In this article, we profile the 30 best online bachelor’s in creative writing or professional writing programs of 2020.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which reviews the pay and job outlook for careers in writing, writers and authors should see a stable job outlook over the next eight years. To enhance your career trajectory, earning a writing degree helps. Where do you start? Researching online professional writing degrees. And we are here to assist you in your research.
30 Best Online Creative Writing Degree Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 75 accredited colleges and universities offering online writing programs. From our original pool of schools, we narrowed our search by choosing colleges or universities offering online bachelor’s in creative writing degrees or online bachelor’s in other (closely related) writing programs. We then looked at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and collected the most recent published undergraduate tuition. Our methodology for ranking included raw affordability, rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and accreditation. We then listed the schools and corresponding programs according to raw affordability.
Below are our resulting selections for the 30 best online bachelor’s in creative writing or online bachelor’s in professional writing degree programs of 2020.
Reviewing Each of the Best Online Writing Programs
#30 – California Baptist University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Riverside, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $34,882
California Baptist University offers an English degree designed for individuals interested in pursuing a bachelor’s in creative writing online degree program. This accredited master’s degree may be completed entirely online and in just 16 months. Courses cover topics from literature to composition. In fact, some of the online classes English majors take include intermediate composition, introduction to creative writing, introduction to literature, research and writing in literature and language, survey of British and American literature, and topics in world literature. The program consists of 48 required major units (credits) and is WASC-accredited. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank California Baptist as the 43rd best regional university in the West. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #52 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#29 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Creative Writing Degree
Manchester, New Hampshire
Undergraduate Tuition: $31,136
Southern New Hampshire University’s online bachelor’s in creative writing program is designed for individuals with a passion for storytelling and those who want to utilize their writing talents. The program offers four writing concentrations so that students may tailor their degree toward areas of interest like fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting. All classes are delivered online and taught by Southern New Hampshire’s esteemed faculty members. Some of the major core classes include advanced creative writing, context of writing – writers and publishers, introduction to creative writing, and literary theory. In addition to being accredited, Southern New Hampshire ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 92nd best regional university in the North.
#28 – King University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Bristol, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $30,616
For those seeking online creative writing degrees that emphasize English studies and literature, King University has options. In fact, King offers a fully online bachelor’s in English with electives that explore creative and professional writing. The program lasts 16 months and can be completed entirely online. Courses generally run five weeks in length and are taught by King’s esteemed faculty. King University is both ranked and accredited. The school’s rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report include #65 in best regional universities in the South and #47 in top performers on social mobility.
#27 – Liberty University
Online Bachelor’s in English and Writing – Creative Writing
Lynchburg, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $22,747
The online bachelor’s in creative writing program at Liberty University is a top contender among some of the best writing programs in the country. This versatile online degree offers rigorous courses that run eight weeks in length. Courses cover topics like American realism and naturalism, composition and literature, introduction to creative writing, and modern grammar. There are no set login times, and classes are flexible and convenient, especially for working students. In addition to being SACSCOC-accredited, Liberty ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. The online bachelor’s programs are also ranked. In fact, current rankings include #223 out of more than 1,200 surveyed online bachelor’s degree programs.
#26 – Mercy College
Online Bachelor’s in English
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Undergraduate Tuition: $19,594
Mercy College offers one of the top bachelor’s in creative writing online. programs on our list. The program is designed to equip students with skills needed to effectively communicate through both writing and speech. Students may choose to take a series of writing and language courses that include business writing, creative writing – nonfiction, creative writing – poetry, introduction to creative writing, the structure and form of English, and writing for the web. The school is fully accredited and ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Current rankings include #129-#170 in best regional universities in the North and #260-#345 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#25 – Regent University
Online Bachelor’s in English – Writing
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $18,620
Regent University offers online writing programs, which include the bachelor’s in English with a concentration in writing. This program is offered both online and on-campus and designed to prepare students with complex writing skills used in professional, technical, and creative writing. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like creative nonfiction and feature writing, English composition, narrative concept and development, research and academic writing, and screenwriting. In addition to offering accredited programs, such as the online bachelor’s degrees, Regent ranks with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, current rankings include #281 in best national universities and #58 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#24 – Grand Canyon University
Online Bachelor’s in English – Professional Writing
Phoenix, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $17,800
Grand Canyon University offers online professional writing degrees, including the online bachelor’s in English with professional writing concentration. This fully online degree program prepares students for successful writing careers in the 21st century. The program is very hands-on and explores a number of writing topics. Some of the courses you will take while enrolled in the program include argumentation and advocacy, multi-media journalism, the art and craft of creative writing, and writing for advertising and PR. Online courses run eight weeks in length, while the on-campus counterparts run 15 weeks. On average, the online degree may be completed quicker than the on-campus program. As a bonus, GCU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #293-#381 in best national universities.
