For many prospective authors, a creative writing degree seems like an indulgence. It’s true that you don’t need any formal education beyond about grade school to put pen to paper and let your imagination fly. But it’s also true that without that degree, writing will likely forever be an avocation, not a career.
But what if you could find a creative writing degree that was affordable enough that it felt like a wise investment in the career you were born for?
Whether you are on the edge of picking a bachelor’s degree to launch your writing career, or thinking about going for that coveted MFA in Creative Writing to put the highest level of polish on your skills, an affordable school can be the tipping point.
Writing talent isn’t confined to the wealthy. John Steinbeck wrote with such authority about the lives of migrant laborers because he worked as one. J.K. Rowling was on welfare, working out of cafes and coffee shops, when she was working on Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone.
So, there’s no reason that a creative writing education should be available only to those who pay top dollar. That’s why we have put together a list of the most affordable creative writing degree programs at both the master’s and the bachelor’s levels in the United States today.
How We Calculated the Most Affordable Creative Writing Degree Programs in the Country
Although our list includes a broad range of different formats ranging from traditional on-campus studies to low-resident hybrids to entirely online options, we kept our affordability options close to home. Every school was evaluated in comparison to the state averages for total estimated cost where they are located. That offers the best way of putting costs in perspective and determining which schools offer a real value.
If the total cost of a degree falls below the state average, it is included on the list.
If there’s only one program in a particular state, it makes the list by default to present the available options to creative writing students everywhere.
We broke out public and private schools and calculated the averages for each group separately. With very different funding sources and features, it doesn’t make much sense to put them head to head on a cost basis.
Naturally, bachelor’s program costs are only compared to other bachelor’s programs, and master’s to master’s. For each program we feature, we give you the total estimated program cost and how far it falls below the state average, showing exactly what kind of comparative cost savings it offers.
Because most of the schools that offer an MFA in Creative Writing also host BA or BFA programs, you’ll find that we have built out our listings school by school and name both programs where each fall below the average cost in their respective category. In cases where one program is below the average and the other above, we simply note that the more expensive program is also offered there.
Going Beyond the Costs To Find the Right Program for Your Own Writing Goals
Affordability is a gift in creative writing programs, but it shouldn’t be the only element in your decision. Maybe more than any other field, creative writing programs are each unique. They have different reputations, strengths, and methods of instruction.
So, we’ve done far more than just list the schools that are most affordable. We’ve also drilled down into the elements that make them unique and give you the information you need to make the choice that best aligns with your goals.
You’ll also see immediately what formats the program comes in, so you can pick the options that fit your lifestyle and needs, whether that means a program delivered almost entirely online or one delivered exclusively on-campus.
We also pick out and note various highlights for each program, important features like:
- Affiliated or university-published literary journals or presses offering publication opportunities to students
- Unique internship or fellowship offerings available through the program
- Concentrations or genre specializations offered with the degree
- Stipend or tuition waiver options
- Whether the school has particularly notable faculty members or a remarkable visiting author program
And for each school we give you a little thumbnail sketch of how the program operates and what it has to offer you in the way of special workshops, interesting study opportunities, and all-important networking and mentorship options.
State-by-State Review of the Most Affordable BA, BFA, MA, and MFA Programs in Creative Writing
Somewhere on the list is the right school for you and your creative writing aspirations. And you can apply to any of these programs secure in the knowledge that the education you get will be an amazing value for what you are paying.
Find the Most Affordable Programs in Your State
University of Alabama (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,072 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,431)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in Alabama.
- Features three, intensive years of study and a fourth year of optional study to complete a final project (thesis)
- Study at the state’s flagship university, which has seen graduate school enrollment increase by 7% from fall 2020
The University of Alabama’s MFA in Creative Writing is a gem in Alabama (it’s the only grad program of its kind in the state) and a meeting ground for imaginative writers to engage in lively courses and workshops. This affordably priced program features a deep dive into a range of writing models, strategies, and forms and culminates in a thesis. You’ll spend three, intensive years as you work toward the MFA and attain your personal and professional writing goals.
University of Alaska Anchorage (Public)
BA in English, emphasis in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $24,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $659)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Alaska.
- Opportunities to partner with faculty on undergraduate research projects
- Home to an outstanding, award-winning faculty
- Exciting opportunities to complete an internship or service learning experiences
The University of Alaska Anchorage’s BA in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing is your opportunity to explore a variety of written, digital, and visual texts and communication across boundaries – at a truly affordable price! Get involved by participating in one of the university’s campus organizations like the Creative Writing Club or Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society as you complete a dynamic bachelor’s degree that will prepare you for careers in publishing, education, media, advertising, and more!
University of Alaska Fairbanks (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $24,255 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,105)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in Alaska.
- Opportunities for an assistantship that offers a stipend and a tuition waiver
- MFA enjoys an outstanding reputation as an established program at the university – it was established in 1965
- Superb, student-centered learning environment features a low, student-to-faculty ratio
- Get involved in the English Graduate Organization, the Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series, internships with the University of Alaska Press, and editorial positions with the university’s national literary journal, Permafrost
The University of Alaska Fairbanks is home to the acclaimed – and affordable! – MFA in Creative Writing, which can also be combined with the MA in English to create a combined MFA/MA grad program. This three-year residential program offers exciting courses in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, and all students here participate in workshops and experiences that involve an in-depth study of literature. You’ll spend your third year preparing for a thesis that reflects your aesthetic goals. And if you choose the combined MFA/MA degree, you’ll embark upon a course of study that effortlessly combines creative writing and literary analysis.
Alaska (Private)
Alaska Pacific University (Private)
Anchorage, AK
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus, low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $23,400
Only private master’s program in creative writing in Alaska.
Also offers: BA in Creative and Professional Writing
- Option to specialize in fiction, literary nonfiction, or poetry
- On-campus summer residencies (about two weeks in length) are complemented with online learning sessions
- Features a mentor-rich course of study offered in a low-residency model
Alaska Pacific University offers an engaging, dynamic, and affordable course of study through its MFA in Creative Writing. Writers from all backgrounds gather here, with specific support given to Alaska, Indigenous, and Northern writers. This 36-credit program is marked by mentor-directed studies and a low-residency curriculum model. Choose from three areas of study – fiction, literary nonfiction, or poetry. You’ll work to reach your personal writing goals as you eventually produce publishable works. This program features summer residencies that are complemented with online learning sessions that include workshops, seminars, panels, readings, and more.
Northern Arizona University (Public)
Flagstaff, AZ
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $44,040 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $876)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $5,160 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Nice selection of electives ensures a personalized course of study
- NAU is home to more than 20 statewide locations of study
- Study under esteemed, published faculty mentors
Northern Arizona University’s BA in English – Creative Writing is where you’ll sharpen your writing skills in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing while working under an expert faculty. A nice selection of electives will allow you to explore areas of interest, while exciting, hands-on learning experiences will ensure you’re always striving to achieve your personal and professional writing goals. And thanks to the affordable price tag here, you can attain your creative goals without breaking the bank!
Arizona State University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $32,016 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,351)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $2,514 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English – Creative Writing
- ASU ranked the top school in the nation for innovation by U.S. News & World Report
- Home to an outstanding faculty of accomplished writers
- Intimate classes and workshops ensure a creative, personalized learning environment
- Exciting assistantship opportunities available
Both affordable and distinguished, Arizona State University’s MFA in Creative Writing is marked by an outstanding faculty of accomplished writers (who have published more than 80 books and have won national and international awards and honors) and a reputation as one of the nation’s top-tier programs in poetry and fiction. Close mentorship, small class sizes, and intimate workshops ensure a dynamic, creative learning environment where writers and artists thrive. Your academic experience here includes support through the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing; opportunities to engage in teaching, traveling, and leadership experiences; exciting assistantship opportunities through Poetry for the People; and access to intensive workshops, classes, and public events through the Center for Imagination in the Borderland.
Arkansas Tech University (Public)
Russellville, AR
BFA in Creative Writing (option for Creative Writing teacher licensure) (on-campus, online, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $29,160 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $485)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Arkansas.
- Flexible course delivery includes your choice of online and on-campus courses
- Exciting opportunities to gain valuable editing and publishing experience
- More than 30 hours of electives allow you to personalize your course of study
- Exciting opportunities to gain invaluable experience working with visiting authors
Arkansas Tech University’s BFA in Creative Writing offers everything the aspiring writer could ask for – flexible course delivery (it’s offered on-campus, online, or a blend of the two), affordability, and a truly dynamic educational experience that’s the only one of its kind in Arkansas! Advance and enhance your writing, editing, literary analysis, and advanced composition skills as you cultivate your own unique writing voice. You’ll enjoy plenty of practical experiences here as you participate in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction workshops that are always kept small to ensure an outstanding, student-centered learning environment. The program’s capstone experience includes a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with a creative writing professor on a project of your choosing. We love the more than 30 hours of electives in this program that allow you to personalize your program with study in a language, TESOL, journalism, film studies, and more!
University of Arkansas at Monticello (Public)
MA-English with a Creative Writing emphasis (on-campus)
MFA in Creative Writing (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction) (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,432 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $629)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $2,172 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Enjoy a flexible, online course of study through the MFA in Creative Writing, which comes with your choice of genre specialization – fiction, poetry, or nonfiction
- Outstanding support offered by an esteemed faculty of writers-teachers
- Faculty mentors ensure a personalized, guided course of study designed to meet your personal and professional goals
The University of Arkansas at Monticello’s graduate programs in creative writing are where creative writers earn a degree that’s designed with their personal and professional goals in mind and is always priced right! The MFA in Creative Writing offers a fully online course of study, while the MA in English with a Creative Writing emphasis is offered as an on-campus program. Enhance and advance your creative-writing, critical-thinking, and literary analysis skills here as you study under an esteemed faculty of writers-teachers that bring their unique perspectives to the program. Choose the MFA and you’ll study one of three genres – fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction. You’ll also move through the program at your own pace. Take as few as three academic hours or as many as 12 each term. You’ll also study with a different faculty mentor each semester and take a workshop in all three genres during your time at UAM.
University of Central Arkansas (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $17,100 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $656)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $3,504 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting history of graduates publishing books of poetry, novels, and works in national venues
- Superb, student-centered learning environment includes just 5 to 8 new students annually
- Exciting assistantships and scholarship opportunities available
The University of Central Arkansas’s MFA in Creative Writing is a three-year, 60-credit, writing-intensive studio program where you’ll engage with others in a highly focused environment. Workshops, specialized teaching and editing practicums, topics courses, and more are part of this lively program, which comes with outstanding, personalized attention (the program admits just 5 to 8 students annually). Two publishing assistantships are available (including one with the award-winning national magazine, the Oxford American), and a $4,000 annual scholarship is awarded to one student. From composition to creative writing pedagogy, the MFA in Creative Writing is where you’ll reach your goals as a writer and artist!
San Francisco State University (Public)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,120 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $647)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $3,233 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MA, MFA in Creative Writing
- Study under an esteemed, actively publishing faculty
- Contemporary curriculum reflects the university’s commitment to a wide array of genres, styles, and approaches
- Department of English is a proud partner of the internationally acclaimed Poetry Center and American Poetry Archives
San Francisco State University’s BA in Creative Writing and BA in English-Creative Writing are part of the university’s esteemed Department of Creative Writing and your pathway to an affordable and engaging course of study! You’ll study under an active, publishing faculty… you’ll engage in extensive reading, analysis, and discussion… and you’ll learn by doing as you hone your craft in creative nonfiction, fiction, playwriting, poetry, and/or literary translation.
California State University-San Bernardino (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,120 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $564)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $3,223 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- University named a Best Bang for Your Buck school by Washington Monthly
- Four concentration options include: literary studies, creative writing, linguistics, and rhetoric/writing studies
- Option to create an individualized concentration that meets your personal and professional goals
California State University-San Bernardino’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration features exploration in literary studies, creative writing, linguistics, and rhetoric/writing studies to produce a dynamic course of study that prepares students for careers in public health, advertising, business, writing, and much, much more. Beyond the four concentrations offered, students of this program can create an individualized concentration based on their personal and professional goals and interests. Cal State San Bernardino is a perfect fit for this undergraduate creative writing program – after all, it’s been named among the best colleges and universities in the West by esteemed publications like the Princeton Review, Forbes, and U.S. News & World Report. Best of all, it comes with a price tag that makes earning your bachelor’s degree more affordable and more accessible than ever!
California State University-Fresno (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing option (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $22,920 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $587)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $10,423 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing (poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction)
- Exciting opportunities to publish and present your written work
- Five student organizations provide students with outstanding opportunities to get involved and plan the department’s many scholarly and literary events
California State University Fresno’s BA in English with a Creative Writing option is where language, literature, and writing seamlessly meld to produce graduates who will excel in a variety of careers. Small class sizes here support personalized learning, while the creative writing option allows students to explore the genres of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and literary publishing. This career-ready program prepares students to present their scholarly and creative work at conferences, including the Undergraduate Conference on Multi-ethnic Literatures of the Americas, and contribute to the Normal School, the university’s nationally recognized literary magazine. And affordability here is recognized, too! Cal State Fresno was named a Best Bang for Your Buck school by Washington Monthly!
California State University-Long Beach (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing option (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $22,920 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $587)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $2,118 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $19,152 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $795)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $1,813 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Named the top Best Bang for the Buck school in the West by Washington Monthly in 2021
- Ranked among the top master’s-level universities in the nation by Washington Monthly in 2021
- Core MFA faculty includes four accomplished fiction writers and four poets
California State University Long Beach’s undergraduate and graduate programs in creative writing are ideally designed for students at all levels! The English Department at CSULB is one of the university’s largest, including more than 100 instructors and an English faculty of experts and published authors. But you won’t find any impersonal learning here. Classes are always small, and one-on-one mentoring is standard fare. And thanks to an affordable price tag, you’ll be able to make your creative writing career goals a reality!
University of California-Riverside (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,232 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $983)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $3,038 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in Creative Writing (fiction, nonfiction, poetry)
- Exciting opportunities to lend your talents to The Santa Ana Review, the university’s online literary and arts journal
- University ranked among the nation’s top 12 public universities by Forbes
- Named among America’s Best Value Colleges by Forbes
The University of California Riverside’s MFA in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts is a two-year course of study that takes students on a deep dive into fiction, poetry, nonfiction, screenwriting, and playwriting. Exciting, dynamic workshops in a chosen genre, seminars, and a final project are some of the features of this graduate program. You’ll choose a genre (either creative writing or writing for the performing arts) but also be encouraged to explore others for a truly well-rounded graduate course of study. And you’ll be able to accomplish your academic and professional goals without breaking the bank, thanks to the program’s affordable price tag.
