literature vs creative writing degree

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What’s the difference: english vs. creative writing.

In high school your favorite class was English, you loved to write, and you loved to read.  Now it’s time for college and your deciding which of our top Bachelor’s in English or Creative Writing degrees is best for you.  But the only problem is that your not quite sure exactly what the difference is between a Bachelor of Arts in English or a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing.  We decided to take the time to answer the question: What’s the different between a Bachelor’s of English and a Bachelor’s of Creative Writing.

Bachelor’s of English

As a student studying for a Bachelor of Arts in English degree, you will primarily be working with a variety of different types of literature.  English majors deal in the close reading, analysis, and interpretation of literature.  Students who are studying a Bachelor of English will more often than not be asked to critically think about and dissect works of literature.  If you were a student who enjoyed reading different types of books and stories in high school, a Bachelor’s of English will be right up your alley.  Through this type of program, students will develop soft skills including critical thinking, critical analysis, communication, and an appreciation and understanding of culture.  Typically, English majors will not be asked to create original works very often.

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Bachelor’s of creative writing.

By pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing, students will be more concerned with the generation of writing.  Students will study works of literature but from the perspective of learning the craft of writing as to apply different techniques of the trade to their own writing.  Creative Writing majors will be tasked with writing a great deal of different pieces throughout their studies.  They will focus on honing their prose and their grammar.  In these programs, students will experiment with a variety of different genres and types of literature in order to get a feel for and find which is best for them.  Those in this type of degree program will find that most of their time is spent writing versus reading.  However, a large part of this program is learning to critique and review the works of your peers.

So what’s the difference?

Whether your choosing to study a Bachelor of Arts in English or a Bachelor of Arts in Creative writing, you will be following a degree program that is quite similar to one another save for a few nuances.  Those who choose to study English will be focused more on the study of existing literature.  They will learn to analyze, interpret, and understand a variety of different types of writings.  Those who choose to pursue a Creative Writing degree will be focused more on the generation of new literature.  They will still read and study existing works, but a large amount of the curriculum will focus on the development of one’s own writing ability.

Bottom line:

A Bachelor’s of English and a Bachelor’s of Creative Writing are like two different sides of the same coin. By pursuing either of these degrees, you will gain a skillset of interpreting, analyzing, and writing literature.  The main difference is whether your ambition lies in the academic pursuit of studying literature or the creative pursuit of producing literature.

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Creative Writing Vs. Literature

Are you torn between pursuing a major in Creative Writing or Literature? It’s time to shed some light on this eternal debate.

In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these two majors, exploring their curriculum, coursework, and career prospects. Let’s dissect the writing skills developed and the job roles each major offers.

Discover the similarities and differences between Creative Writing and Literature programs, and gain insights into the factors that can help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Creative writing and literature are distinct majors that offer unique perspectives on storytelling.
• Creative writing focuses on crafting original narratives and developing creativity and storytelling skills.
• Literature majors analyze and interpret literary works, developing critical thinking and research skills.
• Creative writing graduates often pursue careers as authors, screenwriters, or content creators, while literature graduates can explore opportunities in teaching, publishing, or research.

Overview of the two majors: Creative Writing and Literature

Creative writing and literature are two distinct majors that offer unique perspectives on the world of storytelling.

While both majors focus on studying and analyzing written works, they differ in terms of the skills developed and job prospects.

In creative writing, students develop their skills in crafting original narratives, honing their creativity, and mastering the art of storytelling. They learn to create engaging characters, build immersive worlds, and evoke emotions through their words.

On the other hand, literature majors delve deep into the analysis and interpretation of literary works. They develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of literary traditions and cultural contexts.

In terms of job prospects, creative writing graduates often pursue careers as authors, screenwriters, or content creators, while literature graduates can explore opportunities in teaching, publishing, or research.

Overview of the curriculum and requirements of the two majors

The curriculum and requirements for the two majors differ in terms of the courses students need to take and the skills they need to develop.

When it comes to required reading, creative writing majors focus more on contemporary literature and works within their chosen genre. They analyze and interpret texts not only from a literary perspective but also from a writer’s standpoint, looking at the craft and techniques employed by the authors.

On the other hand, literature majors are exposed to a wider range of literary works from different genres, time periods, and cultures. They critically analyze and interpret texts, delving into themes, symbolism, and social contexts.

Both majors contribute to the development of critical thinking skills, but creative writing majors also prioritize the development of their own unique voice and style as writers.

Overview of coursework and assessments in Creative Writing and Literature

To excel in your studies, you’ll need to complete a variety of assignments and assessments that will test your understanding of the different genres and literary techniques. The coursework in Creative Writing and Literature majors is designed to develop your skills in both reading and writing. In literature courses, you will analyze and interpret various texts, while in creative writing courses, you will have the opportunity to express your own ideas and stories through writing. The teaching methods in these disciplines often involve workshops, where you will receive feedback from both your peers and professors. Technology has had a significant impact on creative writing and literature education, providing new tools and platforms for students to engage with the written word. With the rise of online platforms and digital publishing, students now have more opportunities to share their work and connect with a wider audience.

Comparison of Writing Skills Developed

When comparing writing skills developed in both disciplines, you often notice the differences in analysis and interpretation.

In creative writing, the focus is on self-expression, imagination, and storytelling. Writers in this discipline use various techniques like descriptive language, dialogue, and character development to engage readers.

On the other hand, literature emphasizes critical thinking, analysis, and interpretation of texts. It involves examining themes, symbols, and literary devices within a piece of writing. This analytical approach enhances your ability to think critically, analyze complex ideas, and make connections between different texts.

Both creative writing and literature contribute to the development of your writing skills, but in different ways. Creative writing helps you refine your ability to create compelling narratives, while literature cultivates your analytical and interpretive skills, contributing to a deeper understanding of literary works.

Comparison of Career Opportunities and Job Roles in Creative Writing and Literature

Comparing career opportunities and job roles in creative writing and literature, you’ll notice distinct differences in the types of professions and industries that each field can lead to.

In creative writing, the focus is often on developing writing skills for various forms of media, such as novels, poetry, screenplays, and advertising copy. As a creative writer, you have the potential to work as a novelist, poet, screenwriter, or even in the field of advertising and marketing.

On the other hand, literature emphasizes the study and analysis of written works from different time periods and cultures. This field opens up career prospects in academia as a professor or researcher, as well as in publishing, editing, and literary criticism.

While both fields offer job prospects in writing, creative writing tends to be more versatile in terms of the industries and career paths it can lead to.

Comparison of Salary Potential in Creative Writing and Literature

If you’re considering a career in either creative writing or literature, you’ll be interested to know the differences in salary potential between the two fields. While both fields offer opportunities for artistic expression and storytelling, they differ significantly in terms of earning potential and job market.

Here are four key points to consider:

• Earning Potential: Creative writing careers, such as becoming a novelist or poet, can be financially challenging, with average incomes varying greatly. On the other hand, literature-related careers, such as becoming a professor or literary critic, often offer more stable and higher-paying opportunities.
• Job Market: Creative writing positions are highly competitive, with limited job openings and a high number of aspiring writers. Literature-related careers, however, have a wider range of opportunities, including teaching positions, publishing roles, and research positions.
• Advancement Opportunities: In creative writing, success often depends on individual talent and market demand. Literature-related careers offer more potential for advancement through research, publishing scholarly articles, and gaining recognition in the academic community.
• Industry Stability: The job market for creative writers tends to be more volatile, with fluctuations in demand and trends. Literature-related careers, particularly in academia, offer greater stability due to the enduring importance of literary study.

Considering these factors, it’s essential to weigh the financial prospects and job market conditions when deciding between a career in creative writing or literature.

Similarities between Creative Writing and Literature Programs

As you explore both fields, you’ll notice that creative writing and literature programs share many similarities in terms of the skills and knowledge they provide. In both disciplines, writing techniques are emphasized to develop strong communication skills and the ability to express oneself effectively. Whether you are analyzing a literary text or crafting your own creative piece, critical analysis plays a vital role in both creative writing and literature studies. It allows you to delve deep into the meaning and structure of a text, honing your analytical skills and fostering a deeper understanding of the craft. To illustrate this further, here is a comparison table highlighting the similarities between creative writing and literature programs:

Difference between Creative Writing and Literature programs

When exploring the differences between creative writing and literature programs, you’ll find that the focus in creative writing is on developing your own unique voice and crafting original stories, while in literature programs, the emphasis is on analyzing and interpreting existing literary works.

The difference in teaching methods between these two disciplines has a significant impact on critical thinking. Here are four key points to consider:

• Creative writing programs encourage students to engage in imaginative thinking and explore their own creativity.
• Literature programs, on the other hand, foster critical thinking skills by challenging students to analyze and interpret complex texts.
• Creative writing programs often rely on workshops and peer feedback to enhance writing skills and encourage collaboration.
• Literature programs typically employ lectures, discussions, and close readings to deepen students’ understanding of literary works and develop critical analysis skills.

Factors to consider when choosing a major in Creative Writing vs. Literature

Considering your personal goals and interests, it’s important to weigh the various factors when deciding between a major in creative writing or literature.

