Creative Writing Programs in Clarksville, Tennessee

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Clarksville, Tennessee

A Creative Writing Degree opens doors to diverse educational paths, including Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts (MFA), minors, and even Associate degrees. In Tennessee, these programs not only cultivate literary talent through workshops, writing courses, and portfolio development but also integrate rigorous academic research and creative experimentation. Prospective students will find that the process of earning a Creative Writing Degree involves a blend of coursework, practical writing exercises, and participation in literary events.

In Tennessee, established institutions offer degrees ranging from a BA in English (Creative Writing) to an MA in English (Creative Writing), as well as specialized programs such as the Creative Writing Minor and Associate of Arts in Creative Writing. Each program is designed to develop critical thinking, articulate expression, and a solid artistic foundation.

About Clarksville, Tennessee

Clarksville, located in Montgomery County, is a dynamic community with a strong commitment to education and the arts. The city is known for its rich cultural scene and historical landmarks, and it supports a thriving literary environment. Local regulatory bodies such as the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System and the Clarksville Arts and Heritage Development Council work closely with educational institutions and community groups to promote arts initiatives and literary events.

In addition to these local organizations, state and federal agencies play an important role:

  • Montgomery County Board of Education – Manages county-wide education policies. (Website; Contact: (931) 503-3000)
  • Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) – Regulates higher education programs, including creative writing degrees. (Website; Contact: (615) 741-3606)
  • Tennessee Arts Commission – Supports state-level arts and literary programs. (Website; Contact: (615) 741-1701)
  • U.S. Department of Education – Oversees federal educational policies and funding. (Website)
  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) – Provides national funding support for arts programs. (Website)

Creative Writing Programs in Clarksville, Tennessee

While Clarksville offers local opportunities, students may also consider nearby institutions. Below is a list of creative writing programs available in or near Clarksville:

  1. Austin Peay State University

    • Program Offered: Creative Writing Minor
    • Address: 420 Circle Drive, Clarksville, TN 37044
    • Neighborhood: Situated in the heart of Clarksville
    • Details: Austin Peay offers a Creative Writing Minor that emphasizes literary journal internships and writing workshops. Students benefit from direct engagement with the local literary community through the Austin Peay State University Writing Center.

  2. Tennessee Tech University (Nearest by – approximately 115 miles away in Cookeville, TN)

    • Programs Offered: Bachelor of Arts in English (Creative Writing) and Master of Arts in English (Creative Writing)
    • Address: 601 University Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501
    • Neighborhood: Located in downtown Cookeville
    • Details: Tennessee Tech University offers robust programs that require a writing portfolio for undergraduate admission and GRE scores along with a 10-20 page writing sample for graduate applicants. The curriculum features advanced fiction, poetry, and nonfiction workshops, alongside courses in literary studies.

  3. Trevecca Nazarene University (Nearest by – approximately 60 miles away in Hendersonville, TN)

    • Program Offered: Associate of Arts in Creative Writing
    • Address: 600 Trevecca Pkwy, Hendersonville, TN 37075
    • Neighborhood: Hendersonville, a suburb of Nashville
    • Details: This program includes a quarterly literary magazine practicum that helps students gain hands-on editorial experience. Trevecca’s curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in creative and expressive writing.

State-Specific Degree Information

In Tennessee, the following degree options are available:

  • Bachelor of Arts in English (Creative Writing): Offered by Tennessee Tech University
  • Master of Arts in English (Creative Writing): Offered by Tennessee Tech University
  • Creative Writing Minor: Offered by Austin Peay State University
  • Associate of Arts in Creative Writing: Offered by Trevecca Nazarene University

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Programs:
    • Minimum GPA: 2.5 (subject to variation by institution)
    • Submission of a writing portfolio (e.g., required by Tennessee Tech)
  • Master’s Programs:
    • GRE scores are typically required (for Tennessee Tech)
    • A writing sample ranging from 10 to 20 pages is needed

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Core courses include Introduction to Creative Writing (Austin Peay), Advanced Fiction/Poetry/Nonfiction Workshops (Tennessee Tech), and Literary Magazine Practicum (Trevecca).
  • Accrediting bodies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) verify program quality. For further accreditation details, check the CHEA website.

Professional Organizations:
The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) advocates for creative writing programs nationally and offers excellent networking opportunities.

Literary Opportunities in Clarksville, Tennessee

Clarksville boasts a supportive literary community that provides numerous opportunities for emerging writers:

  • Austin Peay State University Writing Center: Provides workshops, peer review sessions, and writing boot camps. (Website)
  • Montgomery County Friends of the Library: Hosts author readings, writing groups, and public literary events. (Website)
  • Clarksville Arts and Heritage Development Council: Promotes local arts initiatives and literary events through diverse programs and festivals. (Website)

Additionally, literary publications such as The Cumberland River Review offer national exposure and are edited by students engaged in creative writing studies.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet several admission requirements:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is essential.
  • Undergraduate programs typically require a minimum GPA of 2.5.
  • Applicants for Tennessee Tech’s programs often need to submit a writing portfolio.
  • Master’s program candidates may need GRE scores and a comprehensive 10-20 page writing sample.
  • Familiarity with core courses such as Introduction to Creative Writing, literary workshops, and practicum experiences is advantageous.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

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

  • Content Writer: Salaries range from $45,000 to $65,000 per year.
  • Editor: Salaries typically fall between $50,000 and $70,000 per year.
  • Teacher: Potential earnings range from $50,000 to $80,000 per year.
  • Many graduates also pursue freelance opportunities and self-publishing, tapping into diverse sectors like publishing, journalism, and digital media.

For detailed career statistics and job outlook information, visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Creative Writing Degree is a transformative decision that opens the door to countless literary and professional opportunities. With a variety of programs available both locally in Clarksville and in nearby Tennessee institutions, there has never been a better time to refine one’s craft. Prospective students are encouraged to contact a school today through the provided forms on each institution’s website to begin their journey toward a fulfilling creative career.