San Jose State University (Public)
BA Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $22,920 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $587)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $10,423 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, playwriting/screenwriting) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $17,556 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $795)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $3,714 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Named a Most Transformative University by Money Magazine (2020)
- Ranked among the nation’s Best Colleges by U.S. News and World Report (2022)
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the university’s 150-year-old literary magazine, Reed
Whether you’re looking for an exciting creative program at the undergraduate or graduate level, San Jose State University has what you’re looking for – at a price that can’t be beat! Undergraduate students will explore creative writing through workshops in a number of genres, including fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and scriptwriting. Opportunities to lend your writing talents abound here. Write for the English Department’s 150-year-old literary magazine, Reed, and participate in the many literary programs with visiting authors offered through the university’s Center for Literary Arts. Hone your craft through the school’s MFA in Creative Writing, which is home to the Steinbeck Fellows and the Lurie Visiting Distinguished Authors programs.
California (Private)
University of San Francisco (Private)
MFA in Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $51,315
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,691 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: BA in English – Writing concentration
- Teaching assistantships available
- Exciting internship opportunities abound with literary journals, publishing houses, and literary organizations
- Outstanding opportunities to participate in literary and service organizations like Poets and Writers, Zoetrope, California Poets in the Schools, the Litquake literary festival, and the Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference
- Ranked among a Best Value University by U.S. News & World Report
The MFA in Writing through the University of San Francisco offers a superb, personalized course of graduate study that nurtures writers and helps them hone their creative techniques to achieve success in the writing community. Boasting one of the lowest prices among private creative writing master’s degree programs in California, the MFA in Writing features everything the aspiring writer would want in a comprehensive graduate program – intensive workshops; enlightening literature seminars in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction; and outstanding mentorship from a faculty of accomplished, practicing writers.
Antioch University-Los Angeles (Private)
Culver City, CA
MFA in Creative Writing (poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, young people, writing for the screen, playwriting) (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $43,104
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $14,902 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Unique, low-residency model features ten-day intensives each semester, followed by five weeks of online study
- Exciting concentration options include the following genres: poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, young people, writing for the screen, and playwriting
- Features outstanding, student mentoring and collaborative learning experiences
Antioch University Los Angeles is home to the MFA in Creative Writing, a low-residency course of graduate study that offers exiting concentration options in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, young people, writing for the screen, and playwriting. Designed as a personalized academic experience, the MFA in Creative Writing features one-on-one mentoring with a faculty of successful, published authors; a myriad of collaborative seminars, reading, and workshops; a unique MFA Field Study program that allows students to engage with their local community; and convenient, online project periods that allow students to study from a distance. Each MFA semester here starts with an intensive, ten-day hybrid residency. Students of the MFA program are admitted in a single genre but always encourage to write and study in other genres.
Mount Saint Mary’s University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing Emphasis (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $177,870
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $11,342 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $39,888
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $18,118 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- University ranked among the nation’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report
- Only women’s college in Los Angeles
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the English Department’s literary magazine, Audemus, or the newspaper, The Athenian Print
Whether undergraduate or graduate study in creative writing is what you seek, Mount Saint Mary’s University is where you want to be! The BA is where you’ll explore literature and your understanding of it. This program is marked by small class sizes, a dedicated faculty, options to double major or minor, and exciting opportunities to lend your talents to the English Department’s literary magazine, Audemus, or the newspaper, The Athenian Print. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to land a prime internship or study abroad in England! Choose the MFA in Creative Writing and you’ll be part of an artist-training program that’s designed for aspiring writers of novels, short stories, plays, poetry, screenplays, and nonfiction. This program features a unique delivery model that includes meeting every other weekend, six times per semester.
Chapman University (Private)
MFA in Creative Writing, option for a dual degree with an MA in English (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $39,600
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $18,406 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: BFA in Creative Writing
- Genre options include fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, screenwriting, and experimental writing
- Competitive fellowships (that include a full tuition waiver and fellowship payment) available
- Graduate teaching assistantships available
- Ranked in the top 15% of American colleges and universities by the Princeton Review
Chapman University’s MFA in Creative Writing is where your artistic talents are nurtured and where you’ll be inspired to bring your ideas to life and deliver your words to the world. It also comes with the affordable price tag that makes earning your grad degree in creative writing easier and more accessible than ever! Whether your interests lie in creative nonfiction, poetry, fiction, screenwriting, or a combination of genres, you’ll find the MFA will perfectly align with your career goals. There are many opportunities to engage with the writing community outside of the classroom at Chapman through writers’ workshops, reading series and events, and through the John Fowles Center for Creative Writing.
Dominican University of California (Private)
MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry, Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Narrative Medicine) (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,450
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $26,556 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Low-residency program features distance-based study complemented with two, on-campus residencies each year
- Opportunities to explore in-depth one of the following genres: poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or narrative medicine
- Dedicated mentor will help you reach your writing goals and help you get published
Dominican University of California’s MFA in Creative Writing is a low-residency course of graduate study that features an affordable price tag and exciting genre concentration options for a personalized academic experience. The MFA is your opportunity to join a vibrant community of writers to achieve your personal and professional goals in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or narrative medicine (this unique genre allows students to embrace the role that creative writing can play in the process of healing). As a student of this program, you’ll enjoy a flexible, low-residency format; you’ll study under the guidance of a dedicated mentor; you’ll have opportunities to publish your work; and you’ll participate in two, on-campus residencies each year that feature exciting workshops and engaging speakers.
California Baptist University (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $148,678
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $40,536 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting opportunities to work for the campus literary journal, The Dazed Starling
- Other options include a Writing and Digital Studies minor and a concentration in Digital Literary Studies or Journalism and New Media
- Intimate learning environment features small workshop activities
California Baptist University’s BFA in Creative Writing offers outstanding value and a distinguished, engaging course of study that will help you develop your writing style and engage your creative skillset. This program comes complete with the option to minor in Writing and Digital Studies or choose a concentration in either Digital Literary Studies or Journalism and New Media. You’ll work within a tightknit learning community that features small workshop activities, and you’ll complete a final project that best reflects your creative voice.
La Sierra University (Private)
Riverside, CA
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $147,828
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $41,385 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked the most diverse university in the West by U.S. News & World Report
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to The Roadrunner Review, an international literary journal
- Plentiful internship opportunities available
La Sierra University’s BA in Creative Writing offers a superb value and a dynamic course of study that features opportunities to get your work published; meet renowned authors; explore fun and exciting courses; land an internship with a publishing house, newspaper, or magazine; and present your work at a conference. The BA in Creative Writing will prepare you for a variety of careers in teaching, writing, copywriting, business, reporting, and more! As a student here, you’ll engage in highly collaborative learning experiences and connect with the writing community through workshops and seminars. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to The Roadrunner Review, an international literary journal.
Pepperdine University (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (Fiction Writing, Poetry Writing, Screen and Television Writing) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $124,800
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $64,412 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the Best National Universities by U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report
- Outstanding opportunities to contribute your talents to the school’s four university publications
- Your choice of three genres/concentrations: fiction writing, poetry writing, or screen and television writing
Pepperdine University’s BA in Creative Writing is value in private education! It’s also rich in opportunities, providing students with the option of choosing one of the following genres: fiction writing, poetry writing, or screen and television writing. Housed in the famed Seaver College, this program is where aspiring writers prepare for careers with publishing companies, corporations, governmental agencies, the creative arts, and more. As a student here, opportunities to get involved and hone your craft abound. For example, you’ll have opportunities to contribute to four university publications, including Expressionists, the student-run literary magazine, and The Graphic, the university’s award-winning newspaper. Each year, nationally renowned visiting writers offer unmatched insight to students!
Antioch University-Santa Barbara (Private)
Santa Barbara, CA
BA in Liberal Studies-Professional and Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $64,200
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $125,012 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Program marked by collaborative learning environment, small class sizes, and engaging courses and workshops
- Designed to refine and sharpen your writing skills in multiple genres and writing platforms
- Ample opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and experiences
Antioch University – Santa Barbara offers the BA in Professional and Creative Writing, an affordable course of undergraduate study that’s designed to refine your writing skills in multiple genres and platforms like nonfiction, fiction, poetry, traditional media, technical and business writing, and new media. You’ll feel right at home here, thanks to small class sizes and a tightly knit peer community. Applied learning and community projects are just some of the highlights of this engaging program.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $51,480 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,091)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $5,432 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing
- Named Colorado’s top university by Washington Monthly
- Exciting opportunities to get involved through the Community Literacy Center and the Center for Literary Publishing
- Program focuses on nonfiction, fiction, and poetry genres
Colorado State University Fort Collin’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration is an affordable pathway for cultivating and honing your craft in the genres of nonfiction, fiction, and poetry. Workshops, critique classes, and an excellent variety of English and literature classes are part this undergraduate course of study. CSU Fort Collins is also home to the Community Literacy Center – a community literacy experience that promotes community action and social change through writing and art, and the Center for Literary Publishing, which partners with writers to publish works through the Colorado Review, the Colorado Prize for Poetry, the Nelligan Prize for Short Fiction, and more. And if you’re interested in advancing your creative writing education to the graduate level, CSU Fort Collins is home to an esteemed MFA in Creative Writing program!
University of Colorado Boulder (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,320 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,843)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,960 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing concentration
- Ranked a Best Value University every year since 2009 by the Princeton Review
- Features engaging writing workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and publishing
- Assistantships and paid positions available
The MFA in Creative Writing through the University of Colorado Boulder is a distinguished course of graduate study offered at an incredible value. This three-year, 45-hour program features writing workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and publishing; enlightening literature courses; and an in-depth study of poetry, fiction, and literary movements. It culminates in a creative thesis in poetry and fiction. Students may also develop a custom program in nonfiction or scriptwriting.
Adams State University (Public)
Alamosa, CO
BA in English-Creative Writing emphasis (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $36,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $605)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $20,192 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Named the Most Publicly Diverse University in Colorado
- Creative Writing emphasis features in-depth study in poetry, fiction, and other prose forms
- Exciting opportunities for contribute to the SandHill Review, a literary and art journal
Adams State University’s BA in English with a creative writing emphasis ranks among the most affordable public program of its kind in Colorado and boasts an engaging course of undergraduate study that’s highlighted by in-depth study of literature, criticism, and effective writing. Whether you’re interested in a career in writing or in an area like business, education, public relations, or advertising, you’ll find this program to be ideally designed with your career goals in mind. Just some of the areas of study within the creative writing emphasis include poetry, fiction, and other prose forms. You’ll enjoy contributing to the SandHill Review, a publication of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and art.
Colorado (Private)
Naropa University (Private)
Boulder, CO
BA in Creative Writing and Literature (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $138,360
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $67,520 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing and Poetics (on-campus, low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $42,672
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $8,717 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Outstanding opportunities to gain advanced skills in letterpress printing through the Harry Smith Print Shop
- Exciting unique publishing opportunities available through the Bombay Gin literary journal
- Superb opportunities to engage with fellow artists through the Summer Writing Program
Naropa University offers both undergraduate and graduate creative writing programs that boast outstanding value and unique opportunities to hone your craft and achieve your personal and career goals. Undergraduate students here enjoy writing workshops, literary studies, and opportunities to publish their work. From short story writing to the exploration of various narrative forms, the BA in Creative Writing and Literature is your opportunity to grow as a writer. Exciting opportunities to advance your professional skills in letterpress printing are available through the Harry Smith Print Shop, while the Bombay Gin literary journal provides unique publishing opportunities. Plus, students can participate in the Summer Writing Program – it’s where artists of every kind gather in a workshop-type setting. Interested in taking your study of creative writing to the graduate level? Naropa’s low-residency MFA in Creative Writing features online courses, summer intensives, and outstanding mentorship from published writers.
Regis University (Private)
Denver, CO
Mile-High MFA in Creative Writing, optional specializations in Dual-Genre, Creative Writing Pedagogy (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $37,800
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $13,589 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Superb support from a faculty mentor ensures a top-notch academic experience
- Writing-intensive program ensures students will produce hundreds of pages of prose or poetry and complete a book-length thesis
- Engaging residencies feature seminars that focus on the real-world applications of writing
Regis University’s MFA in Creative Writing boasts an outstanding value; a low-residency model for maximum convenience and flexibility; and options to specialize. You’ll enjoy one-on-one mentorship and instruction in poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction and then branch out to study scriptwriting, graphic narrative, picture books, and editing. Workshops, seminars, and other engaging learning experiences allow you to hone your craft and prepare to produce outstanding, published work. Referred to as the “Mile-High” MFA, this program effortlessly brings writers of all genres and walks of life together in a supportive, inspiring environment that respects diverse perspectives and ideals. Five, ten-day residencies are complemented with online learning to produce a truly flexible academic experience.
Southern Connecticut State University (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $25,920 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $645)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Connecticut
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $21,504 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,153)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $2,658 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- BA program offers an overview of English literature, along with focused courses in creative writing
- Low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures a student-centered academic environment
- Named a Top Performing School in Social Mobility in the North by U.S. News & World Report
Southern Connecticut State University offers both undergraduate and graduate options in creative writing and the kind of value that makes it a standout among public schools in Connecticut. Housed in the esteemed English Department, which is home to diverse, enlightening programs for students seeking careers in writing, education, law, the arts, and more, the BA program features study in literary analysis, American and British literature, multi-ethnic literature, along with four courses in creative writing. This program features lively workshops that explore fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. At the graduate level, the MFA in Creative Writing features study in literary study, literary analysis, literary theory, and critical writing and offers maximum flexibility and the outstanding preparation you’ll need for a successful career in the publishing world, whether as a poet or fiction writer.
