Online Master’s In Creative Writing

A creative writing degree prepares learners to communicate clearly, effectively, and creatively. Students in creative writing programs strengthen their writing, editing, and collaboration skills. Graduates with an online creative writing degree work as published authors, content writers, and editors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), writers earn a median annual salary of $63,200. Most writing jobs require a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or communication. Although the BLS projects a 2% decline in creative writing jobs between 2019 and 2029, writers can distinguish themselves by maintaining cutting-edge skills.

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Creative Writing Frequently Asked Questions by Students

How do I start a career in creative writing?

Creative writers launch their careers by writing and publishing. Many employers offering entry-level creative writing degree jobs request writing samples.

Is a master's degree in creative writing worth it?

A master's degree in creative writing appeals most to writers who want to gain more advanced writing and editing skills. Master's degree-holders may also qualify to teach creative writing.

What kind of jobs can I get with a creative writing degree?

Because effective communication is an essential skill in the workplace, creative writers work in many professions. The most common creative writing jobs include content writer, author, and copywriter.

Do creative writers make good money?

Salaries for creative writing jobs vary depending on job type and location. For example, successful Hollywood screenwriters generally earn more than corporate copywriters.

Why Get a Degree in Creative Writing?

Companies, nonprofits, and other organizations value creative thinkers. A creative writing degree allows students to master important communication skills. Enrollees also learn how to put those skills into practice in the workplace. Learners who pursue a master's degree in creative writing may qualify to teach other writers in a K-12 or university setting.

Many schools offer online creative writing degrees. These programs offer students maximum flexibility for shaping their education according to their individual needs. Online degrees often cost less than in-person programs. Students in an online creative writing program also benefit from accelerated course options.

How Much Does a Creative Writing Degree Cost?

Costs for creative writing degrees vary by school type and location. Public universities charge less for tuition than private colleges, but both types require students to pay technology, activity, and other fees. Many schools host online or low-residency creative writing programs. These programs often cost less than traditional programs.

Some public colleges extend in-state tuition to all online students. Applicants should check with each school under consideration about the tuition cost for online programs. Online creative writing programs reduce programmatic operating costs, so learners generally pay less as a result. The flexibility of online instruction enables some students to work while attending school.

Students in online creative writing programs need a working computer and access to a reliable internet connection. Creative writing programs do not charge lab fees.

How Much Do Creative Writing Majors Make?

Creative writers work in both corporate and nonprofit settings as copywriters, editors, and content marketers. Graduates with a degree in creative writing also teach, publish creative works, and serve as speechwriters for executives. Writers earn around $63,000 per year, according to the BLS. However, salaries vary depending on writers' role and location.

For example, writers who work in the performing arts and spectator sports typically earn higher salaries than other writers. Technical writers who possess scientific knowledge and skills also earn more on average. Writers who want to work in the nonprofit sector may seek certification from the American Grant Writers' Association.

As creative thinkers who adapt easily to workplace changes, writers often advance quickly in the corporate sector. Individuals who start their careers as copywriters may transition into positions such as creative director or content strategist.

Courses in Creative Writing

Creative writing programs feature courses that prepare students to communicate effectively across genres and media. Enrollees learn how to write and edit written works. They also collaborate with other writers on larger projects.

A typical creative writing program hosts genre-based courses and workshops on fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting. Students may also take specialized courses on topics like contemporary world literature, professional writing, and the publishing industry.

Most creative writing students complete a thesis to graduate. This project serves as the culmination of a student's learning experience. The project involves writing a longer creative work in one of several genres. The list below highlights five sample courses from creative writing programs.

• Fiction Writing

  This course introduces students to the craft of fiction. Learners write short stories and receive feedback from peers during workshops. The class may also cover important works of contemporary fiction. Students may write based on prompts or craft pieces that reflect their own ideas.

• Professional Writing

  This class covers the basics of professional writing. Students learn how to write for various target audiences. The course may also explore content writing, technical writing, and grant writing. Learners gain the skills needed to begin successful writing careers in business and nonprofit organizations.

• The Publishing Industry

  Enrollees explore all aspects of the publishing industry. The class covers topics like acquiring a literary agent, pitching a book, and negotiating contracts. Learners examine the process of publication from initial submission to production. The course may also investigate publishing careers.

• Editing

  This class introduces students to editing for different genres and media. Students collaborate on editorial projects and learn how to give constructive feedback to writers. The course examines common revision methods and teaches learners to apply those methods to their own work. Other topics include strategies for starting an editing business and working with clients.

• Poetry

  Poetry writing courses provide students with opportunities to master their poetic craft. Learners participate in poetry workshops and read the works of their peers. The class may also feature poetry readings. Students encounter both classic and contemporary poetic works.

Scholarships for Creative Writing

Creative writing students may qualify for many scholarships and writing awards. These opportunities help learners pay for tuition and fees. State and federal financial aid programs provide degree-seekers with other options for funding their education. See below for scholarships available for creative writing students at all levels.

Online Master's in Creative Writing Programs