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List of All U.S. Colleges with a Creative Writing Major

Writing has been my passion practically since I learned to read in kindergarten. I would write stories about princesses and my family dog, Gansett. When it came time to look at colleges, I was set on attending one with a strong creative writing program. Ultimately, I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a B.A. in Writing Seminars.

Today, colleges across the country offer creative writing as a major. Because writing skills are essential for a wide range of careers, and because most curricula emphasize broad liberal arts competencies, a degree in creative writing can set you up for success in numerous fields, whether you want to be an editor or a lawyer.

Interested in majoring in creative writing? Learn which schools offer the major and what to look for in a program.

Overview of the Creative Writing Major

Creative writing is about more than spinning tales. For your major, you’ll generally need to pursue a curriculum grounded in literature, history, foreign language, and other humanities courses, along with distribution courses, if the college requires them.

Most creative writing majors must participate in workshops, in which students present their work and listen to peer critiques, usually with a certain number of advanced courses in the mix. In some cases, colleges will ask you to specialize in a particular genre, such as fiction, poetry, or playwriting. 

To succeed in creative writing, you’ll need to have a tough spine, in order to open yourself up to feedback from your classmates and instructors. You may need to give readings in public — if not as an undergraduate, certainly during your career. Of course, a passion for creating is essential, too, as is a willingness to revise your work and learn from the greats and your peers.

A creative writing major opens up doors to many careers, including journalism, content marketing, copywriting, teaching, and others. Even careers that don’t center around writing often have a strong writing component: you’ll need to write reports, deliver presentations, and so on.

Some writers go on to earn an MFA, which will help you hone your craft. It’s also often a prerequisite for teaching creative writing at the college level.

What to Look for in a College as a Creative Writing Major

Published authors on faculty.

Many world-renowned authors have another claim to fame: professorships. Writers who have taught their craft include (among many others):

• Maya Angelou (Wake Forest University)
• Colson Whitehead (many colleges, including Vassar College and Columbia University)
• Stephen Dixon (Johns Hopkins University)
• Viet Thanh Nguyen (University of Southern California)
• Eula Biss (Northwestern University)
• Toni Morrison (Princeton University)

Be aware that as an undergraduate, you may not be able to learn from the greats. That’s why it’s important to look into which courses these faculty teach before you have dreams of being mentored by Salman Rushdie — who is a Distinguished Writer in Residence at NYU.

Genres Offered

While many schools that have creative writing majors offer fiction and poetry courses and tracks, there are some niche genres that could be more difficult to find. If you’re interested in playwriting, for example, you won’t find that at every school. Before you decide on a program, be sure it includes the genres you’d like to explore further, whether that’s flash fiction, creative nonfiction, or something else.

Workshopping Opportunities

The core of most quality creative writing curriculum is workshopping. This means sharing your work in your classes and listening to your peers discuss and critique it. While this may sound intimidating, it can do a lot to help you hone your work and become a better writer. Look for colleges that make this the bedrock of their curriculum.

Showcasing Opportunities

Are there opportunities to present your work, such as college-sponsored readings where undergraduates can participate? Or, perhaps the school has a great literary journal. At my school, students could submit their plays and have them performed by fellow students. 

List of All U.S. Colleges With a Creative Writing Major

What are your chances of acceptance.

No matter what major you’re considering, the first step is ensuring you’re academically comparable to students who were previously accepted to the college or university. Most selective schools use the Academic Index to filter out applicants who aren’t up to their standards.

You’ll also want to demonstrate your fit with the school and specific major with the qualitative components of your application, like your extracurriculars and essays. For a prospective creative writing major, the essay is particularly important because this is a way to demonstrate your writing prowess. Activities might include editing your school’s newspaper or literary journal, publishing your work, and participating in pre-college writing workshops.

Want to know your chances of being accepted to top creative writing schools? Try our Chancing Engine (it’s free). Unlike other calculators, it takes your individual profile into account, including academic stats and qualitative components like your activities. Give it a try and get a jumpstart on your journey as a creative writing major!

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College Info

Finding a dedicated creative writing program at a school you're excited about can be a real challenge, and that's even before you start worrying about getting in. Nonetheless, there are some great options. In order to help you find the best school for you, this list rounds up some of the best colleges for creative writing in the United States .

The Best Creative Writing Programs: Ranking Criteria

You should never take college rankings as absolute truth —not even the very official-seeming US News ones. Instead, use these kinds of lists as a jumping-off place for your own exploration of colleges. Pay attention not just to what the rankings are but to how the rankings are determined.

To help with that, I'll explain how I came up with this highly unscientific list of great creative writing colleges. I started by narrowing my search down to schools that offered a specific creative writing major. (If you don't see a school you were expecting, it's likely because they only have a minor.)

In ranking the schools, I considered five major criteria:

• #1: MFA Ranking —If a school has a great graduate creative writing program, it means you'll be taught by those same professors and the excellent graduate students they attract. Schools with strong MFA programs are also more likely to have solid alumni networks and internship opportunities. However, many schools with great undergrad programs do not offer MFAs, in which case I simply focused on the other four options.
• #2: General School Reputation —The vast majority of your classes won't be in creative writing, so it's important that other parts of the school, especially the English department, are great as well.
• #3: Extracurricular Opportunities —One of the key advantages of majoring in creative writing is that it can provide access to writing opportunities outside the classroom, so I took what kind of internship programs, author readings, and literary magazines the school offers into consideration.
• #4: Diversity of Class Options —I gave extra points to schools with a variety of genre options and specific, interesting classes.
• #5: Alumni/Prestige —This last criterion is a bit more subjective: is the school known for turning out good writers? Certainly it's less important than what kind of education you'll actually get, but having a brand-name degree (so to speak) can be helpful.

The Best Creative Writing Schools

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of schools! The exact numbering is always arguable, so look at it as a general trend from absolutely amazing to still super great, rather than fixating on why one school is ranked #3 and another is ranked #4.

#1: Northwestern University

Northwestern's undergrad creative writing program boasts acclaimed professors and an unparalleled track record of turning out successful writers (including Divergent author Veronica Roth and short-story writer Karen Russell).

Outside the classroom, you can work on the student-run literary journal, intern at a publication in nearby Chicago, or submit to the Department of English's yearly writing competition . The university is also home to a top journalism program , so if you want to try your hand at nonfiction as well, you'll have plenty of opportunities to do so.

#2: Columbia University

Like Northwestern, Columbia is home to both a world-class creative writing program and a top journalism school (plus one of the best English departments in the country), so you have a wide range of writing-related course options. Columbia also benefits from its location in New York City, which is bursting at the seams with publishing houses, literary journals, and talented authors.

#3: University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's big draw is the infrastructure of its graduate Writers' Workshop, which is often considered the best MFA program in the country.

As an English and Creative Writing major here, you'll take classes from great young writers and established professors alike, and get to choose from a wide range of topics. This major provides transferable skills important for a liberal arts major with a creative focus. You'll also have access to the university's impressive literary community, including frequent readings, writing prizes and scholarships, and the acclaimed literary journal The Iowa Review .

#4: Emory University

Emory is renowned for its dedicated undergrad creative writing program , which draws the very best visiting scholars and writers. Students here have the chance to attend intimate question-and-answer sessions with award-winning authors, study a range of genres, compete for writing awards and scholarships, and work closely with an adviser to complete an honors project.

#5: Oberlin College

A small liberal arts school in Ohio, Oberlin offers very different advantages than the schools above do. You'll have fewer opportunities to pursue writing in the surrounding city, but the quality of the teachers and the range of courses might make up for that. Moreover, it boasts just as impressive alumni, including actress and writer Lena Dunham.

#6: Hamilton College

Hamilton is another small college, located in upstate New York. It's known for giving students the freedom to pursue their interests and the support to help them explore topics in real depth, both inside and outside the classroom. Hamilton's creative writing program takes full advantage with small classes and lots of opportunities to intern and publish; it also has one of the best writing centers in the country.

#7: Brown University

Brown's Literary Arts program offers one of the top MFAs in the US as well as an undergraduate major . For the major, you must take four creative writing workshops and six reading-intensive courses, which span an array of departments and topics, from music and literature to Middle East studies and Egyptology.

#8: Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University has an excellent creative writing MFA program, lots of super specific class options, and a number of scholarships specifically earmarked for creative writing students. This school’s undergraduate English program also offers a concentration in creative writing that allows students to specialize in a specific genre: poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction. If you’re interested in exploring your potential in a specific writing genre, Washington University could be a great pick for you.

#9: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT might not be a school you generally associate with writing, but it actually has an excellent program that offers courses in digital media and science writing, as well as creative writing, and provides plenty of guidance on how graduates can navigate the tricky job market.

Not to mention the school is located in Cambridge, a haven for book lovers and writers of all kinds. Though it probably isn’t a good fit for students who hate science, MIT is a great place for aspiring writers who want to build writing skills that are marketable in a wide range of industries.

#10: University of Michigan

University of Michigan is one of the best state universities in the country and has a top-notch MFA program. This school’s undergrad creative writing sub-concentration requires students to submit applications for admittance to advanced creative writing courses. These applications give students crucial practice in both building a writing portfolio and articulating their interest in creative writing to an audience who will evaluate their work. If you're looking to attend a big school with a great creative writing major, this is a fantastic choice.

#11: Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins is another school that's known more for engineering than it is for writing, but, like MIT, it has a dedicated writing program. As a major here, you must take not only courses in prose, poetry, and literature, but also classes on topics such as philosophy and history.

#12: Colorado College

Colorado College is a small liberal arts school known for its block plan , which allows students to focus on one class per three-and-a-half-week block. The creative writing track of the English major includes a sequence of four writing workshops and also requires students to attend every reading of the Visiting Writers Series.

Bonus School: New York University

I didn't include NYU in the main list because it doesn't have a dedicated creative writing major, but it's a great school for aspiring writers nonetheless, offering one of the most impressive creative writing faculties in the country and all the benefits of a Manhattan location.

How To Pick the Best Creative Writing School for You

Just because Northwestern is a great school for creative writing doesn't mean you should set your heart on going there. (The football fans are completely terrifying, for one thing.) So where should you go then?

Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking at creative writing programs to help you determine the best school for you:

Does It Have Courses You're Interested In?

