Are you looking for the best online bachelor’s degrees in creative writing? We can help you with your school search. Our Students-Before-Profits Awards were created with you in mind. These awards promote colleges and universities verified as non-profit institutions. We look at each program’s curriculum and outcomes. And we make sure that each university puts students before the bottom line.
All of the online creative writing programs selected are from accredited institutions. Most have lower-than-average tuition costs compared to their competitors. Yet they offer some of the best online creative writing degrees in the country.
Featured Programs
Students looking to pursue a writing career have several degree options. Most will enroll in a Bachelor’s in English or Creative Writing. But degree programs in Technical and Professional writing are also available. In all of these programs, you’ll study linguistics, rhetoric, literature, and more. By pursuing one of these degrees, you’ll explore many types of writing. And eventually, you’ll be able to determine what area to specialize in.
Related: Online Master’s English and Creative Writing
Why Pursue a Creative Writing Degree Program?
Pursuing a creative writing bachelor’s degree can provide several benefits, including:
You’ll Develop Stronger Writing Skills
A creative writing program degree will help you refine your writing skills. You will develop an understanding of storytelling and language. And you will learn how to write in various genres. These can include content writing, poetry, screenwriting, fiction writing, and more. You will also gain knowledge of the entire writing process, from research to editing.
You Will Build a Writing Portfolio
The best online creative writing programs will help you build a portfolio of your work. This will be extremely valuable when applying for creative writing careers. It will also be helpful if you choose to pursue a master’s degree in writing. A portfolio allows you to highlight your best writing. And it lets you demonstrate your unique creative writing skills.
You’ll Receive Feedback
During your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to receive constructive feedback. This will come from your instructors, classmates, and other professionals. Feedback will help you discover your biggest strengths. And will also help you identify areas that need improvement. Online degrees in writing also enable you to develop the thick skin essential for a writing career.
You’ll Develop a Network
A writing degree online will also provide opportunities for networking with others. You will likely attend various writing workshops and conferences. And you’ll meet guest speakers and other industry professionals. You may make connections with people in the publishing industry as well.
You’ll Expand Your Career Opportunities
A creative writing degree does not always guarantee a job as a creative writer. However, it will prepare you for a variety of interesting roles. The communication skills and critical thinking skills gained in these programs are what employers are looking for. So those with a creative writing degree will be prepared for many careers. Some of these include:
- Publishing
- Journalism
- Advertising and Marketing
- Education
- Entertainment
- Non-profit Organizations
- Freelance Writing
- Technical Writing
- Content Creation
- Writing Coaching and Tutoring
- Editorial Work
- Film and Television
- Copywriting
- Speech Writing
- Screenwriting
- Medical Writing
Choosing an On-Campus or an Online Creative Writing Degree Program
Many students today are looking for alternatives to the traditional on-campus college experience. College costs are on the rise. And students are expected to enter the workforce sooner. As a result, the traditional on-campus experience may no longer work for many students.
Online creative writing degree programs have a few key advantages over their on-campus counterparts. First, they tend to be more affordable than on-campus programs. Creative writing majors can avoid the costs of commuting, housing, meal plans, and other expenses.
Online creative writing programs are usually identical to those offered in person. And they are typically led by the same professional faculty. Additionally, you’ll earn the same respected degree as on-campus students.
A creative writing online program offers much more flexibility in terms of scheduling. Many are asynchronous, so students can study at their own pace. Because of this, they can fit their bachelor’s in creative writing around work, family, and other obligations.
Finally, online creative writing programs allow you to study from anywhere you are. You no longer need to move or choose a college within your geographic location. Instead, you can live where you want and enroll in a creative writing degree online that matches your interests and goals.
