Creative writing courses are a fantastic way to explore new genres and push your boundaries. No matter what stage you’re at in life, there’s a writing course for you. In this article, we’ll run down the various types of creative writing courses available and what makes them special.
Why Study Creative Writing?
Creative writing courses exist because we, as a society, value creativity. However, not all creative writing is created equal. While some courses might exist solely to encourage you to be as creative as you can be, others might encourage you to pursue a particular genre or style. Which one you end up studying is up to you, but you should choose a course that will inspire you.
Online Versus Traditional Creative Writing
Traditional creative writing courses are those that exist entirely online. While there are numerous pros and cons to studying online, one of the clear advantages is the accessibility afforded by the internet. Instead of having to search for a classroom or a tutoring center, you can complete your studies from the comfort of your home. This might make it easier to juggle work and study obligations, as well as create a more flexible learning environment. Traditional creative writing courses are often shorter in duration than their online counterparts, which means you can fit more hours into your day, especially if you work full-time. If you’re looking for a course that can be completed in a short amount of time, then traditional might be the way to go.
On the other hand, some of the most prestigious traditional creativity writing courses are Stanford’s Creative Writing program and the University of Michigan’s Flannery O’Connor Creative Writing Fellowship. Both of these programs exist entirely online, but the value they place on face-to-face interaction with the instructor and other students is clear to see. These are the types of creative-writing courses you might want to consider.
Masters Versus Bachelor Degrees In Creative Writing
Masters degrees in creative writing are for those who wish to teach. Whether you plan on becoming a high school teacher or an English professor, you will learn valuable skills that can help you in your career. However, not all masters in creative writing are created equal; many universities require you to have a bachelor’s degree as a prerequisite for admission. If you’re looking for a course that will prepare you for a teaching career or further your education, then masters might not be for you. You’re better off looking for a bachelor’s degree in creative writing or a related field, which can then be followed by a masters in English literature or creative writing.
On the other hand, the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Southern California could be a great choice for somebody looking for a flexible degree that allows them to study what they want. The University of Southern California’s curriculum covers a variety of topics, including fiction, nonfiction, and screenwriting. With this type of degree, you could potentially end up with a toolbox of valuable skills that can be applied to any type of writing you choose to pursue.
Hybrids And Trendy Colleagues
Hybrids are a combination of online and classroom learning. You will receive a substantial amount of instruction through online learning, but you will also need to attend some classes at a nearby university or community college. If you’re looking for a course that involves a lot of group work, but you also want to be able to study when you want to, then hybrids might be the answer you’re looking for. The format won’t be the same as a traditional classroom setting, but you will learn from experienced instructors who will actually give you guidance and support during this time of transition.
Another great option is the trendy colleague, which combines collegiate learning with professional community engagement. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in writing, but don’t want to go the traditional route and earn a bachelor’s degree, then this might be a great option. You will learn from highly qualified and experienced instructors, but you will also be required to participate in various community events and write and submit an original piece for publication. The upside is that many of these courses now include a publication component, which means you will actually end up being able to take your work further than just having a grade from an instructor.
Whatever your reason for pursuing a creative writing course, remember to have fun while you’re at it. Make sure you choose a program that will challenge you and allow you to grow as a writer. When you’re looking for a new challenge, take a gander at our list of the top creative writing courses available online or at a nearby university or community college.