Look at the course offerings and see whether they interest you. While you can't predict exactly what classes you'll love, you want to avoid a mismatch where what you want to study and what the program offers are completely different. For example, if you want to write sonnets but the school focuses more on teaching fiction, it probably won't be a great fit for you.

Also, don't forget to look at the English courses and creative writing workshops! In most programs, you'll be taking a lot of these, too.

What Opportunities Are There To Pursue Writing Outside of Class?

I touched on this idea in the criteria section, but it's important enough that I want to reiterate it here. Some of the best writing experience you can get is found outside the classroom, so see what kind of writing-related extracurriculars a school has before committing to it.

Great options include getting involved with the campus newspaper, working on the school's literary journal, or interning at the university press.

Who Will Be Teaching You?

Who are the professors? What kind of work have they published? Check teacher ratings on Rate My Professors (but make sure to read the actual reviews—and always take them with a grain of salt).

If you're looking at a big school, there's a good chance that a lot of your teachers will be graduate students. But that's not necessarily a bad thing: a lot of the best teachers I had in college were graduate students. Just take into consideration what kind of graduate program the school has. If there's a great creative writing MFA program, then the graduate students are likely to be better writers and more engaged teachers.

What Are the Alumni Doing Now?

If you have a sense of what you want to do after you graduate, see if any alumni of the program are pursuing that type of career. The stronger the alumni network is, the more connections you'll have when it comes time to get a job.

What About the Rest of the School?

Don't pick a school for which you like the creative writing program but dread everything else about it. Most of your time will be spent doing other things, whether hanging out in the dorms, exploring off campus, or fulfilling general education requirements.

Many schools require you to apply to the creative writing major, so make doubly sure you'll be happy with your choice even if you aren't accepted to the program.

What's Next?

Are you sure a creative writing major is the right fit for you? Read our post on the pros and cons of the major to help you decide what path to take in college.

For more general advice about choosing a college, check out our complete guide to finding the right school for you. Some major factors to consider include deciding whether you're interested in a small college or a big university , an in-state or out-of-state institution , and a public or private school .

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Alex is an experienced tutor and writer. Over the past five years, she has worked with almost a hundred students and written about pop culture for a wide range of publications. She graduated with honors from University of Chicago, receiving a BA in English and Anthropology, and then went on to earn an MA at NYU in Cultural Reporting and Criticism. In high school, she was a National Merit Scholar, took 12 AP tests and scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and ACT.

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Best Creative Writing colleges in the U.S. 2024

Creative writing is about artistically sharing emotions, thoughts, and opinions on a subject; not just relaying information. Courses include American literature, editing and proofing, fundamentals of writing, world literature, Shakespeare, screenwriting fundamentals, fiction fundamentals, writing nonfiction, and poetry writing. Creative writing covers both nonfiction and fiction, but the predominant types of creative writing are poetry and fiction, which includes novels, short stories, novellas, and flash fiction. Playwriting, screenwriting, journaling, and memoirs are other typical forms.

Students will learn how to use written language to communicate more clearly in their professional and personal lives and move beyond proficient mechanics to writing craftily in an attempt to evoke emotions and express points of view. Careers for creative writers?outside of being a creative writer?include blogger, journalist, composition teacher, copywriter, scriptwriter, and novelist. Creative writers must understand the importance of deadlines and have well-researched writing samples in order to move up the career ladder. The median annual wage of writers and authors was more than $50,000 in May 2010. Religious, professional, and civic industries employed the most writers followed by newspapers and book industries. Creative writers may also be freelance writers. Freelance writers are self-employed individuals who make a living selling their content to publishers. They may simultaneously work on multiple assignments for numerous companies depending on individual financial goals.

Best Creative Writing colleges in the U.S. for 2024

The University of Alabama offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 14 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 14 Master's degrees.

University of Alaska Anchorage offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 4 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 4 Master's degrees.

University of Alaska Fairbanks offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 5 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 5 Master's degrees.

Alaska Pacific University offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 2 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 2 Bachelor's degrees.

Arizona State University Campus Immersion offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 8 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 8 Master's degrees.

University of Arizona offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 73 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 60 Bachelor's degrees, and 13 Master's degrees.

Glendale Community College offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, public, two-year college in a large suburb. In 2022, 2 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 1 Associate's degree, and 1 Certificate.

GateWay Community College offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a small, public, two-year college in a large city.

Mesa Community College offers 3 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, public, two-year college in a large city. In 2022, 3 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 3 Certificates.

Northern Arizona University offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 27 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 15 Master's degrees, and 12 Certificates.

Find local colleges with Creative Writing majors in the U.S.

List of all creative writing colleges in the u.s..

Major: Creative Writing

Which colleges offer a major in creative writing.

Creative Writing majors weave a rich tapestry of storytelling, exploring forms such as poetry, personal essays, memoirs, short stories, scriptwriting, novels, literary journalism, and even video games. It could be a favorite line in a movie, play, or book that lures an audience in and changes their world. 

Telling a story can shed light on societal issues that would otherwise receive little or no attention. By evoking emotion, the story and its characters captivate the reader. People become invested in the story, the impact of the problem on the characters’ lives, and the outcome. Creative writing humanizes experiences in a way that may foster compassion for others. A compelling creative writer draws readers in so that they become engaged in the story.

Your imagination, mindset, and self-expression will be challenged and sharpened as a creative writing major. You’ll explore multiple creative writing forms. Creative writing challenges you to dig deep and learn about yourself and others. 

What does a student majoring in Creative Writing study? 

To develop their skills, creative writing majors will take courses in historical and contemporary literature and participate in writing workshops. Such courses or workshops include, among others: 

• American Literature
• Introduction to Creative Writing
• Reading and Writing Poetry
• Playwriting
• Screenwriting

What can I do with a Creative Writing degree?

You’ll develop a greater appreciation and understanding of various creative writing genres. Your research, writing, and creative thinking skills are desirable in  jobs such as the following:

• Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
• Advertising and Promotions Managers
• Art Directors
• Fundraisers
• Producers and Directors

Specializations for a Creative Writing major are:

• Film and Television Writing
• Photojournalism
• Creative Nonfiction

What are the requirements for a Creative Writing degree? 

The degree requirements at your college or university will consist of specific credits needed for major and elective courses in creative writing. You’ll participate in many writing workshops and apply the critiques of your work from peers and faculty to hone your creative writing skills.   

Explore Creative Writing Careers

Arts and humanities majors and degrees, related ap courses, find colleges with a creative writing major.

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The 13 Best Colleges for Creative Writing Degrees

• 16-minute read
• 23rd February 2023

So, you want to pursue a creative writing degree program in the United States. Wonderful! If you are passionate about writing and you’re an avid reader, a career in fiction writing would be the way to go! When it comes to choosing the right MFA (Master of Fine Arts) program – in this case, creative writing – you might be wondering which schools have the best program. What career opportunities are there after graduation? What courses will I take in the program? What’s the admission process like?

A creative writing program will immerse you in your craft, help you develop writing discipline, and provide critical feedback on your writing. The program should also be highly reputable and produce top-quality writers.

You must decide whether you want to attend a public or a private college . This choice can be important because of student population size, tuition fees, and reputation. Private colleges will be considerably more expensive than public ones. Do you want to attend college in a small town or a big city? Is the school located somewhere that can provide ample writing inspiration? It’s important to know that some schools provide more student opportunities in their program, yet others have stronger networking connections. This distinction can be crucial once you’ve graduated from the program.

This post will highlight the benefits of a creative writing degree, including career opportunities after graduation. We’ll also discuss what you’ll need to apply. Finally, we’ll highlight our top list of creative writing schools in the United S tates. After you’ve read this post, you’ll better understand the opportunities these schools provide.

What Is a Creative Writing Degree?

A creative writing degree prepares you for a career as a writer of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, or drama. It’s also suitable for those wishing to enter the field of editing or publishing. The program immerses students in writing and provides valuable writing opportunities and feedback.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates usually find jobs as authors, copywriters, journalists, editors, columnists, or screenwriters. Additionally, graduates find opportunities to become editors for big publishing agencies, which work with some of the most famous best-selling fiction authors.

What Subjects Are Typically Covered?

You can expect to take plenty of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry workshops. Almost all programs provide compulsory introduction to fiction and poetry classes. In addition, you’ll likely take courses in screenwriting, medieval literature, and traditions in fiction. Finally, some courses focus on writing prompts (a daddy for writing inspiration).

Factors to Consider in Choosing a College for a Creative Writing Degree

Although the following factors will vary from college to college, you should consider them carefully:

●  Location and campus culture

●  Faculty and resources available

●  Alumni network and professional connections

●  Internships and work opportunities (internships will provide valuable work experience)

Admission Process

You should know that many creative writing degree programs are very selective. For this reason, you’ll need to prove your passion for writing and reading. First, you’ll need to apply to the college of your choice. This will mean submitting an admission essay as well as the application form. Creative writing degree programs will also want a writing sample, such as a poem or a short story. However, these don’t have to be works you’ve published.

Additionally, you’ll need to submit the following to your chosen college:

●  Referee information (must not be a friend or a relative)

●  Official transcripts

●  TOEFL or IELTS test results (if English is not your native language)

●  GRE scores

Gathering all required documentation for admission will be time-consuming, so you’ll want to get started early. Ideally, you should start applying nine months before your program begins. For example, if the program starts in August, you should begin applying in November of the previous year.

1. Northwestern University

Established in 1851, Northwestern University is located in Evanston, Illinois (just outside Chicago). With approximately 22,000 students, it’s a private institution with a six-to-one student-to-faculty ratio. Professors in the creative writing program are award-winning authors. Northwestern is known for producing successful authors such as Karen Russell and Veronica Roth . It also features a top journalism program. Students in the creative writing program can get involved with the student-run literary journal, intern at a Chicago publication, or submit an entry to the yearly writing competition of the English Department.

Additionally, students can learn from talented writers at the Annual Writers’ Festival . Students can even submit their work to the school’s annual writing competition. So, if gaining professional writing experience is important, Northwestern might just be what you’re looking for! Plus, Chicago’s iconic landmarks and lakeside beaches provide robust inspiration for writers!

“My Northwestern creative workshops, where I honed my editorial skills, were instrumental in setting me down a career path in publishing.”