Connecticut (Private)
Albertus Magnus College (Private)
New Haven, CT
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $146,760
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $33,900 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Writing (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $29,124
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,888 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Named a Top Performing School in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report
- MFA in Creative Writing is offered entirely online to ensure outstanding flexibility and convenience
- College enjoys a superb reputation for its dedicated faculty and personalized learning experience
Albertus Magnus College never disappoints with opportunities to study creative writing at the undergraduate and graduate levels and tuition rates that make them among the most affordable private programs of their kind in Connecticut! Albertus Magnus has also earned a solid reputation for its focus on hands-on experiential learning, collaborative learning environment, dedicated faculty, and small class sizes. You’ll always enjoy close mentorship and a personalized academic experience here! The MFA in Creative Writing here is offered in a no-residency, online format that ensures a flexible, convenient course of graduate study. While you’ll still have access to the school’s outstanding faculty and engaging workshops and courses, you’ll study on your own time, from the comfort of your home.
- There are no listings for Delaware at this time.
- There are no listings for the District of Columbia at this time.
University of Florida (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $25,560 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $955)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $1,560 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing
- Low student-to-faculty ratio ensures a personalized and student-centered learning experience
- Boasts engaging creative writing workshops
- Ranked among the top public universities in the nation by the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education
The University of Florida’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration boasts an affordable price tag and a meaningful exploration of poetry and fiction. You’ll be an active participant in your learning as you participate in engaging creative writing workshops, and you’ll expand your knowledge through a variety of English and literature courses that will take you across centuries and continents. This program will inspire your creativity and hone your writing skills to prepare you for a variety of careers and personal pursuits! And if your goals include studying creative writing at the graduate level, the University of Florida is home to an MFA in Creative Writing!
University of South Florida (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $15,660 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $856)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $5,215 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: Major in English-Creative Writing concentration
- Teaching assistantships available include tuition waivers, stipends, and options to tutor in the USF Writing Center and teach lower-level creative writing courses
- As of 2022, USF is recognized as the fastest growing university in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
- Engaging workshops provide outstanding opportunities to explore a variety of genres
- Named a Best Value College by the Princeton Review
The MFA in Creative Writing through the University of South Florida is where you’ll find an outstanding value in private graduate education… a dedicated faculty and supportive academic environment… and lively, engaging workshops that explore fiction, poetry, memoir, essay, and comics. Graduates of this program have published in national journals and have won prestigious awards in poetry and literature. MFA in Creative Writing students contribute to the university’s literary journal, Saw Palm; present at national conferences; and participate in the Blank Pages: Creative Writing Symposium, National Poetry Month Festivals Writers Harvest fundraiser, and more.
Florida Atlantic University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $14,592 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $928)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,283 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Options for teaching assistantships – includes tuition waivers and opportunities to teach
- University ranked among the top public universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
- Exciting opportunities to complete a summer internship, work on the university’s literary magazine, and participate in the Lawrence A. Sanders Writer-in-Residency program
Florida Atlantic University’s MFA in Creative Writing features an outstanding value in public graduate education and a three-year course of study that explores fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. This program is highlighted by engaging workshops and opportunities to take additional coursework in literary translation, book arts, and creative writing pedagogy. Students here may also complete a summer internship program, work on the literary magazine Coastlines, and complete a weeklong workshop through the Lawrence A. Sanders Writer-in-Residency program.
University of Central Florida (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $25,440 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $749)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $1,680 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in English – Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $13,320 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,194)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $7,555 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among the Best National Universities in by Washington Monthly
- BA in English – Creative Writing is offered in a fully online format for maximum convenience and flexibility
- Creative Writing MFA features a workshop-intensive course of study that culminates in an original thesis
The University of Central Florida offers exciting opportunities to study creative writing at the undergraduate and graduate levels and the tuition that makes achieving your educational goals easier than ever! The BA in English – Creative Writing program can be completed on-campus or fully online, while the MFA in English – Creative Writing program is offered as an on-campus program. The Creative Writing MFA features a workshop-intensive course of study that allows students to explore fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. You’ll hone your creative writing skills and become proficient in the art and craft of creative writing as you study under UCF’s highly dedicated, published faculty who have won countless awards for their work. This 36-credit program culminates in a thesis that’s designed to reflect your creative voice.
Florida (Private)
University of Tampa (Private)
BA in Writing-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $124,124
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $33,643 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the top 15% of universities in the nation for undergraduate education by the Princeton Review
- Ranked on Forbes’ annual list of America’s Top Colleges since 2010
- Exciting opportunities to work on one or more of the university’s four publications
The University of Tampa’s BA in Writing – Creative Writing offers outstanding value in undergraduate private education and an exciting exploration into the art and craft of written communication. You’ll have the opportunity to study fiction, poetry, and other imaginative forms as you work closely with professors. You’ll also enjoy opportunities to publish your work in one of the university’s four student publications: The Minaret, the student newspaper; Neon, the student literary magazine; The Moroccan, the yearbook; and the Splice Journal, a student art, communication, and culture journal.
Southeastern University (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $115,440
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $42,327 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the Top 1% of the fastest growing universities in the U.S. by the Chronicle of Higher Education (enrollment here has increase by 243% between 2010 and 2020)
- Exciting selection of coursework prepares students for a myriad of creative and professional writing careers
- Study abroad opportunities offered through the school’s Global Education program
Southeastern University’s BFA in Creative Writing is where you’ll create an outstanding foundation for a career in creative and professional writing. You’ll take courses like Narrative Structure in Film, Screenwriting, Writing for the Mass Media, and Oral Interpretation as hone your craft, publish your creative work, and develop the skills that will seamlessly translate to a variety of careers. Some of the objectives of this program include analyzing selected texts, developing strategies for publication, revising and editing text, and developing a master of reading literary texts in public settings. Priced at more than $40,000 less than similar bachelor’s degrees in private schools in Florida, Southeastern’s BFA offers a truly impressive value!
Saint Leo University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $99,960
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $57,807 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (poetry, fiction, nonfiction, war literature and writing for veterans) (online, low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $24,300
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $4,416 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Outstanding legacy of online learning - university was one of the first in the nation to offer online degree programs
- MFA features a one-week residency that’s complemented with faculty mentor-led online study
- Options to focus the MFA on poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, with optional thematic strands in war literature and writing for veterans
Saint Leo University offers superb value at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for students of creative writing! Here you’ll gain a deep understanding of literature as you master your creative writing voice. The undergraduate major is offered as an on-campus program, while the MFA is offered through a low-residency/online format for maximum convenience and flexibility. The two-year, 36-credit MFA program features a one-week intensive residency each summer that’s complemented with online learning and outstanding, one-on-one mentorship with a member of the university’s esteemed faculty of published writers. The on-campus residency is designed as an immersive retreat where you’ll study alongside your peers in creative workshops and participate in lively, faculty-led panel discussions. Did you know that Saint Leo’s MFA in Creative Writing is one of just a few in the nation to offer in-depth study in war literature and writing for veterans?
Georgia College and State University (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,000 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $890)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $5,580 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $12,348* (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,047)
*fully funded program through graduate assistantships for all students
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,510 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report
- MFA in Creative Writing is fully funded – all students receive tuition remission and a stipend through a graduate assistantship
- BA program features workshops and courses focused on poetry, creative nonfiction, and scriptwriting
Georgia College and State University offers both an undergraduate and graduate-level program in creative writing and tuition rates that make them among the most affordable of their kind in Georgia! Choose Georgia College and State University as your academic path to a career in creative writing and you’ll explore creative and expository writing, composition theory, and critical theory as you explore the work of major world authors. As an undergraduate student, you’ll participate in an exciting variety of workshops and courses focused on poetry, creative nonfiction, and scriptwriting. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to the school’s undergraduate art and literary magazine, The Peacock’s Feet, and participate in the annual spring 24-Hours Play project. The MFA program is a fully funded, full residency, three-year program that comes with a graduate assistantship for all students (includes a stipend and tuition remission). Students of this program work closely with the school’s award-winning faculty and enjoy outstanding opportunities to connect with nationally renowned visiting writers.
Georgia (Private)
Young Harris College (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $118,800
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $34,613 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Engaging program features an interesting, diverse curriculum of craft classes, workshops, and seminars
- Opportunities to study a specific area or genre of creative writing through advanced workshops
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment features a low, 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Young Harris College’s BA in Creative Writing is your opportunity to develop your writing skills as you gain a deep understanding of poetry and prose and the literary tradition. In addition to offering an outstanding value in undergraduate education, the BA in Creative Writing boasts a diverse curriculum that includes craft classes, workshops, and seminars designed to enlighten and engage. Advanced workshops and in-depth opportunities to study a specific genre or area of creative writing ensure a lively course of study that prepares students for a variety of careers in writing, publishing, education, advertising, and more.
Piedmont University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $113,377
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $40,036 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked a Best Value college in the South by U.S. News & World Report
- Exciting opportunities to participate in internships and professional conferences
- Opportunities to contribute to the university’s award-winning literary and arts journal, Trillium
Piedmont University’s BA in English – Creative Writing is where you’ll find an affordable tuition and a unique, highly interactive, writing-intensive curriculum that satisfies your love of literature and the written word. Whether you’re preparing for graduate study or for careers in publishing, writing, business, economics, advertising, or more, the BA in English – Creative Writing is designed with your career goals in mind! Students of this program enjoy exciting opportunities to participate in professional conferences, internships, and national and international travel, and they frequently contribute to the university’s award-winning literary and arts journal, Trillium.
Reinhardt University (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $104,040
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $49,373 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $33,600
Only private master’s program in creative writing in Georgia.
- University boasts an outstanding student success rate – 92% of all grads here are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation
- BFA students have opportunities to work on the university’s literary arts journal, participate in scholarly programs, and present their work
- Low-residency MFA includes a ten-day, intensive residency that features craft classes, workshops, and exciting experiential excursions
Reinhardt University is home to outstanding value in both undergraduate and graduate-level creative programs! The BFA is where you’ll develop a deep understanding of literacy and language. You’ll engage in the writing process, complete an internship that will allow you to gain valuable experience, analyze literature, study contemporary writers, and produce a publication-ready piece. Undergrad students often contribute to the university literary arts journal, Sanctuary; participate on projects for the George Scarborough Center for Southern and Appalachian Studies; and present their work at the Robert L. Driscoll Convocation of Artists and Scholars. The MFA is a two-year, 60-hour program that features close study alongside award-winning writers, three writing residencies, and online courses that offer the best in flexibility and convenience.
- There are no listings for Hawaii at this time.
Lewis-Clark State College (Public)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,960 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $675)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $5,658 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among the top regional colleges in the West by U.S. News & World Report in 2022
- Superb, student-centered learning experience features a low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Over 50 student organizations provide exciting opportunities to get involved
Lewis-Clark State College’s BFA in Creative Writing is where you’ll explore the human experience through the written word and become fully immersed in all major genres. Work together with fellow writers and support one another as you read, critique, and revise your work. With a tuition that makes it among the most affordable programs of its kind in Idaho and a student-centered learning environment that features a low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the BFA in Creative Writing offers a public school price with a private school experience.
Boise State University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $25,920* (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,527)
*fully funded program through teaching assistantships for all students
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $1,863 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA/BFA in Creative Writing
- Exciting opportunities to engage with visiting writers through the MFA Reading Series
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment features just 8-10 students within each genre
- Engaging curriculum features a variety of workshops, seminars, and conferences
Boise State University’s MFA in Creative Writing is a fully funded program that’s dedicated to the study of poetry and fiction! Students here study under an award-winning, published faculty in a close-knit community of learners. Just 8-10 students work in a specific genre at any given time, thereby ensuring outstanding mentorship and individual attention. Featuring a variety of workshops, seminars, conferences, and a final thesis program, the MFA in Creative Writing prepares writers to become accomplished, published authors and poets.
Idaho (Private)
New Saint Andrews College (Private)
Moscow, ID
MFA in Creative Writing (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $17,184
Only private master’s program in creative writing in Idaho.
- Features a unique, theologically rich creative writing curriculum
- Low-residency model ensures the best in convenience and flexibility
- Two-year program features three, one-week intensive (resident) workshops per year
New Saint Andrews College’s MFA in Creative Writing features a superb price tag and a low-residency model that ensures the best in convenience and flexibility. This limited-enrollment program includes two years of studies and a curriculum focused on a theologically rich approach to creative writing. You’ll work alongside tutors throughout your creative writing assignments as you seamlessly weave biblically theology into your creative works. Courses here include theological foundation seminars, MFA writing seminars, and a final MFA creative writing project.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (Public)
BA/BS English-Creative Writing specialization
Total Estimated Program Cost: $38,520 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $321)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $5,700 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $22,560 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,174)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $1,920 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Graduate assistantships available for the MFA program
- MFA features your choice of concentration in fiction, poetry, or a combination of the two
- Exciting opportunities to get involved with The Crab Orchard Review, a national recognized literary magazine and Grassroots, the university’s creative arts journal
Southern Illinois University – Carbondale offers an outstanding value in both undergraduate and graduate programs in creative writing! Students here enjoy an esteemed, dedicated faculty, small class sizes, and plenty of opportunities to get involved. Contribute your talents to The Crab Orchard Review, a national recognized literary magazine and Grassroots, the university’s creative arts journal, and participate in Sigma Tau Delta, the National Honor Society for English students. The MFA in Creative Writing is a studio-academic program that provides students with an engaging curriculum of writing workshops, tutorial work (where they work under the guidance of a faculty writer), and in-depth study of fiction, poetry, or a combination of the two.
Chicago State University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,952 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $643)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $12,528 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting opportunities to learn from prestigious, visiting writers and participate in writing workshops and seminars conducted by established authors, playwrights, and scriptwriters
- Opportunities to get contribute to programs within the Gwendolyn Brooks Center for Black Literature and Creative Writing, a literary and cultural center focused on the work of acclaimed Black writers
Chicago State University’s MFA in Creative Writing offers an outstanding value in graduate education and a rich exploration of fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Students here complete a variety of workshops and analyze literature, including African American literature. This course of study also requires students to present an MFA thesis, complete a comprehensive exam, and complete a public reading/performance of their original work. The MFA in Creative Writing also features outstanding opportunities to learn from prestigious visiting writers and participate in writing workshops and seminars conducted by established authors, playwrights, and scriptwriters.
