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Online Creative Writing Degrees Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Cost per credit $330

Total courses 40

Term length 8 weeks

Program Overview Why get a bachelor's in creative writing online?

Unleash your creativity while honing your writing skills in the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English program at Southern New Hampshire University. Whether you simply have a passion for storytelling or want to pursue a career using your talents, the online creative writing program offers a supportive community, comprehensive curriculum and flexible format that can help you achieve your goals.

Skills you'll learn:

• Writing and editing techniques
• Literary analysis and critical-thinking
• Application of storytelling elements
• Literary form, genre, structure and style
• Use of genre conventions and techniques
• Professional portfolio building

Courses & Curriculum Online creative writing courses built for aspiring writers

In the online BA Creative Writing program, you'll push your creative boundaries, develop a unique voice and gain insights into the publishing industry. You'll also have the opportunity to have your work published in The Penmen Review, our own online journal for writers. And with 4 concentrations to choose from, you can choose to focus your studies in fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenwriting.

Plus, this program offers a significant number of free electives, helping you maximize transfer credits and explore topics that interest you.

BA Creative Writing concentrations

When you choose to study creative writing at SNHU, you have the option to stay with the general track – which gives you the flexibility to study a variety of genres – or add one of our 4 concentrations to your degree : fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenwriting.

Explore your creative boundaries, perfect your craft and dive deeper into your preferred genre in the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Fiction Writing . From fantasy to sci-fi, mystery to young adult, you'll be tasked with developing an appreciation for all forms of fiction while embracing the style of writing that you're drawn to and bringing your original stories to life.

Balancing craft and critical analysis, this concentration helps you hone your writing skills and study philosophy of composition. You'll enhance your fundamental knowledge of fiction writing's most crucial elements — giving you a powerful understanding of plot, character development, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing.

Career outlook:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a degree and publication is typically required for a full-time writing position. 1 Writers who concentrate in fiction have career opportunities in a range of professions, including content writing, editing, copywriting, publishing, communications and more.

Courses may include:

• New Media: Writing and Publishing
• Fiction Writing Workshop
• Intermediate Fiction Writing Workshop
• Advanced Fiction Writing Workshop

Combine research skills and reflection with compelling storytelling when you enroll in the nonfiction writing degree online at Southern New Hampshire University.

Our online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Nonfiction delves into a wide variety of styles and subjects – everything from the personal essay to autobiography, memoir, travel writing and magazine features. Through this program, you'll acquire a powerful understanding of research, narrative voice and other mechanics of creative writing.

Nonfiction writers can publish in magazines, newspapers, and literary journals, as well as find career opportunities in digital content writing, social media, communications, copywriting and editing.

• Nonfiction Writing Workshop
• Intermediate Nonfiction Writing Workshop
• Advanced Nonfiction Writing Workshop

The online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry degree program is an opportunity for aspiring poets to find inspiration, engagement and creative collaboration with peers and faculty alike. Our specialized program enables you to hone your craft and unleash your imagination, helping you create imagery in verse.

While a poetry degree is valuable in and of itself, it can also prepare you for many professional paths. You can explore careers in creative writing, advertising, journalism, publishing and advertising copywriting. Southern New Hampshire University also offers an online Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry.

Career paths with a BA in creative writing include work as a creative writer, advertising copywriter, journalist, publisher or poet. Writers have also found careers in communications, digital content writing and editing.

• Poetry Writing Workshop
• Intermediate Poetry Writing Workshop
• Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop

Whether you have dreams of writing blockbusters, developing documentaries or working with other writers on sitcoms, the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Screenwriting is an excellent way to sharpen your writing skills and put your passion to work.

The classes in this specialized online screenwriting degree are based on a comprehensive study of creative writing with a special focus on story structure, character development and the visual medium of film. You'll have the opportunity to explore all of the forms that screenwriting takes – feature-length and short films, television episodes and miniseries, commercials and internet-based video.

Designed by experienced and distinguished faculty, this creative writing program will give you a powerful understanding of how story, character, theme, action, visuals and dialogue intertwine to create a compelling moment in time.

Blockbuster movies, independent films and shorts, commercials, television dramas and sitcoms all rest their success on the backbone of their scripts.

Screenwriters have lots of options when it comes to navigating their careers. You could pursue independent work and make your stories come to life – or you could develop scripts for specific projects that need a writer's touch.

• Introduction to Screenwriting Workshop
• Intermediate Screenwriting Workshop
• Advanced Screenwriting Workshop

Online creative writing courses for aspiring writers

In your major courses, you'll learn the terminology, conventions and techniques needed to strengthen your skills in literary analysis, writing and editing. You'll also develop these skills and gain valuable feedback in collaborative workshops with peers and faculty from all over the country. 