Top 20 Colleges for Online Writing Degrees – Accredited
| School | Tuition |
| University of Central Florida | $6,368 |
| University of Maryland | $7,848 |
| Indiana University East | $7,941 |
| Arkansas Tech University | $8,071 |
| Nicholls State University | $8,156 |
| Missouri State University | $8,604 |
| Central Washington University | $8,845 |
| University of Colorado | $9,562 |
| East Tennessee State University | $9,674 |
| University of Iowa | $10,353 |
| Arizona State University | $10,978 |
| Old Dominion University | $11,220 |
| Ottawa University | $11,976 |
| University of Illinois Springfield | $12,077 |
| Calvary University | $12,500 |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $15,380 |
| Antioch University | $16,164 |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | $16,952 |
| Regent University | $19,680 |
| King University | $33,784 |
Methodology for the Best Online Colleges for Creative Writing
The online creative writing programs listed below are ordered based on tuition rates. And the most affordable schools are listed first. The rates shown are based on in-state undergraduate tuition. We’ve compiled this list of the best online writing degrees with some help from NCES College Navigator. For this school search, we’ve uncovered some excellent schools.
Please note that creative writing degree costs can vary. For example, some online programs may offer in-state tuition rates. Other schools may have different costs for online programs for out-of-state students. There may also be additional online student fees or technology fees.
Of course, most schools also offer financial assistance programs. Financial aid, grants, and scholarships are widely available at the best online schools for creative writing. And they can significantly lower the cost of your higher education. Students interested in these schools should look deeply into each of the online creative writing programs offered. Then, they should consult with the school’s financial aid office before making a decision.
See Also: Affordable Nonprofit Online Colleges
Ranking the Best Online Creative Writing Degree Programs
1. University of Central Florida
Creative Writing Program:
Online Bachelor of Arts in English – Creative Writing
The University of Central Florida is a public research university in Orlando. This large college enrolls over 70,000 students. UCG boasts over 240 degree programs and an award-winning faculty. Additionally, many of UCF’s programs can be completed entirely online.
The University of Central Florida offers an online BA in English with a Creative Writing Emphasis. Students in this program will study literature and the craft of creative writing. And they will learn to critical thinking skills and how to develop original creative content. In addition, the degree program teaches literary structure and communication within an array of genres. With this creative writing degree online, students will be prepared for a career in a range of fields.
The University of Central Florida online offers a range of support services. For example, the UCF Online Connect Center provides a dedicated staff of coaches for online students. They help creative writing majors find the resources they need, And they will help them discover a meaningful work/school/life balance. Other resources include the UCF Mobile App, Writing Center, tech support, and more. The creative writing degree cost at UCF is the lowest on our list.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $6,368
2. University of Maryland
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor of Arts in English
The University of Maryland is a large public college in Adelphi, Maryland. The school serves over 55,000 students and has a robust online division. Students can pursue dozens of online degrees through the University of Maryland Global Campus.
UMGC features a 100% online Bachelor of Arts in English. This degree focuses on real-world applications and practical writing skills. Students will learn about literature while developing in-demand critical skills for today’s employers. The curriculum was designed by industry experts and scholars. Students will need a total of 120 credits to complete the degree program. Some of the courses for this creative writing online degree include:
- Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama
- Introduction to Women’s Literature
- Critical Approaches to Literature
- Renaissance Literature
- Early American Literature
- Contemporary Global Literature
- Advanced Seminar in English Language, Literature, and Writing
- African American Authors
- Modern American Literature
- British Literature
- British Literature
- History of the English Language
- Shakespeare Studies
Students can transfer up to 90 credits into the creative writing program. They may also be able to reduce their total coursework to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching. This is an affordable program. However, financial aid and other funding opportunities are available. This can further lower the creative writing degree cost.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $7,848
3. Indiana University East
Degree in Creative Writing:
Bachelor of Arts in English, Technical & Professional Writing
Indiana University East is a public institution in Richmond, Indiana. It is a regional campus of Indiana University that serves around 3,000 students. The school offers over 60 academic programs. And many of them can be completed through IUE’s’ online school.
