Creative Writing Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

A Creative Writing Degree opens doors to careers in literature, publishing, teaching, and beyond. This guide explains what a Creative Writing Degree is, reviews different types of programs—including BA and MFA options—and outlines the steps to enroll. It also highlights available courses, workshops, and specialized concentrations in creative writing.

About Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city and a hub for arts and community engagement. Known for its dynamic arts scene and multiple cultural landmarks, the city offers ample inspiration for creative minds. Learn more about local civic initiatives at the Sioux Falls Official Website.

Creative Writing Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls itself has limited on-site offerings for dedicated Creative Writing programs. However, several reputable institutions within South Dakota provide creative writing specializations, with some located nearby:

  1. University of South Dakota – English (Creative Writing Specialization)

    • Address: 615 E 12th St, Vermillion, SD 57069 (approximately 85 miles from Sioux Falls)
    • Neighborhood: Central Vermillion
    • Program Details: Offers a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science with courses in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction, along with literary analysis and advanced composition. For more details, visit the University of South Dakota website.

  2. Mount Marty University – English (Writing Concentration)

    • Address: 1000 4th Ave, Yankton, SD 57078 (approximately 60 miles from Sioux Falls)
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Yankton
    • Program Details: Focuses on a robust writing curriculum that includes creative and literary courses, complemented by a dedicated writing minor option. Visit the Mount Marty University website for further information.

  3. Black Hills State University – English (Creative Writing Focus)

    • Address: 515 Interstate Blvd, Spearfish, SD 57783 (approximately 230 miles from Sioux Falls)
    • Neighborhood: Central Spearfish
    • Program Details: Provides a concentrated curriculum in creative writing, including specializations in publishing and playwriting, along with access to an online publishing platform called treble hook. More information is available on the Black Hills State University website.

Literary Opportunities in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls boasts a range of local literary and arts organizations that enhance creative writing education:

In addition, regional organizations such as the Minnehaha County Literary Council support literacy and creative writing programs. For more professional development opportunities, consider joining the Association of Writers & Writing Programs and the South Dakota State Poetry Society.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Admission to Creative Writing programs typically requires:

  • A writing portfolio featuring 10–15 pages of original work.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5, with some institutions, like Mount Marty University, requiring a 3.0 GPA for honors programs.
  • Two to three letters of recommendation.
  • Completion of core courses such as Creative Writing (fiction, poetry, nonfiction), Literary Analysis, and Advanced Composition.
  • Optional specializations including screenwriting, publishing, or playwriting.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree can pursue various career paths, such as:

  • Editor: Roles in publishing houses or digital media companies.
  • Teacher: Positions in secondary education or university-level instruction.
  • Content Writer: Opportunities in freelance writing or corporate communications.
  • Self-Publishing: Venturing into independent publishing and literary entrepreneurship.

For detailed data on job prospects for writers and authors, visit the Writers and Authors Job Outlook page on bls.gov.

Additional Resources and Regulatory Bodies

Sioux Falls and the broader Minnehaha County offer a network of official educational and arts regulatory bodies and resources:

State-Specific Degree Information

Types of Degrees Available

  • Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science:
    • University of South Dakota: English (Creative Writing Specialization)
    • Mount Marty University: English (Writing Concentration)
    • Black Hills State University: English (Creative Writing Focus)
  • Minor Programs:
    • University of South Dakota: Creative Writing Minor
    • Mount Marty University: Writing Minor

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • General Requirements:
    • Submission of a writing portfolio (10–15 pages of original work)
    • Minimum GPA of 2.5 (or 3.0 for honors programs at Mount Marty)
    • Two to three letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum Core Courses:
    • Creative Writing (fiction, poetry, nonfiction)
    • Literary Analysis
    • Advanced Composition
  • Specializations Include:
    • Screenwriting
    • Publishing
    • Playwriting

Accreditation and Verification

Programs are accredited by bodies such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Verify accreditation status at the Higher Learning Commission website.

Professional Organizations and Educational Resources

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Creative Writing Degree journey can open many creative and professional doors. With a variety of programs and extensive local and state resources, aspiring writers have access to comprehensive educational paths and supportive literary communities. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to institutions directly via the contact forms available on each school’s website to learn more and begin their enrollment process.