Creative Writing Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

A Creative Writing Degree equips students with the skills needed to craft compelling narratives and explore various literary forms. Whether you pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Arts (MA), or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), creative writing programs offer workshops, craft courses, and thesis or portfolio projects to develop your unique voice. This guide provides comprehensive information about Creative Writing education paths, career prospects, and local resources in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

About Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is a dynamic urban center known for its rich cultural heritage and flourishing arts scene. The city features notable neighborhoods such as Bricktown and Midtown, which host local galleries, literary readings, and community events. For more detailed information about local government initiatives and community events, visit the official Oklahoma City website.

Creative Writing Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

While dedicated Creative Writing programs in Oklahoma City itself are limited, several nearby institutions offer robust courses and degree programs in creative writing. Consider the following options:

  1. University of Oklahoma

    • Program: MA in Creative Writing (RWS/LCS tracks)
    • Address: 660 Parrington Oval, Norman, OK 73019 (Norman is approximately 20 miles from Oklahoma City)
    • Neighborhood: Located in the heart of Norman’s university district
    • Website: University of Oklahoma – Creative Writing

  2. Oklahoma Baptist University

    • Program: BA in Creative Writing integrating creative exploration with a Christian perspective
    • Address: 903 S. Bluejacket Street, Shawnee, OK 74801 (Shawnee is around 20 miles from Oklahoma City)
    • Neighborhood: Set within the historic center of Shawnee
    • Website: Oklahoma Baptist University – Creative Writing

  3. Oklahoma State University

    • Program: MFA and PhD in Creative Writing offering extensive workshops and editorial opportunities (including involvement with the Cimarron Review)
    • Address: Stillwater, OK 74074 (Located approximately 70 miles north of Oklahoma City)
    • Neighborhood: Based on the main campus in Stillwater
    • Website: Oklahoma State University – Creative Writing

These programs feature rigorous curriculums designed to refine your writing craft and prepare you for diverse career opportunities.

Literary Opportunities in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City fosters a supportive literary community through local organizations and cultural institutions:

  • Oklahoma City Writers, Inc.: Although an official website is currently unavailable, this organization is known for hosting workshops and writing groups. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact local libraries or the Oklahoma City Arts & Cultural Affairs Office for further details.
  • Oklahoma County Literacy Coalition: With a focus on community writing initiatives and literacy programs, this group supports writers at the county level. Contact the Oklahoma City Arts & Cultural Affairs Office for more information.
  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Frequently hosts literary events and exhibitions that celebrate creative writing. Visit their official website for upcoming events.
  • Oklahoma County Historical Society: Engages the community with archival projects and literary programs; explore their offerings at the Oklahoma County Historical Society website.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Admissions requirements vary by degree level but typically include:

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA): A high school diploma is required, with an optional portfolio review to showcase creative work.
  • MFA/MA: Applicants are generally asked to submit a 10- to 20-page writing sample along with letters of recommendation. Be mindful of application deadlines (often by January for priority funding considerations).
  • PhD: Admission requires a Master’s degree, a thesis proposal, and successful completion of qualifying examinations.

Core curriculum elements usually include workshops, literary surveys, craft seminars, and specialized courses in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, or screenwriting.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Creative Writing graduates can explore various career paths including:

  • Education: Teaching at community colleges, universities, or K-12 institutions.
  • Publishing and Media: Roles in freelance writing, editing, and journalism.
  • Arts Administration: Positions in program coordination, grants management, and cultural programming.

Freelance opportunities and self-publishing can further expand career options. For insights on job prospects and salary ranges for writers and authors, please visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Additional Degree Requirements and Resources for Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

A comprehensive understanding of local educational and arts resources enhances your journey toward a Creative Writing Degree:

Official City Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies

  • Oklahoma City Public Schools

    • Purpose: Oversees K-12 education in the city
    • Website: okcps.org
    • Contact: (405) 587-0400

  • Oklahoma City Arts & Cultural Affairs Office

    • Purpose: Promotes arts and cultural initiatives
    • Website: OKC Arts & Culture
    • Contact: (405) 297-2530

Official County Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies

  • Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office – Education Division

    • Purpose: Supports education-related legal and administrative functions
    • Website: oklahomacounty.org
    • Contact: (405) 713-1600

  • Oklahoma County Arts Council

    • Purpose: Coordinates county-level arts programs and grants
    • Note: Website is currently unavailable; please contact via the Oklahoma City Arts & Cultural Affairs Office.

Official State and Federal Regulatory Bodies

  • Oklahoma State Department of Education

    • Purpose: Regulates K-12 and higher education standards
    • Website: sde.ok.gov
    • Contact: (405) 521-3301

  • Oklahoma Arts Council

    • Purpose: Funds and supports statewide arts initiatives
    • Website: arts.ok.gov
    • Contact: (405) 521-2931

  • U.S. Department of Education

  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

State-Specific Degree Information

Available degrees include:

  • BA: Focus on concentrations in fiction, poetry, or nonfiction
  • MFA: A 42-hour program emphasizing workshops, craft courses, and thesis work
  • MA: A 2-year thesis-driven program
  • PhD: A 60-hour program with rigorous qualifying exams and original creative work

Admission requirements are as follows:

  • BA: High school diploma and optionally a portfolio review
  • MFA/MA: Submission of a 10- to 20-page writing sample and letters of recommendation
  • PhD: Possession of a Master’s degree, a detailed thesis proposal, and qualifying examinations

Courses generally cover core workshops, literary surveys, and specialized seminars. Accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission ensures program quality; verify accreditation details at the HL Commission website.

Professional Organizations and Educational Resources

  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): Provides professional development, conference access, and writing contests. Visit AWP.
  • Oklahoma State University’s Cimarron Review: A student-run literary journal accepting free submissions. See Cimarron Review.

Additional State- and City-Level Resources

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Creative Writing Degree journey opens the door to endless creative and professional opportunities. With comprehensive local and statewide resources at your fingertips, prospective students are encouraged to explore programs and reach out to institutions directly using contact forms available on their web pages. Take the next step toward a fulfilling career in creative writing by initiating conversations with schools and industry professionals today.