Visit the course catalog to view the full BA in Creative Writing & English curriculum .

The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program

All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses , which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.

PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements

Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements

Additional Information:

• Laptop or desktop?   Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility. 
• Note:   Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10. 
• Office 365 Pro Plus  is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for  Microsoft 365 plans  for business, education and government. 
• Antivirus software:  Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers. 

Licensure and Certification Disclosures

SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page .

Apply for free in minutes

Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!

Upcoming term starts: October 28, 2024 | January 06, 2025

Next term starts: Sept. 02, 2024

Online student experience what’s it like going to snhu.

Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.

What to expect:

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You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:

• Schedule of weekly assignments
• Discussion boards
• Instructor announcements

What support services are available?

• Chat with your advisors Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors.
• Drop in for tutoring Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary.
• Learn from industry professionals Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away.
• Use the online library Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7.
• Reach out for accessibility help Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities.
• Focus on your well-being Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.

Learn from faculty with a passion for writing

SNHU's creative writing faculty have a shared passion for writing and student success. Throughout your program, you'll learn from published writers, professional editors, publishers and established literary critics – subject-matter experts who can help guide you to improving your craft.

Featured Faculty

Position Associate Dean, Creative Writing

Joined SNHU 2014

• MFA in Creative Writing-Fiction from Boise State University
• BA in Creative Writing with a minor in English Literature from Grand Valley State University

What our instructors have to say

"Throughout the creative writing program, students are given tools, resources, and lots of valuable feedback to strengthen their writing skills."

Chris Sullivan , adjunct instructor at SNHU

At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.

Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:

• U.S. News & World Report Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North
• The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology
• Google.org Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth

Founded in 1932 , Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.

Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free

No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.

All it takes is 3 simple steps

It's easy, fast and free.

Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)

After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.

Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU  | [email protected]

Accreditations

SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) , which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.

Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think

As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.

Online undergraduate tuition

*before previously earned credits are applied

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.

**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.

Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700

If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750

If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800

If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850

If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900

How we estimate your tuition cost:

We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.

Ways to save on online tuition

Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.

Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)

Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of a 30% online undergraduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.

Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.

Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. And consider asking your employer about tuition reimbursement.

Career Outlook What can I do with a bachelor's in creative writing?

With storytelling at the heart of communication, the bachelor's in creative writing program can help set you up for success in a variety of roles in writing, editing, publishing and beyond. And with today's remote work opportunities, it's easy for writers and authors to work from just about anywhere they have internet access – meaning jobs aren't limited to major cities anymore.

From the entertainment industry to marketing and tech, employers of all kinds seek skilled writers for a variety of positions. In addition to the technical skills you'll gain in a creative writing degree program, your courses will help you develop in areas like creativity, critical-thinking, persuasion and social perceptiveness — skills that are valuable in any career.

Occupations

If exploring creative careers sounds appealing, an online creative writing degree can prepare you for a variety of positions, including:

Use storytelling skills to write everything from children’s books and novels to biographies, essays and memoirs.

Apply your understanding of the written word to plan, review and revise content for publication in books, periodicals or online platforms.

Promote a product, service or organization with content for advertisements, marketing campaigns or websites.

Research topics, investigate story ideas and interview sources to write compelling nonfiction articles for newspapers, magazines, blogs and television news programs.

Use the power of writing to create visual and auditory experiences for everything from major blockbuster films to television episodes and commercials.

Write speeches for business leaders, politicians and others, using words to engage with and move an audience.

Increase in writer and author opportunities through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1

Median annual pay for writers and authors as of May 2023, according to the BLS. 1

Understanding the numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

What SNHU students are saying

Frequently Asked Questions

There are a wide variety of writing degrees that can help prepare you for your ideal writing career, including a BA in Creative Writing and graduate programs such as our online MA and MFA in creative writing programs and low-residency MFA in fiction or nonfiction.

A creative writing bachelor’s degree will give you a strong foundation of writing skills and help you hone your craft. You’ll also gain a better understanding of the publishing industry and build a portfolio of writing samples you can use when applying for jobs.

SNHU's creative writing degree offers 4 concentrations to help you focus on a specific genre, improve your knowledge, develop genre-specific skills and help you become more marketable in the workforce.

“It’s important to have a degree in writing or English because you’ll learn how to write properly and get practice writing in all different forms,” said Anne-Marie Yerks , adjunct faculty for the MFA in fiction writing program at Southern New Hampshire University.