IU East offers an online BA in English, Technical & Professional Writing. This degree helps students develop skills needed to produce well-crafted professional writing. Students in this professional and technical writing program will take courses in areas like:
- Science Writing
- Argumentative Writing
- Professional Writing
- Creative Writing
- Literary Interpretation
- Modern Grammar and Usage
- Advanced Technical Writing
- Literature
With this program, students learn to think critically and organize their thoughts. Then, they learn to communicate effectively with words. A total of 120 credits are needed for completion of the degree program. You can transfer an associate degree or up to 64 credit hours from a two-year college. You may also transfer up to 90 credit hours from a four-year college in to this bachelor’s in creative writing.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $7,941
4. Arkansas Tech University
Creative Writing Program:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Arkansas Tech University is a four-year public college in Russellville, Arkansas. Around 9,600 students attend the college. The school is geared primarily toward associate degree programs. However, they do offer a BFA in Creative Writing that caught our eye.
ATU is one of only 14 US public colleges to offer a BFA in creative writing. And this online program is one of the most innovative creative writing programs we’ve discovered. The program provides a solid foundation of writing skills and editing techniques. And it helps students find their unique voices. Participants gain training in marketing and layout for digital writing careers. But they also are exposed to various genres like travel, humor, and historical writing.
All students work one-on-one with a creative writing professor. Together, they choose a project that helps them to meet their academic goals. The requirements for the creative writing program allow students over 30 hours of electives. This allows them to customize the degree program to the subjects they are most passionate about. Students can also choose second majors or minors in other areas of interest. Some of these include:
- Film Studies
- Journalism
- TESOL
- Foreign Languages
- English
Students will gain plenty of practical experience through various writing workshops. And they will use their skills to work on ATU’s literary journal, Nebo. The degree program can be completed online, on-campus, or as a blended (hybrid) program.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $8,071
5. Nicholls State University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor’s in English: Creative Writing Concentration
Nicholls State University is a four-year public college in Thibodaux, Louisiana. The school offers an online BA in English with four concentrations:
- Creative Writing
- Literary Studies
- Film Studies
- Writing and Rhetoric
The degree is offered through the College of Liberal Arts. The online program follows the same curriculum as the on-campus degree. And it is taught by the same outstanding faculty members. All teachers have professional experience in the field. And they become caring role models and mentors for students. The Creative Writing Concentration offers a range of online courses. Some of these include:
- English Composition
- Intensive Writing
- Literature and Culture
- Children’s Literature
- Young Adult Literature
- Literature and Media Studies
- Advanced Grammar
- Creative Writing in Three Genres
- Creative Writing Seminar: Poetry
- Creative Writing Seminar: Non-Fiction Writing
- Creative Writing Seminar: Writing Fiction
- World Literature
- Appreciation of Major Authors
The Concentration also offers a publishing practicum. During this experience, students create, edit, and format a literary magazine.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $8,156
6. Missouri State University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online BS or BA in Professional Writing
Missouri State University is a four-year public college in Springfield, Missouri. MSU has a student population of nearly 23,000. And it offers over 170 majors and programs on campus. Plus, the online school features dozens of online degrees.
MSU students can choose a BS or BA in Professional Writing. This fully online program is broadly designed so you can customize it for your chosen industry. Some of the courses for this creative writing degree include:
- Introduction to Careers in Technical and Professional Writing
- Mini Literature
- Language Skills
- Grammar Skills
- Great Books and Instant Classics
- Creative Writing: Advanced Poetry Writing
- Creative Writing: Nonfiction Writing
- Writing Across the Disciplines
- Creative Writing: Short Story
- Introduction to the Graphic Novel
- Literature by Women African American
Students will gain real-world experience by completing an internship in their geographical location. The degree program is taught by the same full-time faculty that teach on campus. And students earn the same bachelor’s in creative writing.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $8,604
7. Central Washington University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor’s English – Professional & Creative Writing
Central Washington University is a public university in Ellensburg, Washington. The school serves just over 10,000 students and offers more than 135 majors. Many of these programs are available through CWU’s online school in a 100% online format.