–  Laura Biagi, Class of 2009

2. Columbia University

Located in New York City (known colloquially as the Big Apple), Columbia was established in 1754. It’s the fifth-oldest American institution of higher learning. It has around 36,000 students, and people consider it one of the great elite private colleges in America. Like Northwestern, Columbia has a world-class creative writing program and a top journalism school. Great writers have attended Columbia, including J.D. Salinger and Federico Garcia Lorca. The creative writing curriculum includes rigorous writing workshops at all levels and seminars exclusively for creative writing students. In these workshops, students produce original works of writing and submit them to classmates and professors for critical analysis. To study at Columbia is to be part of a distinguished group of like-minded writers.

If that isn’t enough to convince you, many consider New York City America’s literary capital. It’s home to major publishing houses, literary journals, picturesque parks, iconic landmarks, and talented authors from around the globe. The Big Apple has no shortage of inspiration for prospective writers!

“Before being accepted into the program, I didn’t have the confidence to critique my work seriously.”

–  Mary Mann, Class of 2015

3. University of Iowa

If you prefer to study in a location away from the hustle and bustle of a big city, the University of Iowa might be your answer! Founded in 1847, this public institution has about 31,000 students. It’s located in Iowa City, and the nearest major city is Chicago. However, studying in Iowa can provide an opportunity to go off the beaten path.

Here are some highlights of the university and Iowa City:

●  Iowa City is a designated UNESCO City of Literature.

●  The city’s annual Book Festival attracts people from across the American Midwest.

●  The MFA of the university’s nonfiction writing program has been voted number one in creative nonfiction in the United States.

●  Students have access to the university’s literary community, which offers frequent readings, writing prizes and scholarships, and The Iowa Review , an acclaimed literary journal.

●  Tennessee Williams is an alumnus of the program.

●  Like Columbia, the University of Iowa strongly values the workshop method.

We recommend checking out this video for a deeper dive into the world of creative writing at Iowa.

4. Emory University

Emory, founded in 1836, is a private research university in Atlanta, Georgia. If you prefer a university in a warm climate, Atlanta is a good choice. Compared with cities in the northern states, Atlanta experiences mild winters, though you might get cold snaps and the odd snowfall. Emory has around 15,000 students and has an affiliation with the United Methodist Church.

Emory’s dedicated undergraduate creative writing program draws distinguished visiting scholars and writers. Other notable program highlights include:

●  Opportunities to attend intimate question-and-answer sessions with award-winning authors

●  Faculty who are professional practitioners in the writing field

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●  Studies in a range of genres, such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and playwriting

●  Annual writing contests

●  Writing awards and scholarships

●  The opportunity to work closely with an adviser to complete an honors project

Students will also find writing opportunities outside the classroom in the Atlanta area. The city has several writing organizations and clubs, such as the Atlanta Writers Club , the Georgia Writers Association , and Village Writers Group.

5. Oberlin College

Founded in 1833, Oberlin is a small liberal arts college in Oberlin, Ohio, 31 miles south of Cleveland. It has just under 3,000 students. If you’re seeking a really small school, Oberlin is worth pursuing! It’s known for the robust quality of teachers and the variety of courses in the creative writing program. Two of the courses are Plot and Structure and Race and Poetic Innovation. In addition, you’ll find a robust workshop culture at Oberlin. The downside is that the city lacks opportunities to pursue writing. However, great opportunities exist in other Ohio cities, such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Moreover, Ohio is the home of the late American novelist Toni Morrison.

It’s worth mentioning that Oberlin’s creative writing program has notable alumni, such as Lena Dunham , an actress and writer.

“I feel so consistently lucky to have such dedicated professors. Everyone I’ve worked with in the Creative Writing Program deeply cares about their students both as writers and as people. Classes are small, so you’re able to actually know and trust each other, which is important for productive workshopping.”

–  Fiona Warnick, Class of 2022

6. Hamilton College

Chartered as a college in 1812, Hamilton is in the upstate New York village of Clinton, between Syracuse and Albany. It has 2,000 students and 1,350 acres of campus space. Hamilton strongly believes in giving students the freedom to pursue their own interests, an ethos that explains why the college’s motto is “Know Thyself.”

Hamilton’s creative writing program is known for its small classes and plentiful opportunities to intern and publish. Hamilton also has one of the best writing centers in the nation. Students take courses that balance literary study with poetry and prose workshops. The program emphasizes learning to write with attentiveness to form and genre. Students write a creative project that demonstrates originality and attention to language.

If you like a creative writing school that’s “current with the times,” Hamilton has recently renovated List Hall, which houses the program. The hall features collaborative spaces for students and a new landscaped entrance.

7. Brown University

Founded in 1764, Brown is a leading research university in Providence, Rhode Island. Brown’s student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose make it distinct. In fact, many American high schoolers dream of studying at Brown! It has just under 10,000 students, and its literary arts program is one of the top MFAs in the United States. Students can choose one of three tracks: fiction, poetry, or digital/cross-disciplinary writing – a plus if your aim is fiction writing, for example! Although students must take certain classes, they can design much of their curriculum. Brown also provides financial aid to students in the program through a first-year fellowship. Additionally, students can teach undergraduate workshops during their second year. Brown is a special place for writers who envision new paths in fiction, poetry, and digital language arts.

8.  Washington University in St. Louis

It might surprise you that Washington University is in St. Louis, Missouri, rather than Washington, DC. Since 1853, Washington University has dared to challenge the unknown and taken great pride in its teaching, research, and service to society. The university has a renowned creative writing program with several scholarships. The undergraduate English program also offers a concentration, which allows students to specialize in a specific writing genre: fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction. The program even has a special concentration in publishing! Students often find internships with companies such as Atlantic Media, Business Insider, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

Washington University should be on your list if you already have a specific writing genre in mind!

9.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

You might not associate writing with an institute of technology. However, MIT has a wonderful program that features courses in digital media, science writing, and creative writing. Since its incorporation in 1861, MIT has been educating future leaders with a three-to-one student-to-faculty ratio in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Apologies if you were expecting MIT to be in Boston. However, don’t let Cambridge put you off. The city is a haven for book lovers and writers from all walks of life, so you’ll find plenty of writing pursuits outside of class! And when it comes to finding work after graduation, the program provides lots of guidance for navigating the tricky job market.

10.  University of Michigan

If you’ve ever watched NCAA football, you’re probably familiar with the University of Michigan. Founded in Detroit in 1817, Michigan is ranked the third-best national undergraduate public university. The university’s main campus is in the small city of Ann Arbor, ranked the number one best small college town in America.

The University of Michigan has a top-notch MFA program. The undergrad creative writing sub-concentration requires students to submit applications for admittance to advanced creative writing courses. These applications provide crucial practice in building a writing portfolio and articulating an interest in creative writing. In addition, the university has two student-run literary journals: Xylem Magazine and Fortnight Literary Press . Both publish students’ best works – an excellent way to get your writing noticed!

Screenwriter Jennifer Freides graduated from the program. “I learned to read fast, manage my time, think critically, organize my thoughts, and speak with clarity at U-M.”

With nearly 50,000 students, the University of Michigan is a top choice for those looking for a big school with a great MFA program!

11.  Johns Hopkins University

This private research university was founded in 1876 in Baltimore, Maryland, and it takes its name from nineteenth-century Maryland philanthropist Johns Hopkins. With 24,000 students, Johns Hopkins (or JHU, its more common name) ranks consistently among the most prestigious universities in the United States. Novelists John Barth and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie graduated from here, as did the famous horror film director Wes Craven.

Although people know JHU more for its engineering program, it does have a reputable writing program. Students in the program take courses in philosophy and history in addition to classes in prose, poetry, and literature. The creative writing program has journalism, the arts, and publishing internship opportunities. Additionally, short story writers might be interested in the program’s Danielle Alyse Basford Writing Prize .

Baltimore is no stranger to the literary world, as the American writer Edgar Allan Poe spent several years here. His poem The Raven is the namesake of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. You can visit the Poe House and Museum to see the writing desk and chair where Poe created some of his famous work!

12.  Colorado College

Colorado College was founded in 1874 and is in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It’s a small liberal arts college with over 2,000 students. People know the college mainly for its Block Plan , which allows students to focus on one class per three-and-a-half-week block. Students will find that the creative writing track interweaves craft, imagination, and a lively literary framework. It includes a sequence of four writing workshops and mandatory attendance at the Visiting Writers Series. Attending readings at the Visiting Writers Series will deeply immerse students in the written word at Colorado College. In addition, students will find plenty of opportunities within the program, from AMC college writing contests to the student-led spoken word group, SpeakEasy. If you’re an outdoorsy writer, you’ll love Colorado Springs! It’s surrounded by picturesque hiking opportunities, including Garden of the Gods ! If you envision taking one class at a time at a small liberal arts school, you should consider Colorado College!

13.  New York University

New York University (NYU) is another prestigious university in New York City. It was established in 1831 and is currently the largest private university in the United States, with more than 11,000 students. It even has campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. As mentioned, New York is the American literary epicenter. Although NYU doesn’t offer a creative writing major, it’s an excellent school for aspiring writers. You’ll still find workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Classes are small, with a maximum of 15 students, and the school has a student-edited literary journal called West 10 th . The school also offers intensive summer writing programs in Florence and Paris, so students can develop their craft while living the writer’s life in Italy or France. The faculty consists of award-winning poets, short story writers, and novelists, and many of them have received Pulitzer Prizes and NEA Fellowships. So, although NYU lacks a creative writing major, it has a fine reputation, small classes, and ample opportunities to develop your writing craft!

So, there you have our list of top creative writing schools. Let’s recap key points from our post:

●  Creative writing programs are pretty selective, so you should be genuinely passionate about reading and writing.

●  Private schools have the best reputation and small classes. However, they can be really expensive.

●  You will need to submit at least one writing sample as part of your application.

●  Creative writing programs are heavy in workshop culture.

●  New York City is America’s literary capital.

●  Most programs have literary journals where you can submit your work.

●  A faculty of professional writers will be your teachers.

●  Graduates often go on to become authors, editors, and copywriters. Getting into publishing is also a possibility.

Whichever school you choose, it must be the right fit for you! While one might be great for some people, it might not resonate with you. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to visit the school if possible. Even a virtual tour will suffice. We also suggest reaching out to current professors for more information. You can even reach out to current or past students through LinkedIn. Finally, take your time when researching schools. Got more questions about creative writing? We recommend this video !

