A creative writing degree can help you develop your craft by studying writing techniques and genres. This type of program can help prepare students to enter a career in writing, editing, or communications.
Individuals who want to expand upon their writing and creative thinking skills could benefit from earning a creative writing bachelor’s degree online.
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You often have the opportunity to receive feedback on your literary works and to compile your writing projects into a portfolio for your resume.
Online Bachelor’s in Creative Writing Degrees
An online bachelor’s degree in creative writing is designed to help you learn about different types of writing and develop helpful techniques for a writing career. Students may have the opportunity to take writing workshops with professors who are established, authors or writers.
The first portion of an online degree in creative writing typically includes general education coursework. The other half is dedicated to core and elective writing and literature coursework. Creative writing core and elective coursework can help you hone your writing skills and develop storytelling techniques.
Subjects typically explored in a creative writing bachelor’s program include:
- Fiction and nonfiction writing
- Poetry
- Publishing
- Literary theory
- Digital media writing
Students might be able to choose a concentration to focus on a certain type of writing. For example, if you’re interested in becoming a fiction writer, you might choose coursework that focuses on storytelling and literary analysis.
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A creative writing degree could be useful if you’re passionate about pursuing a writing career. There are a number of career paths graduates may pursue, such as:
- Copywriter
- Author
- Poet
- Technical Writer
- Editor
Some writers may work for digital media platforms, magazines, publishers, or newspapers. They can also work in film and theater as screenwriters and playwrights. Literary analysis and critical thinking skills developed in this program could be useful for editor careers as well.
Writing Careers and Salaries
There are several career paths you may consider upon receiving a creative writing bachelor’s degree. Job availability and salaries can differ depending on your amount of experience, your level of education, and your geographic location.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some potential careers in writing and related communication fields.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Public Relations Managers | $125,780 |
| Fundraising Managers | $100,810 |
| Technical Writers | $78,060 |
| Writers and Authors | $69,510 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | $63,920 |
| Editors | $63,350 |
| Public Relations Specialists | $62,800 |
| High School Teachers | $61,820 |
| Fundraisers | $60,660 |
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | $48,370 |
Writers may be self-employed or work for professional, technical, or scientific services. Writing jobs can also be found in nonprofit organizations or other types of businesses and educational services. A creative writing degree can also be applied to various communications careers.
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Students can develop strong verbal and written communication skills that are useful for jobs in media and communications. For instance, some graduates go on to work as public relations specialists or reporters.
Creative Writing Bachelor’s Curriculum & Courses
Core coursework in creative writing major introduces students to basic concepts and principles of creative writing, literary analysis, and storytelling.
Here are some examples of courses typically offered in a creative writing bachelor’s program:
- Introduction to Creative Writing: You’re introduced to the craft of creative writing, such as point of view, setting, conflict, and characterization.
- Writing with Digital Media: This course concentrates on the practices of writing and publishing for digital media, and it may help you develop a digital writing portfolio.
- Nonfiction Writing Workshop: This is a workshop writing course that teaches you about the skills and principles used to write and structure nonfiction written works.
- Popular and Contemporary Fiction: In this course, you’ll study various popular and contemporary fiction works and learn how books are crafted to interest readers.
- Fiction Writing Workshop: This is a workshop-style course that teaches you about the key principles of fiction writing and how to give and receive writing critiques.
- Poetry Writing Workshop: You have the opportunity to experiment with poetry writing in traditional and nontraditional forms as well as give and receive critique from peers.
- Screenwriting: Key principles of screenwriting are introduced in this course, including subplots, main storylines, script writing, and revisions.
- Introduction to Literary Studies: You’ll explore different genres of literature, literature history, and methods of literary critical analysis.
- Narrative Techniques: Methods and techniques for fiction and nonfiction writing are explored in this course.
- Genre Writing Workshop: This course introduces you to different styles of genre writing—such as science fiction, fantasy, and horror—and allows you to produce original pieces.
You may have the option to enroll in elective courses that allow you to explore your specific writing interests.
Online Creative Writing Degree Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for an online creative writing bachelor’s degree can vary between schools and programs. You can request information from the admissions offices of prospective schools for specific requirements, but these are some common ones:
- Personal statement
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
- Letters of recommendation
- High school transcripts
When pursuing admission into a creative writing program, your personal statement offers an opportunity for you to showcase your writing skills. SAT or ACT scores may be requested as part of the application process, but not all schools require them.
Online Creative Writing Degrees Accreditation
When researching prospective schools, it’s essential to consider a school’s accreditation status. Colleges and universities can apply for regional accreditation to assure students that the school’s programs, faculty, resources, and facilities meet quality standards.