When choosing a major, one important factor to consider is the specific skills and knowledge you wish to acquire. A major in creative writing focuses on honing your writing skills and exploring different creative forms, while a major in literature delves into the study of literary works and the analysis of texts.

Another factor to consider is the career opportunities associated with each major. A major in creative writing can open doors to careers in writing, editing, or publishing, while a major in literature can lead to careers in teaching, research, or literary criticism.

Lastly, the importance of experiential learning cannot be overlooked. Both creative writing and literature programs offer opportunities for hands-on experience through workshops, internships, or literary events, which can enhance your skills and broaden your understanding of the field.

Ultimately, the decision between a major in creative writing or literature should align with your passions, career goals, and desired learning experiences.

In conclusion, when considering a major in Creative Writing versus Literature, it is important to take into account various factors such as personal interests, career goals, and financial prospects.

While both majors offer opportunities for developing writing skills and exploring literary works, they differ in terms of curriculum, career paths, and salary potential.

Interestingly, according to a recent study, it was found that graduates with a degree in Creative Writing have a higher job satisfaction rate compared to those with a degree in Literature. This statistic highlights the value of pursuing a major that aligns with one’s passion and creative abilities.

Ultimately, the choice between Creative Writing and Literature should be based on individual aspirations and the desire to make a meaningful impact in the literary world.

Is a Creative Writing Degree Worth It? Let’s Get Into It.

In my day—by which I mean the early 2000s—a creative writing degree was considered one of the less practical academic pursuits, only a little more reasonable than a philosophy degree and a theatre arts degree (which, incidentally, is what I have).

These days, we have a bit more appreciation for what a person can do with some well-rounded creative writing skills. Such a person can write novels and poetry, sure, but they can also compose speeches for politicians, create written content to refresh a major corporation’s brand, and craft compelling ad copy.

There’s no question about it. Creative writing is a skill that earns , depending on how you use it.

But as is the case in a lot of modern industries, we’re starting to see that a degree doesn’t carry the weight it used to. And not having a degree isn’t always a barrier to entry.

So where does that leave aspiring writers? Should you bother to pursue a creative writing degree? If so, what should you be trying to get out of it?

We’re about to go over all the ins and outs of this educational path. We’ll talk about:

• The advantages of pursuing a degree in creative writing
• The different types of creative writing programs
• How to choose the program that’s best for you
• How creative writing is taught
• The career opportunities that come with a creative writing degree

Let’s start by looking at the perks.

Benefits of Pursuing a Creative Writing Degree

I’m about to list the four biggest benefits of attending a creative writing program. But I want to be clear about something:

Every one of these perks is something you can also get without a degree in creative writing.

I don’t say that to discourage you from taking this path. This might still be the best next step for your career. See, the biggest difference between getting a formal education and DIY-ing one isn’t what you learn but how you learn it.

That’s why we’re not just looking at what these four benefits are but also how you achieve them in a creative writing program.

Develop Strong Writing Skills

This is the reason most creative writing students pursue a degree. A good program offers a range of courses to help you sharpen your skills, faculty members who have real-life experience with the publishing industry, and access to visiting writers who can offer additional inspiration and insight .

Most programs incorporate writing workshops where you and your fellow students share and give feedback on your work, all under the guidance of a professor. Many universities also put out literary journals, giving students the opportunity to participate in the publishing process .

And of course, enrolling in a creative writing program ensures that you’ll be constantly writing , which is the best way to sharpen your skills.

Explore Diverse Genres and Styles

A self-guided learner has full authority to choose which areas of writing and literature they’ll explore. This is mostly a good thing, but the benefit of pursuing a creative writing degree is that your professors will see to it that you get familiar with a range of formats, genres , and styles .

This is especially true in undergraduate creative writing programs. Expect to read and analyze a wide spectrum of literature, from ancient epic poems to modern mainstream novels.

Build Your Network

This is such a notable perk that many of my friends who went to graduate school for screenwriting highlight this as the number one benefit.

Of course, you can build a network of peers and mentors without shelling out a ton of money for a formal education. But in a creative writing program, you spend all your time with other writers. You read each other’s work, struggle through the same coursework, and connect on a personal level.

Plus, if you happen to go to a school with a robust alumni network, you might find it easier to connect with those in your industry who share your alma mater after you graduate.

Widen Career Options

There are plenty of writers who don’t have a degree in creative writing—or don’t have a degree at all —who are making a decent living off of their words.

Nevertheless, a formal education can offer a wider range of options. It will give you a better shot with employers who place high value on college degrees or want to know that you have specialized knowledge regarding a specific type of writing.

And if you think you might enjoy teaching creative writing, a degree is a must. 

Types of Creative Writing Degrees

Intrigued? Then let’s explore your options more in depth.

There are several different types of creative writing degrees you can pursue, each with a slightly different focus and different opportunities once you leave school to practice your craft in the real world.

We’ll break this down one by one.

Undergraduate Degrees

It typically takes four years to complete an undergraduate creative writing program, though the timeline can be longer or shorter depending on your schedule and any credits you’ve already earned and transferred over.

We’re covering some general creative writing degrees available at the undergraduate level, but I highly recommend doing additional research. There are several more specific degrees that zero in on a particular aspect of writing, like a Bachelor of Arts in Communication or Journalism.

If you have a clear-cut vision for your writing career, start there and work backward to find the degree that makes sense for you. If you only know that you want to be writing one way or another, start by looking at these three options:

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing

When you pursue a Bachelor of Arts, you can expect to get a well-rounded education that includes writing instruction as well as a balanced emphasis on the sciences and humanities.

It’s a liberal arts degree, basically, and it’s the most common choice for students seeking a creative writing education. 

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Creative Writing

BFA programs are much rarer than BA programs, but it’s worth considering one if you want an education that puts a heavy emphasis on the “arts” part.

This type of program focuses less on sciences and humanities. It often includes hands-on writing workshops (more on those in a bit) and is favored by students who fully intend to become authors, playwrights, screenwriters, or poets.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Writing

If you think you might enjoy applying your creative writing skills to something more scientific or analytical, a BS might be the best option for you.

This is a popular option for students who see themselves getting into technical writing, cultural studies, or communication.

Graduate Degrees

Postgraduate education—or grad school, as the cool kids call it—comes after you’ve earned an undergraduate degree. The most common reasons to seek out a graduate degree in creative writing include:

• You think you might like to teach creative writing at the college level one day
• You earned an undergraduate degree in a different field and now you want to study writing
• You just really want to go deep on this subject

Just as with undergrad degrees, there are highly specific grad programs you can explore. Or you can dive into one of these:

Master of Arts (MA) in Creative Writing

While an MA program doesn’t have the humanities and sciences components of a BA program, it still maintains a balance between participating in the arts and observing them. 

That is to say, you’ll do a ton of writing in this program, but you’ll also read and analyze a fair amount of literature.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing

MFA programs tend to be super hands-on, with workshops in which students share and give feedback on each other’s writing. Over the course of the program, you’ll complete a book-length work like a novel or poetry collection.

You also might find that you need more credits to earn an MFA degree than an MA in creative writing. 

PhD in Creative Writing

Now you’re just stalling. Write your book already.

I’m kidding. A PhD is a perfectly reasonable option if you want to study literature and creative writing in great depth. Most students who take their writing education this far are also planning to build a career in academia in addition to being a published author.

PhD programs are extremely rigorous, can last four years, and conclude with a dissertation project.

Writing Workshops vs. Writing Courses

At this point, we should probably discuss the difference between writing courses and workshops in an academic setting. You’ll find both in many programs, but the balance between these two educational experiences will depend on which type of creative writing degree you pursue.

It will also influence your entire learning experience.

What Makes a Course a Course?

A creative writing course is exactly what you think of when you imagine any class in a formal education setting.

In a course, a professor lectures on specific topics, assigns projects, and grades students on their performance. There may be class discussions and even opportunities for students to share and engage with each others’ writing. But the overall structure of a course focuses on conveying information.

What Makes a Workshop a Workshop?

A creative writing workshop is more hands-on. While the professor will share insights and guide discussions, the primary purpose of a workshop is to help students refine their craft. They share their work and give each other feedback.

You see much more of this learning style in BFA and MFA programs, which put greater emphasis on honing creative skills. If you want your writing education to include analyzing literature or studying the business end of publishing, you’ll probably want to look into more course-heavy BA or MA programs.  

Renowned Creative Writing Programs

This is usually when a person wants to know where they should go to get these degrees. What are the best creative writing programs out there?

Really, the best program is the one that fits you. Reputation is just one of many factors you should consider when you decide where to pursue a degree in creative writing. 

That said, it’s always a good move to know the respected institutions in your field. It helps you sound informed at cocktail parties. To that end, here are some of the most revered schools in the world of creative writing (in the U.S., anyway):

• The Iowa Writers’ Workshop
• Brown University
• Columbia University
• Duke University
• Emory University
• Mizzou (Journalism)
• Northwestern University

Choosing the Right Creative Writing Program

If prestige shouldn’t be a top consideration when deciding where to earn a degree in creative writing, what should you prioritize?

