Creative Writing Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Virginia Beach, Virginia

A Creative Writing Degree offers a comprehensive exploration of literary arts, preparing students for careers in writing, editing, and academia. In Virginia Beach, Virginia, prospective students can choose from various educational paths, including an Associate of Arts (AA), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing. These programs emphasize diverse genres such as poetry, fiction, drama, and creative nonfiction, and provide opportunities through workshops, thesis development, and specialized courses in areas like screenwriting and digital content creation.

About Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a coastal city known for its beautiful oceanfront, bustling boardwalk, and rich arts scene. The city is a hub for cultural events and community programs that nurture creativity. Visitors and residents alike can explore local landmarks and neighborhoods that celebrate art and literature. For more information about the city’s offerings, visit the Virginia Beach official website.

Creative Writing Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Prospective students can find several educational options in and near Virginia Beach:

  1. Tidewater Community College (TCC) – Virginia Beach Campus

    • Programs Offered: AA in General Studies with creative writing coursework (ENG 211)
    • Unique Features: Offers flexible online and hybrid course options that develop creative writing skills through genre-specific workshops.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 250 W Norfolk Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
    • Website: Tidewater Community College
    • Additional Information: ENG 211 covers creative expression in poetry, fiction, drama, and essays with peer feedback. Tuition for ENG 211 is $146.50 per credit (2024 rates).

  2. Regent University – College of Arts & Humanities

    • Programs Offered: BA in English – Writing, featuring tracks in professional, technical, and creative writing.
    • Unique Features: Offers a curriculum with a Christian-focused approach and professional track options.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 120 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455; located in a historic and culturally rich area of the city.
    • Website: Regent University BA in English – Writing

  3. University of Virginia (UVA) – MFA in Creative Writing

    • Programs Offered: MFA in Creative Writing focusing on poetry and fiction.
    • Unique Features: Known for its award-winning faculty and intensive writing workshops.
    • Location & Distance: Located in Charlottesville, VA, approximately 155 miles from Virginia Beach.
    • Website: University of Virginia Creative Writing MFA

Literary Opportunities in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach offers numerous opportunities to engage with the literary community:

  • Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Commission

  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)

    • Purpose: Advocates for creative writing programs nationwide, providing access to writing contests, job boards, and annual conferences.
    • Website: AWP

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Applicants to Creative Writing programs should expect to meet the following requirements:

  • General Admission Requirements:

    • Submission of writing samples or portfolios.
    • For BA programs, a minimum GPA (often around 2.5) along with required writing samples.
    • For MFA programs, portfolio submissions of 10-15 pages of original work and participation in competitive admissions.

  • Specific to Degrees:

    • AA Programs: Prerequisite of ENG 112 or divisional approval.
    • BA Programs: Submission of a writing sample or portfolio is mandatory.
    • MFA Programs: Entrance requires an extensive portfolio demonstrating original creative work.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates with a Creative Writing degree can explore various career paths, such as content writer, editor, technical writer, or educator. Many professionals venture into freelance writing and self-publishing, opening doors to diverse writing markets. Common entry-level roles in these fields offer salaries ranging from $35,000 to $70,000 annually. For further career insights, refer to the Writers and Authors job outlook page on bls.gov.

Additional Creative Writing Degree Requirements and Resources for Virginia Beach, Virginia

Official Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies

State-Specific Degree Information

  • Degree Types:

    • Associate of Arts (AA): Offered at Tidewater Community College with mandatory courses like ENG 211.
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA): Available at Regent University with specialized tracks in creative and professional writing.
    • Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Provided by the University of Virginia with a curriculum focusing on intensive workshops.

  • Admission Requirements:

    • AA: Requires ENG 112 or divisional approval.
    • BA: A minimum GPA threshold of 2.5 and a portfolio of writing samples.
    • MFA: Competitive admissions with portfolio submissions spanning 10-15 pages of original work.

  • Curriculum Overview:

    • Core Courses: Include studies in poetry, fiction, drama, and essays.
    • Workshops & Specializations: UVA’s MFA program emphasizes intensive workshops and thesis development, while Regent University offers courses in screenwriting, travel writing, and digital content creation.

  • Accreditation:

    • Programs at TCC and UVA are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). Verify current program status at the SACSCOC website.

  • Educational Resource Highlight:

    • Tidewater Community College’s ENG 211 course is designed to hone creative writing skills through a structured workshop environment. More details can be found on the Tidewater Community College courses page.

Professional Organizations and Additional Resources

  • Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP):
    Provides advocacy and networking opportunities through conferences, contests, and job boards.

Get Started Today

Virginia Beach offers a wide array of resources and opportunities for individuals pursuing a Creative Writing Degree. With programs ranging from an AA to an MFA, various pathways exist to match educational and professional goals. Aspiring writers are encouraged to explore these options, prepare required applications including portfolios and writing samples, and contact their chosen institutions through the forms provided on their websites. Take the next step in your literary journey by reaching out to these schools and organizations to learn more about how you can turn your passion for writing into a rewarding career.