Everything you need to know about a creative writing major

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Key takeaways about a creative writing major

A creative writing major focuses on storytelling, expression, and literary craft.
You’ll take courses in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, nonfiction, and more.
Common pairings include majors or minors in English, journalism, or communications.
Career paths range from publishing and editing to marketing, teaching, and media.
Scholarships and tools like Scholly Scholarships can help fund your degree.

If you’re the one always jotting down ideas in your Notes app, writing short stories for fun, or dreaming about publishing a novel one day, a creative writing major could be the perfect path for you. But what exactly does it involve, what will you study, and where could it take you? Let’s break it down in a way that’s realistic, motivating, and tailored to you.

What is a creative writing major?

A creative writing major is all about studying the art of storytelling. Unlike an English major, which leans heavily into literary analysis, creative writing focuses on producing original works. You’ll learn techniques for writing fiction, poetry, screenplays, plays, and nonfiction, while also studying literature that inspires and informs your own craft.

What courses and specializations can I expect?

You won’t just sit in lecture halls analyzing Shakespeare—though that might happen too. Expect hands-on workshops where you share your writing with classmates and get feedback. Core courses often include:

Introduction to creative writing
Fiction and poetry workshops
Screenwriting and playwriting
Creative nonfiction
Literary theory and editing

Some schools also offer specializations like digital storytelling, publishing, or writing for video games.

What are common double majors or minors?

Creative writing pairs well with other majors and minors that expand your skills and career options. Some popular pairings include:

English or literature
Journalism or communications
Marketing or public relations
History or philosophy
Film studies or theater

What skills will I learn?

Yes, you’ll get better at writing stories, but the skills you pick up go way beyond that. As a creative writing major, you’ll develop:

Strong written and verbal communication
Critical and creative thinking
Collaboration and peer feedback
Research and storytelling across formats
Editing and revising for clarity and impact

What careers can I pursue with a creative writing degree?

Not every creative writing major becomes a novelist—and that’s a good thing. The skills you learn translate into many industries. Top career paths include:

Publishing, editing, and literary agencies
Journalism and media
Marketing, PR, and content creation
Teaching and education
Screenwriting, playwriting, or game writing

If you want more options, check out Scout College Search to see which schools align with your career goals.

What is the salary potential for creative writing majors?

Salaries vary widely depending on your chosen path. Writers and authors earn a median salary of around $73,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Roles in marketing, editing, or communications often range from $50,000–$80,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience and specialize.

Is creative writing right for me?

If you love telling stories, experimenting with words, and expressing yourself, this major could be a great fit. But it’s not just about passion—you’ll need discipline, openness to feedback, and a willingness to rewrite (a lot). If that sounds like you, you might thrive in creative writing.

Notable schools for creative writing majors

Some well-known programs include:

Use Scout College Search to find programs that fit your goals.

How can I pay for a creative writing degree?

Scholarships can make a big difference in funding your education. Explore scholarships for creative writing majors, or search broadly with Scholly Scholarships. Don’t forget Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship—a quick and easy way to apply.