Attending an accredited institution or program provides credibility to your education. Future employers may also consider the accreditation status of an educational institution when reviewing job candidates. The accreditation status of your school can also affect your eligibility for federal financial aid and future education opportunities.
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You can look up the accreditation statuses of postsecondary institutions on the US Department of Education’s website.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Attending college, whether in-person or online, can be costly. Luckily, there are several financial assistance options that can help qualifying students cut down upfront education costs.
For starters, you can apply for state and federal financial aid for income-based assistance. State financial aid eligibility requirements can vary depending on where you live. Federal aid is determined by several factors, such as household income and enrollment status. You can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out if you’re eligible for federal assistance.
Scholarships are another way students receive money to help pay for college. Scholarships can be based on income or other factors, such as academic or athletic merit. While some scholarships have specific criteria to apply, others can be available to virtually any student. Applying for as many scholarships as you can increase your possibility of receiving a monetary award.
What Is a Creative Writing Bachelors Degree?
A creative writing bachelors degree is an undergraduate program that helps you develop writing and communication skills and fosters self-expression.
Core classes are group-oriented and often operate as a workshop-style environment. Students have the opportunity to create various types of written works and share them with peers to receive feedback. You may explore different writing genres and forms of literature to develop a deeper understanding of writing methods and techniques.
A creative writing program is often designed to help prepare students for a career in writing or media and communications.
Is Creative Writing a Good Major?
Yes, creative writing is a good major for many undergraduate students. This type of program can help you develop a number of versatile skills, such as creative thinking, storytelling, networking, and communication. These skill sets can be applied to various industries, and career possibilities can vary depending on your interests.
For instance, aspiring authors and writers may benefit from a creative writing program. Your newfound skills and knowledge could also be applied to editing and proofreading, public relations, marketing, or similar fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly salary of writers and authors is $69,510. Salaries can differ depending on many factors, such as the industry you work in and your level of experience.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Creative Writing?
A creative writing degree can help prepare you for a career in writing, editing, or other media and communications jobs. Related occupations to writers and authors include editors, news analysts, reporters, journalists, social media writers, and public relations specialists.
In a creative writing degree program, you may develop skills on how to structure certain documents, conduct research, and write clear and captivating stories. If you’re interested in research and storytelling, you might consider a career as a fiction writer, journalist, or reporter.
Professionals interested in writing complex documents, such as instruction manuals or guides, may consider a technical writing job.
Some graduates of creative writing degree undergrad programs go on to earn an on-campus or online masters in creative writing.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor in Creative Writing Degree Online?
A traditional, 16-week bachelor’s program takes 4 years to complete if you’re enrolled full-time. Part-time enrollment in a traditional program can take longer.
The minimum credit requirement for most traditional bachelor’s programs is 120 credits. You may complete a 120-credit program in less time if you take extra credits each semester. If you follow an 8-week semester schedule and stay enrolled year-round, you may be able to finish in less time.
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Some colleges and universities offer online accelerated programs to students. This format might enable you to complete your degree in less than 4 years.
What’s the Difference Between a BA vs. BS in Creative Writing Degree?
Schools may offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing. While both types of degree programs will include courses on creative writing, the overall programs will have different focuses.
| BA in Creative Writing | BS in Creative Writing |
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A BA in Creative Writing explores subjects across the arts and humanities, while a BS in Creative Writing focuses more on research and technical subjects, such as math and science.
What’s the Difference Between a Technical Writing vs. Creative Writing Major?
Creative writing and technical writing are two types of writing that involve different skills and processes. Here are some key differences between creative and technical writing.
| Major in Creative Writing | Major in Technical Writing |
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A creative writing major can help students find their writing voice and develop their craft in one or more genres. Technical writing involves learning how to write and structure documents used by businesses or organizations, such as instruction manuals and guides.
Is a Bachelors in Creative Writing Online Degree Worth It?
Yes, a bachelors in creative writing online degree is worth it for many professionals. It can allow you to explore and develop storytelling techniques and writing skills that are used in writing and communications careers.
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4% job growth for writers and authors over the next ten years. Employment for media and communications careers overall is expected to grow by 6% over the same period. You might consider a creative writing degree if you enjoy telling stories, being imaginative, and communicating through the written word.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Creative Writing Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arkansas Tech University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. Many graduates pursue graduate studies or careers as teachers, lawyers, editors, or communications managers. The curriculum can be customized with electives covering screenwriting, travel writing, comedy, and historical fiction. Students can attend classes in-person, online, or using a blend of the two formats.
