Language and Literature major .

Applications for the Creative Writing option are accepted in autumn, winter, and spring quarters only, and should be submitted through this online application form   by the third Friday of the quarter at 4:00pm . Applications to creative writing are not accepted in summer quarter.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to apply for the Creative Writing option, you must

  • have already declared, or be ready to declare, the English major program ;
  • have completed ENGL 202, 283 (beginning verse writing) and ENGL 284 (beginning short story writing) or transfer equivalents.

Application Procedure:

Please submit online ONE complete attachment that includes the items below, by 4:00pm on the third Friday of autumn, winter, or spring quarter (no applications accepted in summer):

1. Undergraduate Creative Writing Option Application (PDF)

RIGHT-click the above link and save it as a PDF to your computer. Fill out the form using Acrobat Reader. Save your changes. Then combine it with the following materials:

Transcripts for all college work completed, both at the UW and elsewhere (these are additional sets of transcripts, separate from the transcripts you will have supplied as part of your application for the major):

  • Unofficial UW Transcript : Even if this is your first quarter after transferring to the UW, you should submit an unofficial UW transcript, available through the MyUW system ;
  • Complete set of Unofficial transcripts from all schools from which you have transfer credit : We need the information contained in the complete transcript from each transfer school; the transfer summary on a UW unofficial transcript is not sufficient. Photocopies of transcripts are acceptable.

2. A Writing Sample of 3-5 poems and 5-10 pages of fiction (preferably a complete story). Fiction should be double-spaced, with 12pt font (Times New Roman) and 1" margins:

  • Review writing sample guidelines and be sure to submit literary fiction and poetry
  • Be sure to proofread carefully.

Admission decisions are based primarily on the potential a student exhibits in his or her writing sample - grades and GPAs are usually not at issue. Admission decisions are sent to applicants by e-mail, normally within two weeks of the application deadline.

Completion of the requirements above does not guarantee admission.

Students who are denied admission to the Creative Writing option will continue to be English majors, and may complete the requirements for the literature BA in English. They may apply for the Creative Writing option one additional time, but if they are denied admission then, they must complete the literature major or elect another major in another department.

Distribution Areas:

The majority of English courses are distributed among three overlapping areas: Historical Depth, Power & Difference, and Genre, Method, and Language. Creative Writing students are required to complete 15 credits in two of these areas, Historical Depth and Power & Difference, with the remainder of their coursework focusing on Creative Writing workshops. 

Some courses can count towards both "Historical Depth" or "Power & Difference"; however, each course can ultimately only be used to fulfill one requirement. For example, ENGL 351 is listed under both “Historical Depth” and “Power and Difference" but it will only count in one of those categories in a student's degree progress. The student may choose (and can change their mind, shuffling courses as long as they are enrolled).  Students noticing issues with how these classes are applying to the distribution areas in their degree audit can contact an advisor at   Humanities Academic Services Center  (HAS), A-2-B Padelford Hall  for support. 

Descriptions of each area, along with the courses fulfilling it, are available below. 

Historical Depth:

People have been speaking, reading, and writing in English for more than a thousand years, producing literature that is at once timeless and deeply informed by the time in which it was written. Cultural artifacts from the English-speaking world have shaped, and been shaped by, social movements and historical conditions around the globe, as has the language itself. With this in mind, English majors are required to take 15 credits focused on materials produced before 1945, with at least 5 of those credits focused on materials produced before 1700. Distributing coursework in this way helps students to understand the depth, richness, and variability of English literature, language, and culture across time, and dramatizes how the ways we organize history affect the stories we tell about it. These courses open up past worlds that are in some ways totally alien and in others very similar to our own, revealing that what seems real and true to us can radically alter over time. Entering into these past realities offers a new perspective on the present and develops our capacity to imagine alternative futures.

Historical Depth Courses:

  • ENGL 210 Medieval and Early Modern Literature, 400 to 1600
  • ENGL 211 Literature, 1500-1800
  • ENGL 225 Shakespeare
  • ENGL 310 The Bible as Literature
  • ENGL 320 English Literature: The Middle Ages
  • ENGL 321 Chaucer
  • ENGL 322 Medieval & Early Modern Literatures of Encounter (P&D)
  • ENGL 323 Shakespeare to 1603
  • ENGL 324 Shakespeare after 1603
  • ENGL 325 Early Modern English Literature
  • ENGL 326 Milton (GML)
  • ENGL 351: Writing in the Contact Zone: North America 1492 - 1800 (P&D)
  • ENGL 376: Introduction to Middle English Language (HD)
  • ENGL 422 Arthurian Legends (GML)
  • ENGL 212 Literature, 1700-1900
  • ENGL 300: Reading Major Texts (can also count as pre-1700 depending on texts)
  • ENGL 303 History of Literary Criticism and Theory I (GML)
  • ENGL 312 Jewish Literature: Biblical to Modern (P&D)
  • ENGL 314: Transatlantic Literature and Culture (P&D)
  • ENGL 315: Literary Modernism (GML)
  • ENGL 327 Narratives of Bondage & Freedom (P&D)
  • ENGL 328 Eighteenth Century Literature & Culture
  • ENGL 329 Rise of the English Novel (GML)
  • ENGL 330 English Literature: The Romantic Age
  • ENGL 331 Globalization & Nationalism in the Age of Empire (P&D)
  • ENGL 332 Nineteenth Century Poetry (GML)
  • ENGL 333 Nineteenth Century Novel (GML)
  • ENGL 335 English Literature: The Victorian Age
  • ENGL 336 English Literature: Early Twentieth Century
  • ENGL 337 The Modern Novel (GML)
  • ENGL 338 Modern Poetry (GML)
  • ENGL 352 Literatures of the United States to 1865 (P&D)
  • ENGL 353 American Literature: Later Nineteenth Century
  • ENGL 354 American Literature: Early Twentieth Century
  • ENGL 373: History of the English Language (GML)
  • ENGL 380: Special Topics in History
  • ENGL 385: Global Modernism (P&D)

Power and Difference:

Literature, language, and culture have been shaped by and in turn shape systems of power. Such systems include capitalism, colonialism, imperialism, and hierarchies of race, status, caste, sex, gender, and sexuality. Over time, systems of power elevate some voices and stories and marginalize and silence others. English majors are required to take at least 15 credits focused on how systems of power operate in and through literature, language, and culture. These courses explore the evolving relationship of literature, language, and culture to structures of violence and dispossession and center critical perspectives that have been marginalized or silenced. They embrace alternative ways of learning about the past and present, and the impress of the former on the latter. They highlight the complex, sometimes contradictory ways in which literature and culture mediate systems of power. In so doing, Power and Difference courses foster our imagination of more just and equitable futures.

