Creative Writing Programs in Norfolk, Virginia

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Norfolk, Virginia

Pursuing a Creative Writing Degree in Norfolk, Virginia offers aspiring writers a clear path toward mastering various literary forms, from poetry and fiction to nonfiction and screenwriting. Creative Writing education spans several degree paths including Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.), and even a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) offered online. These programs largely emphasize workshops, literary readings, and mentorship by established authors to nurture creativity and professional skill.

About Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk, Virginia is a historic port city known for its rich cultural tapestry and active literary scene. The city’s official website, norfolk.gov, provides comprehensive information about local events, arts programming, and civic resources. Notable local landmarks and neighborhoods such as the downtown waterfront area and historic Ghent district contribute to a thriving cultural and artistic atmosphere. Local regulatory bodies such as the Norfolk Arts Commission and Norfolk City Public Schools play key roles in supporting arts initiatives, including creative writing and literary events.

Creative Writing Programs in Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk offers a selection of on-campus and nearby programs for those interested in Creative Writing. Below is a list of three key institutions:

  1. Old Dominion University (ODU)

    • Program Offerings: B.A. and M.F.A. in Creative Writing
    • Highlight: The M.F.A. program includes 54 credit hours of literature courses, writing workshops, and opportunities to work with nationally renowned writers.
    • Admission Requirements:
      • B.A.: Minimum GPA of 2.0 plus a required writing sample.
      • M.F.A.: A writing portfolio (20–30 pages) and letters of recommendation.
    • Location & Address: 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23529 – located in the Hampton neighborhood.
    • More Information: Visit odu.edu and search for the Creative Writing or Literary Arts pages.

  2. Norfolk State University (NSU)

    • Program Offerings: While NSU is primarily known for its comprehensive undergraduate programs, its English department offers elective courses and workshops in creative writing.
    • Program Features: These courses are designed to develop narrative skills and literary critique techniques, preparing students for advanced studies or professional writing.
    • Location & Address: 700 E Bute St, Norfolk, VA 23504 – situated in the downtown area.
    • More Information: Explore course offerings on the nsu.edu website.

  3. Liberty University (B.S. in Creative Writing – 100% Online)

    • Program Highlight: This online degree is ideal for those who prefer flexible scheduling while studying multiple genres such as poetry, novellas, and screenwriting.
    • Admission Requirement: Accepts up to 75% in transfer credits with no GRE requirement.
    • Location & Address: The main campus is located at 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, VA 24502, approximately 150 miles from Norfolk.
    • More Information: Visit liberty.edu to learn more about the online Creative Writing program.

Literary Opportunities in Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk’s literary scene is enriched by several local organizations and events that complement formal education:

  • ODU Literary Festival
    An annual event held on the Old Dominion University campus, the festival features readings, workshops, and discussions with accomplished writers.

    • More Details: Check out odu.edu and search for the Literary Festival.

  • Borjo Coffeehouse Reading Series
    Hosting MFA student readings and community events, this series provides an approachable setting to enjoy live literary arts.

    • More Details: Look up the Borjo Coffeehouse Reading Series on the ODU website.

  • Norfolk Public Library
    The library regularly schedules workshops and author events and serves as a community hub for local writers.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Students interested in Creative Writing programs typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

  • Educational Background: Completion of previous high school or undergraduate coursework.
  • Portfolio Requirements: Submission of a writing sample for B.A. applicants (minimum GPA of 2.0) or a 20–30 page portfolio accompanied by recommendation letters for M.F.A. candidates.
  • Additional Considerations: Liberty University’s B.S. program accepts up to 75% transfer credits with no GRE requirement, reflecting their flexible admission criteria.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree can embark on diverse career paths in academia, publishing, media, and freelance enterprises. Potential roles include:

  • Author/Writer: Crafting fiction, nonfiction, and thematic literature with average earning ranges of $55,000–$80,000 per year.
  • Editor: Working in publishing houses or media organizations with potential salaries between $60,000–$90,000 per year.
  • Journalist: Contributing to newspapers, magazines, and digital platforms with annual earnings from $40,000–$70,000.
    Freelance opportunities and self-publishing continue to grow alongside traditional roles. For more detailed career statistics, visit the Writers and Authors job outlook page on BLS.