As a creative writing major, you'll build a strong understanding of the English language and learn how to use the elements of storytelling to write everything from nonfiction essays to poetry.

But writing won't be your only subject of study. You'll also read well-known literature, analyzing the work of writers like Shakespeare to inspire and inform your own writing.

You'll learn from professors with real-world experience as authors, publishers and literary critics and will explore the workings of the publishing industry.

Nicholas Patterson '22 , has found that many of his professors are passionate about the subjects they teach.

"For example," he said, "I took a Shakespeare class and my professor had been studying Shakespeare for most of his life and shared his passion in the course by encouraging his students and their ideas."

As a creative writing major, you'll graduate with the key critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills you need for a career as a journalist, editor, copywriter, author and more.

The best writing degree is the one that helps you prepare for the job you want and gives you a strong foundation of writing skills and experience.

At Southern New Hampshire University, creative writing students dive deep into the English language and great works of literature. By reading and analyzing great works of literature, you'll be able to learn the art of storytelling and develop your own writing style.

Interested in a particular writing career? Degree concentrations allow you to focus your learning on a specific genre of creative writing and can give you a leg up when applying to writing jobs.

If you dream about becoming a novelist, a bachelor’s degree in fiction writing will prepare you for a life of storytelling, helping you hone your writing skills and enhance your understanding of plot, narrative voice and character.

A bachelor’s degree in nonfiction writing can prepare you for a career as a journalist, author or communications manager, helping you combine research and observation with compelling storytelling.

If poetry is your passion, a creative writing bachelor’s degree with a poetry concentration will help you develop your personal style and build a portfolio. You’ll study the poetry of others and regularly write, read and critique poems with your peers in poetry workshops.

A screenwriting degree offers a special focus on story structure, character development and the visual medium of film. You’ll explore writing for feature-length and short films, television episodes, commercials and internet-based video.

It depends. SNHU’s creative writing bachelor’s degree program requires 120 credits to graduate and typically takes about 4 years to complete.

If you’ve attended college before, you may be able to transfer credits to your degree program and save time (and money). We accept up to 90 transfer credits toward your program here, with free transfer credit evaluations that let you see how your existing credits can be applied to your new degree.

It's also important to consider your other responsibilities. If you can attend school full time and take on a full course load each semester, you’ll complete your degree faster. If you work full time or have a family and need to fit your learning into an already busy schedule, you may need to complete your degree at a slower pace.

Starting a writing career doesn’t have to mean becoming an author. In fact, writers are needed across a variety of industries, from business and entertainment to engineering and marketing.

The many writing jobs you may explore include:

• Author: Use storytelling skills to write everything from children’s books and novels to biographies, essays and memoirs.
• Editor: Apply your understanding of the written word to plan, review and revise content for publication in books, periodicals or online platforms.
• Copywriter: Promote a product, service or organization with content for advertisements, marketing campaigns or websites.
• Journalist: Research topics, investigate story ideas and interview sources to write compelling nonfiction articles for newspapers, magazines, blogs and television news programs.
• Screenwriter: Use the power of writing to create visual and auditory experiences for everything from major blockbuster films to television episodes and commercials.
• Speechwriter: Write speeches for business leaders, politicians and others, using words to engage with and move an audience.
• Technical writer: Prepare instruction manuals and how-to guides to clearly communicate complex ideas and technical information.

Of course. Screenwriting requires a strong foundation of writing skills and creativity to take a film, television episode or commercial from an idea to the screen.

Screenwriters are the storytellers of the entertainment industry. As a screenwriter, you’ll use character, dialogue, setting and other visuals to engage an audience.

A screenwriting degree can help set you apart from others in the industry and give you the skills you need to bring a story to life on screen.

“Everybody in Hollywood has a screenplay in their drawer,” said Freeman. “I want to pull mine out and get them made. No more hiding.”

SNHU’s Fall Fiction Contest is an annual short story competition that provides writers a chance to show off their skills and be rewarded for it with an SNHU scholarship and publication in The Penmen Review . Beginning and seasoned authors alike (excluding SNHU faculty and staff) are welcome to enter if they are 18+ and based in the continental United States. All guideline-abiding submissions are carefully evaluated by a panel of experts and put to a public vote based on criteria like originality and character arc. The end result? Five lucky winners who gain both bragging rights and tier-based prizes!

Learn more about SNHU’s Fall Fiction Contest  and what you could win.

Related Programs

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Sources & Citations

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/writers-and-authors.htm (viewed April 19, 2024)

Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.