Thanks for reading!

1. How important is location when you are considering a creative writing program?

You’ll want to prioritize a location with a vibrant literary scene rather than one with a warm climate. There should be plenty of opportunities to engage with writing in the community outside the classroom. There should also be various career opportunities within the community after graduation.

2. What is the cost of attending a creative writing program in the United States?

The cost will depend on whether the school is public or private. Public school tuition will be roughly $17,000 to $20,000 US. On the other hand, private schools will be considerably more expensive, especially Columbia and Hamilton. You can expect tuition to be between $50,000 and $69,000 US.

 3. Where can I get feedback on my college application?

Great question! We recommend leaving this to our team of proofreading experts at Proofed! They can check for grammar and punctuation errors and ensure perfect spelling. They will also ensure that the application uses appropriate academic language. Consider submitting a 500-word document for free today!

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Writing in the Disciplines

These colleges typically make the writing process a priority at all levels of instruction and across the curriculum. Students are encouraged to produce and refine various forms of writing for different audiences in different disciplines. In spring and summer 2023, we invited college presidents, chief academic officers, deans of students and deans of admissions from more than 1,500 schools to nominate up to 15 institutions with stellar examples of writing in the disciplines. Colleges and universities that received 10 or more nominations are ranked here. Read the methodology »

To unlock full rankings, SAT/ACT scores and more, sign up for the U.S. News College Compass !

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Brown University

Providence, RI

• #1 in Writing in the Disciplines
• #9 in National Universities  (tie)

At Brown University, undergraduate students are responsible for designing their own academic study with more than 80 concentration programs to choose from. Another unique offering at this private, Ivy League institution in Providence, Rhode Island, is the Program in Liberal Medical Education, which grants both a bachelor’s degree and medical degree in eight years.

(fall 2022)

SAT, GPA and More

Columbia University

New York, NY

• #2 in Writing in the Disciplines
• #12 in National Universities  (tie)

Columbia University has three undergraduate schools: Columbia College, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), and the School of General Studies. This Ivy League, private school guarantees students housing for all four years on campus in Manhattan’s Morningside Heights neighborhood in New York City.

Duke University

• #3 in Writing in the Disciplines  (tie)
• #7 in National Universities  (tie)

Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University is a private institution that has liberal arts and engineering programs for undergraduates. The Duke Blue Devils sports teams have a fierce rivalry with the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill Tar Heels and are best known for their outstanding men's basketball program.

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

• #1 in National Universities

The ivy-covered campus of Princeton University, a private institution, is located in the quiet town of Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton was the first university to offer a "no loan" policy to financially needy students, giving grants instead of loans to accepted students who need help paying tuition.

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

• #5 in Writing in the Disciplines  (tie)
• #93 in National Universities  (tie)

The University of Iowa offers top-notch academic programming in more than 100 areas. Students looking to hone their leadership skills have many options, too: They can enroll in the LeaderShape Institute, a six-day getaway workshop; or participate in one of the many programs offered through the Center for Student Involvement & Leadership, including arts and entertainment, and multicultural programs. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, but about 95 percent choose to do so. Campus life may pose a challenge to tobacco users, as Iowa is a smoke-free campus. Students have more than 500 clubs and organizations from which to choose, and close to 10 percent of students go Greek as members of the school's more than 50 fraternities and sororities. Sports are another big focus of campus life; even in the competitive NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, the Iowa Hawkeyes are notorious players. Four blocks from campus is Iowa City, a Midwestern metropolis that has been recognized among the nation’s best for its scenery, greenery and sustainable energy efforts.

(out-of-state)

Yale University

New Haven, CT

• #5 in National Universities

Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, offers a small college life with the resources of a major research institution. Yale students are divided into 14 residential colleges that foster a supportive environment for living, learning and socializing.

Cornell University

• #7 in Writing in the Disciplines

Cornell University, a private school in Ithaca, New York, has 14 colleges and schools. Each admits its own students, though every graduate receives a degree from Cornell University. The university has more than 1,000 student organizations on campus.

Carleton College

Northfield, MN

• #8 in Writing in the Disciplines
• #9 in National Liberal Arts Colleges  (tie)

Carleton College is a private school in the historic river town of Northfield, Minnesota. Carls, as its students are known, have about 35 majors to choose from and more than 170 organizations to check out.

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA

• #9 in Writing in the Disciplines
• #4 in National Liberal Arts Colleges  (tie)

About 10 miles outside of Philadelphia is Swarthmore College, a private liberal arts institution that also offers a unique engineering degree program. Because Swarthmore is part of the Tri-College Consortium, students can also take courses at nearby Bryn Mawr College and Haverford College.

Amherst College

Amherst, MA

• #10 in Writing in the Disciplines  (tie)
• #2 in National Liberal Arts Colleges

Amherst College, a private school in Amherst, Massachusetts, is known for its rigorous academic climate. Because Amherst is a member of the Five Colleges consortium, students can also take courses at Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts—Amherst.

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2023 Creative Writing Degree Guide

Rapid growth in creative writing degrees awarded.

Creative Writing was the 120th most popular major in the 2020-2021 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 6,817 degrees in this year alone. This is a difference of 231 over the prior year, a growth of 3.4%.

This year's Best Creative Writing Schools ranking compares 214 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom creative writing rankings further below.

Best Creative Writing Schools by Degree

Requirements for getting a degree in creative writing.

A major in creative writing prepares you for careers in which understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents is crucial. Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience and giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times are all required skills for careers related to this major.

Creative Writing Degree Program Entry Requirements

New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. In addition to these basic creative writing program qualifications, to serve in some creative writing careers, special certification may be required outside of your degree.

Types of Creative Writing Degrees

There are various different levels of creative writing degrees. You can get anything from a in creative writing to the highest creative writing degree, a . Different creative writing degrees vary in how long they take.

A bachelor's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to creative writing, with approximately 42.2% of workers getting one. Find out other typical degree levels for creative writing workers below.

82.7% of creative writing workers have at least a associate. The chart below shows what degree level those who work in creative writing have obtained.

This of course varies depending on which creative writing career you choose.

Creative Writing Careers

Growth projected for creative writing careers.

Want a job when you graduate with your creative writing degree? Creative Writing careers are expected to grow 6.7% between 2016 and 2026.

The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to creative writing.

How Much Money Do People With a Creative Writing Degree Make?

As you might expect, salaries for creative writing graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.

Highest Paid Creative Writing Careers

Salaries for creative writing graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers creative writing grads often go into.

Getting Your Creative Writing Degree

With over 704 different creative writing degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased creative writing school rankings to help you with this.

Top Ranking Lists for Creative Writing

Best schools creative writing, best value colleges creative writing, creative writing related majors.

One of 4 majors within the Writing Studies area of study, Creative Writing has other similar majors worth exploring.

Majors Similar to Creative Writing

View All Creative Writing Related Majors >

National Center for Education Statistics

O*NET Online

Image Credit: By KOKUYO under License More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.

Best Colleges for Creative Writing

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 1/17/24

If you are interested in pursuing a career in writing, this guide will tell you the thirteen best colleges for creative writing.

Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon 'em. We’d like to update Shakespeare’s methods of achieving greatness by adding one more: attending the perfect college. 

Picking the best creative writing program is crucial to help you gain the right experience and education to enhance your writing skills and excel. If you’re looking for good colleges for writing, read on to find the thirteen best creative writing colleges! 

Best Creative Writing Colleges Ranking Criteria

Although we are using the U.S. News rankings here, there are still many factors that contribute to how good a college’s creative writing program is. Here are some factors that we’re considering in the rankings.

• Prestige : Having a reputation for providing high-quality education is important. These schools got their prestigious reputations for a reason! 
• Variety of Courses : There are many different techniques and styles of writing, so it’s a great asset to have lots of courses to address them. A good variety of writing courses means that you’ll get a more well-rounded education. 
• Writing-Specific Major : Although many excellent schools offer creative writing courses, it’s a plus if a college offers a writing-specific major. This looks great on resumes for writing-related jobs after graduation. 
• Internship Opportunities : Hands-on experience is important in any major. Many of these colleges offer internship opportunities or chances to work with professionals or published authors! 

Thirteen Best Colleges for Creative Writing in 2024

To save you the worry of searching through all of the creative writing programs the country has to offer, here are the top thirteen best colleges for creative writing .

1. Brown University

Acceptance rate : 5%

Tuition : $65,656 per year

If you’re wondering which school has the best creative writing program, Brown University is the top-ranked college to attend for students interested in creative writing.

Source: Brown University 

Brown University’s English Department offers various courses for students to explore their interests and hone their writing skills. Students may choose to enroll in:

• English B.A. to take different types of writing courses
• Comparative Literature B.A .
• Literary Arts B.A .

Once students have completed their B.A., they can join Brown’s Literary Arts Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program, where they can specialize in their desired form of writing: fiction, poetry, digital and cross-disciplinary writing, playwriting, screenwriting, and nonfiction.

In this program, students have the opportunity to conduct an independent study on their desired topic, which gives them excellent research and writing experience.

If you’re interested in applying to Brown , take a look at our complete guide on how to get into this excellent school.

2. Columbia University

Acceptance rate : 3.9%

Tuition : $68,400 per year

Columbia University is located in the Big Apple and ranks #2 in Writing in the Disciplines.‍ They offer an English and Comparative Literature B.A. program with concentrations in Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and Literary Translation. 

For film and TV writers, Columbia is also one of the best film schools in the US with options to pursue screenwriting and directing. 

The Poetry concentration , in particular, is considered one of the strongest and most rigorous in the country. Columbia also offers an MFA in Writing for graduates.  

When considering tuition costs, note that Columbia is dedicated to reducing students’ tuition costs and states that students coming from families with annual incomes less than $150,000 are able to attend Columbia tuition-free ! According to their financial office, about 50% of all Columbia students receive grants of around $63,971.

So, if money is a major factor in your decision, rest assured you have a high chance of receiving significant grants if you attend Columbia University!

3. Duke University

Acceptance rate : 6%

Tuition : $63,450 per year

Ranked third on our list is Duke University . Duke University offers a general B.A. in English and a creative writing minor . While it does not offer a major in creative writing, it offers various creative writing courses that English majors can take to gain more expertise in the subject.