Power and Difference Courses:

  • ENGL 207: Introduction to Cultural Studies (GML)
  • ENGL 208: Data and Narrative (GML)
  • ENGL 256: Introduction to Queer Cultural Studies (DIV) (GML)
  • ENGL 257: Introduction to Asian American Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 258: Introduction to African American Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 259: Literature and Social Difference (DIV)
  • ENGL 265: Introduction to Environmental Humanities (DIV, GML)
  • ENGL 307: Cultural Studies
  • ENGL 308: Marxism and Literary Theory
  • ENGL 311: Modern Jewish Literature in Translation
  • ENGL 312: Jewish Literature: Biblical to Modern (HD)
  • ENGL 314: Transatlantic Literature and Culture (HD)
  • ENGL 316: Postcolonial Literature and Culture (DIV)
  • ENGL 317: Literature of the Americas (DIV)
  • ENGL 318: Black Literary Genres (DIV, GML)
  • ENGL 319: African Literatures (DIV)
  • ENGL 322 Medieval & Early Modern Literatures of Encounter (HD)
  • ENGL 327 Narratives of Bondage & Freedom (HD)
  • ENGL 331 Globalization & Nationalism in the Age of Empire (HD)
  • ENGL 339: Globalization & Contemporary World Literature (GML)
  • ENGL 340: Irish Literature (P&D)
  • ENGL 349: Science Fiction & Fantasy
  • ENGL 351: Writing in the Contact Zone: North America 1492 - 1800 (HD)
  • ENGL 352: American Literatures to 1865 (HD)
  • ENGL 355: Contemporary American Literature
  • ENGL 357: Jewish American Literature and Culture (DIV)
  • ENGL 358: African American Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 359: Contemporary American Indian Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 361: American Political Culture After 1865 (DIV)
  • ENGL 362: Latino Literary Genres (DIV, GML)
  • ENGL 364: Literature & Medicine
  • ENGL 365: Literature & Environment (GML, DIV)
  • ENGL 366: Literature & Law
  • ENGL 367: Gender Studies in Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 368: Women Writers (DIV)
  • ENGL 372: World Englishes (DIV) (GML)
  • ENGL 379: Special Topics in Power & Difference
  • ENGL 385: Global Modernism (HD)
  • ENGL 386: Asian American Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 466: Queer and LGBT Literature (DIV)
  • ENGL 478: Language and Social Policy (DIV) (GML)
  • ENGL 479: Language Variation and Language Policy in North America (DIV, GML)
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Professor (nonfiction, fiction)

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10 Best Creative Writing Courses for 2024: Craft Authentic Stories

Learn how to tell your story and engage your readers with great storytelling.

u of i creative writing

As a lifelong literature enthusiast, I decided to challenge myself in 2010 by participating in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), which tasks participants with writing a 50,000-word draft within a month. Although I’ve only achieved this goal twice since then, the experience has been invaluable. I’ve connected with a wonderful community of writers, both online and in person.

Through my experience, I can confidently say that creative writing is a skill that can be developed and honed, just like any other. While traditionally associated with literature, creative writing is increasingly being recognized as a powerful tool in various forms of writing, from copywriting and storytelling to novels and poetry. It has the ability to captivate readers and elevate the impact of written expression.

u of i creative writing

If you’re searching for the best online Creative Writing courses and resources, you’ve come to the right place. This Best Courses Guide (BCG) is built from Class Central’s catalog of over 300 Creative Writing courses and selected according to a methodology that you can check below.

Click on the shortcuts for more details:

What is Creative Writing?

Courses overview, why you should trust us, how we made our picks and tested them, here are our top picks.

Click on one to skip to the course details:

15 hours
5-6 hours
4-5 hours
12 hours
1-2 hours
2 hours
5-6 hours
1-2 hours
1 hour
18 hours
NA

u of i creative writing

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Creative writing is a genre of writing that seeks to evoke emotions and feelings in its readers. It surpasses the limits of traditional forms of literature and emphasizes narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes and poetic traditions. Creative writing finds application in various forms of writing, including screenplays, plays, novels, poems, and other written works. In this guide, I will delve into some of its most popular facets.

Enhancing resilience and creativity through writing

Research shows that the brains of professional writers work differently from those of novice writers. Moreover, creative writing has been found to boost resilience in students . If you want to enjoy the benefits of writing, it’s important to develop the habit of jotting down your thoughts and words. Doing so can help you overcome writer’s block.

Creative writing is so powerful that it’s used in prisons to give inmates a chance to express themselves in programs like PEN America . “By providing resources, mentorship, and audiences outside the walls, we help these writers to join and enrich the broader literary community.”

Creative writing is a skill that can be learned and practiced like any other. Techniques such as ABDCE structure, 1st or 3rd person point of view, “show don’t tell”, dialogues, and tropes can be easily learned through the online courses in this guide.

  • Together, they account for over 1M enrollments
  • Skillshare, with 2 courses, is the most featured provider
  • The single most popular course has nearly 400k enrollments
  • Three courses are entirely free or free-to-audit.

Best Fantasy And Short-Stories Writing Lessons For Beginners (Brandon Sanderson)

Besides being an awesome writer, Sanderson is an instructor with a very unique talent for keeping us engaged. He has also made available a full course in creative writing on YouTube , originally presented at Brigham Young University, which includes the most crucial tools for any beginner or even experienced writers. The course is comprehensive and rich in content, with great sound and video quality.

Each video discusses a specific tool or technique, so you can easily select the theme you want to explore next or watch it all in sequence. It’s up to you. I recommend you take your time, watch one video at a time and experiment with each concept, or even better, find a writing buddy or form a group to practice writing together.

What you’ll learn:

  • Plot construction, character development, and engaging storytelling
  • Techniques for crafting immersive worlds and believable viewpoints
  • Insights into the publishing industry, tailored for emerging writers
  • Strategies for writing compelling short stories and leveraging them for larger projects.
“Very informative! I’m a beginner writer looking to study writing for video games, and this class gave me a lot of helpful tools to start understanding how stories work/how to organize my ideas! Will definitely be returning to some of these lectures in the future for guidance 👍” – Paige Webster
Brigham Young University
Youtube
Brandon Sanderson
Beginner
15 hours
1.8M
5/5 (6 reviews)
None

Best University-level Creative Writing Course (Wesleyan University)

u of i creative writing

Creative Writing by Wesleyan University is a specialization for those looking for a way to improve their writing structure, scene and character creations and finding your style. Each course includes writing practice (for paying learners) and insightful interviews. It’s worth your time and effort if you are a disorganized writer like myself.