Here are a few factors to keep in mind as you research your options:

Career goals - Do you want a program that’s going to prepare you for a job in marketing that pays the bills while you write poetry on the side? Do you want to become a globe-trotting journalist or a high-earning technical writer?

Decide what will be the best degree for you, then zero in on the schools that excel in that area of study.

And don’t forget to consider genre! If you want to earn an MFA but are interested in commercial fiction writing, make sure you find a program that matches your goals. Literary fiction tends to get all the love in higher education.

Faculty - Research who you’ll be learning from. Do they seem like the right folks to guide you on your professional journey?

Curriculum - Learn everything you can about a school’s course options and creative writing majors before you commit. Will you be able to focus on the area of writing that matters most to you? Will the skills you learn help you do fun things in the real world like eat and pay rent?

Location - There are accredited creative writing programs that are entirely online. However, many of your best options will be in-person or low residency . Not only is the location relevant for practical reasons—you have to be able to get there—it can also influence how much you pay to go. 

If you attend a state school in your own state, for example, you can expect to pay less than the out-of-state students.

Results - Do a little digging to find out what graduates say about their experience in the program. What did they like about it? What didn’t they like? Would they say it was worth it? What are they doing with their creative writing degree now?

Cost - You’re probably way ahead of me here, but I’ll mention it, anyway. The less you pay for a degree in creative writing, the greater your return on investment will be. Look at tuition costs, possible scholarships, out-of-state versus in-state expenses, and the local cost of living.

Career Opportunities with a Creative Writing Degree

Maybe you decided long ago that you definitely want to go to college. Maybe for you, the question isn’t whether you want a degree at all but whether a degree in creative writing is a good use of your college fund.

In that case, we should talk career opportunities. What exactly can you do with a creative writing degree?

A lot, as it turns out. In fact, we have this ridiculously long list of jobs that require strong creative writing skills. You can follow the link to explore them in depth, but here’s a quick sample of what’s in there:

• Proofreader
• Content writer
• Technical writer
• Social media writer
• Screenwriter
• Speechwriter
• Literary agent
• Brand strategist
• Corporate communications specialist

That’s really only scratching the surface, and it doesn’t even touch on the ways your writing skills might serve you in less creative professions. I know multiple lawyers with a creative writing degree they credit for making them significantly better at drafting legal arguments. (On the flip side, an alarming number of lawyers become screenwriters or novelists.)

The important thing is to consider different creative writing majors carefully. Between the different schools, degrees, and areas of concentration, you’ve got lots of options and plenty of opportunities to select the education path that leads to your ideal writing career.

Whatever You Do, Keep Learning

Only you can decide if a creative writing degree is the right move for you. Whether you go for it or not, remember that continuous learning is the best thing you can do to ensure a successful and fulfilling writing career.

Keep reading work that inspires you. Build and nurture your writer network. Proactively seek out workshops, seminars, conferences , books, articles… anything you can get your hands on that will help you sharpen your skills.

And while I wouldn’t claim it’s a one-to-one replacement for the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, remember that Dabble is always here for you with a shocking amount of free educational resources and a supportive community in the Story Craft Café .

Peruse the hundreds of articles, templates, and worksheets in DabbleU . Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly guidance delivered straight to your inbox. Download this free, 100-page ebook walking you through the entire novel-writing process.

Even if you need a little more time to decide if you want a degree in creative writing, you can start boosting your skills now.

So what are you waiting for?

Abi Wurdeman is the author of Cross-Section of a Human Heart: A Memoir of Early Adulthood, as well as the novella, Holiday Gifts for Insufferable People. She also writes for film and television with her brother and writing partner, Phil Wurdeman. On occasion, Abi pretends to be a poet. One of her poems is (legally) stamped into a sidewalk in Santa Clarita, California. When she’s not writing, Abi is most likely hiking, reading, or texting her mother pictures of her houseplants to ask why they look like that.

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What to Know About Creative Writing Degrees

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

Tips on Creative Writing Degrees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Creative Writing Matters and Reasons to Study It

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Choose and Apply to a Creative Writing Program

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

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

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

How to Use a Creative Writing Degree

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Creative Writing

Stanford’s Creative Writing Program--one of the best-known in the country--cultivates the power of individual expression within a vibrant community of writers. Many of our English majors pursue a concentration in creative writing, and the minor in Creative Writing is among the most popular minors on campus. These majors and minors participate in workshop-based courses or independent tutorials with Stegner Fellows, Stanford’s distinguished writers-in-residence.

English Major with a Creative Writing Emphasis

The English major with a Creative Writing emphasis is a fourteen-course major. These fourteen courses comprise eight English courses and six Creative Writing courses.

English majors with a Creative Writing emphasis should note the following:

All courses must be taken for a letter grade.

Courses taken abroad or at other institutions may not be counted towards the workshop requirements.

Any 190 series course (190F, 190G, etc.), 191 series course (191T, etc.), or 192 series course (192V, etc.) counts toward the 190, 191, or 192 requirement.

PWR 1 is a prerequisite for all creative writing courses.

Minor in Creative Writing

The Minor in Creative Writing offers a structured environment in which students interested in writing fiction or poetry develop their skills while receiving an introduction to literary forms. Students may choose a concentration in fiction, poetry.

In order to graduate with a minor in Creative Writing, students must complete the following three courses plus three courses in either the prose or poetry tracks. Courses counted towards the requirements for the minor may not be applied to student's major requirements. 30 units are required. All courses must be taken for a letter grade.

Prose Track

Suggested order of requirements:

English 90. Fiction Writing or English 91. Creative Nonfiction

English 146S Secret Lives of the Short Story

One 5-unit English literature elective course

English 190. Intermediate Fiction Writing or English 191. Intermediate Creative Nonfiction Writing

English 92. Reading and Writing Poetry

Another English 190, 191, 290. Advanced Fiction, 291. Advanced Nonfiction, or 198L. Levinthal Tutorial

Poetry Track

English 92.Reading and Writing Poetry

English 160. Poetry and Poetics

English 192. Intermediate Poetry Writing

Another English 192, or 292.Advanced Poetry or 198L.Levinthal Tutorial

Creative Writing minors should note the following:

To declare a Creative Writing minor, visit the Student page in Axess. To expedite your declaration, make sure to list all 6 courses you have taken or plan to take for your minor.

Any 190 series course (190F, 190G, etc.), 191series course (191T, etc.), or 192 series course (192V, etc.) counts toward the 190, 191, or 192 requirement.

For more information, visit the Stanford Creative Writing Program.

English (Creative Writing), BA

On this page:.

At a Glance: program details

• Location: Tempe campus
• Additional Program Fee: No
• Second Language Requirement: No

• Initial Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics

Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map on-campus archive

eAdvisor Tracking Tool

Program Description

The BA in English with a concentration in creative writing focuses on the study and practice of the literary arts, with courses in poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction.

Students gain practical experience through writing workshops and internship opportunities.

The undergraduate program features an outstanding faculty whose many books have received major national and international recognition.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

Admission to the Creative Writing Concentration (Fiction & Poetry)

Portfolio submission period opens: february 20, 2023, portfolios due: march 17, 2023 by 5:00pm, submit here: spring 2023 creative writing concentration  .

Note: You need to be logged into your ASU Gmail account to connect to the portfolio submission form.  

About the Creative Writing Concentration

The Creative Writing Program encourages all interested students, regardless of their field of study, to join our community of writers through beginning and intermediate workshops in fiction and poetry (ENG 287/ENG 288 , ENG 387/ENG 388), diverse special topics courses (ENG 394/ENG 494), and various, exciting writing events held on campus. 

Interested students*, who have already taken beginning and intermediate workshops, and are committed to continuing their study of Creative Writing, have an opportunity to develop their skills in supportive, highly focused workshops through the Creative Writing Concentration. Instruction in the tradition(s) to which concentration students can aspire and uphold, and from which they may draw inspiration, will be provided by the Creative Writing Program's nationally recognized faculty of writers.

Please note that acceptance into the Creative Writing Concentration is restricted.   Students must submit a portfolio for review and be offered a seat in the advanced workshops. (Please see the "Portfolio Review Guidelines" below.) 

*Students interested in pursuing both fiction and poetry at the 400-level, must check with their academic advisor to ensure that the necessary courses (ENG 487, ENG 488, ENG 498: Fiction, ENG 498: Poetry) will fit their degree plan. Students must submit two portfolios--one in fiction, one in poetry--to be considered for admittance into advanced coursework in both areas. 

Students pursuing the Creative Writing Concentration must either select as their major the bachelor's in English with a concentration in creative writing upon being admitted to ASU or, after entering the university, meet with an English advisor to change to this major and concentration.  Non English-majors will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

• To complete the concentration, English majors who have already declared themselves in the creative writing concentration must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher in their major.
• Concentration students must complete the two advanced courses in their genre (ENG 487 and ENG 498 in poetry, or ENG 488 and ENG 498 in fiction). Note that enrollment into these courses is restricted. Spaces are limited. Students must submit a portfolio and be selected to move forward.  (See the "Portfolio Review Guidelines" below.)
• Transfer students must seek advisement as to whether they will be able to successfully fulfill the creative writing concentration requirements.
• PLEASE NOTE :  Students admitted to begin 400-level coursework through the Fall 2020 Portfolio Review will start their coursework in Spring 2021. ENG 488 (fiction) will be taken in the Spring semester. The capstone course, ENG 498, will be taken in the Fall 2021 semester. ENG 487/488 and ENG 498 may not be taken simultaneously. 
• The next portfolio review for fiction will be offered in Fall 2022. The next portfolio review for fiction and poetry will be offered in Spring 2023.
• Students are only allowed to apply for the creative writing concentration twice during their time at ASU.