Unlike the majority of undergraduate arts programs, Duke offers its students internships in New York. Gaining this type of experience is crucial for when you graduate and can help you land your dream job!

Tuition at Duke costs over $60K per year. However, select students can get full-ride scholarships , which can help you get your dream degree for free!

4. Princeton University

Acceptance rate : 5.8%

Tuition : $62,400 per year

Princeton University is one of the oldest colleges in the U.S. and consistently ranks as one of the best universities in the world. It ranks fourth in U.S. News’ Writing in the Disciplines list. Not only is Princeton a great college for writing, but it’s also ranked as the best university in the nation. 

Princeton University offers an English B.A. and a creative writing program that these undergraduate students can join with their B.A. In this program, students work alongside actual practicing writers to gain the most authentic knowledge and experience.

5. University of Iowa

Acceptance rate : 85%

Tuition : $10,964 (Iowa residents), $32,927 (non-residents)

Ranking fifth in Writing in the Disciplines, the University of Iowa is another great option to consider. This university is nationally recognized as a writing university and offers majors in English as well as English and Creative Writing.

Source: The University of Iowa  

Despite their high overall acceptance rate, admission to the English Honors program is selective. The University of Iowa produces high-quality writers with a 95% job/grad school placement rate! 

6. Yale University

Acceptance rate : 4.35%

Tuition : $64,700 per year

While Yale University ranked #6 in Writing in the Disciplines, it does not offer specific Creative Writing minors or majors. Instead, you can participate in an intensive Creative Writing concentration track for English majors as well as taking numerous related courses . 

Source: Yale University  

English students at Yale can also participate in various student initiatives , including events put on by the English Student Advisory Committee and informal conversations with English faculty at English Lunch tables. 

7. Cornell University 

Acceptance rate : 7%

Tuition : $43,888 (NY residents), $65,204 (non-residents)

Cornell University is another one of the best colleges for creative writing majors. It ranked #7 in Writing in the Disciplines and allows English majors to concentrate in Creative Writing . Cornell also offers a creative writing minor .

Source: Cornell University

Graduate students may also join the MFA in Creative Writing program, where they will gain hands-on experience editing and publishing fiction, poetry, essays, and more for EPOCH Magazine .

8. Carleton College

Acceptance rate : 16.6%

Tuition : $65,043 per year

No list of good writing schools would be complete without top-notch liberal arts schools . Ranking #8 in Writing in the Disciplines is the prestigious Carleton College, one of the best colleges for creative writing.

Source: Carleton College  

Carleton offers a B.A. in English where students can choose from a breadth of creative courses to enroll in, including a minor in creative writing . Like Brown University, it offers a specialized MFA in Creative Writing . This college also offers courses where students can build their professional portfolios for when they graduate.

9. Swarthmore College

Acceptance rate : 6.8%

Tuition : $61,992 per year

Right after Carleton, Swarthmore holds the title of ninth-best college for creative writing, and it was considered #4 among the Best National Liberal Arts Colleges and Best Value Schools.

Source: Swarthmore College 

This liberal arts college offers an English B.A . and a Writing Associate program . With this English B.A., students are eligible for paid internships to produce original creative writing projects to build their portfolios and gain valuable experience. 

10. Amherst College

Tuition : $66,650 per year

Ranking #10 in Writing in the Disciplines, Amherst is another respectable school for writing majors. The college also ranks as the second school in National Liberal Arts Colleges.

Source: Amherst University  

This rural university offers an excellent English B.A. program that teaches students how to think critically and write well. It also has its very own creative writing center that offers diverse creative writing courses for students.

11. Emory University

Acceptance rate : 11%

Tuition : $59,920 per year

Ranked at #11, Emory University offers an English and Creative Writing major to encourage students to approach studying literature in a creative way. Students have the opportunity to experiment with many genres of writing, including poetry, fiction, playwriting, and more. 

Source: Emory University

Emory offers plenty of creative writing engagement outside of the classroom. Interested students can submit their work to creative writing contests or student-run publications. 

You can also take part in the Creative Writing Peer Mentorship Program, which matches an aspiring CW major with an upperclassman, to gain wisdom and tips about the program. 

12. Elon University

Acceptance rate : 67%

Tuition : $44,029 per year

Source: Elon University

If you choose to attend Elon University, you can add a Creative Writing minor to your academic profile. This minor allows you to take courses in nonfiction, poetry, and fiction in addition to other writing-based courses. 

While Elon doesn’t offer a Creative Writing major, you may choose to major in Professional Writing and Rhetoric to help sharpen up your skills with the pen. 

13. Harvard University

Acceptance rate : 3.5%

Tuition : $54,269 per year

Harvard University is a prestigious school that’s on many students’ radars when they consider attending university. Coming in with the 13th spot in Writing in the Disciplines, Harvard’s prestige extends into the realm of the arts.

Source: Harvard University

Harvard offers an extensive English B.A. program where students can enroll in various comprehensive creative writing courses . 

In fact, there are usually no more than twelve students in each of these classes, ensuring students receive personalized teaching to really refine their writing skills and get the most out of their education.

FAQs: Best Colleges for Creative Writing

If you’re still wondering which program is best for you, these frequently asked questions on the best colleges for creative writing majors can help you to find your answers.

1. What College Has The Best Creative Writing Program?

According to its ranking and reputation, Brown University has the best writing programs and creative writing courses.

2. What is the Best College for Aspiring Writers?

Emory University and the University of Iowa are some of the only schools offering majors in creative writing rather than just minors or courses. For those wishing to focus solely on learning how to write creatively, these universities are the best option.

3. Which Creative Writing Colleges Offer Internships?

Duke University and Swarthmore College offer paid internship programs for their English students. Carleton College requires students to create original writing projects to build their professional portfolios, and Cornell University requires Creative Writing MFA students to edit and publish creative writing for the EPOCH Magazine.

4. What Is The Cheapest Creative Writing Program?

The University of Iowa is significantly cheaper to attend than the other best colleges for creative writing, costing only $10,964 for in-state students and $32,927 for out-of-state students. However, Columbia University offers the most extensive scholarships, as 50% of all of its students receive grants of around $63,971.

5. How Big Are Creative Writing Classes?

In general, they are relatively small compared to classes in other disciplines. For instance, each of Harvard’s creative writing courses only has about twelve students.

These small classes are great because students get to forge meaningful connections with professors (and we all know how important networking is!).

6. How Do I Decide Which Creative Writing Program Is Best For Me?

These schools are all good colleges for writing. However, the main factor you want to consider is what you wish to gain from your program! If you want to gain a lot of hands-on experience and build your portfolio, choose a school like Duke University, Swarthmore College, or Cornell.

If you’d like to save the most money while attending university, choose a low-tuition school like The University of Iowa.

7. Is Creative Writing a Good Program To Take? 

Yes! Taking a creative writing program can provide you with many skills for a future career, such as critical thinking, communication, and storytelling. 

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this guide has provided you with helpful insight into the best colleges for creative writing. No matter which school you choose to attend, these thirteen schools are the very best and will truly help you kickstart your career as a writer!

As Shakespeare said, parting is such sweet sorrow. But now that you have all the information you need on the experience, education, and cost of the best creative writing programs the nation has to offer, you can pick the perfect college and program to help you achieve greatness!

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Best Colleges for Creative Writing

Bookworms and aspiring writers can pursue an undergraduate degree in creative writing where they will tackle coursework covering the reading and writing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry as well as the theory and history of the craft. While becoming the next J.K Rowling, Stephen King, or George R.R. Martin may be the goal, holders of creative writing degrees end up on a variety career paths. This can include: publishing, editing, journalism, web content management, advertising, or for those who “make it” as writers—the next generation of literary superstars. Our list of Best Colleges for Creative Writing goes beyond the most famous writer-factories like the University of Iowa and Columbia University, providing you with more than 25 institutions known for their stellar programs in this field.

Click the links below for more information about each college’s creative writing program. Click here to read our methodology. Finally, note that although some of the colleges featured below do not offer a formal major in creative writing, their undergraduate offerings in this subject area are so strong that they warrant inclusion on our list.

Brown University

Boston University

Colby College

Colorado College

Columbia University

Cornell University

Duke University

Emerson College

Emory University

Grinnell College

Hamilton College

Johns Hopkins University

Kenyon College

Macalester College

Middlebury College

New York University

Northwestern University

Oberlin College

Princeton University

Sarah Lawrence College

University of Iowa

University of Michigan

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Southern California

University of Texas at Austin

University of Virginia

University of Wisconsin

Washington University

Williams College

Yale University

Colleges Worth Your Money

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DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH

• Undergraduate
• Creative Writing

The Creative Writing Major

The Creative Writing Major is an undergraduate concentration within the English Department at Northwestern University and one of the first and finest undergraduate Creative Writing programs in the country. Its reputation is based on the accomplishments of its graduates, the generosity of its accomplished professors, and a pedagogy that creates a fruitful symbiosis between close reading and inventive writing. Award-winning authors teach poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction, as well as courses that cross genres, guiding students to examine literary works as writers and encouraging them to study the best literary models. Professors and students work in a close-knit community as they write their own stories, novellas, poems and essays within the living tradition of literature.

Most Creative Writing Majors begin taking creative writing courses in their sophomore year and complete the yearlong “sequence” of study during their junior year, and some have the opportunity to complete an additional honors project before graduation (see Recommended Schedule for Prospective Writing Majors below). Students also learn from prominent visiting writers at our annual Festival of Writing in the Spring.  Recent graduates of the program include MacArthur “Genius” Award Winner Karen Russell; Veronica Roth, whose bestselling novel “Divergent” was first drafted while she was a student; poet Peter Kline; and award-winning essayist Angela Mears.

Current Creative Writing faculty include   Chris Abani ,  Brian Bouldrey ,   John Bresland ,   Averill Curdy ,   Sheila Donohue ,   Reginald Gibbons , Juan Martinez , Shauna Seliy , Charif Shanahan ,  Natasha Trethewey , Daisy Hernández ,  and   Rachel Jamison Webster .

The Creative Writing program also offers two minors; the Sequence-based Minor and, for those not pursuing one of the year-long sequences, the non-application based Cross-genre Minor in Creative Writing .