#23 – Antioch University
Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies, Literature, and Creative Writing
Yellow Springs, Ohio
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,725
The bachelor’s in creative writing online at Antioch University is designed to prepare students to meaningfully approach literature and writing from an academic perspective. A total of 120 semester hours are required with 45 credit hours that must be completed with the institution and not transferred. Writing course requirements include creative nonfiction, history of the English language, multi-genre writing, playwriting and performance, short story writing, and social media and social change. Admission to the program requires official transcripts, a completed resumé, and letters of recommendation. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report recognize Antioch as a top regional university in the Midwest.
#22 – National University
Online Bachelor’s in English
La Jolla, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,320
Studying English is one alternative to online creative writing degrees. National University offers an online bachelor’s in English that prepares students for professional writing careers or middle and secondary school English teachers. Students take a series of writing and English courses such as fiction writing, information literacy, introduction to literature, poetry writing, and screenwriting. All classes are delivered online and taught by National’s experienced faculty. National University is also fully accredited and ranked. In fact, National ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent acknowledgements include best regional university in the West and #192 out of more than 1,200 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#21 – Ashford University
Online Bachelor’s in English
San Diego, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,400
Ashford University’s online creative writing degrees include the online bachelor’s in English. This versatile degree offers a disciplined study of literature and a rigorous foundation for the development of writing skills. The program also prepares students with proficiency in writing professionally. Courses move at a rigorous pace. Most classes run five weeks in length. These courses cover topics like business and professional writing, elements of journalism, introduction to literature, and language and power – an introduction to discourse analysis. Ashford is fully accredited and ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West.
#20 – Louisiana State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,962
Louisiana State University offers English programs designed for those seeking online creative writing degrees. Courses cover a wide range of writing topics that include creative writing, literature, and professional writing. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same LSU professors who instruct on campus. These courses include introduction to creative writing, literary history, professional writing, and studies in drama and poetry. To be admitted to the online program, applicants must have completed high school, display college readiness, and have a high school GPA of at least 2.0 or ACT composite of 20 or higher. LSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #153 in best national universities and #173 in best value schools.
#19 – Colorado State University
Online Bachelor’s in Journalism and Media Communication
Fort Collins, Colorado
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,901
Seeking online professional writing degrees from an accredited and affordable university? Colorado State University offers an online bachelor’s in journalism and media communication that is designed to help you leverage your storytelling through media technology. Faculty with years of expert media experience teach courses covering a wide range of journalism topics. Some of the online courses include advertising, public relations, and marketing; media ethics, law, and history; and news writing, magazine writing, and online storytelling. Possible career paths for graduates include grant writers, public speakers, and technical writers. CSU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #166 in best national universities and #11 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#18 – University of Illinois
Online Bachelor’s in English
Springfield, Illinois
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,813
One of the most affordable bachelor’s in creative writing online programs on our list is the English degree program at the University of Illinois. A web-based English degree prepares students for various careers in education, law, business, publishing, or journalism. Online courses provide exposure to all areas of writing and language arts. Some of the classes offered throughout the program include children’s literature, creative writing poetry, fiction writing, research methods, and rhetoric and composition in digital media. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank University of Illinois as the 33rd best regional university in the Midwest and the 41st best value school. In addition to school rankings, the online bachelor’s programs rank #33 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#17 – Arizona State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Tempe, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,338
Arizona State University offers one of the most affordable online writing programs on our list. The online bachelor’s in English consists of 39 classes that each run 7.5 weeks. This entirely online program prepares students to read and write critically in a variety of print and digital genres while honing a strong set of literacy skills. Some of the courses include critical reading and writing about literature, intermediate creative writing, literacy and critical inquiry, and writing for the professions. ASU is a fully accredited public university that has earned rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, ASU ranks #117 in best national universities. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #6 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#16 – Old Dominion University
Online Bachelor’s in Professional Writing
Norfolk, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,680
Old Dominion University offers affordable online professional writing degrees through their College of Arts and Letters and the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies. The university offers completely online courses and requires the completion of 120 credits. These online courses cover topics like advanced composition, digital writing, interdisciplinary theory and concepts, introduction to rhetorical studies, and technical writing. Recent program graduates have pursued careers in all areas of writing, such as advertising, grant writing, media planning, and technical communication. Old Dominion ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 263rd best national university and 128th top public school. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #73 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#15 – University of Memphis Global
Online Bachelor’s in English
Memphis, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,912
Some of the most affordable online creative writing degrees on our list are offered by the University of Memphis. The school offers an online bachelor’s in English with a professional writing concentration. The degree requires a total of 120 credit hours, which can be completed entirely online. Students electing to earn a professional writing concentration will learn the ins and outs of publishing, business as a profession, and how to best utilize writing technology. All courses are taught by the same instructors who lead on-campus classes. The University of Memphis ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. 2020 rankings include #272 in best national universities and #135 in top public schools.
