Creative Writing Programs in Denver, Colorado

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Denver, Colorado

A Creative Writing Degree provides comprehensive training in writing fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and other literary forms. These programs are offered in various formats, including Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a Creative Writing concentration, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or Professional Creative Writing degrees, and minors for students seeking to complement other fields. Creative Writing programs emphasize workshops, writing labs, and portfolio development to prepare graduates for careers in content writing, editing, publishing, and freelance work.

About Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a dynamic metropolitan hub known for its rich cultural tapestry and flourishing arts scene. The official Denver government website – available at Denver.gov – provides extensive resources for residents and visitors. Local neighborhoods such as Downtown Denver, Capitol Hill, and the University District serve as thriving centers for the arts and literature, hosting numerous readings, workshops, and literary events.

Creative Writing Programs in Denver, Colorado

Denver offers several options for those interested in pursuing a Creative Writing Degree. Below are three institutions with notable Creative Writing programs:

  1. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Address & Neighborhood: 850 17th St, Denver, CO 80202 (Downtown Denver)
    • Program: BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing, featuring specializations in areas like RPG Writing and screenwriting.
    • Details: The program integrates fiction/poetry workshops and a Creative Writing Bootcamp. Undergraduate admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.0.
    • Learn more: MSU Denver Creative Writing Program

  2. University of Denver

    • Address & Neighborhood: 2193 S University Blvd, Denver, CO 80208 (University District)
    • Program: MA in Professional Creative Writing
    • Details: This program offers an online/hybrid format. Admission requires a 10-20 page writing sample; GRE/GMAT scores are not required.
    • Learn more: University of Denver Creative Writing Program

  3. Western Colorado University

    • Address & Neighborhood: 110 College Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230 (Gunnison, approximately 250 miles from Denver)
    • Program: BA in English with an emphasis on Creative Writing
    • Details: Although located outside Denver, Western Colorado University offers robust creative writing instruction with opportunities such as involvement in Western Press Books publishing.
    • Learn more: Western Colorado University Creative Writing Program

Literary Opportunities in Denver

Denver boasts several literary organizations and centers that provide workshops, readings, and publishing opportunities:

  • Denver Arts & Venues

    • Purpose: Supports local arts initiatives, including literary programs.
    • Website: Denver Arts & Venues
    • Contact: (720) 865-4319

  • Denver Literary Arts

    • Purpose: A key organization promoting local literary projects and events.
    • Website: Denver Literary Arts

  • MSU Denver Creative Writing Club & MSU Roadrunner Review

Local publishing houses and writing centers are embedded in culturally rich neighborhoods like Downtown and the University District, making Denver an ideal environment to cultivate new writing talent.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Applicants to Creative Writing programs in Denver should be prepared to meet certain prerequisites:

  • Educational Requirements:

    • For undergraduate programs (e.g., MSU Denver’s BA in English with a Creative Writing concentration), a minimum GPA of 2.0 is typically required.
    • Graduate programs (e.g., University of Denver’s MA in Professional Creative Writing) require a 10-20 page writing sample, though standardized tests like the GRE/GMAT are not a prerequisite.

  • Writing Samples and Portfolios:

    • Submission of a writing sample or portfolio is common across creative writing programs.

  • Core Curriculum & Specializations:

    • Core courses include fiction/poetry workshops, Creative Writing Bootcamp sessions, and courses in portfolio development.
    • Specializations such as screenwriting, RPG writing, and professional nonfiction are available to refine specific creative interests.

Additional Educational and Arts Resources in Denver, Colorado

Denver’s educational and arts landscape is supported by several official agencies and organizations:

  • Official City Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies:

    • Denver Department of Education: Oversees K-12 education. Visit DPSK12 or call (720) 423-3000.
    • Denver Arts & Venues: Facilitates local arts initiatives. More details are available on their official page; contact (720) 865-4319.

  • Official County Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies:

    • Denver County Higher Education Commission: For current educational resources, please contact the Denver County Clerk and Recorder as its official URL is currently unavailable.

  • Official State Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies:

    • Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE): Provides oversight on accreditation and degree standards. Visit CDHE or call (303) 866-2723.
    • Colorado Arts & Humanities Council: Funds literary programs and awards grants. For more information, visit Colorado Humanities or call (303) 894-7951.

  • Federal Education and Arts Oversight Agencies:

    • U.S. Department of Education: Find the accreditation database at ope.ed.gov/accreditation.
    • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Offers federal arts funding and literary grants; visit NEA Grants.

  • State-Specific Degree Information:

    • Degrees Offered:
      • Bachelor’s: English with a Creative Writing concentration (e.g., MSU Denver)
      • Master’s: MA in Professional Creative Writing (e.g., University of Denver)
      • Minor: 21-credit Creative Writing option at MSU Denver
    • Curriculum Details:
      • Core courses: Fiction/poetry workshops, Creative Writing Bootcamp, and portfolio development.
      • Specializations: Screenwriting, RPG Writing, and Professional Nonfiction.

  • Professional Organizations:

    • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): A national advocate for writing programs. Visit AWP.

  • Educational Resources:

    • Alliance LARP Colorado: Offers narrative design workshops; more details can be found through MSU Denver’s Creative Writing offerings.

  • City & County Level Resources:

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree in Denver can explore a variety of career paths, including:

  • Content Writer: Often working with digital media companies or advertising agencies.
  • Editor: Contributing to publishing houses, magazines, and online platforms.
  • Freelance Writer: Enjoy flexible work arrangements with hourly rates ranging from $25 to $130.
  • Self-Publishing and Literary Arts Administration: Involving roles at local publications such as the Denver Post or cultural organizations like Colorado Humanities.

For detailed career prospects and statistical data on salaries and job growth, visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

With comprehensive programs, diverse specializations, and robust local and state resources, Denver provides promising opportunities for aspiring creative writers. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to their chosen schools and begin exploring the application process. Contact the schools directly through their inquiry forms to take the first step toward an exciting career in creative writing.