Creative Writing Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Getting a Creative Writing Degree in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Pursuing a Creative Writing Degree in Milwaukee, Wisconsin opens pathways for immersive study in storytelling, critical analysis, and literary creativity. A Creative Writing Degree can be earned through different education paths such as Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), or even as a Creative Writing Minor. These programs typically emphasize intensive creative writing workshops, portfolio development, and specialized seminars in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and playwriting. In addition to classroom instruction, many programs offer community outreach projects, including initiatives like the Wisconsin Prison Humanities Project at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Prospective students should be aware of the rigorous admission and curriculum requirements:

  • Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
    • Minimum GPA of 2.5 is accepted by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, while Marquette University requires a minimum of 2.75.
    • A writing sample is mandatory for enrollment in Creative Writing minors at Marquette University.
  • Graduate Admission Requirements:
    • GRE scores are not required for UWM’s MFA program.
    • A portfolio of 20–30 pages of original work is typically required.
  • Core Curriculum:
    • Workshops focusing on fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction
    • Electives in playwriting or screenwriting
    • Opportunities for specialization, such as multimodal storytelling at Marquette University

Additionally, a wide network of regulatory and accreditation bodies ensure that the educational standards are maintained at every level:

  • City-Level Regulatory Body:
    • Milwaukee Public Schools Department of Fine Arts oversees arts education, including literary programs. (Website, Phone: (414) 475-8393)
  • County-Level Regulatory Body:
    • Milwaukee County Arts Board supports arts initiatives in Milwaukee County. (Website, Phone: (414) 278-4987)
  • State-Level Regulatory Bodies:
    • Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) manages K–12 education standards. (Website, Phone: (608) 266-3390)
    • Wisconsin Arts Board promotes statewide arts education and cultural initiatives. (Website, Phone: (608) 267-0360)
  • Federal Oversight:

The programs are accredited by reputable organizations such as the Higher Learning Commission (which accredits both UW-Milwaukee and Marquette University) and, for arts-related programs, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.

About Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a dynamic city in southeastern Wisconsin known for its rich cultural heritage and a thriving literary scene. Prospective students can explore the city’s creative landscape by visiting the official Milwaukee government website (Milwaukee.gov). Milwaukee’s blend of historic neighborhoods and modern urban developments provides an inspiring backdrop for creative writers and artists.

Creative Writing Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee hosts several institutions that offer dedicated Creative Writing programs and courses. Below are three notable schools:

  1. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM)

    • Address: 2700 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211
    • Neighborhood: Located on the East Side of Milwaukee
    • Programs: Offers a BFA, MFA, and Creative Writing Minor with opportunities for community engagement through programs like the Wisconsin Prison Humanities Project.
    • Website: UWM Creative Writing Program

  2. Marquette University

    • Address: 1200 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
    • Neighborhood: Situated in Milwaukee’s downtown area
    • Programs: Provides a Creative Writing Minor and an MFA offered through the English department. The program emphasizes multimodal storytelling and offers paid writing internships.
    • Website: Marquette Creative Writing Minor

  3. Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)

    • Address: 710 W State St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
    • Neighborhood: Located in downtown Milwaukee
    • Programs: Offers courses in liberal arts that include creative writing workshops and writing courses to help students develop their narrative voice.
    • Website: MATC Homepage

Literary Opportunities in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is home to a variety of literary organizations and events that provide additional enrichment opportunities for creative writers:

  • Milwaukee Book Festival
    • Purpose: Hosts annual literary events and workshops that draw industry professionals and literature enthusiasts.
    • Website: Milwaukee Book Festival
  • Milwaukee County Historical Society
  • A Room of One’s Own Bookstore
    • Description: An independent bookstore that frequently hosts author readings and writing groups, contributing to the local literary community.

Prerequisites for Creative Writing Programs

Applicants interested in pursuing a degree in Creative Writing in Milwaukee should prepare to meet several academic and creative submission standards:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required for undergraduate programs.
  • Academic Performance:
    • A minimum GPA of 2.5 for UWM and 2.75 for Marquette University.
  • Submission Materials:
    • Undergraduate applicants, particularly for the Creative Writing minor at Marquette University, must submit a writing sample.
    • Graduate programs typically require a portfolio of 20–30 pages of original work, with GRE scores not being a requirement for UWM’s MFA program.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Graduates holding a Creative Writing Degree can forge successful careers in various industries:

  • Publishing: Positions include editors, literary agents, and freelance writers.
  • Education: Opportunities arise as high school English teachers or adjunct professors.
  • Content Creation: Graduates may pursue careers as copywriters, marketing specialists, or digital media producers.
  • Freelance and Self-Publishing: Many creative writers build careers through authoring independent works and securing freelance contracts.

Average salary ranges in relevant fields are as follows:

  • Editors: $45,000–$65,000 per year
  • Marketing Writers: $50,000–$75,000 per year

For additional details on job prospects, refer to the Writers and Authors job outlook page on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Furthermore, professional development opportunities abound. Workshops such as the Wisconsin Book Festival Writing Workshops and Marquette University’s writing internships provide practical experience and industry exposure for graduates.

Get Started Today

Milwaukee offers an extensive support network for aspiring creative writers, from accredited degree programs and specialized workshops to robust literary organizations and career resources. With a blend of academic excellence, community engagement, and professional development, the path to a successful career in creative writing is well paved. Prospective students are encouraged to review the programs, prepare their application materials, and contact the schools directly through the provided inquiry forms to take the first step toward a fulfilling creative future.