  • Techniques for crafting a bracing story with memorable characters and an interesting setting
  • How to employ a fresh descriptive style in your writing
  • Skills for analyzing and constructively evaluating peer writing
  • The ability to refine your writing, critique writing in general, and draw inspiration from existing literature
  • The process of drafting, rewriting, and completing an original story in the genre of your choosing.

It should be noted that the peer-grading system often lacks depth. However, the assignments are well-crafted and can be easily evaluated with minimal effort, providing some insights from other participants in the form of feedback or inspiration from their submissions.

“Great information about plot and scene structure. The information about revision was entirely new to me – thank you! The exercises were good and difficult in a good way that helped me hone my writing.” – Laura B, Coursera learner
Wesleyan University
Coursera
Brando Skyhorse, Amity Gaige, Amy Bloom and Salvatore Scibona
Beginner
40 hours
126K
4.7 (5K)
Yes, paid

Best Course to Find Your Voice (Neil Gaiman)

Neil Gaiman is currently one the most prolific writers I know of: he’s written books , comics , movies and even TV shows . Even if you’re not a fan of his style, there is definitely something you can learn from him.

In Neil Gaiman Teaches The Art Of Storytelling you will discover Neil’s philosophy on what drives a story and learn to unlock new stories within yourself.

While MasterClass doesn’t sell single courses, a subscription provides access to their entire library, including other writing courses like Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing , Dan Brown Teaches Writing Thrillers , Malcolm Gladwell Teaches Writing , and James Patterson Teaches Writing . If you are considering the purchase, you should definitely enjoy the rest of their catalog.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Discover and develop your unique writing voice
  • Generate and develop original ideas
  • Create dynamic, well-rounded characters that come to life on the page.

This course includes a 94-page workbook that includes assignments and supplemental material.

MasterClass
Neil Gaiman
Beginner
4-5 hours worth of lectures
Paid Certificate Available

Best Practical Writing Course With Support (Trace Crawford)

u of i creative writing

I love it when a passionate teacher like Trace Crawford puts the effort into creating a comprehensive curriculum. COMPLETE Creative Writing – All Genres is a 12-hour course with 145 downloadable resources. In this course, you will learn how to write engaging fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction, helping you become the successful writer you want to be.

  • The four genres of creative writing: fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction
  • How to discover, refine, and share your unique writing voice
  • A series of authentic writing assignments designed to target the skills you need to develop
  • Writing techniques, literary devices, and specialized skills to enhance your writing
  • Opportunities for publishing, podcasts, and how to create a professional creative writing portfolio
  • Discover multiple public outlets to share your writing with others as you gain confidence and experience success in your writing ability.

This is a practical creative writing course that includes assignments reviewed by the instructor, though response time may vary.

“The short snippets of theory in combination with the short assignments suits my learning style. I don’t remember the last time I’ve written anything creative, but this course gave me the incentive to set some foundation and its actually quite enjoyable if you stick to it.” – Nikolaos-Stylianos Z., Udemy learner
Udemy
Trace Crawford
Beginner
12 hours
37 quizzes and  writing practice
31K
4.7 (3.9K)
Available, paid

Best Course to Overcome Writer’s Block: 10-Day Journaling Challenge (Emily Gould)

u of i creative writing

I couldn’t resist adding Creative Writing for All: A 10-Day Journaling Challenge to this guide. Emily Gould is a delightful instructor, and her approach to inviting you to participate in the challenge is impossible to decline. It’s the perfect course to overcome writer’s block, which is exactly what she proposes. In this 10-day creative writing challenge, filled with inspiring examples, observation prompts, and clever revision tricks, writers and enthusiasts will be able to express their creativity in a personal and artful way.

This course is the shortest one on the list, and it’s more about the challenge of keeping a journal. If you decide to subscribe to Skillshare, you can also enjoy their entire library of courses. In addition to the other two recommended courses on this list, you can also check out these other Skillshare courses: Writing Suspense: How to Write Stories That Thrill in Any Genre and The Writer’s Toolkit: 6 Steps to a Successful Writing Habit .

Skillshare
Emily Gould
Beginner
26 min
58K
99% (1K)
Available, paid

Best Course to Create Fiction From Personal Experience (Shaun Levin)

u of i creative writing

Shaun’s approach to writing in Short Story Writing: Create Fiction from Personal Experience is an unusual one. It draws from your personal experience to create a compelling fictional story. I can say from experience that this technique will help you write with more depth and authenticity. Every time we bring our own life to the story, it becomes alive, believable and relatable. In a way, all fictional stories are based on the author’s life.

This course will help you with techniques and a series of practical exercises to start writing your scenes from a more philosophical point of view, creating compelling stories. You’ll learn how to delve into your imagination to find everything you’ll need to become a prolific writer, no matter where you are.

By the end of the course, you will have a final project that will receive feedback from Shaun and other learners as well. Actually, if you want to check it out, in the course page on Domestika you can open the submitted projects and read the comments.

Shaun’s other courses: Creative Writing for Beginners: Bringing Your Story to Life .

“A practical course. Shaun Levin talks about theory but also demonstrates his process, which was invaluable. The exercises got my creative juices flowing. Thinking about doing his other course in the future.” – Maya Dicheva
Domestika
Shaun Levin
Beginner
2 hours
30K
99% (764)
Available, paid

Best Course to Make Writing Less Stressful with Best Practices (Jennie Nash)

u of i creative writing

If you struggle to start or get stuck in your writing, Write Your Book: Start Strong and Get It Done can help. With good advice and emotional support, you’ll learn techniques to make writing less stressful. The accompanying workbook guides you to think methodically by asking the right questions to keep you focused on your story and not chasing your own tail.

In this class, you’ll learn how to:

  • Design every element of your novel or memoir, including the protagonist, plot, story structure and a project success plan
  • Define your narrator’s voice
  • Determine where your story begins and where it ends
  • Decide what point you’re making about human nature
  • Make sure you’re giving your ideal reader exactly what they want
  • Gain the confidence you need to push past any doubts and finish your book.

This course is more of a masterclass, so there are no assignments included but it teaches good practices and provides a very useful workbook.

CreativeLive
Jennie Nash
Beginner
5-6 hours
18.8K
100% (29)
None

Best Course to Create A Compelling Story (Lisa Cron)

u of i creative writing

Writing: The Craft of Story is a series of well-produced lectures covering the basic building blocks of a story. Taught by author Lisa Cron, you will learn how to create compelling stories based on the way the brain responds to storytelling. This course emphasizes the importance of capturing the reader’s attention through techniques such as suspense, exploring the protagonist’s inner issues and dreams, specificity, and cause and effect. Upon completion of the quizzes, you will receive a certificate for your LinkedIn profile. Additionally, you can watch all the videos without subscribing to the course.

