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English: Creative Writing

This concentration lets you follow your passion for writing fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, plays and scripts. In classes led by publishing writers, surrounded by like-minded classmates, you'll sharpen skills in your favorite genres. Extracurriculars encourage creative growth. We don't ignore the practical side: we know most writers need to prepare for a day job, and our program is designed to help. Alumni include successful novelists, Hollywood writers, and creative writing professors.

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English: Creative Writing

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Degree Level
Bachelor of Arts
Time to Degree
8 Semesters
Credit Hours
120 Total
Careers
Language, Postsecondary, Teachers, Proofreaders, Markers
English: Creative Writing students at EIU

Why Study English: Creative Writing at EIU?

  • English 2000 introduces you to all the major genres (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, dramatic writing) and intermediate and advanced courses let you focus on your preferred genres
  • Classes are typically between 12-18 students to ensure plenty of time for individual attention
  • Strong extracurriculars allow you to deepen learning, gain resume-worthy experience, and pursue your first publications and readings
  • Students who are considering an MA later can save time and money with our accelerated BA/MA program
  • Apply for major-specific scholarships from the English Department, which total about $150,000 annually just for EIU English majors
"I chose to attend EIU because it's close to home, I was already familiar with the University due to performing in concerts there throughout middle and high school, and its relative affordability."
Brenden Cash
Class of 2027, English with an Emphasis in Creative Writing major
Brenden Cash, English with an Emphasis in Creative Writing at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Our student literary magazine, The Vehicle, offers students the opportunity both to publish their work and to work on the staff of a literary magazine
  • Each year, the Little Bluestem literary festival brings guest writers to campus to offer master classes (for free) to aspiring writers
  • At our student conference each spring, writers can get their first opportunity to read their work publicly
  • Internship is available to all English majors, and our dedicated internship coordinator will work with you to find a placement and support you throughout the experience
  • Prepare for the details and realities of the job market before you graduate in English 4060, English Studies Career DevelopmentI
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Hands-On Experience, English: Creative Writing students at EIU

What You'll Learn

The study of language and literature deepens self-understanding, opens up the broad diversity of human viewpoints and cultures, hones writing and thinking skills, and intensifies the appreciation of the arts of literature and writing. It develops the mind as it teaches skills in critical thinking, research, and communication valued in a wide variety of careers.

View in Catalog
$47,222
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • English Language & Literature…
  • Secondary School Teachers
  • Proofreaders & Copy Markers

Career Insights

Job Outlook Average Outlook
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Social

Connect With Us

Dr. Angela Vietto
Professor of English and Chair, Department of English
arvietto@eiu.edu
Coleman Hall 3135
217-581-2428
Dr. Angela Vietto Message Dr. Vietto

Message Dr. Vietto

or email arvietto@eiu.edu directly
Michael Cornebise
Interim Dean, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences & Professor, Geography
mwcornebise@eiu.edu
2214
217-581-7486
Michael Cornebise Message Michael

Message Michael

or email mwcornebise@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

Message Billy

or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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