2026 Best Online Writing Degrees
Browse the highest-rated online creative writing bachelor's degrees, according to verified students.
Why Trust Us?
- 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
- Manually Researched Tuition
- 200+ Expert Interviews
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- 30,000+ Online Degrees
The best online writing degree will help you sharpen your storytelling, communication, and editing skills across creative and professional formats. Verified student reviews help reveal which programs deliver the strongest overall experience.
Key Takeaways:
- The highest-rated writing degrees online are remarkably close in student satisfaction despite enormous differences in price.
- UCF may be the clearest overall standout. UCF takes first place with a 4.06 rating and 97% recommendation rate while charging just $5,018 annually 鈥� the lowest tuition on the entire list.
We also spoke with professional writers and editors who shared first-hand perspectives on honing craft. Read their advice below our list and analysis.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online bachelor's in writing degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few bachelor's in writing qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
We also manually research all tuition rates and include median earnings for writing majors five years after graduation when that data is available. By presenting the most complete data available, we aim to give you an honest, well-rounded picture of each program.
2026 Best Online Writing Degrees
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 97% | $5,018 | N/A | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Kansas | 4.03 / 5 | 92% | 100% | 93% | 100% | $8,700 | N/A |
| Old Dominion University | 3.82 / 5 | 83% | $8,040 | $53,896 | |||
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 3.75 / 5 | 60% | $10,260 | $39,888 | |||
| Florida International University | 3.74 / 5 | 82% | $7,068 | N/A | |||
| Regent University Online | 3.66 / 5 | 67% | $11,850 | N/A | |||
| Full Sail University | 3.59 / 5 | 77% | 92% | $8,092 | N/A | ||
| Weber State University | 3.27 / 5 | 80% | $5,836 | $46,871 | |||
| Missouri State University | 3.21 / 5 | 67% | $9,060 | $50,032 | |||
| Liberty University | 3.15 / 5 | 56% | $11,700 | N/A | |||
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 2.88 / 5 | 50% | $9,900 | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- UCF's bachelor's program was rated by students as the #1 best online writing degree in the U.S., and 97% of students would recommend the school to others based on 860+ verified student reviews from just this school alone.
- The school frames writing as a civic and professional practice, with rhetoric extending beyond traditional English or literature study.
- The online curriculum spans written, digital, and multimedia texts, giving the major a cross-medium communication focus.
1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Writing Degrees
During my time at the University of Central Florida, the staff, faculty, and even my peers cultivated a sense of creativity, ambition, and academic excellence within me that has propelled me forward in my aspirations. The coursework and support of the... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray UCF as a large, opportunity-rich campus where many students felt supported by engaged professors, abundant clubs, strong school spirit, and practical resources such as labs, career services, internships, and study spaces. Many said the university rewards initiative: those who network, attend office hours, and seek hands-on experience often felt well prepared for jobs or graduate study. Students also valued diversity, modern facilities, and flexible online or hybrid options. Recurring drawbacks centered on scale, including oversized classes, parking headaches, hard-to-reach advising, inconsistent financial aid, scheduling bottlenecks, and some programs that felt under-supported, outdated, or weaker in direct career preparation.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 8,871 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $5,018
- Out-of-State Tuition: $5,018
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- KU offers both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of General Studies in Literature, Language and Writing. Plus, KU offers two undergraduate certificates whose courses can also count toward the bachelor’s degree.
- Online writing majors have substantial freedom to choose courses around their individual interests and career goals. The curriculum also incorporates undergraduate research, internships, and study abroad opportunities.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Kansas are largely favorable, with students most often praising helpful, knowledgeable professors, a beautiful campus, and Lawrence’s welcoming college-town atmosphere. Many say the experience becomes far more valuable when you get involved in clubs, research, study abroad, practicum, or career fairs, which build confidence, networks, and job readiness. Students also value flexible formats, advising, and strong school spirit, especially around athletics. Criticisms center on uneven teaching quality, some outdated or underfunded departments and facilities, limited scholarships, expensive tuition and parking, bureaucracy, and gaps in real-world career preparation, diversity, or support for transfers and some online learners.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 1,115 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $30,432
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Online writing majors can design an individualized writing concentration by combining courses across multiple disciplines. Students can combine writing with political science, public policy, communications, advertising, marketing, or public relations.
- The curriculum includes unusual writing options such as graphic novels, poetry, screenwriting, food writing, magazine writing, and grant writing.
- The creative writing program encourages students to position themselves as working writers, including learning how to think entrepreneurially about writing careers.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Massachusetts - Amherst are broadly positive, driven by strong academics, accessible professors, and solid value for a flagship campus. Students frequently praise the ability to find smaller, supportive communities within a large university, along with abundant clubs, research, networking, and flexible online options. Food, campus beauty, transit, and the surrounding college-town setting stand out as recurring lifestyle advantages. The main frustrations are administrative bureaucracy, uneven advising or career support, large or hard-to-enter classes, and occasional concerns about academic rigor in some online or specialized offerings. Several students note success depends heavily on individual initiative.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 926 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $40,449
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- ASU combines English study with a formal creative writing concentration, pairing literary analysis with original writing practice.
