Creative Writing

As a practice, creative writing refers to a wide variety of disciplines. Writers who want to publish novels, poetry, short fiction, and creative non-fiction often earn an MFA and support their creative practice by teaching in higher education. *Note: Higher education favors PhDs in many environments but not all. This, however, is not the exclusive career path for writers. Many support themselves and practice their craft in advertising, media, publishing, journalism, corporate careers, and non-profit spaces. For information about entertainment focused writing, check out the “Entertainment” resource!

 

Careers

A degree in English or a passion for creative writing provides a foundation for many different types of positions, including:

  • Journalist
  • Editor
  • Book publisher
  • Scriptwriter
  • Magazine writer
  • Novelist
  • Documentarian
  • Poet
  • Playwright
  • Drama critic
  • Marketing copywriter
  • Fundraising
  • Technical writer
  • Teacher
  • University professor
  • Advertising specialist
  • Librarian
  • University administrator
  • Account management
  • Media production
  • Attorney
  • Human resource director
  • Public affairs specialist
  • Theater manager

 

Another way to think about writing careers (or careers related to creative writing) is to look at the different types of employers that would hire a writer:

  • Publishing houses
  • Newspapers
  • Magazines
  • Broadcast media companies
  • Public relations and advertising firms
  • Corporate marketing departments
  • Professional, community, and children's theater groups
  • Schools and universities
  • Libraries
  • Museums
  • Government and regulatory agencies
  • Non-profit organizations supporting theater, drama, literacy, etc.

 

Resources and Job Boards

 

Professional Organizations