Illinois (Private)
Millikin University (Private)
BA in English Writing-Creative Writing specialization (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $168,392
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $4,690 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the university’s three student-run publications
- Outstanding faculty of published authors, creative writers, editors, and publishers
- Superb, student-centered learning environment includes small class sizes and outstanding mentorship
Milliken University’s BA in English Writing with a Creative Writing specialization is your opportunity to explore a variety of writing contexts and prepare for a career in writing, editing, and publishing. This affordably priced course of undergraduate study is focused on real-world learning, with exciting opportunities to get published as early as your first semester on campus. In addition to offering an in-depth study in literature, writing theory, rhetoric, and composition, you’ll focus your English writing degree on intensive creative writing courses. You’ll appreciate the small class sizes here and the guidance of the faculty of published authors and creative writers, editors, and publishers. Students enjoy opportunities to get involved in the university’s student-run publications (The Decaturian, BURST magazine, and Collage literary magazine) and participate in professional writing internships!
Bradley University (Private)
Major in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $154,054
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $18,947 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report
- Small class sizes ensure outstanding collaboration and construction criticism in a supportive learning environment
- Exciting opportunities to compete in on-campus and national writing competitions and participate in internships and faculty-led research activities
Bradley University’s Major in English with a Creative Writing concentration will prepare you for a variety of careers in business, nonprofits, and more! Priced among the most affordable private programs of its kind in Illinois and featuring an outstanding selection of opportunities to hone your skills in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting, the creative writing bachelor’s program doesn’t disappoint. With all creative writing courses limited to just 15 students, you’ll enjoy a superb learning environment that values collaboration and constructive criticism. Other exciting opportunities available to students of this program include internships, research opportunities with faculty, opportunities to compete in on-campus and national writing competitions, opportunities to write for the student newspaper and literary magazine, and more!
DePaul University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $138,624
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $34,377 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing (on-campus, online, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $35,680
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $38,865 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- 90% of all English grads are employed or continuing their education upon graduation
- Exciting internships and editing and publishing opportunities available
- Ranked among the Best Midwestern Colleges in the U.S. by the Princeton Review
Whether your creative writing educational pursuits include undergraduate or graduate study, DePaul University has what you’re looking for – at a price that can’t be beat! Undergrad creative writing students explore the works of major authors, genres, and literary movements while they develop the critical thinking and creative skillset that allows them to find their own voice. Just some of the courses of DePaul’s BA program include Reading and Writing Poetry, The American Novel, Writing in the City, and Science and Nature Writing. DePaul’s MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing allows students to explore across genres as they study under esteemed authors and poets. All MFA students complete a master’s thesis of publishable quality.
Roosevelt University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $132,240
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $40,761 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $61,290
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $13,255 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- BA program features the option to enroll in the Newberry Library Undergraduate Seminar – an opportunity to work at a world-renowned archival research library
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment features a low, 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Exciting opportunities to get your work published by contributing to the Oyez Review, a literary journal
Roosevelt University’s undergraduate and graduate programs in creative writing are priced right and designed to help you develop the literary and creative writing skills that will make you a successful professional in the fields of writing, business, publishing, journalism, advertising, teaching, and more. Study a range of literary trends, themes, and genres within an intimate academic environment that features a low, student-to-faculty ratio and an esteemed faculty of published and honored writers. Gain literary journal experience by contributing to the Oyez Review, a literary journal and get real-world experience through a variety of internships and mentoring opportunities in small press publishing, creative writing, literature, English composition, and more!
Principia College (Private)
Elsah, IL
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $124,800
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $48,201 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 96% employment rate among grads
- Principia recognized for its value, affordability, and academic excellence by esteemed publications like U.S. News & World Report, Fiske, and Money Magazine
- Exciting study abroad opportunity to Prague is open to all students, but focuses specifically on creative writing and studio art
Principia College’s BA in English with a Creative Writing emphasis comes complete with one of the lowest tuition rates among private creative writing programs in Illinois and a superlative learning environment that includes a dedicated, esteemed faculty that values support and guidance. We love the study abroad opportunities here which, in recent years, have included travel to England, Ireland, and Prague, all designed to support Principia’s mission to train students to think, “clearly, vigorously, fearlessly, tolerantly, and unselfishly.” Study at the Wordsworth Trust, The Christian Science Monitor, and more! As a student here, you’ll have plenty of other opportunities to get involved through the school’s student-run club, Friends of English, and through the Mistake House, the school’s online journal.
Columbia College Chicago (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (fiction, nonfiction, poetry) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $117,120
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $55,881 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $39,900
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $34,645 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to Columbia’s literary journal, Allium
- Home to the prestigious Efroymson Creative Writing Reading Series, an opportunity to interact with award-winning writers
- Undergraduate student club, Writers at Lunch, allows students to gather for readings, panel discussions, and meetings with industry pros
Columbia College Chicago’s undergraduate and graduate creative writing programs offer superb value! Choose the BA program and you’ll dive into the writing process on your first day. You’ll work alongside a diverse community of students and instructors as you focus your course of undergraduate study on fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Through this program, you’ll continue to study all genres and flex your skills through a Writer’s Portfolio class and thesis project. Choose the MFA and you’ll enjoy a flexible degree that supports the exploration of more than one genre of writing. Here you’ll enjoy the option of taking classes in as many genres as you’d like! This program features the option of part-time study and a nice blend of seminars, workshops, and hybrid courses offered in a flexible, student-centered curriculum.
Blackburn College (Private)
Major in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $103,944
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $69,057 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting opportunities to participate in the Humanities Salone, a monthly event that allows students to share their creative work on campus, and VORTE, Blackburn’s student literary magazine
- Inspiring learning environment features small, workshop-style classes
- Senior seminar provides students with an opportunity to complete a full manuscript in a chosen genre and present the work in a public reading and presentation
Blackburn College’s Major in Creative Writing is outstanding for its value and truly impressive for its intimate, inspiring writing community. You’ll study under published authors and flex your creative writing skills in a variety of exciting workshops and craft classes. Best of all, you’ll hone your writing skills in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and playwriting genres while enjoying opportunities to explore a number of sub-genres such as fantasy, graphic narratives, game design, and more.
North Central College (Private)
MA in Professional and Creative Writing (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $28,404
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $46,141 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: BA in Writing (poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, playwriting, rhetoric)
- Offered in a structured, fully online cohort model
- Writing curriculum offers a balance of theory and practice in a supportive learning environment
- Flexible online courses are offered in a fully asynchronous format with convenient, seven-week sessions
North Central College’s MA in Professional and Creative Writing impresses with a superb tuition that’s early $50,000 below the state average among private graduate creative writing programs and an online learning environment that makes earning your graduate degree easier and more convenient than ever! You’ll elevate your creative writing, reading, and critical thinking skills as you work alongside a community of writers and faculty mentors. This cohort-style model of learning ensures a truly engaging, collaborative learning experience. Whether your interests lie in literature, creative nonfiction, screenplays, or beyond, this is the program that will get you where you want to be!
Purdue University-Main Campus (Public)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $39,960 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $960)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Indiana.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $19,440 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,584)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $16,019 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Purdue’s English Department ranked first in the nation by College Magazine
- MFA Teaching Assistantships available
- Ranked among the Most Innovative Public Universities by U.S. News & World Report
Purdue University is home to a BA and MFA in Creative Writing, both of which offer outstanding value and the type of academic integrity you’d expect from a world-class university. As a creative writing undergraduate student at Purdue, you’ll embark upon a course of study that allows you to study literary texts and produce your own original work. Students here hone their talents writing for multiple audiences and for multiple genres as they work under an esteemed faculty of researchers and writers. The MFA program is small and flexible and includes workshops in fiction and poetry, an award-winning faculty, and a third year devoted to a thesis focused on a novel, story collection, or book-length collection of poetry. MFA students also contribute to the top-tier scholarly journal, MFS: Modern Fiction Studies and Sycamore Review, a literary magazine.
Indiana (Private)
University of Evansville (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $154,440
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $21,782 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Recognized as one of America’s Top Colleges by Forbes
- Exciting, hands-on learning experiences include internships, workshops, and more
- Opportunities to contribute to a number of publications like The Evansville Review and Measure
The University of Evansville’s BFA in Creative Writing is priced nearly $22,000 below the state average among similar programs at private schools, making it a clear winner for value! But it also features an innovative curriculum designed to inspire your creative mind and advance your creative skillset. You’ll enjoy an array of courses in fiction, screenwriting, creative nonfiction, and contemporary poetry. You’ll also have plentiful opportunities outside of the classroom through exciting internship opportunities; faculty-and writer/editor/publisher-led readings and workshops; and through hands-on learning experiences with The Evansville Review, Measure, and other publications.
Franklin College (Private)
Franklin, IN
Major in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $142,560
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $33,662 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Franklin ranked among the nation’s top Liberal Arts Colleges in 2021 by U.S. News & World Report
- Outstanding opportunities for real-world learning through work on the school’s literary journal and through exciting internships
- Small student body (just a little over 1,000 students) ensures an intimate, highly personalized learning environment
Franklin College’s Major in Creative Writing offers a solid foundation in writing and literature and a price that makes it among the most affordable of its kind among private schools in Indiana! We love the exciting opportunities to gain real-world experience here through internships with corporations, nonprofits, libraries, publishers, and more. Students of this program also contribute to the school’s literary journal, the Apogee, to get the kind of creative writing experience that prepares them for successful professional endeavors upon graduation.
University of Indianapolis (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $132,960
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $43,262 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting, creative writing-focused study abroad experiences available to places like England, Scotland, and Japan
- Opportunities to contribute to the university’s literary and fine arts magazine, Etchings
- Esteemed faculty of published authors and poets
The University of Indianapolis’ BA in Creative Writing is priced among the most affordable of its kind at private schools in Indiana and designed to impress. You’ll sharpen your creative writing skills as you explore poetry and fiction, work with a dedicated faculty of published authors, and participate in lively writing workshops. You’ll also enjoy outstanding opportunities to get involved outside of the classroom by contributing to the university’s literary and fine arts magazine, Etchings, studying abroad, and attending the Kellogg Writer Series. You’re bound to be inspired here!
Butler University (Private)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $21,960
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $48,672 below the state average for similar programs at private schools
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing track
- Outstanding record of student success – 99% of all graduates are employed within six months of graduation
- Ranked among the Top Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report
- Superb opportunities to study abroad through the Global Adventures in the Liberal Arts program – a nationally ranked study abroad program
Butler University’s MFA in Creative Writing enjoys superb support by the Indianapolis literary community and one of the lowest tuition rates among programs of its kind at private schools. Edit content for the school’s literary magazine; meet inspiring guests through the Visiting Writers Series; and work under a dedicated faculty. You’ll flex and refine your creative skillset through lively workshops and in-depth elective courses like publishing, young adult fiction, and screenwriting. And if international study is on your radar, you’ll be pleased to know that a host of opportunities await you through the Global Adventures in the Liberal Arts program! It’s been ranked among the 50 best study abroad programs in the country!
University of Iowa (Public)
BA in English and Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $34,800 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,022)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $25,132 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the university’s many publications
- Ranked among the Best Public Universities by U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked the top public university for “Writing in the Disciplines” by U.S. News & World Report
The University of Iowa’s BA in English and Creative Writing is where affordability meets inspiration! This undergraduate course of education will allow you to explore the relationship between critical thinking, creative writing, and translation while you hone your writing and speaking skills. The UI is rich in opportunities to flex your creative writing skills through The Iowa Review (a nationally renowned print literary magazine), 91st Meridian (publication of the UI’s International Writing Program), the Walt Whitman Quarterly Review (official journal of the Walt Whitman Studies Association), and the Philological Quarterly (international journal for Medieval European and modern literature and culture). Choose the BA in English and Creative Writing and you’ll be part of a truly remarkable community of young writers – did you know that Iowa City is the first U.S. UNESCO City of Literature?
Iowa State University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing and Environment (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $35,964 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,566)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in Iowa.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing emphasis
- Exciting course of study explores how creative writing is influenced by the natural world
- All students work alongside a professor-mentor throughout the program
- Interesting and dynamic curriculum features workshops, field experiences, and more
Iowa State University’s MFA in Creative Writing and Environment is an achievement in graduate study for the student interested in exploring the genres of creative writing – poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and drama. Truly unique in its design, this graduate program encourages writers to identify and explore their creative writing skills and how they are influenced by the environment – our rapidly changing cultural and natural landscape. Students of this program engage in a variety of workshops, fieldwork experiences, literature coursework, and interdisciplinary courses while they work alongside a professor-mentor who’s dedicated to their success.
Iowa (Private)
Waldorf University (Private)
Forest City, IA
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $92,400
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $45,720 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting curriculum design includes workshops with renowned writers and opportunities to work one-on-one with faculty
- Superb, student-centered learning environment features a low, student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes
- Outstanding record of student success – more than 90 percent of graduates are employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation
Waldorf University’s BA in Creative Writing boasts a price tag that places it more than $45,000 less than similar programs among private schools in Iowa and an elevated curriculum that allows you to develop your artistic expression while advancing your literary techniques. Intensive coursework, workshops with renowned writers, and mentoring sessions with faculty are just some of the features of the BA in Creative Writing’s curriculum. Some of the interesting courses you’ll take include Techniques of Creative Nonfiction, Techniques of Poetry, Playwriting, and Special Topics in Creative Writing.
Maharishi International University (Private)
Fairfield, IA
BA/BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Bachelor’s with a Creative Writing specialization (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $63,960
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $74,160 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $35,760
Only private master’s program in creative writing in Iowa.
- Exciting course options like Narrative Throughout Time, Discovering Your Creative Process, and the Hero In Literature
- Delivered in a truly unique format that includes taking one, full-time course each month and focusing on a conscious-based approach to learning
- Low-residency MFA blends on-campus retreats with online learning and intimate mentorships
Maharishi University’s outstanding undergraduate and graduate programs in creative writing are also offered at an incredible value! Maharishi offers a truly unique course of creative writing study that focuses on the consciousness and how tapping into it fuels creative writing. Whether you choose the BA, BFA, Bachelor’s, or MFA in Creative Writing at Maharishi, you’ll enjoy the opportunity to hone your writing skills in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction as you take just one, full-time class per month. These programs are offered in a student-centered environment that boasts a dedicated faculty, individual attention, and support from the local creative community. You’ll expand your creative skillset by practicing Transcendental Meditation as you work toward producing a robust portfolio of work that will set you up for career success.