“Learning the fundamentals of crafting a story was and is a fascinating experience. And yes, I would highly recommend writing to anyone interested in learning how to express the communication of feeling.” – Nicole Gillard, LinkedIn learner.
LinkedIn Learning
Lisa Cron
Beginner
1-2 hours worth of material
100K
4.7 (649)
Available, paid

Best Course to Write Personal Essays with Impact (Roxane Gay)

u of i creative writing

Discover the art of crafting powerful personal essays with best-selling author Roxane Gay in her course, Creative Writing: Crafting Personal Essays with Impact . Through her honest and thoughtful approach, Roxane will help you find your story, craft your truth, and write to make a difference.

This master class offers eight video lessons that are filled with practical guidance, actionable tactics, and example essays to guide you from the first idea to a final, publication-ready work.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Find a specific purpose for telling your story
  • Connect your work to larger conversations and timely themes
  • Conduct crucial research to support your work
  • Navigate personal memories to write your truth
  • Write and revise your final work, and submit your work for publication.

Additionally, the class provides a downloadable worksheet to support your ongoing creative nonfiction writing practice, as well as links to additional resources.

If you enjoy creative nonfiction writing, you might consider this course that’s also on Skillshare: Creative Nonfiction: Write Truth with Style (Skillshare Original) by Susan Orlean

Skillshare
Roxane Gay
Beginner
1 hour
45K
100% (1.2K)
Available, paid.

Best Course to Develop Your Ideas And Research for Characters (The Open University)

u of i creative writing

Start Writing Fiction explores the writing process, from journaling and idea development to reflection and editing. It features insights from established writers such as Louis de Bernières, Patricia Duncker, Alex Garland, Abdulrazak Gurnah, Tim Pears, Michèle Roberts, and Monique Roffey,  who share their approaches to research and turning events into plot. Led by Derek Neale, a novelist and short story writer, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of the writing rituals and techniques used by successful writers.

You’ll get to critique the work of other writers and receive feedback. This course is designed for individuals interested in starting or improving their fiction writing and does not require prior experience in the subject.

You’ll learn:

  • Creation of characters in fiction
  • Different sources and ways of presenting characters in stories
  • Reading as a writer
  • Writing practice including creativity, research, observation and editing
  • Peer reviewing, workshops and the importance of feedback.
“This course takes learners through many aspects of writing such as developing characters, observing and describing details, finding inspiration, writing and editing. It includes some peer reviews which can be varying in quality. I was lucky enough to have some of my writing reviewed by a reviewer who gave very helpful and positive feedback.” – Pat Bowden
The Open University
Future Learn
Derek Neale
Beginner
24 hours
389,780 learners
4.7 (923)
Available, paid

What’s Next

Scribophile is one of the largest online writing communities. You can get feedback on your writing and join writing groups. If you decide to join with a free plan, you need to collect points by reviewing other writers’ work before submitting your own work for review. They also developed some advanced tools for evaluating work and guidelines to make sure you give/receive feedback that is actually meaningful.

NaNoWriMo started out as a month-long challenge where you invite your friends and join other writers in your region, be it online in their forums or in person, to challenge yourself in writing your first draft. Nowadays, they run all-year round writing challenges (but November is still the biggest one in terms of participation). What is cool about it is you actually get to meet people in real life with various writing skills and backgrounds. I was able to make some great friends over the years and even met a few professional writers that decided to join our local group just to support us.

If you have any resources you would like to have added here, leave a comment below.

Class Central , a Tripadvisor for online education, has helped 60 million learners find their next course. We’ve been combing through online education for more than a decade to aggregate a catalog of 200,000 online courses and 200,000 reviews written by our users. And we’re online learners ourselves: combined, the Class Central team has completed over 400 online courses, including online degrees.

Trying to find “the best” can be daunting, even for those of us who live and breathe online courses. Here’s how I approached this task.

First, I combed through Class Central’s Catalog and the internet to find a variety of free and paid open courses, some with certificates. You don’t need to enroll in a university to learn about creative writing.

When choosing courses, I considered the following factors:

  • Renowned Institutions : I looked for recognized institutions in creative writing
  • Instructor experience : I sought instructors with extensive experience in creative writing and engaging presentation styles
  • Popularity : I checked numbers of enrollments and views to find popular courses
  • Course content : I examined courses that covered a range of topics and presentation styles, including the basics and more advanced topics. I watched some course videos to sample courses I hadn’t already taken
  • Learner reviews : I read learner reviews (when available) to get a sense of the quality of each course, leveraging the Class Central database with its thousands of course ratings and reviews written by our users as well as available course provider reviews.

Then, I defined the scope for these recommendations. A creative writing course can cover various topics, so I chose top courses from a range of sub-fields.

Ultimately, I used a combination of data and my own judgment to make these picks. I’m confident these recommendations will be a reliable way to learn about creative writing.

Best Courses Guides. Start Learning, Stop Procrastinating.

Fabio Dantas

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The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing is a three-year, terminal degree program that provides students with graduate study and professional training in the writing of fiction and poetry with our distinguished graduate faculty.

The primary goal of the MFA in Creative Writing is to give literary artists time and space to work on perfecting their art. Students in this program specialize in fiction or poetry, teach creative writing, and produce a book-length, publishable manuscript. Students will also gain extensive experience in literary editing and publishing while enrolled in the program.

For more information about MFA in Creative Writing, please visit the program page . 

Application Deadline: December 1, 12:00 noon CST (Fiction); December 15, 12:00 noon CST (Poetry)

Writing Beginner

What Is Creative Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 20 Examples)

Creative writing begins with a blank page and the courage to fill it with the stories only you can tell.

I face this intimidating blank page daily–and I have for the better part of 20+ years.

In this guide, you’ll learn all the ins and outs of creative writing with tons of examples.

What Is Creative Writing (Long Description)?

Creative Writing is the art of using words to express ideas and emotions in imaginative ways. It encompasses various forms including novels, poetry, and plays, focusing on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes.

Bright, colorful creative writer's desk with notebook and typewriter -- What Is Creative Writing

Table of Contents

Let’s expand on that definition a bit.

Creative writing is an art form that transcends traditional literature boundaries.

It includes professional, journalistic, academic, and technical writing. This type of writing emphasizes narrative craft, character development, and literary tropes. It also explores poetry and poetics traditions.

In essence, creative writing lets you express ideas and emotions uniquely and imaginatively.

It’s about the freedom to invent worlds, characters, and stories. These creations evoke a spectrum of emotions in readers.

Creative writing covers fiction, poetry, and everything in between.

It allows writers to express inner thoughts and feelings. Often, it reflects human experiences through a fabricated lens.

Types of Creative Writing

There are many types of creative writing that we need to explain.