See past and upcoming Creative Writing events.

Undergraduate publication opportunities

Recommended Schedule for Prospective Writing Majors

Courses for prospective creative writing majors, in a recommended order..

*Denotes courses that are REQUIRED for the Creative Writing Major

ENG 202-Introduction to Creative Writing

(can be taken in Fall quarter of Freshman year. This provides an introduction to all three genres and prepares you for our other CW courses.)

ENG 210-1,2 - English Literary Traditions       or ENG 270-1,2 - American Literary Traditions

(While not required for creative writing, these are excellent background courses for writing students, and also serve as prerequisites for the English literature major.)

* ENG 206 - Reading and Writing Poetry

* ENG 207 - Reading and Writing Fiction    

* ENG 208 - Reading & Writing Creative Nonfiction

(You may take 206, 207, or 208 in any order.  You should have taken or be enrolled in any one of these when you're applying. )

Students may apply to the Creative Writing Program in the Spring of your Sophomore Year or in the Spring of your Junior Year.

Click here to apply. Applications close April 29th, 2024 at 11:59pm. 

Some students fulfill their requirements--of 206, 207 and 208--well before the time of application to the program. If that happens, we recommend that you stay in writing practice and continue building your portfolio by taking one of our 300-level writing courses, English 306, 307, 308, or 309. Please see Juan Martinez , Director of Creative Writing, for further suggestions and help with course planning.

Initial Required Courses

All students interested in the Creative Writing Major must take one introductory course --poetry (ENG 206), fiction (207), or creative nonfiction (208)--and at least be enrolled in another before applying to the major. Students can only apply to the major in any genre for which they've completed (or are enrolled) in its 200-level component; you can only apply for poetry after having taken or enrolling in ENG 206, for fiction after ENG 207, for creative nonfiction after ENG 208.

At the 200-level, no prior knowledge of a genre is required to enroll.

• No English Department creative writing course may be audited or taken pass/fail.
• School of Professional Studies courses offered under the titles ENG 206, 207 and 208 do not count toward any course of study within the Creative Writing program.

Admission to the Program

Admission to the next stage of the Creative Writing Major or the Sequence-based Minor in Creative Writing, the year-long 300-level advanced course sequences, is competitive. Admission to the program is granted primarily on the basis of manuscript quality and the student’s promise. An applicant may be admitted to study as a major, a minor, or a sequence-only student.

For fiction and nonfiction applications, your writing sample should be 7-15 pages.

For poetry applications, your writing sample should be 4-5 poems.

No preference in admission is currently given to those who apply to the sequences, though there are later opportunities open only to Creative Writing Majors, including participation in senior honors, one-on-one conferences with visiting writers-in-residence, and the winter senior readings series.  Students may apply for admission to the sequence courses no earlier than the spring of their sophomore year.   

Click here to apply. Applications close April 29th, 2024 at 11:59pm.

The Sequences

Theory and Practice of Poetry (ENG 393), Fiction (394), and Creative Nonfiction (395):

These year-long sequences of courses ask students to pursue a rigorous program that includes explication and critical writing, imitation and modeling, close reading of literary texts, and the creation of original creative work.  The sequences are arranged in three consecutive quarters.

They begin in the fall with specialized courses in the fundamental technical and rhetorical bases of each genre. Poetry students study the uses of metaphor and mode, and the theory of prosody (including both the major form of poetry in English-accentual-syllabic verse-and the minor forms, accentual, syllabic, and free verse). Fiction students consider the tenets of realism and its alternatives, and practice different approaches to style, characterization, structure, and point of view. Creative nonfiction students focus on essay forms, logical method, authorial tone, and techniques of discourse and description. In all genres, imitations and models of great writers are assigned.

The second half of the sequence in each genre is devoted to intensive writing of a longer original work-a poem of at least 120 lines or an essay or novella of 25 to 35 pages.

Note that in the event further work in fiction, creative nonfiction or poetry is desired outside the year-long sequence, ENG 206, 207, and 208 may be repeated up to two times for WCAS credit. Advanced one-quarter courses in creative writing (ENG 306, 307, 308, 309) are also offered for non-majors.

The application is available here . Applications will close on April 29th at 11:59pm.

Other Required Courses for MAJOR Students

In addition to the sequences, creative writing majors must take:

ENG 392 - The Situation of Writing

“The Situation of Writing,” which is typically offered in the winter quarter, investigates the writer’s relation to the culture, both currently and historically. The course addresses such questions as the relation of criticism to imaginative literature, the rise and fall of specific literary genres, the effect of the university on the production and consumption of literary works, the state of the publishing industry, and international literary contexts.

The “Third-Genre Intro” Course 

English 207 or 208, whichever introductory course was not completed before application to the sequences. This requirement ensures that writing majors will have had experience reading and writing in all three major non-dramatic modes of imaginative writing.

Six 300-level literature classes

These courses must be “pure literature”; that is, courses in which the bulk of the reading is literature and not criticism or theory. They must be selected from English Department offerings ONLY:

• Two on material written prior to 1830
• Two on material written after 1830
• Two from either period

Two non-literature courses related to one another, taught in other department(s).

These courses, in areas such as history, art, classics, and gender studies, broaden the student’s background for the study of literature. These must be approved by a creative writing advisor.

Other Required Courses for Sequence-Based MINOR students

In addition to the sequences, creative writing sequence-based minors must take:

Two 300-level literature classes

• One on material written prior to 1830
• One on material written after 1830

The Cross-genre Minor in Creative Writing

Other program features.

The Annual Writers Festival gives students the chance to learn from and interact with guest Writers-in-Residence for a three-day celebration of master classes, public readings, and a panel discussion on craft. The festival is situated within the larger Evanston Literary Festival, which hosts a number of literary events throughout the city.

Writing by students at Northwestern is recognized by the award-winning student literary magazine, Helicon, and by the  Department of English Annual Writing Competition , held in the spring.

Creative Writing Alumni Testimonials

-- Veronica Roth, author of the bestselling Divergent series

“I still believe our program at Northwestern is as good as any graduate program in the country. It was nice to have the opportunity when I was 19 to spend so much time reading and writing with these other writers. There was such a serious sense of purpose. That’s a testament to Brian and Sheila and the rest of the faculty. They really could create a community.” --Karen Russell, author of Swamplandia!, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, and winner of a MacArthur Genius Award.

“As a Creative Nonfiction student in the Creative Writing program, I was pushed hard -- by my professors and fellow writers -- to find my voice. Not just my voice as a writer, but as a person and advocate of my life and experiences. More than anything else, I learned that I am still learning. I am still finding that voice, and always will be. I learned that this fact is okay, it is right, it is what makes me write.”   --Danielle Littman, 2013 graduate.

"We're not just educating people for professional tracks; we're educating them for their lives." --Professor Mary Kinzie, Founder of the Creative Writing Program and award-winning poet.

Creative Writing, B.F.A.

School of humanities and social sciences, program overview.

As a creative writing major, you will join a community of students, faculty, and mentors who will help you develop as an imaginative writer and a bold thinker. You’ll pursue a course of study that combines training in the art and craft of writing alongside literary scholarship. Working closely with our active, publishing, and award-winning faculty, you’ll sharpen your expertise in reading and analyzing literature and develop your skills at creating meaningful, transformative narratives.

Where You'll Go

The skills you will learn as a creative writing major—how to read and think critically, how to write with precision and ingenuity, how to do research—will prepare you well to be a creative writer, grants writer, content strategist, editor, copywriter, social media manager, and more.

Major Details

The program information listed here reflects the approved curriculum for the 2023–24 academic year per the Brooklyn College Bulletin. Bulletins from past academic years can be found here .

Major Requirements (47–52 Credits)

I. english 2120 and 2121 (8 credits).

English 2120 and 2121 are required. Creative writing majors should complete either English 2120 or 2121 , or be enrolled in one or the other, before continuing in other electives. No ENGL course numbered lower than 2115 may count toward the major.

II. Creative writing courses (16 credits)

• English 2301 .
• English 3301 , 3302 .
• English 3304 , 3305 .
• English 3306 , 3307 .
• One additional creative writing courses in the English Department: ENGL 2302 , or any of the courses 3301–3307 that has not been used to satisfy requirement (ii)b.

III. Periods of Study (10-12 credits)

One course from from 900–1800 and two from 1800 to the present:

• 900–1500: English 3111 , 3112 , 3520 , 4101 ; Comparative Literature 3614 .
• 1500–1660: English 3120 , 3121 , 3122 , 3123 , 3124 , 3125 , 4102 ; Comparative Literature 3615 .
• 1660–1800: English 3131 , 3132 , 3133 , 3234 , 4103 ; Comparative Literature 3616 .
• 1800–1900: English 3140 , 3141 , 3142 , 3143 , 3145 , 3151 , 3156 , 3157 , 3158 , 3160 , 4104 , 4107 ; Comparative Literature 3606 , 3617 .
• 1900–1950: English 2402 , 3152 , 3153 , 3156 , 3159 , 3160 , 3161 , 3162 , 3163 , 3164 , 3165 , 3170 , 3171 , 3172 , 3173 , 3193 , 4110 , 4107 , 4108 ; Comparative Literature 3607 , 3608 , 3610 , 3618 , 3622 , 3623 , 3624 , 3625 .
• 1950–the Present: English 2402 , 3154 , 3161 , 3162 , 3166 , 3167 , 3174 , 3180 , 3187 , 3193 , 3194 , 3254 , 4109 , 4112 , 4113 , 4114 ; Comparative Literature 3609 , 3611 , 3619 , 3621 , 3622 , 3623 , 3625 , 4601 , 4602 .

IV. Electives (13-16 credits)

• A) A course that addresses race/ethnicity or empire/post-colonialism (e.g., English 3158 , 3160 , 3161 , 3162 , 3166 , 3169 , 3182 , 3194 , 3234 , 3240 , 3526 , Comparative Literature 3620 , 3623 , 3625 , 3632 , or another course with permission of the chair)
• B) A genre course, or a thematic studies course (addressing a theme such as memory, migration, environmental humanities, literature and psychology, gender and sexuality), or an interdisciplinary studies course (English 3156 , 3157 , 3158 , 3159 , 3163 , 3181 , 3182 , 3183 , 3184 , 3185 , 3186 , 3188 , 3189 , 3190 , 3191 , 3192 , 3265 , 3281 , 3282 , 3286 , 3287 , 3288 , 3292 , 4107 , 4110 , 4111 , Comparative Literature 3601 , 3602 , 3603 , 3604 , 3605 , 3608 , 3612 , 3613 , 3628 , 3629 )
• Capstone seminar: ENGL 4301
• Three to four additional credits in advanced English Department courses. Related courses offered by other departments may be substituted with permission of the English Department chair.