Wichita State University (Public)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,360 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $540)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $13,500 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $14,784 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $756)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $5,626 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Graduate teaching assistantships and fellowships available
- Focus on applied learning ensures students are prepared for career success
- Study under a distinguished faculty of professional writers
Wichita State University’s creative writing programs are priced below the state average and designed to take your creative writing skillset to the next level! Whether undergraduate or graduate study in creative writing is best for you, you’ll find outstanding opportunities awaiting you at Wichita State. Students here enjoy a curriculum rich in workshops; a distinguished faculty of professional writers; and superb applied learning opportunities that prepare you for success beyond graduation. The MFA in Creative Writing, the twelfth oldest program of its kind in the nation, enjoys a legacy of producing well-trained writers.
Kansas (Private)
Sterling College (Private)
BA in Writing and Editing-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $117,800
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $53,196 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the Great Plains Review, a literary journal, and Stir, the student newspaper
- Opportunities to study abroad to places like Oxford, Russia, Latin America, and Australia
- Study fiction, scriptwriting, poems, and other creative literature
Sterling College’s BA in Writing and Editing with a Creative Writing concentration combines study in grammar, language studies, and styles of writing and research to prepare students to achieve excellence in writing. Through the Creative Writing concentration, students study poems, scriptwriting, fiction, and other creative literature as they develop and expand their own creative voice. Choose Sterling College for your creative writing bachelor’s degree and you’ll enjoy exciting opportunities to publish your work through the Great Plains Review, a literary journal, and Stir, the student newspaper.
Murray State University (Public)
BA/BS in English – Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $37,680 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $478)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $2,365 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting array of courses in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry available
- Small, workshop-style classes ensure an outstanding, student-centered learning experience
- Opportunities to contribute to Notations, the student-run literary journal
Murray State University’s BA/BS in English – Creative Writing offers up an impressive list of perks: superb guidance from an award-winning faculty; small, workshop-style classes for outstanding, individualized attention; and a price that places it well below the state average among similar programs at public schools. Choose this exciting course of undergraduate education and you’ll take courses in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry alongside specialized courses like horror writing and nature poetry. You’ll also enjoy unique learning experiences that include learning from published authors through the Murray State Reading Series and contributing to Notations, the student-run literary journal. And you’ll do it all in the College of Humanities and Fine Arts – the largest and most diverse college at Murray State!
Morehead State University (Public)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $36,960 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $466)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $3,085 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among the top public regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report
- Studio-oriented creative writing workshops offer an outstanding, student-centered learning environment
- Home to the Thomas and Lillie D. Chaffin Award for Appalachian Writing, which features an opportunity to interact with a published writer from the region
Morehead State University’s BFA in Creative Writing doesn’t disappoint with an affordable price tag and a unique learning experience that’s marked by studio-oriented creative writing workshops designed to inspire. You’ll hone your creative writing skills in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction as you complete a well-rounded course of undergraduate study that’s built on literature, the humanities, the natural and social sciences, and more. Morehead State is also home to the Thomas and Lillie D. Chaffin Award for Appalachian Writing, which features an opportunity to interact with a published writer from the region, and the Creative Writing Symposium, an annual event that includes free workshops and readings from published authors.
University of Kentucky (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $23,250 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,903)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $572 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Eight, fully funded teaching assistantships available
- Ranked among the top public schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
- Superb legacy of producing award-winning writers
The University of Kentucky’s MFA in Creative Writing is part of the university’s rich heritage of educating students in literature. In fact, it was back in 1947 when Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist A.B. Guthrie first started teaching courses in fiction at the university. Through the MFA program, students are afforded the opportunity to learn under a diverse, esteemed faculty while they perfect their skills in fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction writing through studio and workshop courses. You’ll love the perks of completing your graduate degree in creative writing here, as it’s home to exciting local and regional writer’s conferences; outstanding internship opportunities; and opportunities to contribute to the New Limestone Review.
Northern Kentucky University (Public)
MA in English-Creative Writing emphasis (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $16,500 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $845)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $7,322 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing track
- Valuable, hands-on experiences include practicums, fieldwork, internships, and opportunities to study abroad
- Exciting opportunity to contribute to Pentangle, NKU’s student-run literary journal
- Ranked among America’s Best Colleges by Forbes for 11 years in a row
Northern Kentucky University’s MA in English with a Creative Writing emphasis features an affordable course of study and a solid foundation in English alongside creative writing courses that will prepare you for career success. You’ll gain valuable, hands-on experience through a practicum in composition and rhetoric, one or more internships, and fieldwork in community literacy and professional writing, and you’ll round out your education with a capstone project – a public oral presentation based on your work throughout the program. You’ll also enjoy opportunities to contribute to Pentangle, NKU’s student-run literary journal and study abroad – a fantastic way to enhance your graduate degree!
Kentucky (Private)
Spalding University (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $107,640
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $12,458 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: MFA in Writing (Fiction, Poetry, Creative Nonfiction, Playwriting, Screenwriting, Writing for Children and Young Adults) and MA in Writing (Creative Writing, Professional Writing and Editing)
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment includes less than 15 students in most classes
- Exciting learning opportunities include creative writing workshops, seminars, author visits, and more
- Unique opportunity to learn from nationally acclaimed, published writers through one-week immersive and highly engaging residencies
Spalding University’s BFA in Creative Writing is where you’ll polish your creative voice through a learning environment that’s marked by collaboration, feedback, and a strong sense of community. You’ll study your craft through workshops and classes and enjoy the opportunity to narrow your studies on a specific interest, genre, writing, style, or type of literature. Just some of the exciting opportunities available to students of the BFA in Creative Writing include author visits, writers in residence, writing contests, writing workshops, and salon-style reading sessions. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to Raptor Lit Magazine, the online magazine. Each year, the School of Professional and Creative Writing holds one-week residencies where more than 30 nationally recognized published writers provide students with the opportunity to attend lectures and participate in various residency activities!
Asbury University (Private)
MFA in Screenwriting (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $24,990
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $7,655 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: Bachelor’s major in Creative Writing
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 98% employment rate among grads within 12 months of graduation
- Convenient and accessible program is delivered entirely online except for the Los Angeles Media Workshop - one intensive, two-week summer session
- Program features outstanding opportunities to learn from industry pros and collaborate with fellow students
Asbury University’s MFA in Screenwriting doesn’t get any better! It’s priced nearly $8,000 less than the state average among similar programs at private schools and delivered in an online format that makes earning your creative writing graduate degree easier and more convenient than ever! Students of this program enjoy close mentorship with program faculty as they hone the skills and that make them in-demand writers. All students here build a portfolio of work, regularly meet with industry experts, collaborate with fellow students, and learn about the production process from start to finish. While the majority of the program is delivered online, you’ll also participate in the Los Angeles Media Workshop – an intensive, two-week summer session that provides you with unmatched opportunities to work with production professionals as you learn about everything from lighting to design to writing.
Louisiana State University (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $32,160 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $667)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $3,160 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $20,412* (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $760)
*Fully funded to all admitted students – includes an in-state waiver tuition and a monthly stipend with assistantship
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $3,382 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked in the top tier for Best National Universities by U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked as a Best Value College by U.S. News & World Report
- MFA students may intern at The Southern Review
Louisiana State University’s undergraduate and graduate programs in creative writing are priced right and designed to produce the next generation of successful writers and professionals in journalism, business, advertising, the arts, education, and more! The BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration is genre-flexible, meaning that you’ll have the opportunity to explore any number of genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, playwriting, screenwriting, and new media writing. This undergraduate course of study also includes a solid foundation in literature, theory, rhetoric, education, and more and a host of creative writing workshops where you’ll learn to hone your skills in imaginative literature. The MFA in Creative Writing boasts an award-winning faculty, the opportunity to work in traditional, hybrid, and new media genres, and a highly engaging curriculum that includes both individual and collaborative learning experiences. Students of this program edit their own literary journal, organize the MFA reading series, and enjoy opportunities to intern at The Southern Review!
University of New Orleans (Public)
Creative Writing Workshop MFA (online/low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $22,770 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $760)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $1,024 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing concentration
- Summer Residencies Abroad opportunity available for students – includes study in Ireland and Italy
- Ranked among the nation’s best colleges by esteemed publications like the Princeton Review, Forbes, and U.S. News & World Report
- Outstanding, online program delivery offered unmatched convenience and flexibility
The University of New Orleans is offered as a fully online program of study that’s priced right and designed with convenience and flexibility in mind! Students of this program explore fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing in an innovative, distance-based learning environment that includes writing workshops and literary studies. Optional summer residencies in Cork, Ireland, and Brunnenburg, Italy, offer a unique and truly inspiring program of summer study that features close mentorship with professors and the opportunity to work alongside a diverse group of renowned writers.
University of Maine at Farmington (Public)
Farmington, ME
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $39,296 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $725)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Maine.
- Exciting, hands-on opportunities through an apprenticeship program experience
- Opportunities to get involved through the UMF Writer’s Guild student organization and learn from nationally renowned authors through the Visiting Writers Series
- Ranked among the top regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report
The University of Maine at Farmington’s BFA in Creative Writing is the only one of its kind in Maine! Take courses in poetry, fiction, screenwriting and journalism here and gain valuable, hands-on experiences through a dynamic apprenticeship. UMF is widely recognized for its value, accessibility, and affordability. Some of the data used to rank this program include retention rates, graduation rates, resources, scholarships, internship opportunities, tuition, and more. This program is highlighted by outstanding, one-on-one mentoring that includes working alongside an esteemed faculty of published writers, poets, essayists, and screenwriters.
University of Southern Maine (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $32,010 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,250)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in Maine.
- Dynamic curriculum features a blend of study in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and popular fiction
- Options to study sub-genres like dramatic writing, performance poetry, and writing for social justice
- Convenient and flexible low-residency model features ten-day residences coupled with six-month, independent writing projects
The University of Southern Maine’s MFA in Creative Writing offers outstanding value and the convenience and flexibility of a low-residency curriculum model that features intensive, ten-day residencies coupled with six-month, independent writing projects. Students of this program study under a faculty of nationally renowned writers while diving deep into a rich, interdisciplinary curriculum that includes creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and popular fiction. Students also have opportunities to focus on specific areas of creative writing, such as dramatic writing, performance poetry, and writing for social justice.
University of Maryland-College Park (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing track (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $38,760 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,264)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Maryland.
MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction, Poetry) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $29,232* (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,769)
*Fully funded program through assistantships
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,552 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among a top public national university by U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked 6th in the nation for its graduation rate among residential public universities by The Chronicle of Higher Education
- BA offers dynamic workshops for an immersive learning experience
- Highly competitive MFA takes just six new students each year through fully funded assistantships
The BA and MFA programs in creative writing are stars at the University of Maryland – College Park. Offering outstanding affordability and the kind of superb academics you’d expect from a world-class university, both programs are where current and aspiring writers develop the razor-sharp skills that afford them personal and career success. The BA program offers a core foundation in English while providing students with opportunities to build their catalog of knowledge in creative writing through dynamic workshops. Students of this program study established writers and learn the concepts that make them effective at their craft. The fully funded MFA accepts just six applicants each year and provides them with a robust course of graduate study in creative and scholarly work and undergraduate teaching.
Maryland (Private)
Loyola University Maryland (Private)
BA in Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $213,720
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $14,100 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the best colleges in the nation by the Princeton Review for three decades
- Ranked among the top 10% of all institutions in the nation for value by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and among the top 2% for long-term ROI by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce
- Exciting internship opportunities available
Loyola University Maryland’s BA in Writing is priced right (about $14,000 below the state average among similar programs at private schools) and designed with flexibility in mind. Choose it as an interdisciplinary major and you’ll have the option of also studying art history, communication, English, theater, sociology, biology, and more. Students of this program have the opportunity to complete an exciting internship program that’s ideally designed to provide them with real-world experiences that prepare them for career success. Other opportunities here include contributing to the student publication, Corridors, and participating in the Academy of American Poets Prize contest.
Salem State University (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $47,800 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $632)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Massachusetts.
- Well-rounded program features in-depth study in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and scriptwriting
- Exciting opportunities to connect with renowned writers through the Writers’ Series
- Opportunity to contribute to Soundings East, the university’s international literary magazine
Salem State University’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration offers an affordable course of undergraduate study in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and scriptwriting. Students of this program enjoy connecting with published writers through Salem State’s Writers’ Series and contributing to Soundings East, the university’s international literary magazine. All students of this program round out their undergraduate experience by writing a creative thesis and producing a book of their published work.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst (Public)
MFA for Poets and Writers (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $47,880 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,749)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in Massachusetts.
- Provides students with a unique opportunity to explore different literatures and pursue individual concentrations
- Home to the Juniper Initiative for Literary Arts, a unique opportunity for students to gain professional experience by contributing to festivals, summer workshops, online and print journals, and more
- University ranked among the nation’s Best Value Public Colleges by the Princeton Review
The University of Massachusetts – Amherst’s MFA for Poets and Writers comes with a reputation for being among the oldest and most respected MFA programs in the nation! This three-year program is priced right, designed to engage through writing workshops, and is satisfied through the completion of a book-length manuscript in prose or poetry. The MFA program provides students with a unique opportunity to cultivate a network of colleagues, connect with their community and with fellow students, and have access to exciting literary programming through the Juniper Initiative for Arts and Action. You won’t find any better professional preparation!
Massachusetts (Private)
Suffolk University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $179,676
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $28,972 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 92% employment rate among grads within one year of graduation
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to Salamander, a magazine of poetry, fiction, and memoirs, and Venture, the university’s student-run literary journal
- Well-rounded program includes in-depth study in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction
Suffolk University’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration is where you’ll explores literary themes and modern issues as you learn to refine your creative writing skillset and develop a strong, organized point of view. Through the creative writing concentration, students explore three genres: poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction in workshop-style classes. We love the many internship opportunities available here, as well as the opportunity to contribute to Salamander, a magazine of poetry, fiction, and memoirs, and Venture, the university’s student-run literary journal. Did you know that Suffolk University has its own dedicated Poetry Center where you’ll find a superlative poetry collection and an exciting selection of seminars, workshops, and readings?
