The 10 Best Online Writing Degrees

If you enjoy words and like to be creative, a degree in creative writing can help you to build a rewarding career.

With this qualification, you could become an author, or work as an editor, writer, media producer, web content manager, art director, or scriptwriter, among other roles.

If you want to be able to study while continuing to work and meet other commitments, an online writing degree may be the perfect solution for you.

Which online degree is the best fit for you?

Read on for the best online colleges for creative writing with costs, courses, and financial aid options.

Best Online Creative Writing Degrees and Colleges

Florida International University

Online Bachelor of Arts (English: Writing and Rhetoric Track)

FIU is among the top ten largest universities in the country and has helped students from 33 countries to graduate from its many programs based on advanced technology and learning practices. This bachelor of English online degree (writing and rhetoric track) will help students develop sophisticated communication skills and prepare them to adapt to the modern world’s multilingual, multicultural, and digitalized society.

• Courses include: Writing & rhetoric, creative writing: forms & practices, and professional & technical writing.
• Credits: 120
• Tuition: $228.81 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, federal work-study, loans, and external resources.
• Acceptance rate: 58%
• Location: Miami, Florida

Texas Tech University

English, B. A. (Creative Writing concentration)

TTU is a public university that aims to produce ethical leaders with programs designed for a competitive and diverse workforce. This BA in English program offers a creative writing concentration emphasizing effective communication and writing, helping you become a responsible and ethical communicator in various contexts and situations.

• Courses include: Advanced creative writing, essentials of college rhetoric, and language & community.
• Credits: 120
• Tuition: Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, employment, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 70%
• Location: Lubbock, Texas

The University of Central Florida

Online English – Creative Writing, BA

The University of Central Florida is one of the best online schools for writing: the US News & World Report named it #7 out of the best online bachelor programs. This online creative writing degree aims to equip students with a better understanding of rhetoric, communication, and literary structure through a diverse selection of texts.

• Courses include: Theory & practice of creative writing, fiction writing workshop, and history of prose style.
• Credits: 120
• Tuition: $179.19 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, fee waivers, work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 45%
• Location: Orlando, Florida

Southern New Hampshire University

Bachelor of Arts – Creative Writing Degree Online

Southern New Hampshire University is the most innovative school in the country, according to the US News & World Report. This is one of the best online creative writing degrees for anyone wishing to become a writer in the fields of arts and literature. The program offers four concentrations: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and screenwriting.

• Courses include: Genre writing workshops, advanced creative writing, and literary theory.
• Credits: 120
• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition: $320 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 94%
• Location: Manchester, New Hampshire

Liberty University

Bachelor of Science in English and Writing

Liberty University is a well-known private institution that offers several exclusively online programs based on Christian ethics and a Biblical worldview. This BS is an online creative writing program that will help you to develop excellent skills in technical writing, research, and literary analysis, along with creative writing.

• Courses include: Introduction to creative writing, modern grammar, and composition & literature.
• Credits: 120
• Duration: 3.5 years
• Tuition: $390 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 50%
• Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

The University of Colorado Denver

English Writing, Rhetoric, and Technology, BA

The University of Colorado offers a range of online programs that allow students to learn with the same curriculum and faculty as their on-campus counterparts. This is one of the best online creative writing degrees that allows you to specialize in related fields, such as digital production and journalism.

• Courses include: Grammar, rhetoric and style, business writing, and fiction workshop.
• Credits: 120
• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition: $340 per credit
• Financial aid: Grants, work-study, scholarships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 66%
• Location: Denver, Colorado

Indiana University East

Online Bachelor of Arts in English, Technical and Professional Writing

Indiana University East is a public university that offers a large number of flexible online programs, along with excellent credit transfer options. This creative writing bachelor’s degree aims to give students the skills to analyze the written word, think critically, and effectively communicate ideas.

• Courses include: Reading, writing and inquiry, advanced technical writing, and american fiction to 1900.
• Credits: 120
• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition: $239.01 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, employer support, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 67%
• Location: Richmond, Indiana

The University of Houston Downtown

English-Creative Writing Concentration, BA

The University of Houston is located in culturally-diverse downtown Houston, so perfectly positioned to embrace students from all backgrounds. The school offers programs in on-campus and online modes as well as through its satellite campuses. This online creative writing program not only gives students the skills to analyze texts but also to understand and apply techniques to British, US, and international works of literature.

• Courses include: Introduction to creative writing, fiction workshops, and literary translation.
• Credits: 120
• Tuition: $245.75
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 93%
• Location: Houston, Texas

Full Sail University

Creative Writing, Bachelor of Fine Arts

Full Sail University is a private, for-profit university offering a range of online and on-campus programs focused on the arts, media, entertainment, and technology. But they place a focus on real-world industry experience. This online degree in writing covers both creative writing and digital and visual media and how to publish and broadcast your work on these channels.