CWU offers an online bachelor’s in English with a Professional & Creative Writing major. This program combines specialized creative writing courses with a liberal arts background. And students will graduate with the skills to adapt to a wide range of opportunities. A total of 120 credits are needed to complete the degree. Some of the courses in the bachelor’s in creative writing degree program include:
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- Introduction to Creative Writing and Environment
- Introduction to Creative Writing as “Mindfulness, Health and Well-Being”
- Poetry and Poetics
- English Grammar
- Freelance writing
- Business Writing
- Legal Writing
- Literature and History
Advanced Literary and Critical Theory
All students will complete a practicum to demonstrate what they have learned. The program can be taken entirely online, on-campus, or a combination of the two. Transfer credits are accepted at Central Washington University but are not required.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition: $8,845
8. University of Colorado Denver
Degree in Creative Writing:
BA in English Writing, Rhetoric, and Technology
The University of Colorado Denver is a four-year public college in Denver. The college serves about 24,000 students. And it offers degrees at all levels. UC Denver features a robust online school. Students can choose from online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The college offers a BA in English Writing, Rhetoric, and Technology for those interested in creative writing.
This fully online creative writing program requires 120 credits for completion. Students learn to think creatively. And they will gain skills to plan and research their written work. It provides a strong foundation in writing research and theory. And this can lead to many career opportunities. Some of the courses in this online program include:
- Intro to Writing and Digital Studies
- Grammar, Rhetoric, and Style
- Multimedia Composition
- Language Theory
- Magazine Writing
- Writing in the Sciences
- Technical Editing
- Proposal and Grant Writing
Full time students can expect to complete the degree in about four years. However, attending part-time is also an option. Students can also complete some of the coursework on campus if they choose to do so.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $9,562
9. East Tennessee State University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor of Arts in English
East Tennessee State University is a public college in Johnson City, Tennessee. The school offers over 160 academic programs through ten colleges and schools. Additionally, ETSU provides a broad range of online degree programs across several fields.
ETSU features an online Bachelor of Arts in English Literature. This program offers a general overview of American and British Literature. But it also focuses on creative writing, women’s literature, and more. All English majors are expected to complete a minor in another study area. And they must meet the requirements for the BA in the College of Arts and Sciences. Some of the courses in this online program include:
- Introduction to Linguistics
- Literary Criticism
- Grammar and Usage
- Poetry
- Fiction
- Drama
- Non-Fiction
- Children’s Literature
- African Literature
- Writing: Theory and Teaching
- Young Adult Literature
- Irish/Scottish Literature
- Screenwriting
The courses are offered asynchronously. So students can complete the program from anywhere. A limited number of scholarships are available for this specific degree.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,674
See also: What’s the Difference: English vs. Creative Writing?
10. University of Iowa
Degree in Creative Writing:
Bachelor of Applied Studies-Creative Writing Emphasis
The University of Iowa is a four-year public university in Iowa City. The school serves close to 30,000 students and offers over 200 programs. UI’s online school also offers a wide range of remote degree programs and certificates.
Students interested in pursuing creative writing online can enroll in a BA in Applied Studies. This 120-semester hour program features four areas of emphasis. And one of those is creative writing. First, students will complete the BAS general core requirements. They can then tailor the program to focus on their specific goals. Some of the courses in the creative writing emphasis include:
- Word Power: Building English Vocabulary
- Creative Writing
- Novel Writing
- Introduction to Creative Writing-Nonfiction
- Fiction Writing
- Poetry Writing
- The Sentence: Strategies for Writing
- The Art of Revision: Writing for Clarity
- Professional and Creative Writing for Business Communication
IU has an international reputation as a writing college. The school hosts many annual events related to literature and writing. And students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources its renowned Writing Center offers.
Accreditation: Higher Learning
Tuition: $10,353
11. Arizona State University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor of Arts in English
Arizona State University is one of the largest public colleges in the nation. The main campus serves over 77,000 students. And the online division has a student population of over 57,000. ASU offers many on-campus programs. However, ASU Online has over 300 online programs and certificates.
