The BA in English: Creative Writing major provides students with hands-on experience in several genres of creative writing as well as an overview of relevant literature. The concentration offers students broad-based preparation for many career directions.
Writing-intensive Coursework
The degree requires 18 hours of writing-intensive courses, including poetry and fiction workshops, creative nonfiction, a writing seminar, and a capstone course focused on a thesis-driven research project. It also includes nine hours chosen from courses in British, American, and world literature; 12 hours of upper-level literature courses; 10 hours in grammar, contemporary literature for writers, literary editing and publishing, and Shakespeare; an art history course; and a course in news or feature writing. In addition, 31 hours of electives allow students to explore a secondary area of study as a minor. With the help of an adviser, they construct a study program whose purpose is to identify a career path, from book or social media editor to positions that involve graphic design and marketing.
On-campus experiences working with the university's literary journal, Ivy Leaves, or helping to arrange visits by book authors such as Ron Rash, Sue Monk Kidd, Rick Bragg, and Ernest Gaines has allowed students to build their resumes. Internships with industries, corporations, think tanks, and volunteer groups are also encouraged. There is also an English honor society chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, which serves the community through literacy outreach activities. Students also have presented at national academic conferences.
A Christ-centered Learning Community
English majors read from different faith and non-faith traditions to expose them to multiple cultures and value systems throughout the world. The end result is a deeper awareness and understanding of others as well as the ability to articulate their own beliefs.
Small class sizes, usually averaging 10 to 15 students, allow one-on-one time with professors, especially in creative writing workshops, where students get feedback from professors and peers, as well as from visiting writers. The tight-knit community keeps students from feeling overwhelmed and offers more opportunities for involvement in student life.
Careers
Alumni have gone on to complete novels and enroll in Master of Fine Arts graduate programs in creative writing. They also serve as copywriters, ministers and English teachers abroad. Any career that involves communication, written and oral skills, and the ability think to critically and organize is a possibility.
To learn more about our English: Creative Writing concentration please visit campus, meet our professors, and observe classes. Contact us at bhanley@andersonuniversity.edu.