Creative Writing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Kansas City, Missouri

A Creative Writing Degree offers a structured path to master the craft of prose, poetry, and storytelling. Options include undergraduate programs such as the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and advanced graduate degrees like the Master of Fine Arts (MFA). Both pathways integrate writing workshops, literature courses, and creative projects to nurture artistic expression. Prospective students should be aware of the distinct curricula, portfolio requirements, and the range of career opportunities that await them after graduation.

About Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri, is a thriving urban center known for its rich cultural scene and extensive literary history. The city is home to various arts initiatives and offers engaging resources for creative professionals. For more detailed local information on governance and community activities, visit the Kansas City official website. Landmark neighborhoods such as the Crossroads Arts District and Country Club District provide vibrant backdrops for both artistic endeavors and community events.

Creative Writing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri

Several institutions in Kansas City offer excellent Creative Writing programs, each with unique features and specialized curricula:

  1. University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)

    • Program: MFA in Creative Writing
    • Address: 600 W 31st St, Kansas City, MO 64108 (Downtown Kansas City)
    • Description: UMKC’s MFA program focuses on workshops, thesis projects, and teaching assistant positions. The program includes collaborations with local institutions such as the Kansas City Public Library and Writers for Readers.
    • Website: https://www.umkc.edu/index.html

  2. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI)

    • Program: BFA in Creative Writing
    • Address: 4600 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (Crossroads Arts District)
    • Description: KCAI offers a BFA with specializations in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting. Special features include portfolio reviews, internships with presses like BkMk Press, and study abroad opportunities.
    • Website: https://kcai.edu/

  3. Rockhurst University

    • Program: Creative Writing courses and minors
    • Address: 3300 Rockhurst Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (Country Club District)
    • Description: Although primarily known for its broader liberal arts curriculum, Rockhurst University offers dedicated creative writing courses for students looking to refine their craft. The campus is approximately 2 miles from central Kansas City, making it easily accessible.
    • Website: https://www.rockhurst.edu

Literary Opportunities in Kansas City

Kansas City hosts a range of literary organizations that actively support and promote creative writing:

  • Kansas City Public Library

    • Purpose: Provides free writing classes in collaboration with UMKC’s MFA program, covering topics such as resume writing, fiction, poetry, and family histories.
    • Neighborhood: Located centrally within the city.
    • Website: https://kclibrary.org
    • Contact: [email protected]

  • Writers for Readers

    • Purpose: Organizes an annual fundraiser to support UMKC’s MFA program and local literary initiatives.
    • Neighborhood: Engaged with communities across Kansas City.
    • Website: https://kclibrary.org

  • Jackson County Historical Society

    • Purpose: Promotes regional history through storytelling events and writing workshops.
    • Neighborhood: Serving the broader Jackson County area.
    • Website: https://www.jchs.org/

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Admission requirements for Creative Writing programs typically include:

  • A portfolio review and writing samples for undergraduate programs (BFA) with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • For graduate programs (MFA), applicants need to submit a writing portfolio (20-30 pages), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
  • Additional education requirements and a minimum age threshold may apply. Prospective students should review specific program details to ensure they meet all criteria.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree can pursue several career paths:

  • Career Paths: Content writer, editor, social media manager, or freelance writer.
  • Freelance & Self-Publishing: Many graduates choose freelance writing or self-publishing, leveraging creative portfolios to secure gigs.
  • Salary Ranges: Entry-level positions may offer annual salaries between $35,000 and $60,000.
    For current job statistics and detailed career outlook data, refer to the Writers and Authors job outlook page on bls.gov.

Creative Writing Degree Requirements and Resources for Kansas City, Jackson County, Missouri

Official City, County, State, and Federal Oversight Bodies

  • Kansas City Public Library
    • Offers free writing classes aligned with UMKC’s MFA program. More details are available on their official site.
  • Jackson County Arts Council
  • Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development
    • Oversees state higher education policies and programs. More details can be found on https://dhewd.mo.gov or by calling (573) 751-2361.
  • U.S. Department of Education
    • Federal oversight on education policies and funding. Visit https://www.ed.gov for additional resources.

Degree Information & Admission Criteria

  • Degrees Offered:
    • BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts): Offered by KCAI with specializations in various creative writing fields.
    • MFA (Master of Fine Arts): Offered by UMKC, which entails a 3-year program with integrated workshops.
  • Admission Requirements:
    • BFA: Applicants must submit a portfolio review and writing samples, with a GPA requirement of 3.0.
    • MFA: Requires a 20-30 page writing portfolio, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
  • Curriculum & Accreditation:
    • BFA programs usually include 4 writing workshops and 5 literature courses.
    • MFA programs integrate workshops, creative projects, and teaching assistantships.
    • Accreditation for these programs is maintained by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) for UMKC and NASAD for KCAI. Verification is available via the HLC database.

Professional Organizations and Additional Resources

  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)
    • Advocates for creative writing programs and hosts influential conferences. Visit AWP for more details.
  • Missouri Arts Council
  • Kansas City Public Library Events Calendar
  • Jackson County Arts Council Grants

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Creative Writing Degree in Kansas City, Missouri, opens doors to refined writing skills, engaging literary communities, and diverse career opportunities. With comprehensive programs, local opportunities, and extensive support from city, county, state, and federal agencies, aspiring writers can find the path that best fits their goals. Prospective students are encouraged to contact a school directly through their inquiry forms and begin their journey toward a fulfilling creative career.