Students at ASU can pursue an online Bachelor of English degree. The degree prepares students for writing careers in a range of industries. Students will develop strong oral and written communication skills. And the online writing degree covers everything from academic to professional writing.
Classes are 7.5 weeks long. And the degree requires 120 credits for completion. Some of the courses for this creative writing program include:
- Topics in Contemporary Literature
- Critical Reading and Writing About Literature
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- Beginning Creative Writing Workshop in Poetry
- Beginning Creative Writing Workshop in Fiction
- Travel Writing
- Gender, Culture, and Literacy
- Future of English
- Women and Literature
- Rhetorical Studies
- Children’s Literature
- History of the English Language
This program has several convenient start dates a year. And because it is asynchronous, students can go at their own pace. ASU has one of the best online English degrees we’ve found. And at less than $11,000 per academic year, it’s also quite affordable.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,978
12. Old Dominion University
Creative Writing Bachelor’s Degree:
Online Bachelor’s in English
Old Dominion University is a four-year public college in Norfolk, Virginia. This non-profit university serves over 23,000 students and offers over 100 academic programs. Many of them are 100% online programs.
ODU features an online Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing degree. Students in this program will learn technical writing. And they will gain an understanding of communication and composition skills. The program also features classes in marketing, business, and public relations. This is an interdisciplinary degree where students major in professional writing.
Transfer credits are accepted into this program but are not required. It can be a degree completion program or a full degree. A minimum of 120 credits are needed to finish. Coursework is available online from any location. And students will participate in some live scheduled classes as part of the program. Some of the courses include:
- Aspects of the English Language
- Editing and Document Design
- English Linguistics
- Reporting and News Writing
- Writing in Digital Spaces
- Editorial and Persuasive Writing
- Media Law and Ethics
- Advanced Composition
- Technical Writing
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $11,220
13. Ottawa University
Creative Writing Bachelor’s Degree:
Online Bachelor’s in English
Ottawa University is a small private, not-for-profit college in Ottawa, Kansas. It has a total enrollment of under 700 students. Yet it has several programs online and on campus. For example, OU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in English degree. This online 120-credit program features eight-week accelerated terms. This allows students a faster time to completion.
Students in this program will learn the power of language. And they will gain an appreciation for how creative writing can capture the essence of the human condition. They will study techniques to help them become successful writers. And they will develop their own expressive abilities through the written word. Some of the courses in this creative writing program include:
- Contemporary Literature
- Sports Literature
- Ancient to Medieval
- Victorians to Moderns
- Creative Writing
- Advanced Expository Writing
- Environmental Literature
- Literature of Personal Discovery
- Literary Criticism
- British Literature
- American Literature
Courses are asynchronous and can be accessed 24/7. In addition, all online students have access to a dedicated services team. These individuals will help you determine the right academic plan for you. And they will help you find the tools and resources to complete your degree successfully.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $11,976
14. University of Illinois Springfield
Creative Writing Bachelor’s Degree:
Online Bachelor of Arts in English
The University of Illinois Springfield is a public college in Springfield, Illinois. The college services around 4,000 students each year. And it boasts an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. Many UIS programs can be completed entirely online. This includes an online BA in English. In this program, students participate in interactive and diverse learning communities.
The Bachelor’s Degree in English degree is offered to students on campus or online. It follows the same semester time frame as the in-person program. However, students can complete coursework on their own time. This is not strictly a creative writing program. However, many of the courses revolve around creative writing. Some of these include:
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- Introduction to Literature
- African American Literature
- Creative Writing, Publishing, and Community
- Creative Writing: Poetry
- Creative Writing: Nonfiction
- Women Playwrights
- Children’s and Young Adult Literature
- The British Victorian Novel
All writing students are assigned an academic advisor. They will work with their advisor to develop an individualized course of study. This way, they can ensure the program meets their personal and professional goals.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $12,077
15. Calvary University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor’s in English Literature and Creative Writing
Calvary University is a private, non-profit College in Kansas City, Missouri. This small school is home to under 400 students. However, every program offered on campus can also be completed online. All
Courses are live-streamed, so you get the best of both worlds. And all assignments can be completed on Canvas, the school’s online learning management system.