Student Learning Outcomes

Department goal 1: read and think critically..

Program Objective 1: Learn to read literature with a focus on the ways in which form serves content.

Program Objective 2: Use close reading effectively to identify literary techniques, styles, and themes.

Program Objective 3: Learn to read and comment constructively and critically on the creative writing of peers in the workshop context.

Department Goal 2: Understand how language operates.

Program Objective 1: Demonstrate knowledge of literary tropes and techniques (e.g., metaphor, simile, metonymy, synecdoche, word play, and sonic effects such as alliteration, assonance, consonance, and rhythm, etc.)

Department Goal 3: Express ideas—both orally and in writing—correctly, cogently, persuasively, and in conformity with the conventions of the discipline.

Program Objective 1: Create original examples of creative writing that demonstrate complexity through attention to rhetoric, syntax, and tone.

Program Objective 2: Comment and write cogently and persuasively about classmates’ writing in the workshop context.

Program Objective 3: Demonstrate the ability to respond to constructive criticism from instructor and peers by effectively revising writing assignments.

Program Objective 4: Demonstrate the ability to use the currently accepted conventions of standard English mechanics and grammar, with an eye toward how those standards can be stretched in order to achieve innovative modes of expression.

Department Goal 4: Conduct research

Program Objective 1: Learn how to research and seek out historical and contemporary literary voices relevant to their individual voice.

Program Objective 2: Make use of the opportunities that Brooklyn College and New York City afford by attending readings, plays, literary panel discussions, and submitting to literary magazines.

Outcomes for demonstrating achievement of objectives

Written work (including poems/stories/plays, in-class writing exercises, short written reflections on literary techniques used by published writers, workshop responses for peers, revised writing samples, etc.)

Contributions to class discussions and workshops

Attendance at readings, panels, performances or a related research project (such as researching literary magazines/submitting one’s work); documented via written summary of the activity handed into instructor

Degree Maps

View all past degree maps .

Contact the  English Department for information on academic advisers and office hours.

Or contact:

Office of Undergraduate Admissions

222 West Quad Center 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11210 E:  [email protected]

To make an appointment with an undergraduate admissions counselor, visit:

Virtual Admissions Counselor Appointments

The Support You’ll Find

Brooklyn College is an integral part of the cultural and artistic energy of New York City. Our faculty members in English offer incomparable expertise and tremendous talent, and each brings a unique perspective to their teaching and mentoring in and out of the classroom.

Helen Phillips

Helen Phillips is the author of six books, including the novel THE NEED (Simon & Schuster, 20...

Tanya L. Pollard

Tanya Pollard trained in Classics, English, and Comparative literature, at Oxford and Yale. She t...

Karl T. Steel

For Karl Steel’s CV, see

Dorell Thomas

Dorell Thomas earned master’s degrees in both English Adolescent Literature, Grade 7-12 and...

Monica De La Torre

Simanique Moody

Eric Alterman

Eric Alterman is a CUNY Distinguished Professor of English and Journalism. He was the “The ...

Sophia Bamert

Matthew Burgess

Matthew Burgess began teaching at Brooklyn College in 1999 while pursuing his M.F.A. in Poetry. H...

Joseph Entin

Joseph Entin teaches in the English Department and the American Studies program at Brooklyn Colle...

Nicola Masciandaro

The Whim (blog) Current Projects: Appalling Melodrama, ...

Roni Natov has lived her entire life (almost) at Brooklyn College, where she was a student and ha...

Jonathan Nissenbaum

Jon Nissenbaum earned his Ph.D. under the supervision of Noam Chomsky and David Pesetsky. Before ...

Ellen Tremper

Native New Yorker Ellen Tremper has taught at New York University and joined the Brooklyn College...

Internships and Employers

Through job fairs, the internship database, and internship panels, the Magner Career Center gives students in the creative writing B.F.A. program access to career opportunities at a wide variety of employers, including:

• CBS News and Stations
• Harlem Children’s Zone
• Planned Parenthood
• Rent the Runway
• Varsity Tutors

Student Resources

Take the Next Step

Request Info Visit Our Campus Apply Now

Brooklyn. All in.

Debut Novel by Emily Ruth Verona ’12 With Nods to Cinema

The New York Times describes Midnight on Beacon Street as “an impressive debut.”

Congratulations to Emily Ruth Verona ’12 for her debut novel, Midnight on Beacon Street (HarperCollins).

The work bridges both Verona’s majors at Purchase—Creative Writing and Cinema Studies.

“With its feverish pacing and startling plot twists, this is an impressive debut.” — The New York Times “4 New Horror Novels That Are as Fresh as They Are Terrifying”

“In this dazzling debut novel, Emily Ruth Verona moves back and forth in time, ratcheting up suspense and tension on every page. Chock-full of nods to classic horror films of the seventies and eighties, Midnight on Beacon Street is a gripping thriller full of electrifying twists and a heartwarming tale of fear and devotion that explores our terrors and the lengths we’ll go to keep our loved ones safe.” — HarperCollins.com

Verona won the Pinch Literary Award in Fiction in 2014, was a Bram Stoker Award nominee, and a Jane Austen Short Story Award Finalist.

Read more about Verona’s previous publications and accolades .

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2024 Best Colleges with Online Creative Writing Degrees in America

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1-24 of 24 results

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   1,356 reviews

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• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 6%

Net price $14,578

SAT range 1480-1570

Blue checkmark.

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

1356 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

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Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 6% ,

Net Price : $14,578 ,

SAT Range : 1480-1570 ,

National University

La Jolla, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   1,171 reviews

Graduate Student: I am in the teacher credential program and I am loving it. I used to get overwhelmed and bored with standard semester classes but at NU, I take 1 class every 4 weeks. I focus on the information for 1 class at a time and the course progresses quickly so I don’t get bored and the course requirements are reasonable, especially since most of the class participants work full time and have families. This has been a wonderful experience! ... Read 1,171 reviews

• grade  A Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 55%

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SAT range 750-1170

LA JOLLA, CA ,

1171 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

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Overall Niche Grade : A ,

Acceptance Rate : 55% ,

Net Price : $9,966 ,

SAT Range : 750-1170 ,

University of Missouri - St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO •

• • Rating 3.57 out of 5   1,046 reviews

Senior: I have been an online student at UMSL for 4 years now and it has been an incredibly rewarding and satisfying experience from start to finish. Aside from a few individual professors, the classes have been knowledgeable and have propelled me forward. The best thing that UMSL does is provide so many resources for students to access and utilize on their journey. For me, several advisors came together to give me all the necessary help and guidance I needed to complete my time here and make all the work manageable. All in all, UMSL is an excellent school that is both rewarding and challenging without ever being overwhelming. ... Read 1,046 reviews

• grade  B+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 57%

Net price $10,525

SAT range 1020-1300

SAINT LOUIS, MO ,

1046 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

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Overall Niche Grade : B+ ,

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Tompkins Cortland Community College

• • Rating 3.71 out of 5   349

PHILADELPHIA, PA

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   1,356

Anderson University - South Carolina

ANDERSON, SC

• • Rating 3.8 out of 5   993

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA •

• • Rating 4.12 out of 5   8,166 reviews

Sophomore: Incredible university with a great education and strong dedication to the Christian worldview. The professors truly care for you and are well qualified for their teaching positions. The academics as a whole can be challenging, but are also rewarding. Liberty is a great college for a large variety of professions, as their programs are accredited. I have not had a bad experience with a professor yet, and they have been enjoyable and genuine, while also incorporating their faith into the material that is being taught. The Christian worldview is integrated into everything the university does. The academic material is always examined through a Christian perspective, but it is not ignorant to other worldview perspectives, also keeping their views into consideration. The student life is incredible, the residence halls truly feel like family, and the leadership on campus is great in developing a comfortable and safe environment where every student feels welcome. ... Read 8,166 reviews

Acceptance rate 99%

Net price $27,891

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LYNCHBURG, VA ,

8166 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

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Minnesota State College Southeast

Winona, MN •

• • Rating 3.95 out of 5   121 reviews

Freshman: I am getting ready to start my 2nd semester through MSCS and so far I have absolutely loved every minute of it. The online courses work great for me as a stay at home mom of 4, the instructors are so helpful whenever they're needed, and all other staff is great! ... Read 121 reviews

• grade  B Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 100%

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WINONA, MN ,

121 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

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Mesa Community College

• • Rating 3.89 out of 5   2,003 reviews

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2003 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

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• Will you get in? Understand your chances of getting accepted into any college in the country, and it's completely free

Weber State University

Ogden, UT •

• • Rating 3.78 out of 5   2,251 reviews

Graduate Student: So far I am enjoying Weber State! The professors are all extremely helpful and have contributed highly to the success of my education. While I am attending graduate school, I am also working a full time job as a first grade teacher and a part time job to help make some extra income. I have a lot on my plate but I am dedicated to my education and my ability to successfully teach my first grade students. I am looking forward to continuing my education to so I can continue to learn and grow as an educator. ... Read 2,251 reviews

Net price $10,493

OGDEN, UT ,

2251 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

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Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH •

• • Rating 4.36 out of 5   4,352 reviews

Sophomore: I am a commuter student, going into my Sophomore year. I have greatly enjoyed my classes, professors, and classmates. I think the campus set up is nice and I have never felt unsafe there, even walking alone at night. It has also been an affordable option for me. I started college four years after I graduated high school because of the need to take care of my Mom and I have felt accepted at SNHU, even though I am older than most of the other Freshmen there. They offer free tutoring, numerous events, and even have an on-campus pub with snacks and drinks. I will say, however, that the dining hall experience leaves much to ask for. As a commuter, it is very expensive for me to visit D-Hall and you can't get in, even to sit, without paying. If they changed this, I think they would be able to accommodate more students. If you are a student looking for a party lifestyle or lots of nightlife, this is not the school to attend either. Despite these things, I have really enjoyed my time here! ... Read 4,352 reviews

• grade  B minus Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 92%

Net price $21,502

SAT range 870-1060

MANCHESTER, NH ,

4352 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says I am a commuter student, going into my Sophomore year. I have greatly enjoyed my classes, professors, and classmates. I think the campus set up is nice and I have never felt unsafe there, even... .