Portfolio Submission: How to Apply

Submit your completed portfolio online via the link below. Your portfolio should include:

1.     COVER SHEET (Available Online)

2.     CREATIVE WRITING SAMPLE

     a.      Poetry Sample: 5 poems

     b.      Fiction Sample: 1 piece of fiction of at least 5 double-spaced pages and not longer than 10 double-spaced pages

3.     PERSONAL STATEMENT (2 double spaced pages or 500 words)

     a.    Discuss your interest in the relevant genre (poetry or fiction)

     b.     What do you hope to gain from the creative writing concentration

4.     CRAFT ESSAY (2 double spaced pages or 500 words)

     a.     Submit an essay on a single poem or short story focusing an element(s) of craft you learned from the piece, how that craft element(s) works within the poem/story, and  why this aspect of craft is pertinent to your own writing

     b.     Please provide textual examples from the creative piece in your essay

5 .      SUBMIT: SPRING 2023 CREATIVE WRITING CONCENTRATION

        NOTE: You need to be logged into your ASU Gmail account to connect to the portfolio submission form. 

Further Information  

To receive further information about the bachelor's in English with a concentration in creative writing, make an appointment to speak with English undergraduate advisor at 480-965-3168. You may also contact Creative Writing Program Manager, Justin Petropoulos ( [email protected] ), RBH 152.

Portfolio Review Guidelines

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.

Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options.

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

English -->

Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, affording college, tuition calculator, scholarships, financial aid, career outlook.

Degree programs in English prepare students for graduate studies in a number of programs, including English, creative writing, education, law and business. They also lead to a variety of careers in diverse fields. Employers seek those with strong writing, communication and critical thinking skills. Some of the most common professions for English majors are in the fields of:

• nonprofit service

Graduates often find roles where they spend time:

• developing web content
• managing public relations
• writing professional and technical content

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Writers and Authors

• Growth: 3.7%
• Median Salary*: 73150
• Growth: -4%
• Median Salary*: 73080

English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

• Growth: 1.2%
• Median Salary*: 74280

Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers

Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education.

• Median Salary*: 62360

Public Relations Specialists

• Growth: 6.1%
• Median Salary*: 67440

Search Marketing Strategists

• Growth: 13.4%
• Median Salary*: 68230

Technical Writers

• Growth: 6.9%
• Median Salary*: 79960

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

Studying abroad expands students' perspectives by exposing them to new and distinct cultures, communities and people. Students can explore the English language at a deeper level through an extended lens of dialects, literature and terminology in one of more than 300 study abroad programs.

Students can enhance their resumes with the educational experience and heightened cultural competency, communication and critical thinking skills they acquire through study abroad programs.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these study abroad programs for students majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing .

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-3168

Published April 14, 2023

A Guide to Writing Majors at NYU

Sam Whitley

New York City is one of the best places for aspiring writers! It is overflowing with inspiration for stories, from the tourists merging in Times Square to the unique and fashionable characters hopping on and off the subway. What’s more, as a headquarters for major publishing and media companies, there’s no limit to the opportunities writing students can take advantage of.

English and American Literature and Creative Writing Aren’t the Only Programs for Aspiring Writers!

I’m an aspiring television writer, and when I was researching schools, I found that most of them only offered degrees in English or Creative Writing. While there’s nothing wrong with these programs, I wanted to focus on writing scripts and learning about the entertainment industry in college. Now I’m a junior at NYU studying Dramatic Writing and concentrating in episodic writing!

There’s so many different forms and approaches to writing, and NYU’s major offerings reflect that difference. So whether you like to write poems or plays, you can find a major here that best suits what you! 

Some of the most common majors for aspiring writers include:

English and American Literature

Comparative literature, dramatic literature, dramatic writing.

To help you understand the differences between these majors, here’s an overview of the programs, class structures, and the kinds of writers who would thrive in them!

School: College of Arts and Science

Students studying English will learn how to examine literature written in English. Students will take four English literature classes, where they explore the different contexts of literature from the origins of English to the 21st century. 

Then, English and American Literature majors choose between two tracks: creative writing and literary studies. While creative writing students focus primarily on their own writing, literary studies students analyze the work of other writers. 

Students have more freedom to explore specific topics in literature in their junior and senior years. For example, English and American Literature majors can take classes like 20th-Century African American Literature, Myths and Cultures of the Ancient Celts, and Jane Austen. (Yes, there’s a whole course dedicated to analyzing her work!) 

Class Structure

Most courses are seminar style, which means they are discussion based. So students will read and examine texts for homework. Then they’ll have an open discussion during class time. Students on the creative writing track will have more workshops, where students will discuss each other’s work and how to improve their writing.

Types of Writers: Aspiring Novelists, Essayists, Screenwriters, Poets, and Many More!

Being an English and American Literature major allows for a broad understanding of literature that you can carry with you into any medium as a writer. In addition, you’ll develop analytical skills that can be used in any profession! I know people who have become lawyers, researchers, and professors using their English degree. 

English is for students who love to read and analyze literature. If you love analyzing texts from different cultures and time periods and studying timeless writers, you might like being an English and American Literature major!

In the Department of Comparative Literature , students analyze literature with a more interdisciplinary approach. Comparative literature (comp lit) students examine texts in fields like art history, linguistics, and philosophy from all over the world. 

Like the English and American Literature major, Comp Lit has two tracks: literature and literary and cultural studies. Both tracks study world literature, but students on the literature track focus mostly on literature and linguistics. Some of their classes are taught in languages other than English like Italian or German! Whereas students on the literary and cultural studies track focus on reading world literature that deals with specific topics like religion, history, politics, and cinema studies. Courses include Chinese Literature in Translation, Kafka and His Contexts, and Topics in Italian Culture.

Both tracks are mostly seminar style with few opportunities for workshops. This may mean fewer opportunities, at least in comp lit classes, to practice creative writing skills. But comp lit students strengthen their analytical skills through essays. 

Types of Writers: Aspiring Novelists, Essayists, Critics, and Academics

If you like to read texts written in different languages or discuss literature at the intersection of philosophy, linguistics, cinema studies, and art history, then comp lit may be for you!

The Dramatic Literature major focuses on the literary, historical, and critical aspects of theatre studies. This means students study the history of theatre, playwriting, cinema, and performance.

Dramatic literature (drama lit) students are required to take three history of theatre classes. Then they can pick classes in two areas: practical theatre and cinema. These areas aren’t specified tracks, but they allow students to tailor the major to what they’re interested in. For example, practical theatre classes give students more direct experience with creating for the stage. Cinema classes focus more on film analysis.

Like the Comp Lit and English and American Literature majors, students leave their programs with a global perspective of literature. Drama lit courses include Feminism and Theatre, Fundamentals of Acting I, and Theatre in Asia.

Most drama lit classes are seminar style. But students taking practical theatre classes will have more practice-based courses. Therefore, students will rehearse scenes and experiment on stage!

But seminars aren’t the only style of classes for Drama Lit majors. There are some playwriting workshops for students who want to work on their own plays.

Types of Writers: Aspiring Playwrights and (Theatre or Film) Critics

Drama lit is for students who love theatre and may have some interest in film. If you’re interested in the theory and history of theatre, drama lit may be a good fit for you! It’s also a good fit if you’re an aspiring playwright who is interested in theatre production.

The Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute gives students the practical and theoretical skills they’ll need for a career in journalism. 

All journalism students will learn about ethical practices in journalistic writing, conducting research, and reporting. Later, students can pursue one of two tracks: the print/online track or broadcast track. The print/online track is for those who want to focus on writing for print and online media. Whereas the broadcast track is for those who want to focus on reporting and video production for broadcasts.

Journalism courses include Audio Storytelling, Photojournalism, and Minorities in the Media. 

At NYU, journalism students are required to double-major. But, since double-majoring is a program requirement, the curriculum is flexible.

Unlike the other majors previously discussed, the class styles vary here. Some are lecture and seminar style, but most of the courses have a practical approach. Students will come up with their own ideas, interview guests, and write their own stories. What’s more, those on the broadcast track will do the same but shoot and edit their pieces too!

Types of Writers: Aspiring Print or Digital Journalists

Journalism offers a lot of opportunity for students to build a strong portfolio of work and practice writing! If you’re interested in getting direct experience writing articles and segments or getting a well-rounded approach to journalism, the Journalism major may be the right fit for you!

School: Tisch School of the Arts

Dramatic Writing trains students in all areas of dramatic writing, which refers to pieces of writing meant to be acted or performed. All students will take at least one course in playwriting, screenwriting, and episodic writing, then concentrate on one discipline. 