Calvary offers an English Literature and Creative Writing Degree. This is an interdisciplinary program taught from a Christian worldview. Students will read and analyze a wide range of literature. And they will learn effective creative writing processes. Some of the courses in the program include:
- American Literature
- British Literature
- Introduction to Short Fiction
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- History of the English Language
- Shakespeare
- Creative Writing – Fiction
- Creative Writing – Non-Fiction
- Creative Writing – Poetry
A total of 126 credits are needed to complete the creative writing degree. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $12,500
16. Southern New Hampshire University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English
Southern New Hampshire University is a non-profit private university in Manchester, NH. The school offers a BA in English and Creative Writing online. This 120-credit degree is one of the country’s best online creative writing programs. It features advanced writing workshops and experiential learning opportunities. Students can choose concentrations from four genre options, including:
- Creative Writing & English- Fiction
- Creative Writing & English-Nonfiction
- Creative Writing & English-Poetry
- Creative Writing & English-Screenwriting
The program at Southern New Hampshire University is entirely asynchronous. So there are no set times for classes. Instead, students can access their course materials 24/7. Some of the courses in this online creative writing degree include:
- Literary Theory
- Popular and Contemporary Fiction
- Context of Writing: Writers/Publishing
- Creative Writing
- Advanced Creative Writing
- Writing for Film
Southern New Hampshire University has a generous transfer policy. Students can transfer up to 90 credits into the program. And no application fee or SAT/ACT scores are required for admission. Financial aid is also available at Southern New Hampshire University.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $15,380
17. Antioch University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies: Literature and Creative Writing
Antioch University is a private, non-profit college with several locations in the US. However, the school also has a robust online division known as Antioch Online. AU Online offers a range of fully remote programs, including a BA in Liberal Studies, Literature, and Creative Writing.
The creative writing program requires a total of 120 credits for completion. The degree examines great works of literature. And then, it teaches students how to use them to inspire their own writing. All coursework focuses on creative writing. And there are plenty of hands-on writing opportunities in multiple genres. Some of the courses in the program include:
- Short Story Writing
- Playwriting & Performance
- Multi-Genre Writing
- Poetry Writing
- Social Media & Social Change
- Creative Nonfiction
- Shakespeare
All online learning is asynchronous. Students can access course materials when it is convenient for them. Coursework may include writing assignments, video recordings, and online group discussions. Depending on the program, students may complete an internship in their own regions. AUO provides plenty of resources for online students. These include 24/7 tech support, a virtual writing center, and more.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $16,164
18. University of Massachusetts Amherst
Degree in Creative Writing:
BA with Writing and Literary Studies Concentration
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public research university in Amherst, Massachusetts. UMass Amherst is the flagship campus for the University of Massachusetts system. The school serves over 32,000 students and offers over 200 academic programs.
UMass Amherst offers an online BA with a Writing and Literary Studies Concentration. This writing degree is interdisciplinary. And it’s a bachelor’s degree completion program. It’s designed for both amateur and professional writers to improve their craft. And it can be tailored with many online courses in creative writing. Some of the available courses in this online degree in creative writing include:
- Literature & Culture
- International Short Story
- Writing and Reading Imaginative Literature
- Creative Writing: Nonfiction
- Shakespeare
- Gender, Sexuality, Literature, and Culture
- Magazine Writing
- Writing the Graphic Novel
- Screenwriting: Film & Video
Most of the courses can be completed at your own pace and on your own schedule. Students can transfer in up to 105 credits from prior coursework. However, they may also be able to earn credit for previous work and life experience.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $16,952
19. Regent University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor of Arts in English – Writing
Regent University is a private Christian college located in Virginia Beach. The school has a student population of around 10,000. And it is well-known for its wide range of online degree programs.