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Overall Niche Grade : B minus ,

Acceptance Rate : 92% ,

Net Price : $21,502 ,

SAT Range : 870-1060 ,

Central Washington University

Ellensburg, WA •

• • Rating 3.63 out of 5   1,612 reviews

Senior: Central Washington University is a great school to get an education from. The small town vibes with a great campus was amazing. It is absolutely beautiful and I really enjoyed how kind everyone was. There could be a few changes when it comes to academic advising and professors, but overall it is a great university. ... Read 1,612 reviews

Acceptance rate 88%

Net price $17,645

SAT range 930-1150

ELLENSBURG, WA ,

1612 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

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Acceptance Rate : 88% ,

Net Price : $17,645 ,

SAT Range : 930-1150 ,

Black Hills State University

Spearfish, SD •

• • Rating 3.53 out of 5   638 reviews

Freshman: Black Hills State University, as a whole, is a great school. The student life is great, as I've met many people here who I love to spend time with when I can. Professors are great and are very helpful if you don't understand the lessons. There are so many opportunities to get help academically that it's really hard to not get help. Only critiques I have is the fact that there's rarely anything going on during the weekends if there isn't a home sporting event, so that makes a lot of students leave on the weekends, making this place feel empty when there's no classes, and lack of jobs on campus for students because they fill quickly. Overall, great school, would recommend to anyone. ... Read 638 reviews

• grade  C+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 97%

Net price $15,895

SAT range 970-1150

SPEARFISH, SD ,

638 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Black Hills State University, as a whole, is a great school. The student life is great, as I've met many people here who I love to spend time with when I can. Professors are great and are very... .

Read 638 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : C+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 97% ,

Net Price : $15,895 ,

SAT Range : 970-1150 ,

PennWest Clarion

Clarion, PA •

• • Rating 3.59 out of 5   1,042 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience at PennWest Clarion has been great! I am currently enrolled in the 4 year BSN program, and I have found my future career path. The Nursing professors are extremely educated, and willing to teach as much as they can to their students. They want to see their students succeed, and they are able to help their students achieve all of their academic wishes. I have made so many great friendships along the way, with my fellow classmates as well as my professors. All of the professors are easy to contact and they are able to answer all questions for their students! Clarion has recently altered their Nursing program, one of the newest things they added to the program were the length of clinical experience. Before, the Nursing students began clinical at the end of their junior year. Now the Nursing students begin their clinical experience in the Spring semester of their sophomore year. I think this alteration and other alterations were the best decisions for the students. ... Read 1,042 reviews

Net price $13,840

SAT range 940-1130

CLARION, PA ,

1042 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says My overall experience at PennWest Clarion has been great! I am currently enrolled in the 4 year BSN program, and I have found my future career path. The Nursing professors are extremely educated, and... .

Read 1042 reviews.

Net Price : $13,840 ,

SAT Range : 940-1130 ,

Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Coon Rapids, MN •

• • Rating 3.74 out of 5   529 reviews

Other: I attended ARCC as a Post Secondary Education Opportunity student in my junior and senior years of high-school. My time at ARCC has helped me to prepare myself for a 4-year university that I will attending in the fall. I did not have an experience with any of the staff at ARCC that was unsavory or turned me away. They all are super helpful and I felt comfortable asking my professors for help if I needed it! ... Read 529 reviews

Net price $10,929

COON RAPIDS, MN ,

529 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I attended ARCC as a Post Secondary Education Opportunity student in my junior and senior years of high-school. My time at ARCC has helped me to prepare myself for a 4-year university that I will... .

Read 529 reviews.

Net Price : $10,929 ,

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Rio Salado College

Tempe, AZ •

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   506 reviews

Other: I was living in a very rural part of California, and my local community college did not offer any nursing prerequisites. A coworker told me that Rio Salado offers science courses with labs online, and I was able to complete all my nursing prerequisites through them: Anatomy & Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, and Nutrition. It was not very cheap, but it allowed me to do something that I would not have otherwise been able to accomplish. Now, I am about to start University of Washington's BSN program. Thank you Rio Salado for making science courses available to folks in rural areas! ... Read 506 reviews

Net price $9,426

TEMPE, AZ ,

506 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I was living in a very rural part of California, and my local community college did not offer any nursing prerequisites. A coworker told me that Rio Salado offers science courses with labs online,... .

Read 506 reviews.

Net Price : $9,426 ,

Calvary University

Kansas City, MO •

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   51 reviews

Alum: I enjoyed it very much. If I had any issues, they were handled immediately leaving me to feel that I was important. Great school! ... Read 51 reviews

Acceptance rate 59%

Net price $14,117

SAT range 870-1370

KANSAS CITY, MO ,

51 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I enjoyed it very much. If I had any issues, they were handled immediately leaving me to feel that I was important. Great school! .

Read 51 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 59% ,

Net Price : $14,117 ,

SAT Range : 870-1370 ,

Linfield University - Online & Continuing Education

Mcminnville, OR •

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   14 reviews

Junior: Great format for online learning. I would like to see classes have more similar formats of homework and submission so that a student does not have to figure out a new method for each class. ... Read 14 reviews

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MCMINNVILLE, OR ,

14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says Great format for online learning. I would like to see classes have more similar formats of homework and submission so that a student does not have to figure out a new method for each class. .

Read 14 reviews.

Anoka-Ramsey Community College Online

2 Year (Online)

2 Year (Online) ,

BHSU Online

4 Year (Online)

4 Year (Online) ,

Central Washington University Online Learning

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Alum: Background: full time worker, gets degree done in about 5 years. The online course are fairly challenging due to the work load, I have pretty good plan but remember the work load is more than the classroom, so I did my reading and turn on my laptop every night, no weekend, no slack off. Just work, gym, and study to keep my GPA high to keep my scholarship. The class are good pace, I have 8 week course in other school which I hate (too fast) but 16 weeks are way too slow. The quarter pace is just right for me, and summer class also worth taking. Good luck. CWU online is worth it and it works for me. ... Read 3 reviews

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Background: full time worker, gets degree done in about 5 years. The online course are fairly challenging due to the work load, I have pretty good plan but remember the work load is more than the classroom, so I did my reading and turn on my laptop every night, no... The class are good pace, I have 8 week course in other school which I hate (too fast) but 16 weeks are way too slow. The quarter pace is just right for me, and summer class also worth taking. Good luck. CWU online is worth it and it works for me. .

Read 3 reviews.

Liberty University Online

• • Rating 4.58 out of 5   90 reviews

Junior: Honestly, I did not have a lot of expectations going into Liberty Online. I love writing and that is what online mostly is: discussion threads, research papers, essays, and then your typical quizzes and tests. Liberty University Online, specifically, offers accelerated 8 week courses. This means that you gain 3-4 credit hours within 8 weeks for one course. To ensure that I can finish class work on time with my already full-time work schedule, I typically take 2-3 courses for each 8-week period. This normally gets me 15-18 credit hours a semester. Overall, all of my professors have been very understanding and flexible pertaining to due dates and unexpected life circumstances. Liberty University Online also offers different internships and travel opportunities. If you are looking for opportunities to meet and experience new people and things, then Liberty is an option for you. If you are looking to just get through school, then it also is an option for you. ... Read 90 reviews

90 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says Honestly, I did not have a lot of expectations going into Liberty Online. I love writing and that is what online mostly is: discussion threads, research papers, essays, and then your typical quizzes... .

Read 90 reviews.

Mesa Community College Online

• • Rating 4 out of 5   5 reviews

Sophomore: Mesa Community College has been an overall great school that has helped me to achieve my academic goals. I have been able to interact with students and teachers in meaningful ways and prepare to transfer to Grand Canyon University. My online college experience has given me the flexibility I have needed to work from home. ... Read 5 reviews

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says Mesa Community College has been an overall great school that has helped me to achieve my academic goals. I have been able to interact with students and teachers in meaningful ways and prepare to... .

Read 5 reviews.

National University Online Education

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Read 1 reviews.

Rio Salado College Online Learning

• • Rating 4.63 out of 5   16 reviews

Junior: What I like about this college is the teachers are very understanding and easy to work with. Even though online learning can be overwhelming, the teachers make it so much less difficult. I feel like I was able to do things on my own time and what worked best for me. I was teaching myself and it was a lot more work but it was rewarding. The benefits is you do not need to go to the school but rather you can work where is comfortable for you without any distractions. You chose what is best on your behalf and that is what I think helped me out because when I am comfortable, I am more likely to want to learn and do the homework. It was my first time doing school online and I recommend it completely. I was able to work a full time job while being a full time student so I was not missing out on money, which is something I stress about being in college. Overall, I loved doing college online and I felt a lot less stressed. Highly recommend. ... Read 16 reviews

16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says What I like about this college is the teachers are very understanding and easy to work with. Even though online learning can be overwhelming, the teachers make it so much less difficult. I feel like... .

Read 16 reviews.

SNHU Online

• • Rating 4.94 out of 5   36 reviews

Alum: From day one, although all my courses and communications were online, I felt welcome. The office/school employees and instructors were very supportive. I felt connected to a network of educational resources. I would recommend taking online courses here to anyone looking for the accessible way to complete career advancement or knowledge advancement curriculum. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the in-person graduation ceremony, but I was glad to find out my family was able to join in virtually. ... Read 36 reviews

36 Niche users give it an average review of 4.9 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says From day one, although all my courses and communications were online, I felt welcome. The office/school employees and instructors were very supportive. I felt connected to a network of educational... .

Read 36 reviews.

Weber State University Online

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   6 reviews

Freshman: I love that it allows me to still work full time, and allows me to still learn everything but on my time when it’s most convenient when I’m not at work. All of my teachers are so nice and helpful and it’s a beautiful school with so many nice students that always help me out! ... Read 6 reviews

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I love that it allows me to still work full time, and allows me to still learn everything but on my time when it’s most convenient when I’m not at work. All of my teachers are so nice and helpful and... .

Read 6 reviews.

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