Creative Writing Programs in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

A Creative Writing Degree prepares students for careers in the literary arts, journalism, publishing, and beyond. This guide explores various types of Creative Writing education—from Bachelor of Arts programs and Associate degrees to Master of Fine Arts (MFA) options. Readers will learn about the application process, curriculum details, and the range of creative writing programs available in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

About Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro, located in Rutherford County, Tennessee, is a historic city known for its active cultural scene and diverse educational resources. The official City of Murfreesboro website offers updates on local education and arts initiatives. With a thriving literary community, local landmarks, and neighborhoods that host various cultural events, Murfreesboro provides a dynamic setting to pursue a Creative Writing Degree.

Creative Writing Programs in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

While Murfreesboro offers prominent local education institutions, prospective students may also consider nearby options. Below is a list of three valuable programs:

  1. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

    • Program: BA/BS in English with a Creative Writing Concentration
    • Address: 1301 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37132
      (Located in downtown Murfreesboro)
    • Description: MTSU’s program emphasizes fiction, poetry, and literary theory. The curriculum includes Creative Writing Workshops, Advanced Fiction, and requires a thesis or portfolio for graduation. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), this program offers a comprehensive academic environment.
    • More Information: MTSU Creative Writing Concentration Page

  2. Trevecca Nazarene University

    • Program: Associate of Arts in Creative Writing
    • Address: 600 Trevecca Commons Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37127
      (Situated in the Trevecca Commons area)
    • Description: This program focuses on poetry, fiction, and editing, incorporating peer workshops and practical experience through a quarterly magazine known as The Trevecca Review. While there is no specified minimum GPA, applicants are expected to submit a portfolio. The institution is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
    • More Information: Trevecca Creative Writing AA Program

  3. Vanderbilt University (Nearest Option)

    • Program: Creative Writing offerings within the Department of English
    • Address: 2205 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
      (Approximately 32 miles from Murfreesboro, located in Nashville’s West End)
    • Description: Vanderbilt University, a leading research institution, offers advanced studies in creative writing as part of its broader English department. The program encourages thorough literary exploration and offers resources for MFA candidates.
    • More Information: Vanderbilt English Department

Literary Opportunities in Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro also boasts numerous literary organizations and community initiatives:

  • MTSU Writing Center
    Provides free writing support and publishes Off Center: A Creative Magazine. Learn more at the MTSU Writing Center website.

  • In-Process Creative Writing Series
    Hosts public readings and workshops tailored for both MTSU students and community members, enriching the local literary scene.

  • Rutherford County Arts Council
    This organization promotes local arts initiatives, including writing programs, and is an excellent resource for creative writers. Visit their official website.

  • Murfreesboro City Arts
    Offers a calendar of local literary events and funding opportunities for creative projects. Additional details can be found on the Murfreesboro City Arts page.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Typically, enrolling in a Creative Writing program requires:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs
  • A bachelor’s degree for MFA candidates (depending on the program)
  • Submission of writing samples or a portfolio to assess creative potential
  • Specific program deadlines (e.g., MTSU applications are due Fall [August 1], Spring [December 15], and Summer [May 1])
  • For institutions like Trevecca Nazarene University, portfolio submissions are emphasized over GPA requirements

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

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

  • Freelance Writer
  • Editor
  • Content Strategist
  • Literature Teacher
  • Publishing professional

The median salary for writers in Tennessee ranges from $48,000 to $70,000 with opportunities that extend to self-publishing and freelance success. For detailed industry trends and job projections, visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

Prospective students are encouraged to explore and compare the diverse Creative Writing programs available in and around Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Whether opting for a local institution like MTSU or venturing to nearby Vanderbilt University, the educational and literary resources in the area provide a robust foundation. Contact a school today through their inquiry forms and begin the journey towards a fulfilling creative writing career.

Additional Local and State Resources:

  • City of Murfreesboro: Oversees education and cultural initiatives. Visit website or call (615) 893-5210.
  • Murfreesboro City Schools: Manages K-12 arts and education. Visit website or call (615) 893-5810.
  • Rutherford County Schools: Provides county-wide education resources. Visit website or call (615) 893-5810.
  • Tennessee Department of Education: Visit website or call (615) 741-2764.
  • Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC): Visit website or call (615) 741-3605.
  • U.S. Department of Education: Visit website.
  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Visit website.

State-level literary support is also available through the Tennessee Arts Commission, enhancing opportunities for financial aid and local events such as the MTSU Fall Creative Writing Conference.

For further professional enrichment, consider engaging with the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)—an organization committed to supporting creative writing studies.