graduate student sitting at a table and writing

Creative writing workshops foster community, creative risk-taking, and development of voice in dialogue with other skilled writers.

What you’ll learn

The 15-credit Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing allows writers of poetry, fiction and creative non-fiction the opportunity to practice and hone their craft without committing to a full master’s program.

Like a “minor” on the graduate level, it may be taken by working professionals who are pursuing graduate studies in other areas, or by students who wish to explore their interest and aptitude for further work or study in creative writing. Any credits earned within the certificate transfer seamlessly towards the MA in English for any who might want to continue.

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Curriculum

The Certificate in Creative Writing is a 15-credit program that is fully online. It is open to both matriculated and non-matriculated students; however, all students must go through a formal admission process.

Furthermore, the courses taken in the certificate program are not only valuable on their own but can also be applied towards the completion of an MA in English. For example, a student who successfully completes the certificate may choose to apply for the MA program in creative writing. If accepted, they could complete the MA degree within a year. Alternatively, a student may opt to pursue an MA in English with a focus on literature, supplementing it with the certificate in creative writing. This flexibility allows students to tailor their academic path to suit their interests and career goals.

Curriculum & Learning Outcomes

 

Best Consideration Dates

Fall Semester: April 15
Spring Semester: November 15

Complete applications received after the published deadline are welcome and will be reviewed on a space-available basis.

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Career outlook

Creative writing is a skill to have in a variety of careers, including:

  • Teaching at all educational levels from elementary school to college
  • Academic administration
  • Law
  • Sales and management
  • Library and Information Technology Services
  • Communications
  • Technical writing

Meet writers from all over

For more than 50 years, our annual Writer’s Forum has given students an inside look on what it’s like to work within the professional writing industry. The Forum hosts distinguished writers right on-campus.

Hear from accomplished novelists, poets, playwrights, memoirists, screenwriters, cartoonists, and essayists on their unique experiences and perspectives.

The best part? It’s free. Just show up, take a seat, and immerse yourself in the world of literature.

Writer’s Forum Schedule

A national treasure

Participate in The Writers Forum, engaging in small, intensive workshops with distinguished writers for a constructive experience.

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Financing your
education

Learn more about scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships.

Financing optioins

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