Simmons University (Private)
BA in Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $171,720
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $36,928 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- 100% of all students complete a hands-on learning experience like an internship, research, or fieldwork
- Customizable curriculum features a nice selection of dual degree programs and minors available
- Women’s-only undergraduate school
Simmons University’s BA in Writing is where you’ll sharpen your critical eye and gain insight and clarity into your own creative skillset. You’ll hone your craft through peer workshops that are led by an award-winning, published faculty of poets, novelists, and more. Many students of the BA in Writing complete dynamic, exciting internships in Boston and beyond, and many enhance their degree by adding a dual degree, interdisciplinary program, or a minor like Cinema and Media Studies or Literature & Writing. In fact, 100% of all students here complete some type of experiential learning program!
Lesley University (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $122,040
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $86,608 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Graphic Novels and Comics, Writing for Stage and Screen, Writing for Young People) (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $42,875
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $13,842 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Unique opportunities to pursue a second undergraduate major or one of the university’s 45+ minors like Communication and Media Studies or Illustration
- University is ranked 20th in the nation by Forbes for providing a high-quality education that’s worth the cost
- Low-residency MFA features convenient and flexible online courses coupled with nine-day residencies in Cambridge
Lesley University’s BA and MFA programs in Creative Writing are where burgeoning writers find their voice and hone their skillset – all at an affordable price! The BA program is where you’ll focus your craft on fiction, nonfiction, poetry, scriptwriting, or writing for children and young adults in an intimate, student-centered learning environment that features an average class size of just 15 students. Workshop-style courses, a dedicated, highly esteemed faculty, and opportunities to work with and learn from visiting authors are just some of the highlights of this undergraduate course of study. Students of the BA program often contribute to the university’s literary arts magazine, Commonthought, and complete internships with top publishers like Candlewick Press, Boston Magazine, and Artscope Magazine. The low-residency MFA features online courses coupled with nine-day residencies in Cambridge. You’ll work alongside award-winning writers and literary figures, engage in small-group learning, and explore your creative skillset in craft seminars, workshops, readings, and publishing events. And if international study is on your mind, Lesley facilitates a study abroad program in Wales!
Harvard University (Private)
Master of Liberal Arts-Creative Writing and Literature (campus/online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $37,188
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $19,529 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Superb, online learning environment features a collaborative, engaging environment
- Outstanding guidance and one-on-one support ensure a successful online learning experience
- “Hyflex” online learning experience includes a combination of hybrid and flexible formats and the opportunity to join your professor live in the classroom
Harvard University’s Master of Liberal Arts in Creative Writing and Literature offers a superb course of graduate study with an impressive price tag that places it nearly $20,000 below the state average among similar programs at private schools. This program provides students with the opportunity to develop their creative skills across genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and dramatic writing through an online course of study that’s designed with convenience and flexibility in mind. Despite the online delivery of this program, you’ll always feel connected and engaged, thanks to weekly peer discussions, interactions with your instructors, and outstanding, personalized support whenever you need it.
Bay Path University (Private)
Longmeadow, MA
MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing (Publishing, Narrative Medicine, Teaching) (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,225
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $26,492 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Fully online program features no residency requirements
- Optional summer abroad in Ireland through a Creative Writing Seminar
- Superb, award-winning faculty of published authors, journalists, memoirists, and more
Bay Path University’s online MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing allows current and aspiring creative writers to hone their skillset while focusing their craft on publishing, narrative medicine, or teaching – all at a truly affordable price! This fully online program (no residency required!) is ideally designed to suit writers in every stage of their writing careers. Students of this program work in small peer groups in workshop-style classes that provide them with outstanding collaboration and constructive feedback, all the while being mentored by an esteemed faculty of editors, publishers, journalists, and writers. And if you want to take your degree to the next level, you’ll have the option of participating in a Creative Writing Seminar during a summer in Ireland!
Lake Superior State University (Public)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $55,552 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $448)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $997 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Intimate program features close mentorship and one-on-one guidance
- All students complete a senior capstone project that includes a book of published-ready work in your chosen genre
- Exciting opportunity to contribute to Snowdrifts, an annual publication produced by the university’s creative writing students
Lake Superior State University’s BA in Creative Writing features an affordable price tag and an intimate learning environment that’s marked by close mentorship, one-on-one guidance by a faculty of esteemed writers, and opportunities to get publishing experience. This dynamic course of undergraduate study features coursework in prose, poetry, and performance writing; a senior capstone project that provides students with the opportunity to write a unified collection of publication-ready work in their chosen genre; and exciting opportunities to work on Snowdrifts, an annual publication produced by the university’s creative writing students.
Saginaw Valley State University (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $44,640 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $846)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $11,909 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to Cardinal Sins, the university’s art and literary magazine, and the Valley Vanguard, the student newspaper
- Intimate learning experience features small workshop-style classes
- Home to the Voices in the Valley series, which welcomes renowned poets and fiction writers to the campus
Saginaw Valley State University’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration offers an outstanding value in undergraduate education and a deep dive into language, storytelling, writing, and culture through small, faculty-guided workshops. Outside of the classroom, you’ll enjoy exciting opportunities to attend the Voices in the Valley series, which welcomes renowned poets and fiction writers to the campus. You’ll complete a capstone experience that includes conducting research and constructing a portfolio of your original work. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to Cardinal Sins, the university’s art and literary magazine, and the Valley Vanguard, the student newspaper.
Central Michigan University (Public)
BA/BS in English Literatures Language and Writing-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $43,920 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $366)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $12,629 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MA in Creative Writing, English Language and Literature-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $21,780 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $726)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $11,824 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the Central Review, the university’s literary journal and participate in a variety of student groups like the Fiction Collective, the Poets Collective, Word Hammer, and the Writing Circle
- Graduate assistantships available
- Option to add a TESOL undergraduate certificate to the BA
- All MA classes are held in the late afternoons/early evenings to accommodate the busy schedules of working adults
Central Michigan University’s BA and MA programs in creative writing are priced well below the state average among similar programs and designed to produce capable, competent writers who are positioned for career success. The BA program here includes working closely with award-winning, published faculty mentors and enjoying access to the Lucile Clarke Memorial Children’s Library (it’s home to more than 7,000 old and rare children’s books) and the Instructional Materials Center (home to an impressive variety of contemporary works and teaching materials). Interested in taking your BA program to the next level? Consider adding a TESOL undergraduate certificate. MA students build a portfolio of genres as they work toward honing their craft in preparation for teaching jobs, MFA or PhD programs, or exciting and varied careers. Plus, all MA classes are taught in the late afternoon/early evening to accommodate busy, working adults!
Northern Michigan University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,528 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $852)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $3,076 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Graduate and teaching assistantships available
- Ranked among the top regional schools in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report
- Exceptional opportunities to give back to the community while gaining valuable experience through a variety of service learning projects
- Outstanding record of student success: 96% of all recent graduates are either employed or continuing their education
Northern Michigan University’s MFA in Creative Writing comes with an affordable tuition that makes earning your graduate degree in creative writing easier and more accessible than ever! Here you’ll work closely with an esteemed faculty and engage in lively and immersive learning experiences. Students attend visiting writer readings; contribute to Passages North, the university’s literary journal, North Wind, the student-published newspaper, or The Ore Ink Review, the online student writing journal; and frequently work on a host of academic service learning projects. Choose Northern Michigan’s MFA in Creative Writing and you’ll be part of a university that boasts an exceptional student success rate – 96% of all recent graduates here are either employed or continuing their education!
Eastern Michigan University (Public)
MA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $28,170 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,627)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $5,434 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Meaningful service learning opportunities include participating in an arts organization or nonprofit
- Graduate assistantships available
- Ranked among the best universities for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report
- Named Best of the Midwest university by The Princeton Review for 19 consecutive years
Eastern Michigan University’s MA in Creative Writing is priced well below the state average among similar programs and chocked full of opportunities to take your creative skillset to the next level. Here you’ll explore multiple arts and mixed genres; participate in community-based projects; and explore curating and alternative publishing. This innovative graduate course of study is one of just a few interdisciplinary programs for creative writing in the country and is where you’ll have the opportunity to explore poetry, experimental prose, sound and performance, cultural translation, contemporary arts, and more. Just some of the unique workshop offerings within this program include Poetics and Practice; Essay as Form; Long Poems, Serial Works, and Conjoined Texts; and Sound Poetry.
Michigan (Private)
Aquinas College (Private)
BA in English Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $149,160
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $1,738 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Optional minors in Journalism/Publications, English Literature, or English Teaching
- Ranked among the best colleges in the nation for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked among the Best Colleges – National Liberal Arts Colleges for three years in a row by U.S. News & World Report
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 93% employment rate among graduates within six months of graduation
Aquinas College’s BA in English Writing boasts a tuition that falls below the state average among similar programs and a reputation for excellence. We love the option to personalize your program through a minor in Journalism/Publications, English Literature, or English Teaching. You’ll graduate from this program with a portfolio of your work that perfectly reflects your creative growth. Choose Aquinas College for your undergraduate writing degree and you’ll be part of a university that’s been recognized as a top liberal arts college for three years in a row by U.S. News & World Report!
Siena Heights University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $111,960
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $38,938 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the university’s literary and arts journal, Eclipse, and the student news multimedia organization, Spectra
- Recognized as one of the top 39 creative programs in the nation by “Creative Colleges: A Guide for Student Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians, and Writers.”
- Intimate, student-centered learning environment features a low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Outstanding, real-world experience: complete a creative writing summer internship to Martha’s Vineyard
Siena Heights University’s BA in English with a major in Creative Writing is a comprehensive and affordable course of undergraduate study that allows students to explore literature while examining the genres of poetry, fiction, drama, and screenwriting for film, video, and television. Offering an outstanding value in undergraduate education, this program doesn’t disappoint when it comes to academic quality, either. In fact, it was recognized as one of the top 39 creative programs in the nation by “Creative Colleges: A Guide for Student Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians, and Writers.” You’ll take creative writing courses through the entirety of this program, thereby allowing you to begin exploring your craft from the first day. You’ll also enjoy the program’s small class sizes and intimate community of students that makes learning truly valuable. Ready to take your program to the next level? Participate in a creative writing summer internship to Martha’s Vineyard!
Cornerstone University (Private)
Grand Rapids, MI
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $110,280
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $40,618 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Outstanding, hands-on learning here – all students complete at least one internship or practicum
- Superb, student-centered learning environment features a low, 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Exciting opportunities to study abroad to places like South Africa, Oxford, Spain, and Italy
Cornerstone University’s BA in Creative Writing offers outstanding value with a total tuition price that places it more than $40,000 below the state average among similar programs at private schools. It’s offered as an exciting, dynamic course of study that explores the genres of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and more. It’s where you’ll enjoy an intimate, student-centered learning environment (featuring a low, 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio) and participate in meaningful internships at Our Daily Bread Ministries, Revue Magazine, and Baker Publishing Group. In fact, all students of this program will complete an internship or practicum experience that allows them to log valuable, hands-on experiences. Choose Cornerstone for your undergraduate program in creative writing and you’ll be part of the esteemed Humanities Division, which boasts an outstanding 100% graduate employment rate within six months of graduation! And if international study is part of your undergraduate education goals, you’ll have the opportunity to study in places like Ireland, Italy, Oxford, South Africa, and Spain!
Metropolitan State University (Public)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $34,320 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $286)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $480 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Work under an esteemed faculty of award-winning, published writers
- Exciting opportunities to get involved by contributing to the university’s award-winning online literary magazine, Haute Dish
- Options to minor in areas like theater, studio arts, psychology, and more
Metropolitan State University’s BA in Creative Writing features an attractive tuition and a well-rounded course of study in fiction, poetry, memoir, and creative nonfiction. You’ll participate in dynamic workshops as you hone your craft and learn the ins and outs of writing for publication and for profit. Students of this program work under an award-winning faculty of writers that encourages them to find and perfect their own creative voice. Just some of the accolades bestowed upon the program’s esteemed faculty include a nomination for a Pulitzer Prize, a Today Show Book Club selection, a #1 New York Times bestseller, and a Christopher award! Students here also enjoy plenty of hands-on experiences outside of the classroom by contributing to the university’s award-winning online literary magazine, Haute Dish. Interested in taking your BA in Creative Writing to the next level? Consider adding a minor in English, history, psychology, screenwriting, sociology, studio arts, or theater!
Minnesota State University-Mankato (Public)
BA/BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $33,480 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $591)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $1,320 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $26,544* (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $798)
*The MFA in Creative Writing is fully funded through teaching and graduate assistantships
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $9,813 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Fully funded MFA provides outstanding opportunities for students through teaching and graduate assistantships
- Outstanding learning experience includes working under a bestselling, award-winning faculty of writers
- Superb opportunities to get involved by contributing to the university’s publications and participating in the Good Thunder Reading Series, which hosts distinguished writers
The BA/BFA and MFA creative writing programs through Minnesota State University – Mankato are your opportunity to take your writing to the next level and perfect your creative voice in poetry, creative nonfiction, and fiction. Students of these programs work under a bestselling, award-winning faculty while gaining valuable, hands-on experience by contributing to the Blue Earth Review, the university’s literary journal, The Corresponder a review publication of books by Minnesota authors, and KMSU Weekly Reader, a weekly author-interview program. You’re also sure to love attending the Good Thunder Reading Series, which hosts distinguished writers for on-campus workshops, craft conservations, and readings.
Minnesota (Private)
North Central University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $112,220
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $62,109 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Focus your program on literature, creative writing, or professional and technical writing
- Fantastic, student-centered learning environment features outstanding opportunities to work with fellow students and provide/receive constructive feedback
- Ranked among the top regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report
North Central University’s BA in English – Creative Writing offers your choice of tracks: literature, creative writing, or professional and technical writing and a price that places it among the most affordable in Minnesota! This course of undergraduate study is designed to help you sharpen your writing skills and find your creative voice while also allowing you to improve your analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. You’ll write original work in one or more creative literary forms within an intimate learning environment that encourages constructive feedback. You’ll feel right at home in Minneapolis, a cultural hub that’s rich in opportunities to explore your craft!