• Courses: Creative skills development, scriptwriting techniques, and multimedia storytelling.
• Credits: 120
• Duration: 2-3 years
• Tuition: $608 per credit
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Location: Winter Park, Florida

The University of Iowa

Bachelor of Applied Studies – Creative Writing Emphasis Area

The University of Iowa is a public university named the tenth-best college in the US for writing. This flexible online degree in writing follows an asynchronous schedule so that you can study on your own schedule.

• Courses include: Creative writing, writing for clarity, and advanced fiction writing.
• Credits: 120
• Tuition: $363 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, work-study, grants, federal assistance, and state assistance.
• Acceptance rate: 84%
• Location: Iowa City, Iowa

What Do I Need To Get an Online Writing Degree?

As part of the admission process, you will typically need to submit your high school transcripts, SAT/ACT score, personal essay, and letters of recommendation for your application.

Once accepted into the program, you will usually have to study for three to four years, completing courses in literature, writing, language, and other subjects, usually covering around 120 credits. Many online programs have the option to transfer previous credits, which could allow you to earn your degree faster.

Preparing for an Online Writing Degree

The first thing that will prepare you for this kind of degree is reading as much as possible. Reading can help you build a strong vocabulary and writing skills. Participating in related activities such as your school newspaper or reading clubs can also be helpful. Some universities even run creative writing workshops and classes for prospective students, which can be valuable.

Things To Consider When Choosing an Online Writing Degree

Although everyone’s path is different, here are some general things to keep in mind when choosing the best online writing degree:

• Accreditation: Studying with an institution that is properly accredited gives you a guarantee of the quality of education and will make your qualification more valuable to prospective employers. It’s also essential for financial aid and helps with credit transfers.
• Funding: It’s important to research tuition, other costs, and financial aid options to ensure everything fits your budget.
• Courses: Make sure to choose a program with courses and specializations that match your career objectives.
• Flexibility: Online programs can be asynchronous or synchronous. Some may have hybrid options while others are 100% online, and still, others may require minimal campus attendance. It’s important to be clear on your availability and choose a program accordingly.

Why Get a Degree in Writing?

Writing is an essential part of almost every industry. As a writer, you can work across a diverse range of roles and sectors and have the option to be self-employed or work for an organization.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of writers and authors is $69,510, and the job growth estimate is 9%, representing decent career prospects in the future.

Jobs and Salaries for Writers

A writer can work in digital media, education, entertainment, journalism, and many other industries or pursue a career as an author.

Here are some of the most common roles for graduates with a writing degree, with the average salary for each:

• Art Director ($71,258)
• Editor ($56,021)
• Writer/Author ($50,128)
• Technical Writer ($62,340)
• Web Content Manager ($60,131)

Average Cost of an Online Writing Degree

The tuition for an online writing degree ranges from $10,000 to $35,000, with private colleges generally costing more than public ones. In public colleges, in-state students pay less than their out-of-state counterparts. You may also need to pay for books, supplies, and technology fees. However, you’ll save on accommodation and transportation costs.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Writing?

It usually takes around four years to complete a degree in writing. However, some online writing degrees allow you to finish faster, especially if you can transfer credits from your previous studies.

What Skills Do You Gain From Doing a Degree in Writing?

Some of the key skills you can develop through a degree in writing are:

• Creative writing
• Communication, presentation, and negotiation
• Planning and organization
• Working independently
• Time management

Online Writing Degrees FAQs

How Much Does an Online Bachelor’s in Writing Cost?

A bachelor’s degree in creative writing can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $35,000, not including books, supplies, technology fees, and other expenses.

How Long Does It Take To Earn a Bachelor’s in Writing Online?

It usually takes around four years to complete a degree in writing online.

Do You Need a Degree in Writing To Be a Writer?

Not all successful writers have a degree in writing. However, having one can help you to master several useful and relevant skills, and employers often look for a formal qualification.

Is Creative Writing a BA or BS?

You will find BA and BS creative writing programs from various schools, although BA is more common. Bachelor of Science programs mostly focus on technical writing.

Key Takeaways

Whether you want to be an author, journalist, technical writer, editor, or screenwriter, an online writing degree can be tremendously helpful. While some gifted writers can accomplish a lot even without a formal degree, a creative writing degree can help you to develop a range of skills and expose you to new knowledge and techniques. Even able writers can find such programs helpful in honing their abilities.

For more on the best programs for writers, look at our guides to the best MFA in creative writing programs, the best master’s in English, and the highest-paying master’s degrees.