Get Started Today

The journey to a successful Creative Writing career begins with an informed decision. Whether you are drawn to the immersive learning environment at Old Dominion University, the diverse artistic offerings at Norfolk State University, or the flexible online format at Liberty University, Norfolk, Virginia provides multiple avenues to cultivate your writing craft. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out directly using the forms on the school websites to learn more about application processes, upcoming workshops, and campus events.

Creative Writing Degree Requirements and Resources for Norfolk, Virginia Beach City, Virginia

Official City Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies

  • Norfolk City Public Schools

    • Oversees K-12 education and supports local arts programs.
    • Website: npsk12.com
    • Contact: (757) 628-3457

  • Norfolk Arts Commission

    • Provides support for local arts initiatives, including literary programs.
    • Website: norfolk.gov/arts
    • Contact: (757) 664-6878

Official State Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies

  • Virginia Department of Education

    • Regulates education standards for both K-12 and higher education.
    • Website: doe.virginia.gov
    • Contact: (804) 225-2025

  • State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)

    • Oversees higher education accreditation and program development.
    • Website: schev.edu
    • Contact: (804) 225-2600

Federal Education and Arts Oversight Agencies

  • U.S. Department of Education

    • Sets national education policy and provides funding.
    • Website: ed.gov
    • Additional Resources: ed.gov/college

  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

    • Supports federal arts funding and initiatives.
    • Website: arts.gov

State-Specific Degree Information

Types of Degrees Available

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Creative Writing (Old Dominion University)

    • Emphasizes poetry, fiction, nonfiction, with integrated workshops and literary readings.

  • Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Creative Writing (Old Dominion University)

    • A comprehensive 54-hour program offering literature courses, theory, and hands-on workshops with renowned writers.

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing (Liberty University)

    • A fully online program covering diverse genres such as poetry, novellas, and screenwriting.

Admission Requirements

  • B.A. at ODU:

    • Minimum GPA: 2.0
    • Required writing sample.

  • M.F.A. at ODU:

    • Portfolio submission (20–30 pages)
    • Letters of recommendation.

  • B.S. at Liberty:

    • Accepts up to 75% transfer credits
    • No GRE required.

Curriculum Requirements

  • Core Courses:
    • Workshops in fiction, poetry, or nonfiction
    • Literary theory and criticism
    • Thesis or portfolio requirement for the M.F.A.
  • Specializations:
    • Screenwriting and editing for publishing (notably within Liberty’s program).

Accreditation Information

  • Old Dominion University:

    • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
    • Verification via odu.edu.

  • Liberty University:

Professional Organizations

  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)

    • Provides professional development and networking opportunities for writers.
    • Website: awpwriter.org

  • PEN America

    • Advocates for literary freedom and supports creative writers.
    • Website: pen.org

City-Specific Literary Organizations

  • ODU Literary Festival

    • An annual event featuring workshops, readings, and author engagements.
    • Website: Search for “Literary Festival” on odu.edu

  • Borjo Coffeehouse Reading Series

    • Hosts regular MFA student readings and open mic events.
    • Website: Search for “MFA Reading Series” on odu.edu

Educational Resources

  • A Writer’s Resource: A Handbook for Writing and Research
    • A comprehensive guide aiding both academic and creative writing.
    • Website: dokumen.pub

Career Information

Job Prospects in Virginia

  • Common Careers:

    • Author/Writer: $55,000–$80,000/year
    • Editor: $60,000–$90,000/year
    • Journalist: $40,000–$70,000/year

  • Top Employers:

    • Media outlets such as The Virginian-Pilot
    • Publishing houses and local literary organizations like Hampton Roads Writers.

Professional Development

  • ODU Writers-in-Community Program:

    • Facilitates local writing workshops and professional development.
    • More details can be found on odu.edu.

  • Hampton Roads Writers Conference:

Additional Resources at the State and Local Level

  • Virginia Humanities:

  • Norfolk Public Library:

    • Offers writing workshops, author events, and community resources in the literary arts.
    • Website: norfolk.gov/library

  • Virginia Beach Arts & Humanities Commission:

    • Provides local arts funding and initiatives.
    • Website: vbgov.com (use the search feature for “Arts Commission”)