Concordia University-Saint Paul (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing track (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $95,640
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $78,689 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,900
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,718 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Outstanding record of student achievement includes a near-95% employment rate among graduates
- Fully online MFA offers outstanding convenience and flexibility for working adults
- MFA offers superb opportunities to work with published authors
Concordia University – Saint Paul’s BA and MFA programs in Creative Writing offer outstanding value and a learning environment that’s designed to produce career success! The BA program focuses on advanced writing, historical literature, literary studies, and critical thinking while allowing students to explore the art of creative writing through hands-on learning and real-world experiences. The MFA program is a fully online graduate course of study that allows you to perfect your creative skillset through a blend of workshops courses, literature courses, craft courses, a literary research course, and a supervised thesis. Work with published authors, learn under an esteemed faculty of writers, and elevate your writing through this online program designed with convenience and flexibility in mind.
University of St. Thomas (Private)
MA in Creative Writing and Publishing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $19,320
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $6,298 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing
- Superb, student-centered learning environment features classes with no more than 14 students and seminars with no more than 12 students
- Learn under an award-winning faculty, many of whom have close ties to the region’s publishing houses
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 93% employment rate among graduates within eight months of graduation
The University of St. Thomas’ MA in Creative Writing is priced well below the state average among similar programs at private schools and designed as a meaningful course of graduate study that’s focused on the intensive practice of creative writing. Students of this program participate in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction workshops while also exploring courses in literature and cultural studies. You’ll love the intimate learning environment here that features a cap of just 14 students per class and the evening courses that allow you to earn your graduate degree in creative writing while still meeting your professional and personal responsibilities. And you’ll learn under a faculty of award-wining writers who have close ties to many of the region’s top publishers like Coffee House Press, Milkweed Editions, and Graywolf Press!
Mississippi University for Women (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $32,116 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $259)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $2,062 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $20,976 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $437)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $96 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Low-residency MFA features four, in-person residences and convenient and flexible online courses in multiple/cross genres
- BA program offers small, workshop-style classes for a truly personalized course of undergraduate study
- Exciting opportunities to work on the university’s literary magazine and attend the Welty Writers’ Conference Symposium
Mississippi University of Women’s BA and MFA in creative writing programs are at the intersection of affordability and excellence in academics. Choose the BA program and you’ll enjoy small class sizes, workshop-style classes, and individual attention from a dedicated who is there to ensure you reach your full potential in your chosen genre. Choose the MFA program and you’ll be part of a low-residency course of graduate study that features four, in-person residencies coupled with convenient and flexible online workshops in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, playwriting, translation, and writing for new media. Attend the Eudora Welty Writers’ Conference Symposium, work on the university’s literary magazine, and complete a residency or internship – this cross-genre/mixed-genre graduate program is highly engaging and well-rounded!
Mississippi (Private)
Belhaven University (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $115,692
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $27,786 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Belhaven is the only Christian university in the U.S. to offer a BFA in Creative Writing
- Unique course of study features a foundation focused on a biblical worldview
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to the school’s literary journal, meet with renowned visiting writers, and attend writing festivals and conferences
Belhaven University is the only Christian university in the U.S. to offer a BFA in Creative Writing, and its affordable price tag makes it highly accessible! This dynamic course of undergraduate study features a biblical worldview as its foundation and collaborative, engaging advanced writing workshops in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, scriptwriting, screenwriting, and playwriting. You’ll work under a dedicated, published faculty, learn from renowned visiting writers, and participate in a number of writing festivals and conferences. Students here enjoy opportunities to contribute to Brogue, the university’s award-winning journal of fine arts and complete career development courses that focus on mission-inspired internship experiences.
University of Missouri-Saint Louis (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $21,372 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,346)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $2,734 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Competitive teaching and tutoring assistantships available
- Outstanding record of student success – 94% of all graduates are employed or continuing their education
- Ranked among the top public universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
The University of Missouri – Saint Louis is home to the affordable MFA in Creative Writing, an outstanding course of graduate study with a tuition rate that comes in significantly below the state average. In the last two decades, this program has produced graduates who have gone on to publish more than 50 books of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and scholarly work. This program comes complete with evening courses for maximum convenience and flexibility, fifteen hours of workshop classes full of opportunities to refine your craft, and unmatched opportunities to begin putting your creative talents to work in the real-world, including through the internationally renowned creative literary magazine, Boulevard.
Truman State University (Public)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $34,800 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $557)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $1,200 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among one of the nation’s Best Values Colleges by the Princeton Review
- Exciting opportunities to engage with esteemed, visiting writers who offer on-campus seminars, workshops, and master classes
- Plentiful internship opportunities available
Truman State University’s BFA in Creative Writing is priced with affordability in mind and designed to create the next generation of creative writers who are sought after in fields like teaching, publishing, journalism, filmmaking, media, and more! Through this program, you’ll enjoy working under award-winning faculty of writers and scholars who provide unmatched guidance and mentorship. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage with esteemed, visiting writers who offer on-campus seminars, workshops, and master classes, and gain practical experience by completing internships and contributing to the university’s publications like Windfall, the undergraduate literary journal, the Green Hills Literary Lantern, the online literary journal, and the Chariton Review, the international literary journal.
Missouri State University-Springfield (Public)
BA/BS in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $33,120 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $550)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $2,880 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Dramatic Writing, MA in English – Creative Writing track
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to Moon City Press
- Ranked among the nation’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report
Missouri State University – Springfield’s BA/BS in English – Creative Writing offers an affordable pathway to a career in creative writing that comes complete with the opportunity to choose a BA or BS; dynamic learning experiences in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, playwriting, and more; and exciting opportunities to contribute to Moon City Press and attend readings by esteemed, visiting authors. This pre-professional degree program provides the ideal foundation to a graduate degree like the MA in English – Creative Writing or the MFA in Dramatic Writing.
University of Missouri-Kansas City (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing and Media Arts (Creative Nonfiction, Fiction, Playwriting, Poetry, Screenwriting) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,648 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,147)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $5,458 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing emphasis
- Ranked among the Best Midwestern Colleges by the Princeton Review
- Ranked among the top 20% of schools on Niche’s list of the Top Public Universities in America
- Focus your course of study by choosing an emphasis area in creative nonfiction, fiction, playwriting, poetry, or screenwriting
The MFA in Creative Writing and Media Arts through the University of Missouri – Kansas City offers value in graduate education and a rich learning environment where inspiration is standard fare! Through this program, you’ll learn to master your creative writing skillset through a dynamic blend of intensive workshops and literature and craft classes that are taught by an award-winning faculty. Choose an emphasis area in creative nonfiction, fiction, playwriting, poetry, or screenwriting and enjoy outstanding, real-world experiences by contributing to literary magazines and participating in community organizations. And while you’ll study in one of the largest universities in the region, you’ll never feel like a number here, thanks to a student-centered learning environment that comes complete with a low, 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Missouri (Private)
Stephens College (Private)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $98,400
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $7,407 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in TV and Screenwriting (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $42,288
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $26,822 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- BFA program includes exciting opportunities to contribute to the school’s literary journal, share your creative work through the annual Scriptwriters Showcase, and interact with esteemed, published writers through the Writers on the Edge series
- First MFA of its kind to focus on bringing more female writers into mainstream Hollywood
- MFA features superb opportunities to study at the famed Jim Henson Studios in Hollywood
- Low-residency MFA is ideally designed for busy, working adults
Whether you’re searching for an affordable program in creative writing at the undergraduate or graduate level, Stephens College has what you need! Its BFA in Creative Writing features exciting, unique courses like Global Voices; Writing About Everything: Arts & Travel, Fashion & Food; Women Writers; and Criticism & Culture. Through this program, you’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to Harbinger, the college’s award-winning literary journal, share your creative works at the annual Scriptwriters Showcase, and interact with esteemed, published writers through the Writers on the Edge series. The MFA in TV and Screenwriting features a flexible and convenient low-residency course of graduate study that includes four, ten-day workshops in Hollywood (at the famed Jim Henson Studios!) that are complemented with online courses. Faculty mentors of this program are some of the best working writers in the profession, and this program is the first program of its kind to focus on bringing more female writers into mainstream Hollywood!
Lindenwood University (Private)
BA in English-Creative Writing emphasis (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $76,440
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $29,367 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Writing (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $26,400
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $42,710 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Superb, student-centered learning environment features a low, 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 93% employment rate among graduates within six months of graduation
- MFA program can be completed fully online (no residency requirements!), fully on-campus or a blend of the two
- BA program features study in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry
- MFA Program boasts a dynamic blend of craft classes, literature classes, and writing workshops
Lindenwood University’s undergraduate and graduate offerings in creative writing are priced among the most affordable of their kind at private schools in Missouri! Choose the BA in English with a Creative Writing emphasis and you’ll study fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in an intensive course of study designed to advance your skillset and grow as both a writer and reader. This program is your pathway to exciting careers in mass media, marketing, copywriting, editing, technical writing, and more! The MFA in Writing is offered in a convenient and flexible format that includes a variety of craft classes, literature classes, and writing workshops offered on-campus and online. Complete the coursework of this program fully online, fully on-campus, or a blend of the two – the choice is yours!
Calvary University (Private)
BS in Interdisciplinary English Literature and Creative Writing (on-campus, online, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $49,770
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $56,037 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Flexible course delivery ensures outstanding convenience and accessibility
- Superb location – just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City
- Ranked among the top schools in the nation for lowest debt upon graduation
Calvary University’s BS in Interdisciplinary English Literature and Creative Writing offers a truly outstanding value and the kind of flexible learning environment that today’s busy, working adults demand. Through this biblically focused program, you’ll learn to improve your writing and speaking skills; critically read and analyze literature; and create original research projects. You’ll also have the opportunity to work on The Warrior’s Pen, the university’s online literary journal. Whether your career goals include working in journalism, copywriting, screenwriting, marketing, public relations, business, or beyond, this program has what you need to succeed!
The University of Montana (Public)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,840 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $987)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in Montana.
MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,090 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,403)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in Montana.
- MFA teaching assistantships available
- MFA students direct their own reading series, Second Wind, which allows students to work alongside community writers
- The MFA’s focus on teaching has allowed more than 50 graduates of the program to go on to hold tenure-line positions in creative writing at universities across the nation
The University of Montana is home to both a BFA and MFA creative writing program – the only one in Montana to offer these exciting courses of study! The BFA offers a comprehensive study of creative writing through a variety of classes in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students here enjoy participating in engaging, lively workshops and classes and refining their creative writing skills by contributing to The Oval, the undergraduate literary magazine. These students also often attend reading, craft lectures, and panels hosted by the MFA program. The MFA program, which enjoys a 50-year legacy of producing the next generation of creative writers and artists, offers a solid course of study that’s focused on both composition and creative writing. Exciting courses in areas like critical theory, film, and storytelling round out this program, and its focus on teaching has allowed more than 50 graduates of the program to go on to hold tenure-line positions in creative writing at universities across the nation.
University of Nebraska at Omaha (Public)
BFA in Creative Writing (Creative Nonfiction, Fiction or Poetry, Screenwriting) (on-campus)
BA in English-Creative Nonfiction concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $28,200 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $738)
Only public bachelor’s programs in creative writing in Nebraska.
MFA in Writing (Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Poetry, Playwriting, Screenwriting, Young Adult) (low-residency)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,840 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $514)
Only public master’s programs in creative writing in Nebraska.
- Department of English’s Creative Nonfiction Writing Program is a designated Program of Excellence in the College of Arts and Sciences
- MFA program features lectures, craft discussions, and small team workshops
- MFA’s focus on mentorship ensures a truly engaging, personalized course of graduate study
- MFA graduate fellowships and assistantships available
Whether you’re interested in undergraduate or graduate study in creative writing, the University of Nebraska at Omaha has what you’re looking for at a price that can’t be beat! These outstanding programs, the only ones of their kind in Nebraska, are offered through a nationally renowned university that’s home to a highly accomplished faculty and the type of resources and support you’d expect from a state institution. The Department of English’s Creative Nonfiction Writing Program, a designated Program of Excellence in the College of Arts and Sciences, features an opportunity to study, analyze, and write in a variety of genres, including modern familiar essay, autobiography, travel writing, and narrative nonfiction. This flexible course of study also provides students with the opportunity to explore a variety of creative genres like food writing, nature writing, graphic memoirs, and more. The BFA program here offers concentrations in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and screenwriting, and the MFA program offers concentrations in fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, playwriting, screenwriting, and young adult. The MFA offers a low-residency course of graduate study that combines four, 16-week at-home semesters with five, ten-day, conference-style residencies for the best in convenience and flexibility. This program’s emphasis on mentorship provides students with an unmatched learning experience that’s marked by personalized attention from a dedicated faculty mentor.
University of Nevada-Reno (Public)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $30,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $551)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $3,180 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing (Children and Young Adults, Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Poetry)
- Ranked a top national university by U.S. News & World Report
- Exciting opportunities to get involved and receive real-world experience both on and off campus
The University of Nevada – Reno’s BA in Creative Writing offers a value in undergraduate education and a course of study that’s rich the genres of fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Here you’ll participate in workshop courses alongside your fellow students as you critique each other’s work and receive unmatched guidance and feedback from a dedicated faculty. You’ll also enjoy participating in the region’s lively literary community events that include the annual Literary Crawl… contributing to university events like the Reno Summer Youth Writing Program… and lending your talents to literary workshops for organizations like Reno’s Holland Project. And each year, prominent writers visit campus to inspire and guide the university’s creative writing students!
University of Nevada-Las Vegas (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (International Focus track, Peace Corps track) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $16,128* (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,303)
*Fully funded program through graduate assistantships
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $1,356 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English – Creative Writing
- International focus provides students with an in-depth look at global perspectives related to fiction, literary nonfiction, and poetry
- Program features a study abroad experience – it’s the only program of its kind to offer students the opportunity to spend their time abroad volunteering with the Peace Corps
The University of Nevada – Las Vegas’ Creative Writing MFA boasts an affordable price tag and exciting options to choose an international focus or Peace Corps track. This three-year, intensive studio arts degree features a strong international emphasis that explores the global perspective on the creation, publication, and teaching of the literary arts— specifically fiction, literary nonfiction, and poetry. The MFA here is designed to prepare students to teach at the post-secondary level and/or pursue a career in writing. This program comes complete with a study abroad experience. It’s the nation’s only creative writing program that gives students credit for spending their time abroad with the Peace Corps!
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus (Public)
BA in English-Writing focus (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $66,176 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,148)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in New Hampshire.
MFA in Writing (Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Poetry) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $37,776 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,545)
Only public master’s program in creative writing in New Hampshire.
