Overview

Creative writers are people who invent worlds and then invite other people to come live in them a while. 

As a creative writing student at EIU, you can study all four of the major creative genres: fiction, poetry, drama (plays or scripts), and creative nonfiction. The program begins with a course that introduces you to all four genres, then you take intermediate and advanced classes in at least two genres (of your choice).

Outside the classroom, there's plenty going on, too. We bring writers to campus to share their work throughout the year. Students give readings, too. And in January, we have a a very special event. For one Saturday, student writers, faculty, and writers from around the region spend a day learning from three special guest writers who both share their work and provide workshop sessions for all of us.

EIU students often publish their work in our student literary magazine, The Vehicle, and sometimes they start to pursue publication beyond campus.

Our alumni include published novelists and poets, a Hollywood screenwriter, and professors of creative writing. Many of our alumni also work as professional writers in business or nonprofit work by day, while they work on their creative careers.

Degree: Bachelor of Arts