English: Creative Writing
Unleash Your Words to Change the World
Creative writing challenges, entertains, enlightens, and transforms. Study creative writing at UMW and you’ll channel those powers as you develop your craft and build your body of original work – and launch a career as a writer, novelist, poet, editor, or journalist.
Paths of Study
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English
- Major
- Minor
Explore:
What You’ll Study
Our creative writing major and minor gives students the opportunity to develop skills in multiple genres, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Through the study of language, literary theory, and writing, creative writing students develop the tools, confidence, and creative range to tell stories only they can tell.
Sample course topics include:
- ENGL 304A Poetry
- ENGL 305A Fiction
- ENGL 312 Nonfiction
- ENGL 206A Global Issues in Literature
For a full list of courses in acting, visit the Academic Catalog.
Why Creative Writing Matters at UMW
At UMW, creative writing is a community of readers, writers, thinkers, and storytellers. Students have the opportunity to focus on the craft and art of writing, editing, and analyzing their own original work alongside the work of established writers and peers. Through workshops, readings, and one-on-one guidance from faculty, students find their voice, deepen their literary understanding, and build a body of work that is distinctly their own.
Program Highlights
Small Classes, Individual Attention
To foster discussion, personal growth, and provide more individual attention, the department limits enrollment in many courses. Upper-level seminars give students the chance to lead class discussions, pursue independent study and produce substantial creative work, alongside faculty who are invested in each student’s growth and development.
A Vibrant Writing Community
In addition to coursework, UMW creative writing students have access to a variety of writing-inspired opportunities, including working on student-run publications such as the campus newspaper and literary journal, and assisting fellow students as writing consultants in the UMW Writing Center. They can also connect with like-minded writers through student clubs and campus events like the National Day on Writing.
Real-World Experience
Many students pursue internships to apply classroom skills in professional settings and explore career interests. Students may also elect individual studies or choose to study abroad, building a creative writing education that extends beyond the classroom.
Career Outcomes
UMW creative writing graduates build careers in publishing, editing, teaching, communications, journalism, and public relations. Many are lifelong writers, going on to publish their own work in novels, magazines, newspapers, and journals, both in print and online.