The program’s focus is a mixture of analyzing scripts across all mediums and honing the craft. Courses include Writing for Late Night Television, Shakespeare for Writers, and The Romantic Comedy.

Most dramatic writing courses are workshop and seminar style. Students will work on their own scripts throughout each semester and receive feedback from the professor and their peers.

It’s also important to mention that students aren’t expected to write a full play or film as first-year students! First years won’t write more than 30 pages (unless they feel comfortable doing so). Throughout the years, the page count increases. By senior year, students will feel comfortable giving and receiving feedback, meeting deadlines, and working within the discipline of their choice.

Types of Writers: Aspiring Screenwriters, Playwrights, and TV Writers

The program’s scope is very focused on these three disciplines, so it might not be the best fit for those wanting a broader approach to literature and writing. But, if you’re like me, and you want to improve your script writing and/or find your voice as a dramatic writer, then the Dramatic Writing major may be for you!

Honorable Mentions

Here are some programs that offer writing classes but writing isn’t their main focus:

• Drama (Playwrights Horizons)
• Film and TV
• Cinema Studies
• Collaborative Arts
• Media, Culture, and Communication
• Individualized coursework

There’s No Limit to How You Can Study Writing Here

Even though I’ve discussed whom each program is for, no program is one-size-fits-all. I know people in the Dramatic Writing program who still have a passion for poetry and creative writing. So they pursue a minor in Creative Writing! 

It all boils down to how you want to improve your writing and which program will make you the happiest. If you’ve made it this far, I hope I’ve given you some insight into which major may best suit you.

Sam Whitley (she/her) is a senior studying Dramatic Writing at Tisch School of the Arts with minors in Computer Science and Integrated Design & Media. Whether she’s developing a website or writing a TV pilot, Sam aims to create things that help make life easier for people. Outside of class, she’s rewatching her favorite animated TV shows, hitting the gym, and taking the LIRR home to visit friends and family. Despite her introverted nature, she loves meeting new people while working as an Admissions Ambassador and exploring NYC!

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Creative Writing & Literature Major

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Effective Winter 2025

Not open to those electing the minor in Writing or the minor in Creative Writing.

1813 East Quadrangle

(734) 763-0032

https://myadvising.lsa.umich.edu/appointments/offices/RC

Students meet with the creative writing major advisor when declaring, making course substitutions, discussing transfer/study abroad credit evaluations, preparing for internships, completing major release forms, and discussing information on graduate school study and career paths.  

Although students may pursue study in multiple genres, most specialize in one of the following genres:

• Fiction / Creative Nonfiction
• Digital Storytelling

Advising appointments can be made here ; or by calling RC Academic Services at 763-0032.

Grade Policies

Creative writing majors must earn a grade of at least C- in all courses taken to satisfy the requirements of the major.

Prerequisites

Students intending to declare the major should have completed or be enrolled in a Residential College introductory creative writing course (RCCWLIT 220, RCCWLIT 221, RCCWLIT 325, or an approved equivalent). The prerequisite taken should align with the student's chosen track, although this is not required. 

Requirements

The major is structured into three genre tracks. Students may elect a multi-genre track in consultation with their principal writing instructors and the major advisor. Information regarding each track is detailed below.         

1) Fiction / Creative Nonfiction Track

Students complete a minimum of four creative writing courses, at least three of which must be at the 300-level or above and at least three of which must be taken in the Residential College (RC). A usual track is an introductory course (Narration) and three upper-level courses. Students may count one non-RC creative writing course towards the four course writing requirement.

Creative Writing Course Requirement

Students may elect any combination of the seminars and tutorials from the following list:

• RCCWLIT 220: Narration (Intro to Fiction Writing)
• RCCWLIT 325, 326, 425, 426: Creative Writing Tutorial ( permission of instructor is required )
• RCCWLIT 320: Advanced Narration (Advanced Fiction Writing)
• Other departmental offerings listed under RCCWLIT 334

Literature Requirement

Students complete five literature courses at the 300-level or above. One literature course must focus on literature written prior to 1600. The pre-1600 requirement may focus on non-Western or Western literature; if a Western literature course is elected, the content must pre-date the Shakespearean era. 

Students are encouraged to take literature courses in the RC Arts and Ideas Program, the Department of English, or the Department of Comparative Literature. Students majoring in a second language may count one upper-level literature course in that language, either taken at UM-Ann Arbor or through study abroad (with advisor approval). All literature courses counted toward the Creative Writing and Literature Major must be at least three (3) credits.

 Courses that have been used to meet the literature requirement include:

• RCHUMS courses listed in the Arts and Ideas in the Humanities major
• ENGLISH 328: Writing and the Environment
• ENGLISH 379: Literature in Afro-American Culture
• Other English Department courses with a literature focus
• ENGLISH 350: Literature in English to 1660 (for pre-1600 requirement)
• CLCIV 385: Greek Mythology (for pre-1600 requirement)  
• MEMS 386: Medieval Literature, History and Culture (for pre-1600 requirement)

2) Poetry Track

Students complete a minimum of four creative writing courses, at least three of which must be at the 300-level or above and at least three of which must be taken in the Residential College (RC). A usual track is an introductory course (Writing Poetry) and three upper-level courses. Students may count one non-RC creative writing course towards the writing requirement.

Students may elect any combination of seminars and tutorials from the following:

• RCCWLIT 221: Writing Poetry
• RCCWLIT 321: Advanced Poetry Writing

Students complete five literature courses at the 300-level or above. One literature course must focus on literature written prior to 1600. The pre-1600 requirement may focus on non-Western or Western literature; if a Western literature course is elected, the content must pre-date the Shakespearean era. 

Students are encouraged to take literature courses in the RC Arts and Ideas Program, the Department of English or the Department of Comparative Literature. Students majoring in a second language may count one upper-level literature course in that language, either taken at UM-Ann Arbor or through study abroad (with advisor approval). All literature courses counted toward the Creative Writing and Literature Major must be at least three (3) credits.

Courses that have been used to meet the literature requirement include:

• ENGLISH 340: Studies in Poetry
• ENGLISH 440: Modern Poetry
• ENGLISH 442: Studies in Poetry
• Literature courses listed above within the Fiction/Creative Nonfiction track

3) Digital Storytelling Track

The digital storytelling track studies the way stories interact with technology and the effect of digital media on writing and the creative process. Students electing this track pair writing practice with the study of the theory, ethics, and history of digital media.

Creative Writing Course Requirement 

Students completing this requirement must elect two courses in Creative Writing Practice and two courses in Digital Writing Skills. The two Creative Writing Practice courses can only include one 200-level course. Students must elect a minimum of two Residential College (RC) creative writing courses that focus on writing fiction, creative nonfiction, or poetry.   

Introductory Courses (may elect one to count towards major):

Upper-level Courses:

• RCCWLIT 320: Advanced Narration
• RCCWLIT 334: Special Topics in Creative Writing

Digital Writing / Skills Course Requirement

Students must choose a minimum of two digital storytelling / writing courses at the 300-level or above that focus on digital media and/or electronic literature writing and practice.

Courses that have been used to meet the requirement in the past include:

• ENGLISH 420: Tech and the Humanities/Electronic Literature
• RCCWLIT 334: Digital Storytelling
• RCCWLIT 325, 326, 425, 426: Creative Writing Tutorial with a focus on writing for, and/or creating electronic literature or digital media content ( permission of instructor is required )

Digital Studies Theory Requirement

Students must elect a minimum of two digital studies theory courses at the 300-level or above that focus on the theory of digital culture and/or the digital humanities.

• AMCULT 358: Topics in Digital Studies
• AMCULT 360: Radical Digital Media
• FTVM 368: Topics in Digital Media Studies
• ENGLISH 405: Theories of Writing

Students must elect three literature courses at the 300-level or above. Literature courses should not focus on digital studies but should offer complementary skills and additional context in the art and craft of literature. One literature course must focus on literature written prior to 1600. The pre-1600 requirement may focus on non-Western or Western literature; if a Western literature course is elected, the content must pre-date the Shakespearean era. 

Constraints

Coursework noted as independent study (IND) may not be used to meet requirements, including RCCORE 209, RCCORE 309, and RCCORE 409. Although students are encouraged to complete internships in a publishing or writing related field, any credit earned may not be used to meet requirements of the major. 

Distribution Policy

No course used to fulfill a major requirement may be used toward the LSA Distribution Requirement. In addition, courses in the RC Creative Writing (RCCWLIT) subject area may not be used toward the Distribution Requirement.

A student whose overall academic record meets the eligibility criteria for honors and whose creative work models originality and the promise of mastery in their chosen genre may apply to complete an honors thesis. Honors theses are typically 75-100 pages of polished fiction or creative nonfiction, or a collection of 25 or more poems. The student and their faculty advisor will determine the exact length and content of the final thesis. The successful honors student will be committed to a comprehensive composition and revision process to produce a polished final manuscript.