Some of the most common types:

  • Short stories
  • Screenplays
  • Flash fiction
  • Creative Nonfiction

Short Stories (The Brief Escape)

Short stories are like narrative treasures.

They are compact but impactful, telling a full story within a limited word count. These tales often focus on a single character or a crucial moment.

Short stories are known for their brevity.

They deliver emotion and insight in a concise yet powerful package. This format is ideal for exploring diverse genres, themes, and characters. It leaves a lasting impression on readers.

Example: Emma discovers an old photo of her smiling grandmother. It’s a rarity. Through flashbacks, Emma learns about her grandmother’s wartime love story. She comes to understand her grandmother’s resilience and the value of joy.

Novels (The Long Journey)

Novels are extensive explorations of character, plot, and setting.

They span thousands of words, giving writers the space to create entire worlds. Novels can weave complex stories across various themes and timelines.

The length of a novel allows for deep narrative and character development.

Readers get an immersive experience.

Example: Across the Divide tells of two siblings separated in childhood. They grow up in different cultures. Their reunion highlights the strength of family bonds, despite distance and differences.

Poetry (The Soul’s Language)

Poetry expresses ideas and emotions through rhythm, sound, and word beauty.

It distills emotions and thoughts into verses. Poetry often uses metaphors, similes, and figurative language to reach the reader’s heart and mind.

Poetry ranges from structured forms, like sonnets, to free verse.

The latter breaks away from traditional formats for more expressive thought.

Example: Whispers of Dawn is a poem collection capturing morning’s quiet moments. “First Light” personifies dawn as a painter. It brings colors of hope and renewal to the world.

Plays (The Dramatic Dialogue)

Plays are meant for performance. They bring characters and conflicts to life through dialogue and action.

This format uniquely explores human relationships and societal issues.

Playwrights face the challenge of conveying setting, emotion, and plot through dialogue and directions.

Example: Echoes of Tomorrow is set in a dystopian future. Memories can be bought and sold. It follows siblings on a quest to retrieve their stolen memories. They learn the cost of living in a world where the past has a price.

Screenplays (Cinema’s Blueprint)

Screenplays outline narratives for films and TV shows.

They require an understanding of visual storytelling, pacing, and dialogue. Screenplays must fit film production constraints.

Example: The Last Light is a screenplay for a sci-fi film. Humanity’s survivors on a dying Earth seek a new planet. The story focuses on spacecraft Argo’s crew as they face mission challenges and internal dynamics.

Memoirs (The Personal Journey)

Memoirs provide insight into an author’s life, focusing on personal experiences and emotional journeys.

They differ from autobiographies by concentrating on specific themes or events.

Memoirs invite readers into the author’s world.

They share lessons learned and hardships overcome.

Example: Under the Mango Tree is a memoir by Maria Gomez. It shares her childhood memories in rural Colombia. The mango tree in their yard symbolizes home, growth, and nostalgia. Maria reflects on her journey to a new life in America.

Flash Fiction (The Quick Twist)

Flash fiction tells stories in under 1,000 words.

It’s about crafting compelling narratives concisely. Each word in flash fiction must count, often leading to a twist.

This format captures life’s vivid moments, delivering quick, impactful insights.

Example: The Last Message features an astronaut’s final Earth message as her spacecraft drifts away. In 500 words, it explores isolation, hope, and the desire to connect against all odds.

Creative Nonfiction (The Factual Tale)

Creative nonfiction combines factual accuracy with creative storytelling.

This genre covers real events, people, and places with a twist. It uses descriptive language and narrative arcs to make true stories engaging.

Creative nonfiction includes biographies, essays, and travelogues.

Example: Echoes of Everest follows the author’s Mount Everest climb. It mixes factual details with personal reflections and the history of past climbers. The narrative captures the climb’s beauty and challenges, offering an immersive experience.

Fantasy (The World Beyond)

Fantasy transports readers to magical and mythical worlds.

It explores themes like good vs. evil and heroism in unreal settings. Fantasy requires careful world-building to create believable yet fantastic realms.

Example: The Crystal of Azmar tells of a young girl destined to save her world from darkness. She learns she’s the last sorceress in a forgotten lineage. Her journey involves mastering powers, forming alliances, and uncovering ancient kingdom myths.

Science Fiction (The Future Imagined)

Science fiction delves into futuristic and scientific themes.

It questions the impact of advancements on society and individuals.

Science fiction ranges from speculative to hard sci-fi, focusing on plausible futures.

Example: When the Stars Whisper is set in a future where humanity communicates with distant galaxies. It centers on a scientist who finds an alien message. This discovery prompts a deep look at humanity’s universe role and interstellar communication.

Watch this great video that explores the question, “What is creative writing?” and “How to get started?”:

What Are the 5 Cs of Creative Writing?

The 5 Cs of creative writing are fundamental pillars.

They guide writers to produce compelling and impactful work. These principles—Clarity, Coherence, Conciseness, Creativity, and Consistency—help craft stories that engage and entertain.

They also resonate deeply with readers. Let’s explore each of these critical components.

Clarity makes your writing understandable and accessible.

It involves choosing the right words and constructing clear sentences. Your narrative should be easy to follow.

In creative writing, clarity means conveying complex ideas in a digestible and enjoyable way.

Coherence ensures your writing flows logically.

It’s crucial for maintaining the reader’s interest. Characters should develop believably, and plots should progress logically. This makes the narrative feel cohesive.

Conciseness

Conciseness is about expressing ideas succinctly.

It’s being economical with words and avoiding redundancy. This principle helps maintain pace and tension, engaging readers throughout the story.

Creativity is the heart of creative writing.

It allows writers to invent new worlds and create memorable characters. Creativity involves originality and imagination. It’s seeing the world in unique ways and sharing that vision.

Consistency

Consistency maintains a uniform tone, style, and voice.

It means being faithful to the world you’ve created. Characters should act true to their development. This builds trust with readers, making your story immersive and believable.

Is Creative Writing Easy?

Creative writing is both rewarding and challenging.

Crafting stories from your imagination involves more than just words on a page. It requires discipline and a deep understanding of language and narrative structure.

Exploring complex characters and themes is also key.

Refining and revising your work is crucial for developing your voice.

The ease of creative writing varies. Some find the freedom of expression liberating.

Others struggle with writer’s block or plot development challenges. However, practice and feedback make creative writing more fulfilling.

What Does a Creative Writer Do?

A creative writer weaves narratives that entertain, enlighten, and inspire.

Writers explore both the world they create and the emotions they wish to evoke. Their tasks are diverse, involving more than just writing.

Creative writers develop ideas, research, and plan their stories.

They create characters and outline plots with attention to detail. Drafting and revising their work is a significant part of their process. They strive for the 5 Cs of compelling writing.

