Creative Writing Programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Pursuing a Creative Writing Degree opens doors to enriching artistic and professional opportunities. This degree encompasses various education paths—including a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA). Institutions may require course components such as writing workshops, thesis projects, and curated portfolios. Programs often allow students to specialize in areas such as fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, or even interdisciplinary options like screenwriting.

About Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a dynamic coastal city known for its cultural diversity, active arts scene, and engaging literary community. Home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural events, the city offers a supportive environment for creative professionals. For more official information about local initiatives and cultural programming, please visit the City of Fort Lauderdale Cultural Division.

Creative Writing Programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

While Fort Lauderdale itself may not host a full array of dedicated Creative Writing programs, prospective students can explore nearby institutions offering competitive courses and degree programs:

  1. Broward College – Fort Lauderdale Campus

    • Address: 2535 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
    • Neighborhood: Southeast Fort Lauderdale
    • Program Details: Broward College offers a range of writing courses and creative arts classes. Students interested in a Creative Writing focus should inquire directly for available workshops and course details.
    • Website: https://www.broward.edu/

  2. Florida Atlantic University (FAU) – Boca Raton Campus

    • Address: 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33431
    • Neighborhood: Boca Raton
    • Distance: Approximately 25 miles from Fort Lauderdale
    • Program Details: FAU offers both MA and MFA degrees in Creative Writing. Their curriculum emphasizes writing workshops, thesis development, and specialized courses—including opportunities in screenwriting.
    • Website: https://www.fau.edu/artsandletters/english/creative-program/

  3. University of South Florida (USF) – Tampa Campus

    • Address: 4202 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33612
    • Neighborhood: University area, Tampa
    • Distance: Approximately 240 miles from Fort Lauderdale
    • Program Details: USF’s MFA in Creative Writing is renowned for offering full tuition waivers and teaching assistantships. The program focuses on intensive workshops, portfolio development, and individualized mentorship.
    • Website: https://www.usf.edu/

Literary Opportunities in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale boasts a number of organizations and events that support local writers and enhance professional development:

  • Fort Lauderdale Writers Group
    This organization arranges weekly critiques and workshops, providing a platform for local writers to exchange ideas and refine their skills.
    Website: [https://www.meetup.com/fort-lauderdale-writers-group/]

  • Broward County Library’s Writer’s Circle
    Offering monthly writing workshops and author talks, this initiative is a valuable resource for emerging and established writers in the region.
    Website: https://www.broward.org/Library

  • Fort Lauderdale Poetry Festival
    An annual event featuring author readings, interactive workshops, and literary discussions. This festival helps nurture the city’s creative writing community.
    Website: null

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Admission to creative writing programs typically requires a combination of academic and creative credentials:

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • A minimum GPA of 3.0 (requirements may vary by institution)
    • Submission of a portfolio or writing sample for BFA programs
  • Graduate Programs:
    • A comprehensive writing portfolio (usually 10–20 pages)
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Application deadlines commonly occur in December for fall admissions

Before applying, prospective students should also verify program accreditation via the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (https://www.sacscoc.org/) and familiarize themselves with state guidelines provided by the Florida Department of Education (https://www.fldoe.org/).

Additionally, various regulatory and cultural bodies support education and literary arts in this region:

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing degree have a variety of career paths available, including:

  • Teaching: Positions in community colleges and universities with salary ranges typically between $45,000 and $70,000 annually.
  • Editing and Publishing: Roles at literary magazines, publishing houses, or media companies, with annual salaries around $40,000 to $60,000.
  • Freelance Writing and Content Creation: Opportunities in copywriting, self-publishing, and various content production fields.

For additional information on job prospects and outlooks for writers and authors, please visit the Writers and Authors Job Outlook page on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

This comprehensive guide clarifies the process of earning a Creative Writing Degree in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. With diverse educational options, robust literary events, and a network of regulatory and cultural support, prospective creative writing professionals have ample resources at their disposal. Contact your chosen school today through their online inquiry forms to begin your exciting educational journey.