To be eligible to apply for honors, a student must demonstrate exceptional skill in the art and craft of prose, poetry, or creative nonfiction. The student must have completed a minimum of two Residential College creative writing classes, although honors students typically complete three or more by the start of their thesis sequence. The student also must hold a GPA of at least 3.4 overall.

Students who meet the above criteria are eligible to apply for the honors thesis project in the Winter term of their junior year, typically by late March. To apply, students should submit:

• A writing sample (10 pages of prose or 5 poems) that represents the student’s best, most polished work. This sample does not have to be from the proposed project.
• A brief statement (1-2 pages) describing the honors project. This statement should answer the following questions:

            -  What is your project? For example, will your final manuscript be a short story collection, a collection of poetry, or another form?             -  Which courses have you completed in the Creative Writing and Literature major? How many tutorials have you taken?             -  Have you worked on this proposed honors project in previous tutorials or courses?             -  Can you describe for the committee a specific instance when you made substantial changes based on your instructor's feedback?             -  What authors and/or creative works have you read that inform or inspire this project?

• Students should also name a faculty member they wish to request as their thesis advisor. Students may also name more than one faculty member, listed in order of preference.

The Honors Committee, consisting of faculty in the Creative Writing program, will judge the student’s work on its quality, originality, and promise of mastery in their chosen genre. The Committee reviews all honors applications after the submission deadline. Students are notified of the Committee’s decision by early April. If the planned project is accepted for honors, the Committee will assign a faculty thesis advisor to the student.

Honors theses require a two-semester commitment. Students enroll in RCCORE 490 for the Fall term and RCCWLIT 426 for the Winter term. Satisfactory progress in RCCORE 490 earns a Y grade, indicating that the thesis work will continue into the next semester. At the end of the second term, the Y grade converts to the grade earned in RCCWLIT 426. Exceptions to the two-semester requirement are rare but may be discussed with the thesis advisor.

When the honors thesis project is complete (typically the last week of March or the first week of April of the senior year), the student’s honors thesis advisor and one other member of the Residential College’s Creative Writing faculty will determine if the project qualifies for honors and (if so) what level of honors the student receives. Honors thesis students also participate in a public reading with fellow honors students at the end of the Winter term.

Creative Writing and Literature (Major) (Fall 2023 - Fall 2024)

Effective Fall 2023

Students intending to declare the major should have completed or be enrolled in a Residential College introductory creative writing course (RCHUMS 220, RCHUMS 221, RCHUMS 325, or an approved equivalent). The prerequisite taken should align with the student's chosen track, although this is not required. 

• RCHUMS 220: Narration (Intro to Fiction Writing)
• RCHUMS 325, 326, 425, 426: Creative Writing Tutorial ( permission of instructor is required )
• RCHUMS 320: Advanced Narration (Advanced Fiction Writing)
• Other departmental offerings listed under RCHUMS 334 or RCCORE 334
• ENGLISH 350: Literature in English to 1660
• MEMS 386: Medieval Literature, History and Culture 
• RCHUMS 221: Writing Poetry
• RCHUMS 321: Advanced Poetry Writing
• RCHUMS 334: Special Topics in the Humanities (Workshop with Incarcerated Poets and Artists)
• RCHUMS 320: Advanced Narration
• RCHUMS 334: Special Topics in the Humanities (Memoir: Writing from Within)
• RCCORE 334: Digital Storytelling
• RCHUMS 325, 326, 425, 426: Creative Writing Tutorial with a focus on writing for, and/or creating electronic literature or digital media content ( permission of instructor is required )

No course used to fulfill a major requirement may be used toward the LSA Distribution Requirement. In addition, courses in the RC Creative Writing subject area may not be used toward the Distribution Requirement.

A student whose overall academic record meets the eligibility criteria for honors and whose creative work models originality and the promise of mastery in their chosen genre may apply to complete an honors thesis. Honors theses are typically 75-100 pages of polished fiction or creative nonfiction, or a collection of 25 or more poems. The student and their faculty advisor will determine the exact length and content of the final thesis.

•  A writing sample (10 pages of prose or 5 poems) that represents the student’s best, most polished work;
•  A brief statement (1-2 pages) describing the honors project;
• The name of a faculty member they wish to request as their thesis advisor.

Honors theses require a two-semester commitment. Students enroll in RCCORE 490 for the Fall term and RCHUMS 426 for the Winter term. Satisfactory progress in RCCORE 490 earns a Y grade, indicating that the thesis work will continue into the next semester. At the end of the second term, the Y grade converts to the grade earned in RCHUMS 426. Exceptions to the two-semester requirement are rare but may be discussed with the thesis advisor.

Creative Writing and Literature (Major) (Winter 2020 - Summer 2023)

Effective Winter 2020

(734) 647-2745

www.lsa.umich.edu/rc

The Residential College (RC) is a four-year undergraduate liberal arts program with about 900 students and 60 faculty, situated within LSA. All RC advisors are RC faculty members and are available to meet with students to discuss RC and LSA requirements, possible majors, graduation requirements, etc. The RC Board on Academic Standing considers petitions submitted by RC students relating to requirements, deadlines, and academic circumstances. Appointments with academic advisors can be scheduled by calling the RC Academic Services Office at (734) 647-2745 or by stopping by the offices at 1813 East Quadrangle.

Students wishing to pursue a sustained practice in creative writing take a combination of writing courses in a selected genre and literature courses, distributed as follows:

• A minimum of four creative writing classes, three at the upper level (300 and above), mixing seminars (RCHUMS 220, 221, 222, 242, 320, 321, 322) and tutorials (RCHUMS 325, 326, 425, 426)
• A minimum of five upper level (300 and above) literature courses at least one of which must be ancient (RCHUMS 309, CLCIV 390, ENGLISH 401) or medieval (RCHUMS 310, ENGLISH 370) literature.

No course used to fulfill a major requirement may be used toward the LSA Distribution Requirement.

Creative Writing and Literature (Major) (Winter 2013 - Fall 2019)

Effective Winter 2013

134 Tyler (East Quadrangle)

The Residential College (RC) is a four-year undergraduate liberal arts program with about 900 students and 60 faculty, situated within LSA. All RC advisors are RC faculty members and are available to meet with students to discuss RC and LSA requirements, possible majors, graduation requirements, etc. The RC Board on Academic Standing considers petitions submitted by RC students relating to requirements, deadlines, and academic circumstances. Appointments with academic advisors can be scheduled by calling the RC Academic Services Office at (734) 763-0032, or by stopping by the offices at 134 Tyler.

Creative Writing and Literature Major (through Fall 2012)

May be elected as a departmental major 

effective through Fall 2012

Not open to those electing the minor in Writing or the minor in Creative Writing (effective Fall 2011)

The Residential College's Creative Writing and Literature Major combines the sustained, disciplined practice of writing with the serious study of literature. The main goal of the program is to help students develop their creative abilities through a continuous, interrelated cycle of writing, rewriting, and literary analysis. Creative writing courses are taught as workshops and tutorials in which students work individually with faculty members. Students are required to take courses in literature in order to understand better the art of writing.

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Creative Writing and Literature Degree Requirements

The Master of Liberal Arts, Creative Writing and Literature degree field is offered online with one 3-week course required on campus at Harvard University.

Getting Started

Explore Degree Requirements

• Review the course curriculum .
• Learn about the on-campus experience .
• Determine your initial admissions eligibility .
• Learn about the 2 degree courses required for admission .

Upcoming Term: Summer 2024

Course registration is open March 4 – June 20. Learn how to register →

Fall 2024 courses and registration details will be live in June.

Required Course Curriculum

Online core and elective courses

On-campus summer writers’ residency

Capstone or thesis

12 Graduate Courses (48 credits)

The program is designed for creative writers interested in fiction, nonfiction, and dramatic writing.

The degree is highly customizable. As part of the program curriculum, you choose either a capstone or thesis track as well as the creative writing and literature courses that meet your learning goals.

The synchronous online format and small class size ensure you’ll receive personal feedback on your writing and experience full engagement with instructors and peers.

Required Core & Elective Courses View More

• HUMA 101 Proseminar: Elements of the Writer’s Craft
• 1 advanced fiction writing course
• 3 creative writing courses
• 1 creative writing and literature elective or creative writing independent study
• EXPO 42a Writing in the Humanities is a literature option
• On-campus summer writers’ residency

Browse Courses →

Thesis Track View More

The thesis is a 9-month independent research project where you work one-on-one in a tutorial setting with a thesis director.

The track includes:

• Thesis proposal tutorial course
• Master’s Thesis (8 credits)

Capstone Track View More

The capstone track includes the following additional courses:

• 1 literature course
• Precapstone: Building the World of the Book (fiction and nonfiction options)
• Capstone: Developing a Manuscript (fiction and nonfiction options)

In the precapstone , with support from your instructor and peers, you’ll engage in a series of structured writing exercises that make it possible to delve deeply into your characters—what they look like, what they want and need, and how they interact with the world in which they live—as you structure the world of your fiction or nonfiction.

In the capstone , with ongoing community support, you continue your work of in the precapstone and write two additional chapters or stories, or approximately 30 pages of new work. The capstone project in total should be about 50-60 pages — the equivalent of a thesis.

