Creative Writing Programs in Baltimore, Maryland

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Baltimore, Maryland

A Creative Writing Degree opens doors to both academic and professional career paths. In Baltimore, Maryland, prospective students can choose among varying educational paths such as Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs with creative writing minors, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees emphasizing workshops and thesis projects, or specialized concentrations in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and publishing arts. Whether you are interested in a comprehensive undergraduate program or an intensive graduate workshop, Baltimore offers multiple avenues for creative growth.

About Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and active literary scene. With neighborhoods like Fells Point, Federal Hill, and Mount Vernon hosting numerous cultural and arts events, the city provides an inspiring backdrop for creative studies. For official city information and local updates, visit the City of Baltimore website. The vibrant arts community is supported by local agencies that promote education and cultural programming across the city.

Educational and Arts Regulatory Resources in Baltimore, Maryland

Prospective creative writing students in Baltimore benefit from extensive resources provided by local, county, state, and federal organizations:

  • Baltimore City Public Schools – Oversees K-12 education; contact: (410) 396-8800. Visit Baltimore City Public Schools.
  • Baltimore City Arts & Culture – Promotes arts initiatives, including literary programs. Find more at Baltimore City Arts & Culture.
  • Baltimore County Public Schools – Manages education in the county; contact: (443) 809-4554. Learn more at Baltimore County Public Schools.
  • Baltimore County Arts Guild – Supports local arts and literary organizations. Visit Baltimore County Arts Guild.
  • Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) – Regulates higher education programs in the state. Visit MHEC.
  • Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) – Funds and promotes statewide arts initiatives. Learn more at MSAC.
  • U.S. Department of Education – Provides national education policy and funding. Visit ED.gov.
  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) – Offers federal arts funding and grants. Learn more at NEA.

Creative Writing Programs in Baltimore, Maryland

A range of local and nearby institutions offer dedicated Creative Writing programs:

  1. University of Baltimore

    • Program: MFA in Creative Writing & Publishing Arts
    • Address: 100 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 (Downtown Baltimore)
    • Description: Focuses on integrating creative writing with editing and publishing, emphasizing community engagement.
    • Program Link: University of Baltimore Creative Writing

  2. University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

    • Program: Creative Writing Minor
    • Address: 1000 Hilltop Circle, Catonsville, MD 21228 (Catonsville)
    • Description: Offers an interdisciplinary approach with literary workshops and community events. Located approximately 10 miles from central Baltimore.
    • Program Link: UMBC Creative Writing Program

  3. University of Maryland, College Park (UMD)

    • Program: MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction/Poetry)
    • Address: 4000 River Road, College Park, MD 20740 (College Park)
    • Description: Provides a fully funded graduate program with intensive creative writing workshops and teaching assistantships. College Park is approximately 35 miles from Baltimore.
    • Program Link: UMD Creative Writing Program

Literary Opportunities in Baltimore

Baltimore is home to numerous literary organizations that enhance the creative writing experience:

  • Baltimore Review
    • Purpose: Publishes local and national literary work with regular workshops and reading series.
    • Neighborhood: Based in downtown Baltimore.
    • Website: Baltimore Review
  • Baltimore City Arts & Culture
  • Baltimore County Arts Guild
  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)
    • Purpose: Advocates for creative writing education and professional development for writers.
    • Website: AWP

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Admission requirements vary by degree and institution, but typical prerequisites include:

  • Undergraduate Programs
    • A strong academic record and a passion for literature.
    • Completion of prerequisite courses in literature and writing.
  • MFA Programs
    • Submission of a 15- to 20-page creative writing sample (fiction or poetry).
    • Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
    • A portfolio or thesis proposal may be required, such as a book-length manuscript (as seen in the University of Maryland’s program) or an edited portfolio (as offered at the University of Baltimore).
  • Minor Programs
    • Completion of 18 credits comprising workshops and literature courses (UMBC’s Creative Writing Minor).

Degree Information and Admission Requirements

Maryland offers a range of degree options tailored to creative writers:

  • Bachelor’s Degrees: Often include Creative Writing minors (e.g., UMBC’s interdisciplinary approach with literary events).
  • Master’s Degrees (MFA): Programs like those at the University of Baltimore and the University of Maryland do not require GRE scores, emphasizing creative samples and letters of recommendation.
  • Curriculum Components: Most programs include peer critiques, revision workshops, and a culminating project such as a thesis manuscript or portfolio. Accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) ensures that programs meet rigorous academic standards.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree can explore diverse career paths:

  • Academic Roles: College instructors, creative writing professors, and workshop facilitators.
  • Editorial and Publishing Fields: Roles as editors, literary agents, or publishing professionals.
  • Freelance and Self-Publishing: Opportunities abound for freelance writers, content creators, and self-published authors.
  • Additional careers: Positions in media, communications, and public relations.

Salary ranges in Maryland reflect these opportunities, with entry-level positions typically ranging from $35,000 to $50,000 per year and senior roles in editing and publishing offering between $60,000 and $80,000 annually. For more detailed career outlook information, visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

The journey to earning your Creative Writing Degree in Baltimore, Maryland is rich with opportunities, resources, and industry support. With diverse programs, comprehensive curricula, and a network of local arts organizations, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact your preferred school today through their admissions forms and begin your path to a fulfilling creative career.