English/Creative Writing

Degree

Bachelor of Arts | College of Arts and Science

What is English/Creative Writing?

A major in creative writing involves the study of writing poetry, fiction, and the familiar essay and incorporates a strong preparation in English literature.

What are the features of Miami's program?

Top-notch professors

All instructors in the creative writing program are published writers who have solid training in literature and criticism.

Small classes and workshops

Upper-level classes are conducted as small workshops to provide a very personal kind of instruction.

Speakers and exhibitions

The program sponsors exhibitions for writers, editors, and publishers, and brings noted writers and critics to Miami each year to speak and give workshops.

Literary publications

Inklings and Oxford Magazine provide forums for creative work and offer practical experience in editing, layout, and design.

Are there special admission requirements?

There are no additional admission requirements for this program.

What courses would I take?

In your first year, you will begin with an introductory course that includes instruction in writing both fiction and poetry. You will also take a series of survey courses introducing you to fiction and poetry. And during this time you will concentrate on the Global Miami Plan, a well-rounded course of study that provides you with an excellent liberal arts education.

During your sophomore and junior year, you will concentrate on one type of writing or continue with a combination of courses in fiction, poetry, and essay writing. You will choose courses concentrating on the works of a particular author (either Chaucer, Shakespeare, or Milton) and courses devoted to the literature and culture of particular eras.

In your senior year, you will take advanced writing workshops as well as a sequence in theory and practice. You will also take a capstone course, which examines theoretical issues in the writing of fiction and poetry. The program is flexible enough to allow you to combine the creative writing major with elective courses in a particular field of interest. Possibilities include marketing, technical writing, and graphic arts.

What can I do with this major?

Common areas of employment for creative writing majors are editing and publishing, advertising, freelance writing, and teaching. Recent graduates report job titles such as assistant editor and assistant creative director. Many students, especially those interested in teaching, go on to do graduate work in creative writing.

Who can I contact for more information?

Department of English

356 Bachelor Hall
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-5221
www.muohio.edu/english