Writers engage with the literary community, seeking feedback and participating in workshops.

They may navigate the publishing world with agents and editors.

Creative writers are storytellers, craftsmen, and artists. They bring narratives to life, enriching our lives and expanding our imaginations.

How to Get Started With Creative Writing?

Embarking on a creative writing journey can feel like standing at the edge of a vast and mysterious forest.

The path is not always clear, but the adventure is calling.

Here’s how to take your first steps into the world of creative writing:

  • Find a time of day when your mind is most alert and creative.
  • Create a comfortable writing space free from distractions.
  • Use prompts to spark your imagination. They can be as simple as a word, a phrase, or an image.
  • Try writing for 15-20 minutes on a prompt without editing yourself. Let the ideas flow freely.
  • Reading is fuel for your writing. Explore various genres and styles.
  • Pay attention to how your favorite authors construct their sentences, develop characters, and build their worlds.
  • Don’t pressure yourself to write a novel right away. Begin with short stories or poems.
  • Small projects can help you hone your skills and boost your confidence.
  • Look for writing groups in your area or online. These communities offer support, feedback, and motivation.
  • Participating in workshops or classes can also provide valuable insights into your writing.
  • Understand that your first draft is just the beginning. Revising your work is where the real magic happens.
  • Be open to feedback and willing to rework your pieces.
  • Carry a notebook or digital recorder to jot down ideas, observations, and snippets of conversations.
  • These notes can be gold mines for future writing projects.

Final Thoughts: What Is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is an invitation to explore the unknown, to give voice to the silenced, and to celebrate the human spirit in all its forms.

Check out these creative writing tools (that I highly recommend):

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Read This Next:

  • What Is a Prompt in Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 200 Examples)
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  • How To Write A Fantasy Short Story (Ultimate Guide + Examples)
  • How To Write A Fantasy Romance Novel [21 Tips + Examples)

Course Catalog

Creative Writing, MFA

for the degree of Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing  

The Department of English offers a program of study in Creative Writing leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree. We welcome qualified students who wish to pursue their interests in fiction or poetry writing.

Graduate Degree Programs in Creative Writing

Admission A candidate for the MFA must spend at least four semesters or the equivalent in residence and complete at least 48 graduate hours. A full-time student typically completes this program in three academic years. Because applications for admission usually far exceed capacity, in recent years undergraduate grade point averages of students admitted have been significantly higher than the 3.0 (A = 4.0) required by the Graduate College.

All applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. Currently, a minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test (213 on the computer-based test) is required. Before a teaching assistantship involving classroom instruction or student consultation can be awarded to a non-native speaker of English, the applicant must take the Test of Spoken English (TSE) and achieve a score of 50 or higher (230 or higher before 1996).

The committee on admissions tends to select those applicants who have a solid array of undergraduate courses, strong recommendations, and above all a compelling writing sample: in short, a demonstration of an academic record that shows promise of a student capable of doing outstanding work in the field and earning a degree within a reasonable time. Preference is given to applicants who will be full-time students and active degree candidates. Applicants are considered only in spring for fall admission, and the deadline for submitting applications is December 1st.

Graduate Teaching Experience Experience in teaching is considered a vital part of the graduate program and all MFA candidates will have ample opportunity to teach undergraduate writing classes.

Financial Aid Financial aid is available to students in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and waivers of tuition and service fees. For complete information about the program, prospective applicants should consult our website .

for the degree of Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

For additional details and requirements refer to the department's program requirements and the Graduate College Handbook .  

Course List
Code Title Hours
Workshops16
Craft course in the appropriate genre4
Proseminar4
Approved Literature courses at the 400 and 500 level8
Electives8
Final Project8
Total Hours48

Other Requirements

Grad Other Degree Requirements Single Column
Requirement
Other requirements may overlap
Four semesters in residence
Teaching experience is required.
A public reading from the completed project is required for graduation
Minimum 500-level Hours Required Overall: 12
Minimum GPA: 3.0
  • Writing: Students will focus on creating works of high literary quality, honing their own distinctive personal writing styles. They will demonstrate the ability to revise drafts of their work in response to useful critical commentary. Upon completion of the program, students will understand how to create and polish individual shorter works; they will also understand how to compile and complete a book-length manuscript in the genre of their choice.
  • Craft discussion: Students will demonstrate an advanced ability to read, analyze, and discuss published works of literature—especially contemporary literature—from a craft perspective, identifying authorial choices and evaluating the effect of those choices on the work.
  • Literary Community and Profession: Students will demonstrate an understanding of the professional creative writing field with regards to literary journals, presses, and other iterations of the literary community, and will have participated in one or more professional activities, including editorial work on Ninth Letter, giving a public reading, attending a writers’ conference, etc.
  • Teaching: Students will learn best practices for leading creative writing workshops and mentoring beginning writers.

Department of English Head of Department: Bob Markley Director of Graduate Studies: Andrew Gaedtke Director of Creative Writing: Ted Sanders Associate Director of Creative Writing: John Dudek Creative Writing Program website 210 English Building, 608 South Wright Street, Urbana, IL 61801 (217) 333-3646 Program email

Overview of Graduate College Admissions & Requirements:  Graduate Admissions

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The Creative Writing minor is designed for aspiring writers of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, comics, and many other genres. Students learn to read others’ work and produce their own with attention to cultural and philosophical contexts. As they explore their individual interests in small, workshop-oriented classes, they also gain valuable career competencies and skills necessary to enter multiple graduate programs.

TOTAL MINOR HOURS: 15

Minor Requirements

Courses used to satisfy concentration requirements cannot be used to satisfy minor requirements. Any course appearing in both the Creatuve Writing Minor and the Creative Writing Concentration will be manually removed by your advisor.

Minor Core (9 Credit Hours)

  • CRW 3311 - Form and Technique of Poetry Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3111 - Form and Technique of Fiction Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3211 - Form and Technique of Nonfiction Credit(s): 3
  • Any major course listed in the Literary Studies concentration including a 2000-level LIT course

Any two of the following:

  • CRW 3112 - Fiction I Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3121 - Fiction II Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3212 - Nonfiction I Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3221 - Nonfiction II Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3312 - Poetry I Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 3321 - Poetry II Credit(s): 3
  • CRW 4930 - Selected Topics in Creative Writing Credit(s): 1-3

GPA Requirements

Grading requirement.

A grade of below C- will not be counted toward fulfilling the minor requirements.

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What is Cli-Fi? || Definition and Examples

"what is cli fi": an introduction to the oregon state guide to climate-change literature.

