What Are The Best Creative Writing Schools In The World?
What is a creative writing degree?
What exactly is a degree in creative writing? Students who wish to become writers can develop their skills in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and drama by participating in a degree program in creative writing that lasts four years. Those who learn in creative writing schools learn how to write in specialized forms of creative writing.
Some of these include writing for children and young adults, scriptwriting for film and television, writing speculative fiction, writing literary journalism, writing travel pieces, writing food pieces, writing nature pieces, and even translating literary works.
Students who intend to earn a degree in creative writing study works that have been put to paper, like novels and plays, and take classes that teach them how to become better writers. Some of these classes will include workshops in which students can get comments on their writing from their instructors and their classmates.
Students who major in creative writing have the opportunity to concentrate their studies on a specific genre of creative writing—such as poetry, screenplays, short stories, or novels—that particularly interests them.
It is possible to earn more advanced degrees with a concentration in creative writing, such as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in creative writing or a doctorate in the same field. Suppose you wish to instruct creative writing or any other subject that is closely related at the collegiate level. In that case, you will typically be required to hold a graduate degree. Suppose you have a bachelor’s degree in creative writing.
In that case, you could go on to earn a related master’s degree, such as a Master of Library and Information Science, which would prepare you for a career as a librarian. Alternatively, you could earn one of the many master’s degrees related to publishing, writing, or journalism.
Why study for a creative writing degree?
Studying creative writing can provide various benefits for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a writer or who simply want to improve their writing skills. Some reasons to consider studying a creative writing degree include the following:
Developing writing skills: A creative writing degree program can help you develop your writing skills in various genres, including fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. You will learn how to craft compelling stories, create vivid characters, and use language effectively to convey meaning.
Gaining insights into the writing process: As a person studying at writing schools with a creative writing degree program, you will learn about the writing process and how to revise and edit your work. You will also learn how to provide and receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors, which can help you improve your writing.
Understanding the publishing industry: Creative writing degree programs often provide students with an understanding of the publishing industry, including the process of submitting work for publication and the role of literary agents.
Building a writing community: Studying creative writing can allow you to connect with other writers and build a supportive community. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who want to pursue a career in writing or are looking for inspiration and motivation.
Improving critical thinking and communication skills: Through writing, you will develop critical thinking and communication skills that can be applied in various settings, both personal and professional.
Preparing for a writing career: For those who want to pursue a career as a writer, a creative writing degree can provide a solid foundation and prepare you for the challenges and opportunities you will face in the industry.
Ultimately, studying creative writing can be a rewarding experience that can help you develop your writing skills, gain a deeper understanding of the writing process, and prepare you for a career in writing or related fields.
What are the best creative writing schools in the world?
Columbia University
Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
When it opened its doors in 1754, Columbia University was known as King’s College. It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of New York, and it is also one of the oldest in the United States. It is currently considered among the best in the country and the world.
A Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing is one of the undergraduate degrees that can be earned through Columbia University’s School of the Arts, and one of the students has five semesters to complete the program. During this time, they are required to participate in five workshops, four seminars, and three elective classes.
Students attending this prestigious school for creative writing can major in either Single-Genre Writing or Cross-Genre Writing during their time there. The latter allows them to combine two different genres.
As one of the best creative writing schools in the world, graduates can continue their education by pursuing a Master of Fine Arts degree in the same field. Students who wish to earn their Master of Fine Arts degree from Columbia University must earn sixty points throughout their studies.
Princeton University
Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s
Another one of the best creative writing schools in the world can be found at Princeton University, which was established in the middle of the 18th century and is, therefore, one of the oldest universities in the United States.
In addition, it is regarded as one of the finest educational establishments in the nation, and it has over 8,000 students, including some of the country’s brightest and most accomplished people. Its alumni include 18 people who have been awarded the Nobel Prize, two presidents of the United States, and three justices on the Supreme Court of the United States.
Undergraduate students at the university can hone their writing abilities through participation in the Creative Writing program housed in the Lewis Center for the Arts. These students are mentored by well-known and currently working members of the writing community. Students can take part in workshop classes, in which they can study poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and other forms of writing with a select group of fellow students and teachers.
Johns Hopkins University
Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
In 1876, Johns Hopkins University became the first university in the United States to be established as a research institution. It takes great pride in its excellent academic programs, which have a history of producing graduates and alumni who have gone on to win various prestigious awards, such as Grammys, Emmys, Pulitzers, and Oscars.
As one of the best creative writing schools, students interested in writing can participate in seminars on the history and technique of prose and poetry as part of the university’s undergraduate program major in Writing Seminars. In addition, the university offers courses in literature, poetry, and fiction writing.
The Master of Fine Arts program at Johns Hopkins University is highly competitive. He offers qualified students free health insurance and full tuition, in addition to a teaching fellowship worth approximately $30,000 in total. It is a two-year program, and students are required to maintain residency in Baltimore during that time.
University of Chicago
Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s
A research institution, the University of Chicago first opened its doors in the latter half of the 19th century. It has become one of the top ten universities in the United States throughout its history, and it has been associated with more than 90 Nobel laureates. There are over 17,000 students spread out among 12 schools and divisions.