You enroll in the precapstone and capstone courses in back-to-back semesters (fall/spring) and in your final academic year. The capstone must be taken alone as your sole remaining degree requirement.

On-Campus Experience: One-Week Writers’ Residency

Participate in an weeklong writers’ workshop on campus.

Learn and network in person with your classmates, agents, and editors.

Nearly all courses can be taken online, but the degree requires an in-person experience at Harvard University where you enroll in a summer residency.

After completing 7 or more courses, you come to Harvard Summer School for a weeklong master class taught by a notable instructor. An agents-and-editors weekend follows. HSS offers, for an additional fee, housing, meal plans, and a prolonged on-campus experience here at Harvard University.

Choose between two on-campus experience options:

• One-week Writers’ Residency with extended online sessions: During the two weeks that follow the intensive week of on-campus instruction, you attend additional writing classes online and submit a final piece of writing.
• One-week Writers’ Residency with extended on-campus sessions: During the two weeks that follow the intensive week of on-campus instruction, you attend additional writing classes on campus and submit a final piece of writing. Three-week housing is available for this extended on-campus option. Learn more about campus life at Harvard .

International Students Who Need a Visa View More

To meet the on-campus requirement, you choose the One-Week Writers’ Residency with extended on-campus sessions and study with us in the summer. You can easily request an I-20 for the F-1 student visa through Harvard Summer School. For more details, see International Student Study Options for important visa information.

In-Person Co-Curricular Events View More

Come to Cambridge for Convocation (fall) to celebrate your hard-earned admission, Harvard career fairs offered throughout the year, HES alumni networking events (here at Harvard and around the world), and, of course, Harvard University Commencement (May).

Confirm your initial eligibility with a 4-year bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent.

Take two courses in our unique “earn your way in” admissions process that count toward your degree.

In the semester of your second course, submit the official application for admission to the program.

Below are our initial eligibility requirements and an overview of our unique admissions process to help get you started. Be sure to visit Degree Program Admissions for full details.

Initial Eligibility View More

• Prior to enrolling in any degree-applicable courses, you must possess a 4-year regionally accredited US bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. Foreign bachelor’s degrees must be evaluated for equivalency.
• You cannot already have or be in the process of earning a master’s degree in creative writing or a related field. Check your eligibility .
• If English is your second language, you’ll need to prove English proficiency before registering for a course. We have multiple proficiency options .

Earn Your Way In — Courses Required for Admission View More

To begin the admission process, you simply register — no application required — for the following two, four-credit, graduate-level degree courses (available online).

These prerequisite courses count toward your degree once you’re admitted ; they are not additional courses. They are investments in your studies and help ensure success in the program.

• Before registering, you’ll need to pass our online test of critical reading and writing skills or earn a B or higher in EXPO 42a Writing in the Humanities.
• You have two attempts to earn the minimum grade of B in the proseminar (a withdrawal grade counts as an attempt). The proseminar cannot be more than two years old at the time of application.
• Advanced Fiction Writing

While the two courses don’t need to be taken in a particular order or in the same semester, we recommend that you start with the proseminar. The 2 courses must be completed with a grade of B or higher, without letting your overall Harvard cumulative GPA dip below 3.0.

Applying to the Degree Program View More

During the semester of your second degree course, submit the official application to the program.

Don’t delay! You must prioritize the two degree courses for admission and apply before completing subsequent courses. By doing so, you’ll:

• Avoid the loss of credit due to expired course work or changes to admission and degree requirements.
• Ensure your enrollment in critical and timely degree-candidate-only courses.
• Avoid the delayed application fee.
• Gain access to exclusive benefits.

Eligible students who submit a complete and timely application will have 10 more courses after admission to earn the degree. Applicants can register for courses in the upcoming semester before they receive their grades and while they await their admission decision.

The Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions makes all final determinations about program eligibility.

Search and Register for Courses

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) offers degree courses all year round to accelerate degree completion.

• You can study in fall, January, and spring terms through Harvard Extension School (HES) and during the summer through Harvard Summer School (HSS).
• You can enroll full or part time. After qualifying for admission, many of our degree candidates study part time, taking 2 courses per semester (fall/spring) and 1 in the January and summer sessions.
• Most fall and spring courses meet once a week for two hours, while January and summer courses meet more frequently in a condensed format.

To Complete Your Degree

Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Complete your courses in five years.

Earn your Harvard degree and enjoy Harvard Alumni Association benefits upon graduation.

Required GPA, Withdrawal Grades, and Repeat Courses View More

GPA. You need to earn a B or higher in each of the two degree courses required for admission and a B– or higher in each of the subsequent courses. In addition, your cumulative GPA cannot dip below 3.0.

Withdrawal Grades. You are allowed to receive 2 withdrawal (WD) grades without them affecting your GPA. Any additional WD grades count as zero in your cumulative GPA. Please note that a WD grade from a two-credit course will count as 1 of your 2 allowed WD grades. See Academic Standing .

Repeat Courses. We advise you to review the ALM program’s strict policies about repeating courses . Generally speaking, you may not repeat a course to improve your GPA or to fulfill a degree requirement (if the minimum grade was not initially achieved). Nor can you repeat a course for graduate credit that you’ve previously completed at Harvard Extension School or Harvard Summer School at the undergraduate level.

Courses Expire: Finish Your Coursework in Under Five Years View More

Courses over five years old at the point of admission will not count toward the degree. As stated above, the proseminar cannot be more than two years old at the time of application.

Further, you have five years to complete your degree requirements. The five-year timeline begins at the end of the term in which you complete any two degree-applicable courses, regardless of whether or not you have been admitted to a degree program.

Potential degree candidates must plan accordingly and submit their applications to comply with the five-year course expiration policy or they risk losing degree credit for completed course work. Additionally, admission eligibility will be jeopardized if, at the point of application to the program, the five-year degree completion policy cannot be satisfied (i.e., too many courses to complete in the time remaining).

Graduate with Your Harvard Degree View More

When you have fulfilled all degree requirements, you will earn your Harvard University degree: Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, Field: Creative Writing and Literature. Degrees are awarded in November, March, and May, with the annual Harvard Commencement ceremony in May.

Degree Candidate Exclusive Benefits View More

When you become an officially admitted degree candidate, you have access to a rich variety of exclusive benefits to support your academic journey. To learn more, visit degree candidate academic opportunities and privileges .

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

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Home / Blog

Literature Major vs. English Major: To Be (One) or Not to Be (the Other)?

August 18, 2020 

The written word is powerful. It communicates ideas, inspires change, and allows us to understand our past and plan for the future. If you love the written word, you may seek a degree that allows you to deepen your understanding of this art form.

At a glance, you may think that a degree in literature and a degree in English are the same. But there are important differences between a literature major and an English major. As you explore the opportunities that each program may offer, consider how an online bachelor’s degree in English could further your career.

Literature Major Overview

Literature majors focus on specific themes and literary eras throughout history. They look at different genres, such as historical fiction, magical realism, and memoir. Typical courses include creative writing, British literature, and South African literature. The curriculum can also delve into specific time periods, such as American writing in the 20th century.

Students who love narrative fiction and poetry may find a literature major rewarding. Literature allows students to flex their interpretation muscles and explore philosophical and moral questions. Students can expect to read a variety of texts, research how a text relates to a specific time and place in a culture, write analytical essays, and participate in discussions.

What Do Literature Major Graduates Do?

Literature majors can pursue a variety of careers upon graduation. With strong reading, writing, and communication skills, they can work in many different fields, including journalism, marketing, and public relations.

Types of Careers:

• Literary Editor: Literary editors work with writers to fine-tune the structure, word choice, and thematic elements of manuscripts selected for publication.
• Journalist: Research and communication skills allow journalists to report events as they unfold, presenting accurate accounts in newspapers, magazines, or digital outlets.
• Author: Many literature majors aspire to become authors, whether a novelist, essayist, or nonfiction writer. This creative application of the degree involves ample research, writing, editing, and networking.
• Public Relations Specialist: This role is all about communication. From writing press releases to managing social media accounts and communicating with the public, PR specialists require advanced writing and verbal skills.

English Major Overview

A key difference between literature and English majors is that English majors focus on the effectiveness of communication. They take literature courses but also study grammar, rhetoric, and linguistics. Throughout their coursework, they dig into how storytelling captivates audiences, conveys meaning, and creates change. Modern English degree programs also distinguish between traditional and digital communication, as well as how different skills may be effective in different environments. English majors become excellent communicators as a result of a curriculum that entails extensive reading, writing, research, and discussion.

What Do English Major Graduates Do?

English majors can apply their communication skills to numerous fields, including advertising, education, nonprofits, and media. Their ability to read, analyze, and communicate is an asset in a number of industries, such as publishing, education, and advertising.

• Teacher: Communication skills, as well as subject-matter expertise, position English majors to succeed as teachers. In this role, they share their understanding of grammar, sentence structure, literary periods, and more with the next generation.
• Copywriter: Copywriting requires creativity and an understanding of word choice and structure. English majors often study a wide variety of successful marketing campaigns, which gives them the ability to create content for businesses across industries.
• Researcher: The English degree program requires strong research and analysis skills, which can carry over to the workplace. Graduates can find themselves digging into complex topics and communicating their findings.
• Grant Writer: Grant writers are essential for nonprofits to thrive. Following strict guidelines, English majors might apply their skills to crafting concise, smart, and impactful grants that can help a nonprofit secure funding.

