Creative Writing Programs in Mississippi

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Mississippi

A Creative Writing Degree offers an in-depth exploration of various writing forms, including fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and non-fiction. Whether pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or a Master of Arts (MA), students gain hands-on experience through workshops, writing labs, and thesis projects. Creative Writing programs are available at many respected schools, and earning a degree in this field can open doors to academic, publishing, and freelance careers.

Why Pursue a Creative Writing Degree in Mississippi

Mississippi is a state with a rich literary heritage and growing contemporary writing community. For more about the state’s official initiatives and services, visit the Mississippi state website. The state is known for its dynamic artistic environment and engaging local literary events, such as the Mississippi Book Festival. Writers in Mississippi enjoy competitive salaries with an average range influenced by the local economy and rising demand for skilled communicators. According to the BLS job outlook for Writers and Authors, job growth is expected to remain promising in the coming years.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Applicants to Creative Writing programs in Mississippi typically need to meet several prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or a prior undergraduate degree for graduate programs.
  • A minimum GPA, which for programs like the Mississippi School of the Arts is set at 2.5.
  • Submission of writing samples or a portfolio and an audition or interview for competitive programs.
  • Specific program requirements may include additional components such as workshops or a senior thesis.

Typical Program Curriculum

Creative Writing curricula in Mississippi cover a diverse range of topics:

  • Courses in literary forms, including poetry, screenwriting, fiction, and non-fiction.
  • Writing workshops, which provide intensive feedback and peer review.
  • Special seminars and electives that allow for genre specializations as seen in programs like the University of Mississippi’s BFA.
  • For graduate students, programs such as the MA at the University of Southern Mississippi require a thesis based on fiction or poetry and workshops focused on craft and literary forms.
  • Programs usually run for four years at the undergraduate level and approximately two years for graduate degrees.

Creative Writing Programs in Mississippi

Several institutions in Mississippi offer specialized Creative Writing programs:

University of Mississippi (UM)

  • Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Creative Writing
  • Program Website: UM Creative Writing Program
  • Admissions Contact: Dustin Parsons (Director)
  • Key Features:
    • Offers courses in poetry, screenwriting, fiction, non-fiction, and nature writing.
    • Curriculum includes multiple workshops and a senior thesis requirement.
    • Priority application deadlines are October 1 for current students and January 10 for incoming freshmen.
  • Location: Located in Oxford, Mississippi, a city steeped in literary tradition and cultural heritage.

University of Southern Mississippi (USM)

  • Degrees Offered: Master of Arts (MA) in English with a Creative Writing emphasis
  • Program Website: USM Creative Writing Program
  • Admissions Contact: Dr. Olivia Clare Friedman (Director of Center for Writers)
  • Key Features:
    • Features intensive workshops in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
    • Includes a thesis requirement (fiction or poetry).
    • Affiliated with the renowned Mississippi Review, a literary journal that supports emerging voices.
  • Location: Based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, a regional hub for the arts with a supportive creative community.

Mississippi School of the Arts (MSA)

  • Degrees Offered: Residential high school program in Literary Arts
  • Program Website: MSA Literary Arts Handbook
  • Admissions Contact: MSA Admissions Office
  • Key Features:
    • Requires an audition and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
    • Offers dual enrollment opportunities with local school districts.
  • Location: Situated in Jackson, Mississippi, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and historical significance in the arts.

Creative Writing Career Opportunities in Mississippi

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree in Mississippi can pursue various careers. Major literary organizations and publishing houses in the region include:

  • Mississippi Review: An influential literary journal that publishes diverse voices in fiction and poetry. Learn more about their employment opportunities on their official website.
  • Mississippi Arts Commission: Supports grants and literary projects, fostering a community of creatives. Visit the Mississippi Arts Commission for further information.
  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): Offers professional development opportunities through conferences and workshops. Explore opportunities at their official site.
    These organizations provide networking, development, and potential job openings in publishing and creative arts. For updated data on salary trends and job growth, refer to the BLS Writers and Authors page.

Optional Certifications and Professional Development

Creative Writing students can further enhance their credentials through additional certifications and professional development:

  • AWP Programs: The Association of Writers & Writing Programs provides ongoing workshops, conferences, and certification courses for writers.
  • Mississippi Review Involvement: Participation with the Mississippi Review can provide hands-on experience in literary publishing.
  • National Organizations: Groups like PEN America offer workshops and advocacy resources to advance a writer’s career.
    These professional opportunities allow graduates to stay current in writing trends and connect with industry professionals.

Cost and Financial Aid

Tuition and fees for Creative Writing programs can vary:

  • University of Mississippi (UM):
    • In-state tuition is approximately $8,700 per year for undergraduate programs.
    • Out-of-state tuition is roughly $24,000 per year.
  • University of Southern Mississippi (USM):
    • In-state graduate tuition is about $8,500 per year.
    • Graduate assistantships are available, offering approximately $14,000 per year for MA students and up to $18,000 per year for PhD candidates.

Students can explore financial aid options and scholarships through local state resources such as the Mississippi Department of Education and the Mississippi State Board of Education. Additionally, federal financial aid and private grants are accessible for eligible applicants.

Career Paths and Opportunities

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree in Mississippi have diverse career paths available, including:

  • Academia: Teaching at local schools and colleges.
  • Publishing: Working for literary magazines, book publishers, or media companies.
  • Freelance Writing: Creating content for various markets, scripts for film and television, and digital storytelling.
  • Editorial Roles: Serving as editors or literary consultants for publications.
    Local resources such as state job boards and networking organizations facilitate career development and job search efforts.

Get Started Today

Mississippi offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring creative writers through comprehensive academic programs, hands-on workshops, and strong literary communities. With robust support from educational institutions, state agencies, and professional organizations, there has never been a better time to embark on a Creative Writing journey in Mississippi. Contact a school today through the available forms and take the next step toward a fulfilling creative career.