#14 – University of North Dakota
Online Bachelor’s in Communication
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,736
Ideal for students interested in writing, advertising, or public relations, the online bachelor’s in communication from University of North Dakota is an affordable and versatile degree. Estimated completion time for the degree is four years. UND offers specialized concentrations that allow students to tailor and customize their degree to fit with career goals. Focus areas include advertising, digital analytics, public relations, social media strategy, and strategic communication. Online classes you will take include advertising and society, digital video production, media and diversity, and social media strategy. UND ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 263rd best national university and 128th top public school. The online bachelor’s programs rank #73 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#13 – University of Iowa
Online Bachelor’s in English and Creative Writing
Iowa City, Iowa
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,606
University of Iowa offers an accredited online bachelor’s in creative writing that combines both English and writing. The program requires the completion of 120 credits and a series of online English, literature, and writing courses. Courses for the creative writing core cover topics like introduction to screenwriting, playwriting, and writing for film and television. Summer writing festivals and certificate opportunities add to the unique features offered by this online literary program. In addition to the program offerings, the institution ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, University of Iowa ranks #84 in best national universities and #76 in best value schools.
#12 – University of Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in English Writing, Rhetoric, and Technology
Denver, Colorado
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,335
The University of Colorado offers online professional writing degrees that emphasize English writing as a profession. All courses are taught online by many of the same instructors who teach on campus. Students are required to take a variety of writing and English courses that emphasize topics like business and advertising, entertainment and journalism, nonprofit and grant writing communications, and publications. Ranked by major publications, University of Colorado boasts recognition from U.S. News and World Report, as well as other listings. In fact, UC-Denver ranks #254 in best national universities and #123 in top public schools. The institution offers one of the most affordable online writing degrees on our list.
#11 – Eastern Oregon University
Online Bachelor’s in English Writing
La Grande, Oregon
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,084
Individuals seeking options for an online bachelor’s in creative writing should take note of the online bachelor’s in English writing from Eastern Oregon University. This program is designed to prepare students to be creative and effective communicators in a wide range of settings. Courses, delivered online, combine topics in literature, media, and writing. These courses include approaches to grammar, introduction to rhetoric, news writing, and screenwriting fundamentals. There are also classes in professional writing and literature. Eastern Oregon University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #77 in best regional universities in the West and #37 in top public schools.
#10 – Thomas Edison State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Trenton, New Jersey
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,926
Thomas Edison State University offers online programs that might appeal to those seeking an online bachelor’s in creative writing. The online English degree helps prepare adults for careers in writing and literature. Students who complete the program gain exposure to various writing disciplines. Courses are delivered online and taught by the instructors leading on-campus classes. These courses cover topics like advanced persuasive writing, creative writing, literary criticism, science fiction, technical writing, and women in literature. A total of 120 credits must be completed to earn the degree. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Thomas Edison State as a top regional university in the North.
#9 – Missouri State University
Online Bachelor’s in Professional Writing
Springfield, Missouri
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,588
One of the most affordable online professional writing degrees on our list comes from Missouri State University. A uniquely designed program, the online bachelor’s in professional writing allows students to specialize in areas of writing like business, education, health care, law, or military. All courses are delivered online and include creative writing – nonfiction, creative writing – nonfiction, great books and instant classics, introduction to careers in technical and professional writing, and writing for the professions. In addition to offering quality programming that is accredited and affordable, MSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report. Their rankings include #293-#381 in best national universities. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #176 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#8 – University of Maryland Global Campus
Online Bachelor’s in English
Adelphi, Maryland
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,560
English degrees can be tailored to include classes commonly found in bachelor’s in creative writing online programs, like the one offered by University of Maryland University College. The online bachelor’s in English offers classes in both literature and writing. All courses may be completed online. These courses include critical approaches to literature, history of the English language, introduction to fiction and poetry, modern American literature, and standard English grammar. Online students gain access to many of the same amenities as their on-campus peers, including student clubs and organizations. All of these may be attended virtually. University of Maryland also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and best value school.