View the Full Series: The Oregon State Guide to English Literary Terms

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What is Cli-Fi? Transcript (English Subtitles Available in Video)

By Georgia Grace Wright and James Grey Lindgren

MA Students in Rhetoric & Composition

You may have heard the song “Feels Like Summer” by Childish Gambino on the radio, or maybe it’s even on your summer playlist, but have you ever really listened to the lyrics? On the surface, the music and vocals curate a relaxed vibe – one you could listen to in the car with your arm out the window or lying on a beach with your eyes closed. But when we pay attention to the words and use of repetition, we start to uncover the message beneath the atmosphere.

Consider your current associations with summer–maybe you think about beach days and no homework, warm weather and time to relax. Childish Gambino draws on this association to bring you into the mood of the song while simultaneously commenting on the warming climate and the ways that we distract ourselves from that crisis. A major portion of this song consists of repeating the line “it feels like summer,” which could be read as a good thing until it is repeated over and over again and you begin to wonder–why does it still feel like summer?

feels_like_summer_lyrics.jpg

Lyrics to Childish Gambino's Feels Like Summer

Then, as you are sitting with that question, the lyrics turn a bit darker, saying, “Every day gets hotter than the one before / Running out of water, it’s about to go down” and then, “Air that kill the bees that we depend upon / Birds were made for singing / Waking up to no sound.” Here, while maintaining the relaxing sound, we are forced to reckon with the fact that things are not as they should be–after all, if “birds were made for singing,” then why are we “waking up to no sound”? Childish Gambino answers this question by taking responsibility for the lack of change because we are all too distracted by the music. If we think about this song in this way, we could classify it as “cli-fi”.

Climate change is at the core of many global issues as rising tides and temperatures steadily impact our daily life. This monumental crisis has reshaped the way that we tell stories and become a massive theme in the modern arts—playing out in everything from full-length best-selling novels like Babara Kingsolver's Flight Behavior to short stories, many of which are freely available on sites like Grist where authors explore imagined presents and futures in the climate crisis. All of these could be considered “cli-fi,” but what makes something “cli-fi”?

A term coined by Dan Bloom as a short-form of Climate Fiction, cli-fi is a genre , which as you may recall from the Literary Term video “What is Genre?” refers to a classification of texts that share similar characters, settings, plots, or themes. The term cli-fi, you may have already guessed, borrows from its adjacent genre, Sci-fi, or Science Fiction . However, cli-fi differs from Science Fiction in a couple significant ways—for one, and this may be fairly intuitive, cli-fi must include the theme of climate change. Second, cli-fi imagined pasts, presents, and futures that build on reality –like Childish Gambino referring to birds no longer singing – and often serve as a kind of warning that catastrophic futures may be very possible. But if cli-fi only requires a few characteristics, can the genre even be narrowed down to one specific definition?

this_is_fine_meme_clifi.jpg

This is Fine Meme and Climate Change

The answer is yes. And no. And sometimes. Maybe. For some, cli-fi refers only to a subgenre of science fiction or literary fiction. Others expand the term to include all sorts of creative works. The truth is, cli-fi is an imperfect term for an expansive genre that could potentially include anything from narrative poetry to full-length novels to songs or even memes circulating on the internet. One could even argue that the “this is fine” meme, mentioned before in our “What is Irony?” video, of the dog surrounded by fire could be considered cli-fi because it symbolizes a message similar to “Feels Like Summer” – that the world is heating up and burning all around us, while we do nothing to try and change it.

For our purposes, we are taking a generative and expansive approach to cli-fi, one where it refers to a broad genre that often includes themes of human and nonhuman survival, environmental damage and sometimes justice, and humans’ relationship with the environment around them. We see dystopian near-futures caused by the failure of infrastructural design, utopian imaginings achieved through collective action, and the collective identity of humanity in a world that will never be the same. Narratives often center catastrophic climactic events like mass floods and deadly heatwaves, but they can also shed light on what Rob Nixon calls “slow violence” or the incremental changes to daily life in various parts of the world caused by a warming climate, like in “Feels like Summer” where Childish Gambino calls attention to the fact that summers are becoming longer and hotter.

slow_violence_clifi.jpg

Rob Nixon Slow Violence Quotation

Cli-fi stories carry in them a unique rhetorical power that utilizes the compelling nature of fictional narratives to educate and encourage conversations about climate change by provoking readers to consider the world around them in new, critical ways. By imagining potential realities, we allow ourselves to ask questions about how we want to live in the world. What kind of future do we want to have? How can we move toward that reality? 

In our upcoming new video series, we will explore the ways that formal literary devices are utilized and transformed within cli-fi. You can learn more about the monumental impact of setting in climate fiction, how narrative arcs are altered and reimagined, the ways that protagonists are collectivized, and a new way to understand the uncanny through our environment. Through this series, we hope to join forces with artists and thinkers around the world in pushing everyone to see past the distraction and hear the message behind the music, to change the world by first recognizing the problem and collectively finding our way to a better reality. 

Want to cite this?

MLA Citation: Wright, Georgia Grace and James Grey Lindgren. "What is ‘Cli-Fi’?" Oregon State Guide to Climate-Change Literature , edited by Rachael Garcia, 14 Jun. 2024, Oregon State University, https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-cli-fi-definition-and-examples. Accessed [insert date].

Interested in more video lessons? View the full series:

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COMMENTS

  1. The Creative Writing Major

    The undergraduate Creative Writing major at the University of Illinois, formerly known as the Rhetoric major, is one of the oldest of its kind in the country. Now in its seventh decade, the major combines small workshops (poetry, fiction, nonfiction) and a variety of literature courses. The result is a strong but flexible program of study that ...

  2. Creative Writing

    Associate Professor, Director of Creative Writing. [email protected]. David Wright. Professor. [email protected]. Department of English. 608 South Wright Street MC-718. Urbana, IL 61801 (217) 333-2391. Email: [email protected]. Instagram; Facebook; College of Liberal Arts & Sciences ...

  3. Creative Writing, BALAS

    Creative Writing, BALAS. General education: Students must complete the Campus General Education requirements. Minimum required coursework equates to 36 hours in CW and ENGL courses. Twelve hours of 300- or 400-level courses in the major must be taken on this campus, of which at least three (3) hours must be Creative Writing Courses CW 404 and ...

  4. Our MFA in Creative Writing

    The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing is a terminal degree awarded by the University of Illinois. Our three-year MFA program provides students with graduate study and professional training in the writing of fiction and poetry with our distinguished graduate faculty : Ángel García, Janice Harrington, Amy Hassinger, Christopher ...

  5. Major Detail

    As a Creative Writing major, you'll learn how to develop your own individual voice. You'll also learn to produce original works in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Coursework consists of creative writing classes, and classes in English, history, and culture. Small writing workshops that focus on giving and receiving feedback will ...

