Creative writing is a craft that involves the creation of original works such as novels, short stories, poetry, and scripts. Studying creative writing at a top university can provide aspiring writers with the tools, techniques, and feedback needed to develop their unique voice and refine their craft. Here’s a look at some of the top universities in the USA known for their exceptional creative writing programs, renowned for their distinguished faculty, comprehensive curricula, and vibrant literary communities.
1. University of Iowa
Location: Iowa City, Iowa
Overview: The University of Iowa’s Writers’ Workshop is one of the most prestigious creative writing programs in the world. Offering both MFA and PhD degrees, the program provides students with extensive workshop experience, mentorship from accomplished writers, and opportunities to participate in literary readings and events. Iowa City’s vibrant literary community further enriches the student experience.
2. Columbia University
Location: New York City, New York
Overview: Columbia University’s School of the Arts offers a highly regarded MFA program in Creative Writing. The program provides students with workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, as well as opportunities to engage with the vibrant literary scene of New York City. Columbia’s distinguished faculty and extensive resources make it an ideal place for aspiring writers.
3. University of California, Irvine
Location: Irvine, California
Overview: UC Irvine’s MFA Program in Creative Writing is known for its strong emphasis on both craft and theory. The program offers workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, as well as opportunities for students to participate in literary readings and workshops. UC Irvine’s supportive community and accomplished faculty provide a nurturing environment for developing writers.
4. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Overview: The University of Michigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program offers a highly regarded MFA in Creative Writing. The program provides students with intensive workshops in fiction and poetry, along with opportunities for individualized mentorship and literary events. Michigan’s strong literary community and distinguished faculty make it a top choice for aspiring writers.
5. New York University (NYU)
Location: New York City, New York
Overview: NYU’s Creative Writing Program offers an MFA degree with a focus on fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. The program provides students with access to a vibrant literary scene, opportunities for workshops with renowned authors, and involvement in literary readings and events. NYU’s location in New York City further enriches the student experience.
6. University of Virginia
Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
Overview: The University of Virginia’s MFA in Creative Writing program is known for its strong emphasis on both craft and literary analysis. The program offers workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, as well as opportunities for students to participate in readings and literary events. UVA’s supportive community and accomplished faculty provide a rich environment for aspiring writers.
7. Brown University
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Overview: Brown University’s Creative Writing Program offers an MFA degree with a focus on fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. The program provides students with workshop experience, individualized mentorship, and opportunities to engage with the literary community in Providence. Brown’s distinguished faculty and supportive environment make it a top choice for writers.
8. University of Texas at Austin
Location: Austin, Texas
Overview: The University of Texas at Austin’s Michener Center for Writers offers a highly regarded MFA program in Creative Writing. The program provides students with workshops in fiction, poetry, and playwriting, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary study and involvement in literary events. UT Austin’s supportive community and distinguished faculty create a rich environment for developing writers.
9. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Location: Los Angeles, California
Overview: UCLA’s MFA Program in Creative Writing is known for its strong emphasis on both craft and professional development. The program offers workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, along with opportunities for students to participate in literary readings and events. UCLA’s location in Los Angeles provides access to a dynamic literary scene.
10. Washington University in St. Louis
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Overview: Washington University’s MFA in Creative Writing program offers workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. The program provides students with individualized mentorship, opportunities for literary readings, and involvement in the vibrant literary community of St. Louis. Washington University’s supportive environment and distinguished faculty make it an ideal place for aspiring writers.
Conclusion
These top universities offer outstanding creative writing programs that provide students with the skills, mentorship, and community needed to excel as writers. Each institution provides unique strengths and opportunities, so consider your specific interests and career goals when selecting the right program. By choosing a top creative writing program, you’ll gain access to exceptional resources, distinguished faculty, and a comprehensive education that will help you develop your craft and achieve your literary aspirations.