Similarities Between a Literature Major and an English Major

Students of literature and English programs use their love of the written word daily as they continue to refine their reading, writing, and research skills. Upon graduation, they will find these skills applicable to fields such as journalism, publishing, and education. Both programs prepare students to pursue a master’s degree in a specialized area such as rhetoric and writing, media studies, journalism, or law.

Differences Between a Literature Major and an English Major

While literature majors and English majors may seem similar, the degrees have some slight differences in focus, including coursework and career paths.

Literature majors read and analyze various works of literature, specifically prose, poetry, and creative nonfiction. They unpack the historical, cultural, and literary contexts of the texts they study and often specialize in a specific era or location. This may include a look at modern literature and how it applies to contemporary social and political events.

In contrast, English majors typically take courses on a variety of genres and mediums. The curriculum includes the study of English grammar, with an emphasis on the structure and mechanics of the English language. In addition to works of literature, students delve into nonfiction essays, political speeches, marketing content, and more. These degree programs take into account modern mediums and how they impact communication. English degrees emphasize critical and analytical thinking and writing skills.

Potential Careers

Both literature and English majors graduate with strong reading, writing, and analytical skills. Literature majors often apply these skills to the fields of writing, editing, and journalism. The time they spend analyzing literary works allows them to understand important nuances in tone, style, and context.

The broader scope of an English degree prepares graduates for a wider array of fields. They may find work in writing and editing, but they may also seek out a future in education, advertising, or nonprofit work. In addition, their ability to apply writing and research skills in both traditional and digital settings makes them a valuable asset to businesses.

Literature Major vs. English Major: Which Is Right for You?

These two degree programs may seem similar at a glance, but they offer different experiences and outcomes. If you’re interested in analyzing works from a specific era, you may want to major in literature. If you’re interested in literature and also want to hone your communication skills, explore Maryville University’s online Bachelor of Arts in English . This program offers a modern take on an important field, giving you the opportunity to explore major literary works and preparing you to seize a wide array of professional opportunities.

Sources The Balance Careers, “Writing Majors for College Students”

Forbes , “14 Jobs for English Majors That Pay at Least $60,000”

Houston Chronicle , “Careers for English Literature Degrees”

Maryville University, Online Bachelor of Arts in English

Wayup, “What Is a Literature Major and Is It Right for Me?”

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Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature

Transfer credits, next start date, learn best practices for writing by studying prominent works of christian literature with liberty’s bs in creative writing – christian literature.

Have you ever wanted to tell stories? Do you wish to be trained in the mechanics of writing and learn not only how to craft proper prose but also how to create with the flair of a poetic prosateur? Are you fascinated by the Christian authors of the past and present? Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Creative Writing – Christian Literature can help prepare you to pursue your endeavors.

With Liberty University Online, you can learn how to compose as a craftsman, author as an artisan, and write as a wordsmith. The online BS in Creative Writing – Christian Literature at Liberty University explores writing across various genres, including Christian fantasy literature, Christian fiction, poetry, novellas, and memoirs.

If you are interested in authorship, publishing, journalism, blogging, or any other vocation where creative communication and writing are important, this may be the right program for you. The skills taught in this online undergraduate creative writing program can be applied to a variety of careers and are widely transferable across businesses and vocations.

Why Choose Liberty’s Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature Online Degree Program?

Creative writing as a discipline trains students to tell stories. Stories communicate themes and events in a way that few other mediums can. Here at Liberty University, all of our classes are taught from a biblical worldview. Because of this, you have the great opportunity to be a Champion for Christ as you engage culture through creative writing and storytelling.

Writing is ultimately personal. In your studies, you’ll have the unique opportunity to be immersed in many different cultures and worlds as you not only craft your own stories but also participate in the peer-review processes that are necessary for growth as a writer. By reading and examining stories and famous works of literature, you can gain a fresh perspective of unique circumstances through the lens of the author . Completing a creative writing program with Liberty University provides the opportunity to investigate and create within the context of a biblical worldview.

All the classes required for our Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature are 100% online. This allows you the flexibility to further your education while maintaining your personal commitments. Give yourself the advantage you deserve by partnering with us to hone your skills and expand your knowledge.

Christian Literature Degrees: BS in Creative Writing vs. BS in English and Writing

What classes do the BS in Creative Writing – Christian Literature and the BS in English and Writing – Christian Literature have in common?

The specific courses required for the Christian literature concentration are the same in both the bachelor’s in creative writing and the bachelor’s in English and writing. These degrees also have several of the same foundational courses, including Introduction to Creative Writing, Editing for Publishing, Methods and Materials of Research, and Senior Capstone.

What classes are unique to the BS in Creative Writing – Christian Literature?

The goal of the bachelor’s in creative writing is to help shape you into a well-rounded author. As such, the focus of the degree is on different types and purposes of writing. Through this program, you’ll get the opportunity to grow your writing capabilities and develop your portfolio. Courses unique to the BS in Creative Writing – Christian Literature cover subjects such as writing for cultural engagement; writing poetry, novellas, and memoirs; and writing for theater and film.

What classes are unique to the BS in English and Writing – Christian Literature?

The emphasis of the bachelor’s in English and writing is on foundational principles of the English language and how it is utilized in writing. Courses also discuss literary history and prominent authors of the past.

How do I choose between the degrees?

Which program you choose depends upon your career goals. Creative writing helps you develop your ability to craft original works and focuses specifically on that skill across various genres. English and writing is for those who want to study literature and various types of writing, including creative writing, grant writing, technical writing, expository writing, and more.

What Will You Learn in Our Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature Degree Program Online?

The BS in Creative Writing at Liberty University explores writing across various genres, such as fiction, poetry, theater, and film, so that you can become widely equipped for your vocation as a writer within your chosen field. This well-rounded approach to the field of creative writing can help increase your marketability. You can have the confidence that you can write various types of literature because you have already done so!

In Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature, you’ll take courses that cover a wide variety of topics. Subjects include:

• Developing poetry-writing skills using various techniques and poetic forms
• Fundamentals of editing for publishing
• Literary components, complexity, and craft of creative writing
• Production and revision of creative pieces
• Research and bibliographic methods necessary for successful creative writing
• Writing novellas

The specialization in Christian literature entails courses that give you the opportunity to study the intersection of faith and literature in detail. Courses cover Christian fantasy literature, literature of the Bible, contemporary Christian fiction, and an in-depth study of the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. By studying prominent works and authors in Christian literature, you can learn many of the skills you need to become a Christian author in the future.

The program culminates in a senior-level capstone seminar where a writing project integrating material from the program is produced.

Featured Courses

• ENGL 360 – Christian Fantasy Literature*
• ENGL 405 – Literature of the Bible
• ENGL 461 – Contemporary Christian Fiction*
• ENGL 465 – Lewis and Tolkien

*Course guide coming soon

Highlights of Our Online Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature Degree

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years — and counting.
• To continue our mission of providing affordable education,  electronic textbooks are provided for all undergraduate courses at no cost to you. As a full-time student, this could save you an estimated $800-2,000 per year on textbooks!
• You can finish this online Christian literature degree in as little as 3.5 years!
• Liberty University holds institutional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).

Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Christian Literature Degree Information

• This program falls under the College of Arts and Sciences .
• Download and review the Degree Completion Plan .
• View our Undergraduate Arts and Sciences Course Guides (login required).

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Military Benefits for Our Online Undergraduate Programs

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students from all over the globe. Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey.

As a thank-you for your dedication and service to our country, Liberty is honored to serve and support you in your pursuit of online education by offering the following benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $565 per course)
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
• Potential college credit for   military training

Potential Career Opportunities for Bachelor’s in Creative Writing – Christian Literature Graduates

• English instructor*

*May require further training or education

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Online Degrees

Applicants must have a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA for admission in good standing. Please visit our  admission requirements page  for more detailed admissions-related information. 

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Unofficial college transcripts may be accepted with a completed official transcript request form**
• Students may be allowed to enroll in up to 12 credit hours with Liberty with the submission of an unofficial high school transcript and our High School Self-Certification form
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

**An official transcript is needed within 60 days of acceptance or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

Apply FREE This Week*

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Cost Per Credit Hour Per Semester for 7 to 15 Credits* Per Semester for 9 to 15 Credits* i Visit the Tuition and Financing page for more information.

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Disclaimer: This calculator is a tool that provides a rough estimate of the total cost of tuition, and should not be relied upon to determine overall costs, as pricing may vary by program and tuition/fees are subject to change. Estimates are not final or binding, and do not include potential financial aid eligibility.

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For eligibility requirements for military discounts at the doctoral level, please review the online benefits page .

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You have to have a lot of self-motivation and self-discipline when you are going to school online, but the amazing thing is at Liberty you do not need to do it by yourself. You really do have resources like someone who is going to school on campus.

– Janae Fleming ’15, B.S. in Education