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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, 31 in Major
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
English with an Emphasis in Creative Writing | Class of 2027
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 diversity of human viewpoints and cultures, hones writing and thinking skills and intensifies appreciation of the arts of literature and writing.

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

Angela Vietto
Professor of English and Chair, Department of English
arvietto@eiu.edu
3341 Coleman Hall
217-581-2428
Angela Vietto Message Angela

Message Angela

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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