Creative Writing Programs in Iowa

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Iowa

A Creative Writing degree prepares students for careers in writing, teaching, and literary publishing. This degree can be pursued through a variety of paths such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Master of Fine Arts (MFA). While a BA provides a broad liberal arts education with a concentration in creative writing, an MFA offers intensive, workshop-based training under the guidance of established writers.

Why Pursue a Creative Writing Degree in Iowa

Iowa offers a rich literary history and a strong writing community that continues to inspire creative minds. The official state website, Iowa.gov, provides further information about the state’s cultural and educational resources. Iowa’s literary scene is known for its reputable creative writing programs and dynamic events such as the Iowa City Book Festival. According to the Writers and Authors job outlook page on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for writers is competitive and the projected job growth in writing and related fields remains steady.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Prospective students should be aware of typical prerequisites when applying to creative writing programs in Iowa:

  • Undergraduate Admission: Submission of ACT/SAT scores, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, and a writing sample for workshop evaluation.
  • Graduate Admission: Applicants must submit a comprehensive writing portfolio, letters of recommendation, and optionally GRE scores. The MFA programs also require a full-time residency commitment and a thesis or portfolio submission.

Typical Program Curriculum

Creative Writing programs in Iowa generally involve a mix of core literature and composition courses along with specialized creative writing workshops. For example, courses such as CW:1800 (Creative Writing Studio) and CW:4870 (Undergraduate Writers’ Workshop in Fiction) are offered at the University of Iowa for undergraduate studies. Graduate programs, such as the MFA in Creative Writing, require approximately 48 credits and include intensive workshop sessions with established writers. Students can expect to explore concentrations through coursework in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, or other specialized creative genres.

Creative Writing Programs in Iowa

University of Iowa

  • Degrees Offered: MFA in English (Creative Writing) and BA in English and Creative Writing
  • Program Website: Writers’ Workshop at UI
  • Admissions Contact: (319) 335-0430 / [email protected]
  • Program Highlights:
    • Undergraduate: Offers courses such as CW:1800 (Creative Writing Studio) and CW:4870 (Undergraduate Writers’ Workshop in Fiction) for advanced students.
    • Graduate: Requires full-time residency along with a thesis or portfolio submission and features intensive workshops with established writers.
  • Location: Located in Iowa City, a town renowned for its literary events and supportive creative communities.

University of Dubuque

  • Degrees Offered: BA in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing
  • Program Website: University of Dubuque Academics
  • Admissions Contact: (563) 589-3000 / [email protected]
  • Program Highlights:
    • Provides a creative writing emphasis integrated within a broader English curriculum.
  • Location: Situated in Dubuque, a community recognized for its rich cultural heritage and engaging local arts scene.

Creative Writing Career Opportunities in Iowa

Iowa is home to dynamic literary communities that offer numerous career avenues for Creative Writing graduates:

Optional Certifications and Professional Development

Creative Writing graduates can further enhance their skills with certifications and professional development opportunities:

  • Workshops and Conferences:
    • Attending the annual Iowa City Book Festival, scheduled for October 2024, is an excellent way to engage with the local literary community.
  • Professional Organizations:

Cost and Financial Aid

Tuition costs for Creative Writing programs in Iowa vary by institution:

  • University of Iowa:
    • In-state tuition is approximately $9,600 per year, while out-of-state tuition is around $31,000 per year (2024 estimates).
  • University of Dubuque:
    • Tuition is estimated at about $34,000 per year.
      Additional financial support can be secured through:
  • Scholarships and Grants:
    • The Iowa Arts Council offers grants for arts education initiatives.
    • The University of Iowa provides Creative Writing scholarships specifically for MFA students.
  • Financial Resources:

Career Paths and Opportunities

Graduates with a Creative Writing degree in Iowa have a wide range of career options:

  • Teaching: Opportunities in higher education and K-12 settings.
  • Publishing: Roles in editorial and publishing houses both locally and nationally.
  • Freelance Writing: Careers in journalism, content creation, and script writing.
  • Networking Resources:
    • State and local agencies such as the Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Higher Education Commission can provide job search assistance and connections within the writing industry.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Creative Writing degree in Iowa opens numerous doors to a fulfilling career in writing, teaching, and beyond. Iowa’s strong literary community, affordable tuition rates, and diverse program options make it an excellent place to refine your craft and launch your creative career. Contact your chosen school today through the inquiry forms on their websites and take the next step toward a future filled with creativity and opportunity.