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 94% employment rate among undergraduates
- MFA teaching assistantships available
- Exciting MFA internship opportunities include a paid, two-year internship with the Portsmouth Music Hall’s two literary series, Writers on a New England Stage and Writers in the Loft and an internship with the UNH Office of Research Development and communications
The University of New Hampshire offers outstanding value in both undergraduate and graduate education in creative writing and truly unique courses of study that are the only ones of their kind among public schools in New Hampshire! The BA in English with a focus in writing provides students with a well-rounded course of study in the history and literature of the English language alongside an exploration of creative thinking and creative writing skills. Choose the writing concentration and you’ll have the opportunity to explore fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry through small class discussions and research-oriented seminars. You’ll also have access to exciting opportunities like internships and a study abroad experience in London! The MFA program is an exciting course of graduate study that provides unmatched opportunities to work on-on-one with an esteemed, nationally recognized faculty and study alongside a talented group of your peers. Attend a visiting writers’ series to engage with published authors… complete a paid internship with a local arts organization… contribute to the university’s online journal, Barnstorm… and focus your course of study on fiction, narrative nonfiction, or poetry to hone your creative writing skillset in your chosen genre.
New Hampshire (Private)
Southern New Hampshire University (Private)
Manchester, NH
BA in Creative Writing and English (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Screenwriting) (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $38,400
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $116,670 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (online)
MA in Creative Writing (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Screenwriting) (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $22,572
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $14,868 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- All online courses here come with outstanding flexibility – no set class meeting times allows students to learn on their schedule!
- Named among the most innovative universities in the North and among the nation’s Best Regional Universities by U.S. News & World Report
- Truly flexible and convenient online delivery allows students to study whenever and wherever it’s most convenient
- All programs feature no residency requirements – offered in a fully online format
Creative writing at Southern New Hampshire University is varied and exciting and always offered at an incredible price and in a convenient, distance-based format! Choose the BA program and you’ll choose from four genres (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, screenwriting) to create a program that’s geared toward your career goals and personal pursuits. This program features dynamic workshops that allow you to engage with your peers while improving your craft. The MA program features your choice of concentration in business, marketing & communications, publishing, or education and can be completed in as little as 15 months! The MFA features your choice of a fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or screenwriting concentration. Choose SNHU and you’ll enjoy programs that are built around your schedule. Study whenever and wherever it’s most convenient for you!
William Paterson University of New Jersey (Public)
BA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $56,760 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $773)
Only public bachelor’s program in creative writing in New Jersey.
MFA in Creative and Professional Writing (Poetry, Fiction, Nonfiction, Cross-Genre) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $31,980 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,216)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $116,670 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Ranked among the nation’s top universities in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report
- Graduate assistantships and teaching opportunities available
- MFA program features convenient and flexible online and evening courses
- BA/MFA program available – Complete a degree in English (Writing Concentration) and an MFA in Creative & Professional Writing in five years
William Paterson University of New Jersey offers both an undergraduate and graduate program in creative writing and unmatched affordability! The BA program here features a dynamic curriculum that includes study in fiction, business, nonfiction, and critical writing; opportunities to apply your emerging creative writing skills through an internship; and exciting opportunities to engage with some of today’s most influential writers through the annual writers’ conference. The MFA program here is a fully residential program that features tracks in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and cross-genre; a highly engaging curriculum of intensive writing workshops; and evening and online classes for outstanding flexibility and convenience. And for the most inspired, William Paterson offers a combined BA/MFA program – your opportunity to complete a degree in English (Writing Concentration) and an MFA in Creative & Professional Writing in just five years!
New Jersey (Private)
Centenary University (Private)
BA in English – Creative Writing (on-campus)
BA in Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $139,560
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $16,703 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- A blend of on-site and online courses ensures maximum convenience and flexibility
- Exciting opportunities to contribute to Prism Magazine, the undergraduate literary magazine
- Student-centered learning environment features small classes and a low, 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Centenary University offers two options for creative writing undergraduate students and one of the lowest tuitions in the state among private schools! Choose the BA in English program and you’ll enjoy the solid foundation and broad curriculum that come with being a traditional literature major. But you’ll also have the opportunity to dive deep into the writing-intensive creative writing concentration. The BA in Writing program is where you’ll fine-tune your creative voice and prepare for career success in a variety of creative fields like public relations, advertising, marketing, and publishing. Both programs feature a blend of online and on-campus courses for outstanding flexibility and convenience and a student-centered learning environment that boasts a low, 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio. You’ll work in small classes under an esteemed faculty of published writers and get the hands-on experiences you crave by contributing to Prism Magazine, the undergraduate literary magazine.
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $133,080
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $23,183 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry, Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Young Adult and Children’s Literature, Literary Translation) (low-residency)
MA in Creative Writing and Literature for Educators (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $37,380
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $11,148 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the Best Value Schools in the North by U.S. News & World Report
- Exciting opportunities to intern at The Literary Review, an illustrious national literary magazine
- MA program is one of the only programs of its kind – designed to prepare students to become teachers of creative writing
- MFA program boasts a low-residency model that includes studying twice a year in Wroxton, England, and Madison, New Jersey
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s undergraduate and graduate programs in creative writing offer outstanding affordability and the flexibility to hone your creative writing skillset and prepare for career success! The BA program provides students with unmatched opportunities to study under published authors and editors, explore creative writing in a number of genres, and gain a solid understanding of literary studies. The MFA program boasts a low-residency model (study twice a year in Wroxton, England, and Madison, New Jersey) and a tightknit community of learners who have gone on to become successful, published, award-winning authors and New York Times bestsellers. Choose a genre (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, writing for young adults and children, or literary translation) to for a personalized course of graduate study. You can also complete more than one genre for a dual concentration! The MA program is designed specifically for educators by teaching literature from a writer’s point of view. Offered fully online except for just one, three-day, on-campus residency, this flexible and convenient course of study prepares confident and versatile teachers of creative writing.
Bloomfield College (Private)
BA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $130,944
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $25,319 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
- Ranked among the best liberal arts colleges in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
- Bloomfield is the only NJ school to be recognized as a Predominantly Black Institution and Hispanic Serving Institution
- Offers outstanding preparation for a number of writing and publishing careers
Bloomfield College’s BA in Creative Writing offers unmatched affordability among programs of its kind at private schools in New Jersey and the comprehensive curriculum that will position you for success as a writer, editor, publisher, journalist, or beyond! This program comes complete with coursework in writing, poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, drama, print journalism, and grammar; exciting internship opportunities at media outlets, publishing houses, nonprofits, and more; and a unique opportunity to participate in the school’s three-day program celebrating poetry and the written word.
Seton Hall University (Private)
MA in English-Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $43,500
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $5,028 below the state average for similar programs at private schools.
Also offers: BA in Creative Writing
- Competitively funded teaching assistantships available
- Ranked among the nation’s Best Value Colleges and as one of America’s Top Colleges by Forbes
- Outstanding internship opportunities in NYC available
Seton Hall University’s MA in English – Creative Writing is versatile, comprehensive, and affordable, making it clear winner among creative writing graduate programs! Whether you’re preparing for a career in public relations, advertising, marketing, copywriting, or publishing or looking forward to a graduate degree (MFA, JD, PhD), you’ll find that this program has what you need to succeed. You’ll receive the solid literary foundation that comes with a major in English, but you’ll also enjoy the opportunity to personalize your degree by choosing a creative writing concentration (referred to as “spokes”). Creative writers in this program enjoy access to the NYC literary scene, with many placed in top-notch internships. Engaging courses, an esteemed faculty, and superior, one-on-one guidance are just some of the other highlights of this graduate course of study.
Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development (Public)
Santa Fe, NM
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $18,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $156)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $3,099 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry, Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Screenwriting)
- Outstanding, cross-genre curriculum features your choice of one or two genre concentrations
- Program features a focus on Native and World literature
- Superb, student-centered learning environment features small classes and faculty mentoring
The Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development is home to a superb BFA in Creative Writing program that’s priced among the most affordable of its kind in New Mexico and marked by a rich, cross-genre curriculum. While you’ll choose one or two genres on which to focus your degree program, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive overview of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, journalism, and dramatic writing for a truly well-rounded course of undergraduate study. You’ll also enjoy a strong foundation in craft, creativity, and criticism through this program while gaining a deep understanding of Native and World literature. Work with a faculty member to create and publish creative work; collaborate and connect with fellow students in small classes; and engage with esteemed, visiting writers through the BFA in Creative Writing.
University of New Mexico-Main Campus (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $16,752 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,136)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $4,688 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing field group
- Teaching assistantships available – opportunities to teach Freshman Composition and Expository Writing and Creative Writing
- Home to a widely published creative writing faculty and a visiting writers series
- Ranked among the top 100 universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
The University of New Mexico’s MFA in Creative Writing offers an outstanding value and the type of academic excellence you’d expect from a nationally renowned university. This three-year course of graduate study is home to engaging and lively workshop-style courses in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, and also includes craft seminars and coursework in literature, pedagogy, and professional writing. You’ll also enjoy taking elective courses in areas like editing, proposal and grant writing, publishing, medical writing, and more. And you’ll have the opportunity to gain practical experience by contributing to the Blue Mesa Review and interning with esteemed nonprofits like Santa Fe Lannan Foundation and the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
New Mexico State University-Main Campus (Public)
Las Cruces, NM
MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry, Fiction) (on-campus)
MA in English-Creative Writing emphasis (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $15,552 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $1,001)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $5,888 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: BA in English-Creative Writing emphasis
- Recognized as a Top-Tier University by U.S. News & World Report
- Graduate assistantships available for MFA students
- Student-centered learning environment features small class sizes and a dedicated faculty
New Mexico State University’s graduate programs in creative writing provide you with top-notch, affordable options to take your creative writing skillset to the next level! Choose the MA program and you’ll be immersed in a three-year course of study that allows you to focus on a chosen genre in poetry, nonfiction, or fiction and engage in a comprehensive analysis of literature. The MFA is a flexible course of study that allows students to study one genre or work across several genres. Whichever program you choose, you’ll be met with a dedicated faculty and small class sizes that encourage meaningful participation and collaboration.
Navajo Technical University (Public)
Zuni, NM
BFA in Creative Writing and New Media (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $7,714 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $117)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $14,105 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Unique program prepares students for careers in the digital environment
- Tribal university continues to meet the unique needs of the Navajo Nation
Navajo Technical University’s BFA in Creative Writing and New Media is a focused course of undergraduate study that’s designed to prepare students for career success in a digital environment. Through this affordable program, you’ll learn to publish and market creative works in an online format. This tribal university continues to meet the needs of the Navajo Nation by offering a truly affordable course of education that opens doors for many types of professional opportunities in the creative writing field.
CUNY Brooklyn College (Public)
BFA in Creative Writing (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $620)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $557 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing
- Ranked among the top 40 Best Value Colleges in the U.S. by the Princeton Review
- Outstanding opportunities to immerse yourself in the illustrious NYC literary scene
- Ranked among the top colleges in the North for supporting social mobility by U.S. News & World Report
CUNY Brooklyn College’s BFA in Creative Writing is where you’ll find a dynamic course of undergraduate study that’s rich in written work, class discussions, and engaging workshops and taught by a world-class faculty of published authors and poets. Here you’ll flex your creative skillset by attending readings, panels, and performances and snagging invaluable, hands-on experiences by immersing yourself in the illustrious NYC literary scene.
CUNY City College (Public)
Major in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $620)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $557 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
Also offers: MFA in Creative Writing
- Dynamic curriculum includes a variety of courses and workshops
- Exciting opportunities to get involved by attending readings, exploring a variety of genres and writing styles and contributing to the school’s literary journal
CUNY City College’s Major in English with a Creative Writing concentration is where you’ll connect with your creative spirit by immersing yourself in lively courses and workshops focused on the fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama genres. Students here are encouraged to explore a variety of styles, genres, and literary forms; attend on-campus readings; and contribute to Promethean, the college’s literary journal. Study at CUNY City College and you’ll be part of a distinguished legacy of academic excellence and student success.
CUNY Hunter College (Public)
Major in English-Creative Writing concentration (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $27,720 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $620)
Total tuition for a creative writing bachelor’s degree comes in at $557 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Poetry) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $20,268 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $780)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $673 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Home to the Distinguished Writers Series – an opportunity to learn from world-class writers
- Graduate opportunities to work as a Hertog research assistant that includes working as a research assistant for a celebrated NY writer
- Poet graduate students are guaranteed a Thomas Hunter Fellowship that includes working for an established poet or editor
- Every spring, one MFA student has the opportunity to intern as an editorial assistant at the literary journal, The Threepenny Review
CUNY Hunter College offers two, outstanding program choices for the creative writer! Whether you choose the Major in English with a Creative Writing concentration or the MFA in Creative Writing, you’ll enjoy outstanding value! Dive deep into fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction as you study under an esteemed, award-winning faculty of writers whose broad range of knowledge ensures outstanding guidance and mentoring throughout your program. Whether you complete the undergraduate or graduate program in creative writing, you’ll enjoy small class sizes and a personalized course of learning that breeds success.
Stony Brook University (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing and Literature (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $17,802 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $791)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $3,139 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.
- Exciting opportunities for hands-on learning at the Southampton Writers Conference – an intensive program offering workshops in contemporary writing
- Opportunities to contribute to the Southampton Review, which is sponsored by the MFA program
- Rotating visiting writers provide unmatched opportunities for students throughout the year
- Ranked among the top 100 graduate schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
Stony Brook University’s MFA in Creative Writing and Literature isn’t just affordable – it’s a distinguished course of graduate study that effortlessly blends study in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Workshops here ensure that students elevate their skillset in all genres – not just their primary area of interest. Students of this program study under a full-time faculty and a rotating group of visiting writers who come with a varied skillset in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and writing for children. Do you have an interest in children’s literature? The university’s Advanced Certificate in Children’s Literature offers a part-time, year-long course of study for 12 serious children’s book writers. Students of this program work independently with faculty mentors and then come together through two cohorts (in July at the Southampton Writers Conferences and in January for a special Children’s Literature Publishing and Editing Practicum).
CUNY Queens College (Public)
MFA in Creative Writing and Literary Translation (Poetry, Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Literary Translation) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $16,920 (in-state)
(out-of-state per credit rate: $855)
Total tuition for a creative writing master’s degree comes in at $4,021 below the state average for similar programs at public schools.