Regent offers a Bachelor of Arts in English with a Writing Emphasis. Students will gain a solid foundation in American, British, and World Literature. And they will learn fundamental writing skills for content writing, creative writing, business, and more. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this online creative writing degree. Some of the courses include:
- Literature of the United States
- British Literature
- The Art of the Essay
- Studies in World Literature
- Shakespeare
- English Composition
- Research and Academic Writing
Regent offers many resources to online students. For example, the school’s Center for Student Happiness features tutoring, coaching, and IT support. Other resources include:
- Writing Labs
- Counseling
- Academic Advising
- Career Services
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $19,680
20. King University
Degree in Creative Writing:
Online Bachelor’s in English
King University is a private, non-profit college in Bristol, Tennessee. It’s a small college serving around 1500 students a year. However, the school offers a wide range of academic programs. King also has a robust online division.
Students who want to study creative writing can enroll in an online BA in English. This degree program teaches students to further understand literature and language. And it covers a variety of literary subjects, styles, and authors. Students will learn to write clearly and communicate effectively. Some of the creative writing courses include:
- Composition and rhetoric
- Adolescent literature
- Religion and literature
- Shakespeare
- Appalachian literature
- World literature
This degree prepares students for a variety of careers. Students focus on research, problem-solving, and communication. These are all skills that are in high demand in the workforce. The program prepares students for graduate school as well.
The program is asynchronous. So you can attend classes at your convenience. Students can also take this program at an accelerated pace. The school’s generous transfer policy allows students to bring in more than 50 percent of credits. And major coursework can be completed in as little as 16 months. In addition, there are multiple start dates per year.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $33,784
Creative Writing Salary and Growth: What Is the Employment Outlook for Creative Writers?
The demand for writers is expected to remain steady through the next decade. There is a shift in the writing industry from print media to online media. And the rate of growth for writers and authors is projected to be about four percent through 2031. This is about as fast as the average for all other occupations. The salary for creative writers can range widely. According to PayScale, those in creative writing earn $35k – $95k annually. And the average salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $69,510 per year.
There are other creative writing-related careers that are equally as lucrative. Here are a few examples:
Technical Writer:
Technical writers work in a variety of industries. They prepare how-to guides, manuals, and similar documents. Their job is to take complex technical information and communicate it in an easy-to-understand way. Technical Writers earn a median annual salary of $78,060 per year.
Senior Copywriter:
Senior copywriters typically work within a company’s marketing or creative department. Their job is to create content that promotes and advertises products and services to consumers. Senior Copywriters earn a median annual salary of $79,991 per year.
Editor:
Editors work with words to revise content and collect grammatical errors. They may work in print or digital media. Editors earn a median annual salary of $63,350 per year.
Medical Writer:
The work of a medical writer is similar to that of a technical writer. They write and edit clinical documents related to the medical or pharmaceutical industry. And they communicate complex ideas so patients can understand them easier. Medical Writers earn a median annual salary of $78,482 per year.
How Long Does Getting an Online Creative Writing Bachelor’s Degree Take?
The time it takes to complete an online creative writing degree depends on the school. A creative writing bachelor’s degree writing typically requires 120 credits. Traditionally, undergraduates will study for four years.
However, many online colleges for writing offer accelerated degree programs. In some cases, students can earn a creative writing degree in as little as three years.
Because many online degree writing programs allow you to set your own pace, the time for completion will vary. For example, online students can usually choose to attend programs full or part-time. Attending a program part-time will typically take longer than four years. However, the slower pace may be ideal for students with jobs and other responsibilities.
Finally, previously earned credits can reduce the time it takes to earn your creative writing degree. If you have attended college previously, you may also be able to transfer your credits. Colleges have varying policies on transfer credits. However, if you are able to transfer credits you’ve already earned, it can significantly shorten the time it takes to earn your degree. It can also save you money on your online education.
