BFA in Creative Writing
Houston Christian University’s (HCU) Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Creative Writing degree program is an immersive exploration into the world of writing, where traditional and modern storytelling techniques converge with internship experience to launch vibrant careers in writing and publishing.
Our Creative Writing program is grounded in a deep appreciation for storytelling, encouraging students to explore various genres, including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and screenwriting. It’s a place where your talent is nurtured within a supportive network of fellow writers and mentors, ensuring a rich, collaborative learning experience.
Experience opportunities to publish academic research and receive guidance from established authors, transforming your passion for words into a refined skill for various careers and further graduate education. Embark on a journey to hone your voice and make an indelible mark in the literary world with our BFA in Creative Writing program.
Creative Writing Major Overview and Requirements
For a total of 125 undergraduate credits, the curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of general education and narrative arts core courses alongside specialized classes in professional and technical writing, creative genres including poetry, nonfiction, and fiction, and a comprehensive portfolio development process.
As a Creative Writing major at HCU, engage in the art of pitching stories and extending your network within author spaces, which are vital practices for any aspiring writer aiming to navigate the publishing industry successfully. Your academic journey is punctuated by hands-on experiences, including an internship that offers real-world writing and editing exposure.
Degree Plans
Review the BFA in Creative Writing degree plan and major requirements.
Courses
As a Creative Writing major in a Fine Arts bachelor’s degree program, you will enroll in in-depth courses exploring various works and genres. These classes help you learn to write your own creative content in your preferred genre and expand your horizons by pushing boundaries in styles and techniques you may not have attempted before.
The BFA in Creative Writing degree curriculum includes courses such as:
- Advanced Grammar and Writing
- Creative Writing: Fiction
- Creative Writing: Nonfiction
- Creative Writing: Poetry
- Professional and Technical Writing
- Storytelling in Creative Writing
Creative Writing Minor
If you feel pulled to pursue a different HCU bachelor’s degree, adding a minor in Creative Writing intersperses your main area of study with hands-on writing workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and literary and narrative writing electives of your choice.
Review requirements for the Creative Writing minor program.
What Can I Do With a BFA in Creative Writing From HCU?
By engaging deeply in the practice of writing across genres, receiving insightful feedback, and refining their craft in collaborative workshop settings, graduates of the BFA in Creative Writing from HCU are well-prepared to bring their literary creations to life in the diverse landscapes of today’s literary and media environments.
This balanced approach ensures that you’re proficient in crafting compelling stories and poised for success in various professional writing contexts upon graduation.
Career and Salary Outcomes
From mastering the art of storytelling for traditional publishing and digital platforms to honing the skills necessary for effective content creation in marketing and communications, you’re ready to enter a wide range of writing-focused careers strengthened by versatile knowledge and practical experiences.
Roles that you can pursue with a BFA in Creative Writing include:
- Journalist
- Marketing Copywriter
- Novelist
- Travel Writer
- Writing Professor
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that writers and authors in the publishing industry earn an average of $73,150 annually. Becoming an editor can bring an average annual salary of $73,080.
Embrace your entrepreneurial spirit to explore self-publishing or content creation ventures and develop the essential communication and networking skills to succeed in the dynamic and competitive realms of creative writing, publishing, and beyond. Whether your path leads you to becoming a novelist, screenwriter, editor, or content strategist, a BFA in Creative Writing from HCU offers the foundation and inspiration to pursue your passion and make a significant impact with your words.
Opportunities for Creative Writing Majors
Tutoring and Writing Center
Feel comprehensively supported in your writing journey through our Tutoring Center, which covers 90+ course subjects, and the Writing Center, where you receive in-depth assistance on writing assignments. Becoming a tutor at the Center enhances your résumé and allows you to contribute to the success of your peers, embodying the spirit of community and collaboration that defines our institution.
With the assistance of the Department of Student Success specialists, you can ensure you graduate on time with the experiences you’ve aimed to have.
Pursue Graduate Writing Programs
HCU’s Master of Arts (MA) in Creative Writing, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, and MFA in Screenwriting programs present an exceptional opportunity for bachelor’s degree students to further refine their talents across various disciplines, including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and professional writing. This continuation of education allows you to dive deeper into their craft, ensuring mastery of a chosen genre under the guidance of esteemed faculty.
Engaged Artistic and Writerly Community
The melding of academic rigor and creative exploration is a hallmark of student involvement and student life at HCU. The Houston Christian University campus and the vibrant city of Houston offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from art galleries showcasing contemporary works and timeless masterpieces to museums that inspire and educate.
Join the English Honor Society, or attend School of Fine Arts events such as the Writer’s Conference that draw authors from various genres to share insights and connect with writing students.
Related Programs
If you love words and language, we offer multiple writing and creatively focused bachelor’s degree programs because we’re confident that our students have the gifts and talents that lead to fulfilling lives and vocations using creativity to better the world.
Explore taking courses or earning a minor in a secondary field or different creative medium. Or, choose another major from our fine arts and writing degree offerings:
- Bachelor of Arts in English: A bachelor’s degree in English crosses the boundaries of critical reading and writing practice to prepare for many careers.
- Bachelor of Arts in Great Texts: Read and understand the works of writing that shape our consciousness as humans and the contemporary world around us.
- Bachelor of Arts in Narrative Arts: Break down genre and medium to learn the art of narrative, from writing to film and media.
- Bachelor of Science in English, Language Arts & Reading 7-12 With Teacher Certification: Teach English and the gift of reading and writing to students in middle and high school settings.
See our breadth of majors and minors in all areas.
Admissions and Aid
Join a community where words craft worlds and stories ignite change. In our BFA in Creative Writing program, accomplished writers are your mentors and you engage in dynamic workshops, becoming part of a network of peers who share your passion for storytelling.
- Begin the undergraduate admissions journey: Submit a free application.
- Discover success through understanding tuition and aid: Explore financial aid options designed to meet your needs.
- Dive into our essence: Learn about our mission, values, and the vibrant community waiting to welcome you.
Become a Creative Writing Major at Houston Christian University
HCU’s BFA in Creative Writing program is the first step to becoming a writer who tells stories that change the world. Take on success in multiple professional settings, backed by an unrivaled education in crafting the written word.