Arkansas Tech University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado Christian University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. This program is made distinctive by its seasoned professors, Christ-centered approach, and flexible online learning format. The program requires the completion of 120 credit hours. Graduates often pursue careers as technical writers, copy editors, authors, journalists, teachers, marketing specialists, or public relations coordinators.
Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Eastern Oregon University offers a 100% online program for a Bachelor’s in English and Writing. The degree may be completed as a Bachelor of Arts with foreign language requirements or as a Bachelor of Science with additional science requirements. The program requires the completion of 180 credits. The curriculum covers key concepts like literature, grammar, creative writing, and linguistics.
Eastern Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The Bachelor of Science in English and Writing program at Liberty University offers a concentration in Creative Writing. This program may be an ideal fit for students wanting to become compelling storytellers and dynamic communicators. The program’s 120 required credits can typically be completed in 3.5 years. The school allows up to 90 qualifying credits to be transferred in from outside institutions.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Maharishi International University offers a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Creative Writing with specialty tracks in Poetry, Fiction, and Non-Fiction. The curriculum combines theoretical English knowledge delivered via lectures with technical skills honed with peers in writing workshops. This program can be completed either fully in-person or on-campus.
MIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Maryville University offers a Bachelor of Arts in English. The curriculum aims to teach students how to analyze literature, communicate effectively, foster creativity, and become storytellers. The program is housed entirely online and requires the completion of 128 credit hours. Potential courses include History of Literary Criticism, World Mythology, and Writing Across the Disciplines.
Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Middle Georgia State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in English. This program may be a good fit for students interested in gaining broadly applicable reading, critical thinking, and writing skills. Classes meet 100% online, and each one is 8 to 15 weeks long. The program offers concentrations in Professional Writing, Creative Writing, and Generalist English.
Middle Georgia State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Nicholls State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in English with concentrations in Creative Writing, Literary Studies, Film Studies, and Writing and Rhetoric. Students can further customize their curriculum by choosing electives that best suit their personal interests and professional goals. All classes meet fully online.
Nicholls State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Regent University offers a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in Writing. Graduates can pursue diverse roles in fields like journalism, public relations, marketing, publishing, and corporate communications. Classes can be attended online or on campus. On average, the program’s 120 required credit hours can be completed in 4 years of full-time study.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing with specialties in Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and Screenwriting. The curriculum covers topics like literary analysis, storytelling elements, literary forms, and sentence structure and style. Up to 90 qualifying credits from outside institutions may be transferred in toward the program’s 120 required credits.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc.
The Bachelor of Arts in English program at Southwest Minnesota State University offers a concentration in Creative Writing. This program boasts a faculty of published writers and a curriculum that may be tailored to students’ interests. The program utilizes a fully online learning format. Common careers for graduates include teaching, journalism, editing, public relations, and communications.
Southwest Minnesota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Spalding University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. This program equally emphasizes collaboration, feedback, community, and exploration of craft.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. The curriculum blends general education courses in humanities, social and natural sciences, mathematics, and religious studies with major-specific courses. Major-specific courses typically include studies in literature and linguistics and creative writing workshops.
Spalding University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Central Florida offers a 100% online program for a Bachelor of Arts in English with a specialization in Creative Writing. This program may be an excellent next step for students who want to expand their literary knowledge and hone their craft. This program requires the completion of 120 credit hours. Graduates often pursue careers as copywriters, educators, publishers, journalists, or playwrights.
The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Colorado—Denver offers a Bachelor of Arts in English Writing, Rhetoric, and Technology. Potential courses in the program include Business Writing, Multimedia Composition, Fiction Workshop, and Grammar, Rhetoric, and Style. The program’s 120 required credit hours can typically be completed in 4 years of full-time study. All classes utilize a fully online learning model.
The University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Pennsylvania offers a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Creative Writing. This program is designed for students who want to gain critical thinking skills, collaborate with other writers, and unlock their creativity. Classes are held asynchronously online, and each one is 8 weeks long. The degree requirements can typically be completed in 4 years.
The University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Getting Your Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing Online
Bachelor of Creative Writing online degrees can offer you a flexible way to pursue your passion for writing. You can learn how to write and structure certain types of written works, such as fictional stories, memoirs, film scripts, or poetry.
Students often graduate with a writing portfolio that they’ve compiled from various courses throughout the program. Communication, critical thinking, and research are just a few of the versatile skills you can learn in a creative writing program.
You can take the first step toward earning your degree today by researching accredited online English degrees in creative writing that fit your interests and aspirations.