See Also: Top Scholarships for Online Students
What’s The Difference Between A Creative Writing BA, and BFA?
With online schools for creative writing, students typically pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. BA degrees are the most common writing degrees. And they focus more on liberal arts and humanities. This degree typically covers topics like communication, language, philosophy, and critical thinking. Students take general education classes in addition to writing classes.
However, at some colleges, students can earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in creative writing. A BFA program focuses heavily on writing as an art form. And it encourages students to practice their own unique craft. In a BFA program, the majority of your studies will be concentrated on the arts.
Professional Associations for Creative Writing Students
Writing organizations are a terrific resource for creative writing students. Such groups can help you network, find an editor, or hone your techniques. They can help you keep up with industry changes and meet other professionals in the field. Here are a few of the top organizations for creative writing students:
- Women’s Fiction Writers Association
- Authors Guild
- Association of Writers And Writing Programs
- International Association For Journal Writing
- The National Writers Union
- National Association Of Independent Writers And Editors
- PEN America Center
- Writers Guild Of America
- Small Publishers, Artists, And Writers Network
- Society of Children’s Book Writers And Illustrators
- National Association Of Memoir Writers
- Native American Journalists Association
- Asian American Journalists Association
- Western Writers Of America
- American Christian Fiction Writers
- Academy of American Poets
- American Medical Writers Association
- Editorial Freelancers Association
- Education Writers Association
- International Association of Business Communicators
- National Association of Black Journalists
- Society for Technical Communication
- Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing
Do You Need A Degree To Become a Writer?
Writers do not need a college degree to write. Nor must they be a specific age. Anyone who enjoys writing can be a writer. Most writers have practiced their art for years before pursuing a creative writing degree. You can certainly make your place in the world as a writer without a formal education.
However, like any art form, the more knowledge you bring to it, the better. A college education can enhance your writing skills and give you a well-rounded approach to life. Moreover, you typically will need a college degree to work within an established company as a writer. For example, suppose you want a job as a technical writer, reporter, or copywriter. Employers hiring for these creative writing careers prefer candidates with strong writing, English, or communication backgrounds. A degree can definitely give you a competitive advantage.
Online degrees for writing can be beneficial even if you want to be a self-employed freelance writer. You’ll learn about the business side of writing and the many avenues to pursue careers in the field. As a creative writing major, you’ll discover the type of writing that appeals to you most. And you’ll receive constructive feedback and learn to hone your skills. Freelance writers with the most experience and professional expertise typically earn the most money.
Free Online Courses for Creative Writers
Are you on the fence about pursuing a creative writing degree? Many people love to write but are unsure if they want to pursue careers in writing. How about trying out some free courses? There are numerous free writing classes online. Some are presented by well-known universities. Others are sponsored by various writing groups. These classes can help you with particular skills, such as editing or creating sales copy. They can also help you narrow down your focus and discover what you are most passionate about writing. Check out these free online writing classes:
- Report the news (Michigan State University)
- Write Your First Novel (Michigan State University)
- Content Writing For Beginners
- Technical Writing: A Quick Start to Software Documentation
- Finishing a Manuscript in 60 Days
- An Introduction To Writing Promotional Content In English
- Email Writing- How to Write Effective Emails
- The Art of Persuasive Writing and Public Speaking (Harvard University)
- Business Writing Techniques
- The Craft of Plot (Wesleyan University)
- Writing Successfully for the Stage (University of Cambridge)
- Comedy Writing and Performance Poetry (University of Cambridge)
- Creative Writing (Wesleyan University)
- Good with Words: Writing and Editing (University of Michigan)
- Academic English: Writing (University of California, Irvine)
- Writing in the Sciences Stanford University
- Ancient Masterpieces of World Literature (Harvard University
- The Craft of Storytelling (University of Alaska, Fairbanks)
- Working as a Game Writer (University of British Columbia
Related: Free College Courses
This concludes our ranking of the best creative writing degree online accredited programs.