#7 – Indiana University
Online Bachelor’s in English, Technical, and Professional Writing
Richmond, Indiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,527
Indiana University East offers one of the most affordable online professional writing degrees on our list. The online bachelor’s in English, technical, and professional writing is comprised of 60 credit hours (20 classes) offered over two calendar years. All courses are delivered online and taught by some of the same professors who instruct on campus. Courses include advanced technical writing, grammar and usage, introduction to critical practices, studies in American culture, and technical editing. Indiana University East ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 117th-153rd best regional university in the Midwest and 54th top performer on social mobility.
#6 – American Public University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Charles Town, West Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,324
American Public University offers a bachelor’s in English that can be completed entirely online. This program is designed for individuals looking for a writing degree that also covers grammar usage and literature. There is no application fee, no cost for transfer credit evaluation, or charges for textbooks. In fact, APU offers one of the most affordable programs on our list. Also, the program offers flexibility beyond the online studies. Two concentrations, general and writing, allow students to tailor their degree to align with career goals and interests. APU is fully accredited and recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South.
#5 – University of Houston
Online Creative Writing Degree
Victoria, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,781
University of Houston’s School of Arts and Sciences offers an online bachelor’s in creative writing program designed for aspiring authors and those interested in writing as a profession. All courses are delivered online. They are taught by the same professors who instruct on the University of Houston campus. These courses cover topics like advanced creative nonfiction writing, advanced fiction writing, advanced poetry writing, and advanced screenwriting. The school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, these rankings include #185 in best national universities and #133 in best value schools. University of Houston offers one of the most affordable online creative writing degrees on our list.
#4 – Florida International University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Miami, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565
Florida International University offers a bachelor’s in English online program with writing and rhetoric or creative writing specialization tracks. The BA in writing and rhetoric is offered exclusively online with courses taught by the same FIU professors who teach on campus. These courses cover topics like advanced business writing, advanced writing and research, introduction to writing studies, professional technical writing, and rhetorical theory and practice. When applying to the program, official SAT and ACT scores are required, in addition to the online application and official high school transcripts. FIU is fully accredited and ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 218th best national university.
#3 – University of Central Florida
Online Bachelor’s in English – Creative Writing
Orlando, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,368
The University of Central Florida offers an online bachelor’s in creative writing program that is both accredited and affordable. For under $6,500 per year, students can earn a versatile writing degree. Classes are taught by dedicated scholars committed to studying language, literature, and writing. All classes are delivered online and cover topics in creative nonfiction writing, fiction writing, poetry writing, and writing scripts. The program is designed to prepare students for advanced MFA programs or to enter the publishing world. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school #166 in best national universities. Also, the online bachelor’s degree programs rank #16 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#2 – Clayton State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Morrow, Georgia
Undergraduate Tuition: $5,538
Clayton State University offers a bachelor’s in English online with classes that appeal to those seeking writing careers. In fact, students may elect to earn a writing concentration offered through the program. Courses cover writing topics like advanced composition, careers in writing, digital and multimedia writing, introduction to creative writing, and professional and technical writing. The classes are taught by the same professors who instruct on the Clayton State campus. Clayton is an accredited institution with affordable undergraduate tuition. Also, Clayton ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 96th-122nd best regional university in the South.
#1 – Middle Georgia State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Macon, Georgia
Undergraduate Tuition: $4,042
Individuals seeking an online bachelor’s in creative writing program might find the online bachelor’s in English at Middle Georgia State University appealing. This highly affordable program can be completed for close to $4,000 annually, making it the cheapest online program on our list. Five concentration options are available so that students may tailor their degree toward career goals. There is both a creative writing concentration and a professional writing concentration offered. Middle Georgia State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 55th best regional college in the South. Additional rankings include #13 in top public schools and #61 in top performers on social mobility. Also, Middle Georgia State offers the #1 most affordable bachelor’s in creative writing or professional writing degree on our list.
BDP Staff
May 2020
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