Writing

Also known as: Creative Writing, Professional Writing, Rhetoric and Writing, English with a Writing Concentration

In a Bachelor's program in Writing, you will develop your voice, master various forms of communication, and refine your ability to craft compelling narratives and clear, persuasive arguments. You will engage deeply with literary analysis, rhetorical theory, and the mechanics of language, while exploring diverse genres such as fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, journalism, and technical writing. This program focuses on critical thinking, extensive revision, and understanding audience, preparing you to communicate effectively across professional and creative contexts.

Social SciencesCreativeTechnicalJournalismITContent CreationCommunicationsPublic RelationsMarketing

A Week as a Student

You wake early, heading to "Introduction to Creative Writing." The professor praises a classmate's vivid imagery, inspiring you. After class, you grab coffee and head to your shift at the campus literary magazine, proofreading submissions. Later, you tackle the extensive reading for "Rhetoric and Composition," grappling with dense theoretical texts and analyzing their application to modern arguments. You feel a pang of imposter syndrome but push through, taking diligent notes on rhetorical appeals and argument structure.

High School Preparation

Required Subjects

English Language ArtsLiteratureHistoryForeign Language

Recommended GPA

3.0-3.5

Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)

AP English Language and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition
Honors English
Journalism
Creative Writing Seminar

Recommended Activities

School Newspaper or Yearbook
Literary Magazine Staff
Debate Club
Creative Writing Club
Blogging or Online Content Creation
Volunteer as a Tutor

Application Essay Topics

Describe a piece of writing that profoundly impacted you and explain why.
Share a personal story where your ability to communicate effectively made a significant difference.
Discuss the role of storytelling in shaping public opinion or cultural understanding.
If you could write a book about any topic, what would it be and why?

Alternative Path

You can pursue an Associate's degree in English or Liberal Arts at a community college, which often allows for transfer into a four-year Bachelor's program. Additionally, professional certifications in specific areas like technical writing, content marketing, or journalism can offer entry-level opportunities, though these are typically not direct substitutes for a comprehensive degree.

Core Subjects

Click on "i" to learn more about each subject

Career Prospects

Growing Study Prospects

A Bachelor's in Writing opens doors to diverse careers such as content writer, editor, journalist, technical writer, public relations specialist, marketing copywriter, and even author or screenwriter. You can work across various industries including publishing, media, technology, education, government, and non-profit organizations, wherever clear and compelling communication is essential.

Impact of AI on this Study

AI tools are increasingly integrated into writing processes, assisting with grammar checks, stylistic suggestions, idea generation, and even drafting initial content. As a writing student, you will learn to leverage these tools to enhance efficiency and explore new creative avenues, while critically understanding their limitations and the paramount importance of human creativity, ethical considerations, and nuanced communication.