Creative Writing Certificate Program
Writers who are serious about their craft can create a custom course of study to prepare for graduate programs in creative writing. In this post-baccalaureate certificate program, students hone their craft, formalize their training and build a solid portfolio of work for application to MFA and MA/
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About the Creative Writing Certificate Program
Creative Writing Goals and Courses
Program Goals
Creative Writing post-baccalaureate certificate students will:
- Explore a range of literary works and aesthetic approaches
- Gain a rigorous background in the fundamentals of creative writing by working with established poets and prose writers
- Learn about the literary publishing industry and develop a sense of the writer's position within it
- Build a solid portfolio through the development of a regular writing practice
Required Courses
Four from the following:
- ENGLISH 206 Reading/Writing Poetry*
- ENGLISH 207 Reading/Writing Fiction
- ENGLISH 208 Reading/Writing Creative Nonfiction
- ENGLISH 307-A Advanced Fiction I
- ENGLISH 307-B Advanced Fiction II
- ENGLISH 308-A Advanced Nonfiction I
- ENGLISH 308-B Advanced Nonfiction II
Notes:
In addition to the minimum of four required courses from the list above, students may complete literature courses in SPS. Search for courses in the English subject area in the SPS course schedule.
Students should have some academic writing experience before starting the Creative Writing post-baccalaureate certificate.
The recommended start time for this program is fall quarter.
Creative Writing Tuition
Post-baccalaureate students at Northwestern's School of Professional Studies pay per course. For more information about financial obligations and tuition, visit the Tuition page.
Admission for Creative Writing
In addition to completing an online application, you'll also need to submit a few supplemental materials. A list of requirements for admission including application deadlines and tips on how to apply can be found at the Admission page.
Creative Writing Registration Information
Whether you're a first-time registrant or current and returning student, all students register using our online student registration and records systems. Important information about registering for courses at SPS, including registration timelines and adding or dropping courses in which you are already enrolled, can be found at the Registration Information page.