Creative Writing Programs in Mesa, Arizona

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Mesa, Arizona

Earning a Creative Writing degree in Mesa, Arizona offers a well-rounded education in literature, narrative techniques, and artistic expression. A Creative Writing Degree can be pursued through various educational paths, including Associate of Arts (AA), Certificates of Completion (CCL), Bachelor’s degrees in English with a creative writing emphasis, and Master’s in Fine Arts (MFA). Each path provides immersive workshop-style classes and opportunities for portfolio development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both academic and professional environments.

About Mesa, Arizona

Mesa is a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and active arts scene. The city is home to the Mesa Arts Center, which promotes arts education and hosts literary events, and the official website Mesa, Arizona offers more details about local programs and cultural landmarks. Local neighborhoods, particularly in downtown Mesa, provide an inspiring backdrop for writers, with numerous events and exhibitions that celebrate the literary arts.

Creative Writing Programs in Mesa, Arizona

Prospective students in Mesa can choose from a selection of nearby schools offering Creative Writing programs or courses. Below are three key options:

  1. Mesa Community College (MCC) – Creative Writing Program

    • Program Highlights: Offers an Associate in Arts (AA) with an emphasis in English (Creative Writing) and Certificates of Completion (CCL) in Creative Writing. Courses include Introduction to Creative Writing, Readings for Writers, and Portfolio Development with specializations in Fiction, Poetry, Nonfiction, and Screenwriting.
    • Tuition & Accreditation: Tuition is $86 per credit for in-state students. MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
    • Admission Requirements: No GPA requirement for certificate programs; the AA pathway requires a minimum 2.0 GPA. Advanced courses may require a portfolio submission.
    • Location & Contact:
      Address: 200 W Main St, Downtown Mesa, AZ 85210
      Neighborhood: Downtown Mesa
      Official Program Page: MCC Creative Writing Program

  2. Arizona State University (ASU) – English Department

    • Program Highlights: ASU offers a Bachelor’s in English with a Creative Writing emphasis and a Master’s in Fine Arts (MFA) focusing on creative disciplines such as genre-specific workshops and thesis or portfolio requirements.
    • Admission Requirements: For the bachelor’s program, a minimum 3.0 GPA along with SAT/ACT scores is required. The MFA program requires a 20-30 page writing sample and letters of recommendation.
    • Location & Contact:
      Address: 1021 E Orange Blossom Ln, Tempe, AZ 85281
      Neighborhood: Tempe – a vibrant college community approximately 10–12 miles from Mesa
      Official Program Page: ASU English Department

  3. Phoenix College – Creative Writing Courses

    • Program Highlights: Phoenix College, part of the Maricopa County Community College District, offers various creative writing courses designed to enhance literary skills and prepare students for transfer opportunities. These courses are ideal for those seeking additional educational options beyond Mesa’s immediate offerings.
    • Location & Contact:
      Address: 350 W Indian School Rd, Downtown Phoenix, AZ 85015
      Neighborhood: Downtown Phoenix
      Note: This campus is approximately 20 miles away from Mesa.
      Official Website: Phoenix College

Literary Opportunities in Mesa, Arizona

Mesa is an excellent hub for writers thanks to its numerous literary organizations and events. Key opportunities include:

  • Mesa Arts Center

    • Purpose: Promotes arts education and hosts literary events.
    • Contact: (480) 644-6500
    • Website: Mesa Arts Center
    • Location: Situated in downtown Mesa, it is a cornerstone for cultural and literary events.

  • Mesa Public Library

    • Purpose: Hosts writing workshops, author events, and book clubs that foster creative expression.
    • Website: Mesa Public Library
    • Location: Multiple branches across Mesa, with central events often held in the downtown area.

  • Maricopa County Library District

    • Purpose: Offers writing groups, literary events, and community programs for emerging writers.
    • Website: Maricopa County Library District
    • Location: Serving the greater Maricopa County area, it supports a range of cultural and educational initiatives.

  • Mesa Writers Group

    • Purpose: A community-driven group that meets monthly for peer critiques and networking, enhancing the local literary scene.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Most Creative Writing programs require a foundational education and a passion for the literary arts. Typical prerequisites include:

  • Mesa Community College (MCC):

    • Associate programs require a minimum 2.0 GPA for AA degrees, while certificate programs have more flexible admission criteria.
    • Advanced courses may require submission of a portfolio showcasing previous writing projects.

  • Arizona State University (ASU):

    • For Bachelor’s programs, students generally need a minimum 3.0 GPA and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT).
    • The MFA in Creative Writing requires an extensive writing sample (20–30 pages) and letters of recommendation.

Applicants should also prepare for course-specific requirements, which may involve interviews or additional writing assessments.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing degree can pursue a wide range of career paths. Common career options include:

  • Copywriter: Median salary around $38,344
  • Editor: Median salary about $59,379
  • Poet/Lyricist: Median salary approximately $46,263

Industry sectors such as publishing, advertising, educational institutions, and freelance writing provide diverse opportunities. Freelance work and self-publishing have also become viable career paths for emerging writers. For detailed job market data, visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on BLS.gov.

Get Started Today

Mesa offers an array of opportunities to kickstart a career in creative writing. With robust programs at Mesa Community College and nearby institutions like Arizona State University and Phoenix College, aspiring writers have access to quality education, hands-on workshops, and extensive literary networks. Regulatory bodies and educational organizations—such as the Mesa Arts Center, Maricopa County Community College District, Arizona Board of Regents, and Arizona Commission on the Arts—further support these initiatives. Additionally, resources from the U.S. Department of Education, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) enrich the educational landscape.

Prospective students are encouraged to explore these programs, consider admission requirements, and connect with local literary organizations. Take the next step by contacting a school today through the forms provided on their respective websites and begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in the creative writing field.