At the University of Chicago, students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing can concentrate their studies on either the fiction, nonfiction, or poetry subgenres of the literary arts.
Students have a maximum of four years to complete all of the requirements for their major. This includes taking a foundational course in Creative Writing Seminar, attending two technical seminars pertinent to their primary genre, participating in three advanced workshops, completing four literature courses, and two research electives, participating in a thesis or project workshop, and writing a BA thesis.
New York University
Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
New York University (NYU), which was established in 1831, has a long history of being a forward-thinking academic institution ever since its inception. Since New York is home to a large number of novelists, poets, and creative nonfiction writers who have won multiple awards for their work, NYU is considered to be among the best creative writing schools in all of the world.
In the Department of Creative Writing at New York University, students have the opportunity to participate in programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree as well as the Master of Fine Arts degree. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to take part in intensive writing programs during the summer in Florence, New York City, or Paris. In addition, they have the opportunity to participate in writing contests hosted by the division and gain valuable work experience by interning.
In the meantime, the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program offers students a stimulating environment where they can gain knowledge from distinguished faculty and participate in stimulating and engaging outreach programs, reading series, seminars, and other activities.
University of Pennsylvania
Degrees Offered: Certificate, Bachelor’s
Another excellent school for creative writing that thrives on innovative teaching strategies and cutting-edge technology is the University of Pennsylvania, which is located in Philadelphia. It first opened its doors in 1740, and its long history has significantly contributed to the university’s efforts to improve and expand its culture of innovation.
Students who wish to earn a Certificate in Creative Writing from the university’s School of Arts and Sciences are required to take four classes from the following list: Poetry Workshop, Fiction Workshop, Screenwriting, Advanced Nonfiction, Journalism, Craft of Creative Writing, Writing about Place, and Modern and Contemporary US Poetry.
Students at Penn can also earn a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) degree in Creative Studies, which takes four years to complete. Within this program, students have the opportunity to concentrate on creative writing.
University of Oxford
Degrees Offered: Master’s
University of Oxford is a renowned educational establishment that is known for having some of the strictest admission requirements found anywhere in the world. The admissions process at the University of Oxford is extremely competitive, with only 17.5% of applicants being chosen.
As a result of these stringent policies, it is home to some of the most intelligent people in the world. This university was at the epicenter of the COVID-19 crisis, and it was able to come up with a vaccine that has helped save the lives of millions of people.
Students who are interested in obtaining a degree in Creative writing can do so at the University of Oxford by pursuing a Master of Study, also known as an MSt. It is considered to be one of the most successful creative writing schools in the entire world.
This particular university provides a program that spans two years and initially places equal emphasis on prose, poetry, and drama. During the second year of the program, students have the opportunity to specialize in one particular area of study. During their second year, each student will be assigned an experienced supervisor who will serve as a resource for them and provide guidance and advice.
University of British Columbia
Degrees Offered: Master’s
The University of British Columbia, also known as UBC, is a public research university that is also regarded as one of the most important educational institutions in both Canada and the rest of the world. Since its founding in 1908, the university has risen to become one of the top 20 universities in the world.
This academic institution is committed to ensuring that its students and scholars have access to academic freedom. It seeks to do away with censorship and allow academics to express their opinions and engage in open debates to find answers to issues that are relevant to the real world.
UBC’s distinctive Creative Writing Program can be found in the Faculty of Arts building. Students are drawn to it because it allows them to concentrate on creative writing without being constrained by the study of literature. This makes it an extremely desirable educational environment. The teaching staff hopes to graduate authors who can persuade, educate, and inspire in addition to entertaining their readers.
University of Melbourne
Degrees Offered: Bachelor, Master’s
The University of Melbourne is recognized on a global scale as an institution with a strong commitment to public service. This particular educational institution provides its students with a curriculum that, in addition to the degree they are studying for, gives them a more in-depth understanding of the world as a whole. The graduates of this renowned educational establishment are in high demand, which places the University of Melbourne among the top ten educational institutions in the world in terms of their graduates’ employability rate.
The University of Melbourne provides avid readers with the chance to investigate their ideas through the medium of written expression. The course, which is offered at one of the top creative writing schools in the world, is intended to teach fundamental writing skills to the tens of thousands of students who enroll in it each year. Learners are encouraged to engage in critical thinking about contemporary thought schools in any form of writing that they produce.
University of Leeds
Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
The University of Leeds is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the United Kingdom and also belongs to the prestigious Russell Group. This university, founded in 1904, is renowned all over the world for the quality of its education, teaching, and research. This organization strives to improve the quality of life for people in the communities it serves throughout its region, the United Kingdom, and the entire world through its work.
The purpose of the Creative Writing Program at the University of Leeds is to assist students in developing their analytical skills to facilitate the production of literary works that span various genres. Students will learn how to shape the language they use to convey their thoughts with the help of knowledgeable professors and academic researchers who curated the course. Under the guidance of seasoned authors, students will have the opportunity to construct a compelling portfolio by the time they have completed their training.
As you choose from the many writing schools, it is equally important to learn how to enter school. At AdmissionSight, you will be guided as needed in that step. You can get all the right information and guidance from experts at AdmissionSight. Start your journey today with an initial consultation.