  6. Creative Writing Minor

    Contact Information. 123-867-5309 123 College St. Champaign, IL 61820. Creative Writing Minor. for the Undergraduate Minor in Creative Writing. The Creative Writing minor, administered by the Department of English's Creative Writing Program, is designed to augment majors from all over campus with a program of small workshops (poetry or ...

  7. Creative Writing (Iowa Writers' Workshop) < University of Iowa

    The Creative Writing Program (Iowa Writers' Workshop) is a world-renowned graduate program for fiction writers and poets. Founded in 1936, it was the first creative writing program in the United States to offer a degree, and it became a model for many contemporary writing programs. In addition to its Master of Fine Arts program, it also offers ...

  8. CW

    CW 455 Creative Writing Tutorial credit: 3 or 4 Hours. Personal direction in a writing project: fiction (novel or short stories), poetry or creative nonfiction. Frequency of conference to be determined by the type of project. 3 undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 undergraduate hours or 8 graduate hours.

  9. English: Creative Writing

    The U's Department of English is committed to developing well-rounded writers, with training in literature of multiple genres: students must complete courses in literary history and creative writing, in addition to workshops in writing fiction, poetry, or non-fiction.

  10. Writers Workshop

    The Writers Workshop provides free support to all writers in the campus community across all forms of academic and professional writing, at any stage of the writing process. We offer writing groups, writing-related presentations, and writing consultations where we provide feedback on essays, research papers, personal statements, cover letters ...

  11. English (B.A./B.S.)

    The B.A. allows you to earn a general English degree or select from four possible concentrations (18 credits of their total 45 for the major) in creative writing, linguistics, literature, or professional writing. The B.S. allows you to specialize in either Technical Writing or earn a general English degree; it is available either fully online ...

  12. Bachelor of Arts in English and Creative Writing

    In the English and Creative Writing major, you'll explore literature in all its forms—and apply what you discover to your own expression. You may write poetry, fiction, nonfiction, drama, or something totally unique. Maybe you've been writing for years, or you might dream of starting. No matter your background or your goals, in this popular ...

  13. Creative Writing Program

    The University of Washington English Department's Creative Writing Program offers a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing and a two-year Master of Fine Arts degrees in Poetry and Prose.. Founded in 1947 by Theodore Roethke, the Creative Writing Program's tradition of transformative workshops continues with our current faculty: David Bosworth, Nikki David Crouse, Rae Paris ...

  14. M.F.A. in Creative Writing

    The curriculum for M.F.A. students emphasizes creative writing and literary study. The city of Houston offers a vibrant, multi-cultural backdrop for studying creative writing at the University of Houston. With a dynamic visual and performing arts scene, the Houston metropolitan area supplies a wealth of aesthetic materials.

  15. Program for Writers

    Program for Writers. UIC offers a PhD in English with creative dissertation and also an MA in English with creative manuscript. The MA is considered preparation to enter an PhD program, either in literature or creative writing; or a degree to prepare a writer to enter jobs in publishing, public relations, high school or community college teaching, grant writing, corporate writing, and other ...

  16. Creative Writing

    Sleeping on the Couch Wasted Pages. The Program in Creative Writing takes a comprehensive approach to the study of contemporary literature, criticism, and theory from a writer's perspective, and provides rigorous training in the fundamental practices of creative writing. In our courses, students work with established poets and prose writers ...

  17. Best Creative Writing Degree Colleges in the U.S.

    Best Creative Writing colleges in the U.S. for 2024. Brown University offers 3 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 48 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 38 Bachelor's degrees, and 10 Master's degrees.

  18. The English Major: Creative Writing Option

    Students enrolled in the Creative Writing Concentration will complete a major consisting of 65 ENGL credits, at least 30 of which must be completed in residence at the University of Washington. A maximum of 20 credits in 200-level courses may count toward the English major, and may be used to fulfill the distribution requirements.

  19. Creative Writing Faculty

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  20. 10 Best Creative Writing Courses for 2024: Craft Authentic Stories

    15 hours. Best University-level Creative Writing Course (Wesleyan University) 5-6 hours. Best Course to Find Your Voice (Neil Gaiman) 4-5 hours. Best Practical Writing Course With Support (Trace Crawford) 12 hours. Best Course to Overcome Writer's Block: 10-Day Journaling Challenge (Emily Gould) 1-2 hours.

  21. MFA in Creative Writing

    Overview. The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing is a three-year, terminal degree program that provides students with graduate study and professional training in the writing of fiction and poetry with our distinguished graduate faculty. The primary goal of the MFA in Creative Writing is to give literary artists time and space to work ...

  22. What Is Creative Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 20 Examples)

    Creative writing is an art form that transcends traditional literature boundaries. It includes professional, journalistic, academic, and technical writing. This type of writing emphasizes narrative craft, character development, and literary tropes. It also explores poetry and poetics traditions.

  23. Creative Writing, MFA

    The Department of English offers a program of study in Creative Writing leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree. We welcome qualified students who wish to pursue their interests in fiction or poetry writing. Admission A candidate for the MFA must spend at least four semesters or the equivalent in residence and complete at least 48 graduate hours.

  24. Creative Writing Degree

    Develop your writing craft and from fiction and nonfiction to poetry and technical writing and under the guidance of award-winning, published authors in small workshop settings. The Creative Writing program offers students the opportunity to develop their skills for creative written expression. Workshops led by an internationally renowned ...

  25. Thesis and Dissertation

    Thesis and Dissertation - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University. Style Guide Overview MLA Guide APA Guide Chicago Guide OWL Exercises. Purdue OWL. Graduate Writing. Thesis & Dissertation.

  26. Best Writing Courses Online with Certificates [2024]

    4.8. (4.6K reviews) Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks. and editing: word choice and word order. in english at university. in the sciences. skills. professional email and memos (project- centered course) and editing: structure and organization.

  27. Program: Creative Writing Minor

    The Creative Writing minor is designed for aspiring writers of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, comics, and many other genres. Students learn to read others' work and produce their own with attention to cultural and philosophical contexts. As they explore their individual interests in small, workshop-oriented classes, they also gain ...

  28. What is Cli-Fi? || Definition and Examples

    For some, cli-fi refers only to a subgenre of science fiction or literary fiction. Others expand the term to include all sorts of creative works. The truth is, cli-fi is an imperfect term for an expansive genre that could potentially include anything from narrative poetry to full-length novels to songs or even memes circulating on the internet ...

  29. Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

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

  30. Rethinking 'Seinfeld' With AI Would Alter The Iconic Show's Fabric

    AI has already made inroads into creative writing, as evidenced by experiments in fan fiction and novel writing. For instance, the AI program known as ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, has ...