- The curriculum is designed to build both a distinct written voice and the vocabulary needed to analyze literature. Students develop original work while also learning to give, receive, and apply writing feedback.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Arizona State University Online as highly flexible and convenient for working adults, parents, military members, and transfer learners who needed a credible remote option. Many praised responsive professors, user-friendly platforms, strong advising, and resources such as tutoring, career support, and financial aid guidance. Positive reviewers also said the curriculum could be rigorous, engaging, and comparable to in-person study. Criticism centered on high tuition, extra fees, uneven instructor quality, slow advising, inconsistent grading, delayed email responses, and compressed 7.5-week courses. Several reviewers also warned that some pathways felt weak in career alignment, leaving graduates underprepared for employment or disappointed in return on investment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 57,610 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $33,139
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $63,437
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Students study science writing and argumentative writing alongside workplace-focused communication.
- IU specifically connects the curriculum to specialized roles such as engineering writer and medical writer. Other identified career paths include documentation specialist, information developer, copywriter, and media content specialist.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Indiana University - Indianapolis are broadly positive, but they describe a campus that works best for career-focused, self-directed learners rather than those seeking a classic residential experience. Students frequently praise accessible professors, strong mentoring, internships, research, and downtown networking that lead to jobs, clinical exposure, and practical experience. Flexibility is a recurring strength, especially evening, weekend, and online formats that help working adults stay enrolled. Common frustrations center on inconsistent teaching quality, disorganized advising or administration, limited financial aid, parking and transportation hassles, safety concerns in the urban setting, and a commuter culture that can make community-building, housing, and campus life feel thin.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 1,415 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $8,700
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,700
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Old Dominion University as a generally well-regarded, opportunity-rich institution with especially strong marks for diversity, flexible online and evening formats, and professors who are knowledgeable, approachable, and invested in student success. Many reviewers say advising, internships, clinical practice, and career-focused coursework helped them feel workforce-ready, with some securing jobs before or soon after graduation. Students also value transfer-friendly policies, reasonable tuition, and abundant clubs, events, and community engagement. Recurring drawbacks center on inconsistent administrative support, confusing advising, limited class availability, parking and housing frustrations, uneven financial aid service, safety concerns in surrounding neighborhoods, and occasional gaps in career services.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 5,614 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $8,040
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,040
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $53,896
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Southern New Hampshire University Online are broadly positive, but sharply divided. Supporters frequently praise responsive advisors, caring instructors, straightforward course navigation, flexible scheduling for work and family obligations, reasonable tuition compared with competitors, generous transfer-credit acceptance, and coursework that can be challenging when students fully engage. Many say the format rewards self-discipline, writing ability, and independent learning rather than lecture-based instruction. Critics focus on recurring financial aid and billing problems, withdrawal disputes, transcript holds, inconsistent transfer evaluations, vague rubrics, uneven instructor quality, limited teaching beyond prebuilt modules, and concerns that aggressive growth or admissions practices can make students feel transactional rather than supported.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.3 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Writing Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University's online program for a degree in Creative Writing with a concentration in fiction was perfect for me. As a single mother of two children in school, working full time and with a full time life outside of work, this program... Read More
I love this new online college- If you are online and dissatisfied- look around! I was drowning at the old one- bored and miserable- the people- including professors-were only going for a piece of paper or paycheck. I just assumed online was like that... Read More
My school is a good fit for me as I could not find any online writing schools that were not specifically focused on journalism. I wanted a creative writing degree and it is difficult to find a school that focuses... Read More
Yes, I would pursue the same degree as writing is a passion of mine and is very therapeutic as well since I am disable and cannot attend the traditional on-campus courses.
Make sure you make yourself marketable and take a variety of courses.
- Online Enrollment: 160,747 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $10,260
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,260
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $39,888
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Florida International University as a generally well-regarded, affordable, and diverse campus where many students praise knowledgeable professors, practical instruction, flexible online options, and abundant opportunities for internships, research, networking, and campus involvement. Students often value the modern facilities, welcoming atmosphere, and career preparation, especially when they actively seek out resources. The clearest frustrations center on inconsistent administration, slow or unhelpful advising, financial aid and enrollment issues, limited career placement in some areas, overcrowding, parking, and the self-directed nature of a large commuter campus. Several negative reviews also cite uneven teaching quality, weak support, and outdated or poorly organized courses.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 11,038 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,068
- Out-of-State Tuition: $7,068
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Regent University Online are broadly positive, driven by high ratings and frequent praise for caring, accessible professors, strong academic rigor, and a well-structured online format that helps many balance work and family. Many reviewers value the Christian integration and say it creates a supportive, purpose-driven environment, with advisors, writing support, and responsive faculty standing out. Negative reviews center on administrative breakdowns: transfer-credit disputes, poor advising, billing and financial aid confusion, slow communication, and disorganized systems. Several also criticize accelerated eight-week terms as overloaded, discussion boards as low-value, limited course rotation, high costs, and faith integration as excessive or exclusionary for some.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 3,757 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,850
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,850
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a sharply divided experience shaped by pace, delivery, and cost. Positive reviewers praise the accelerated format, flexible online structure, industry-experienced instructors, hands-on projects, networking, career-focused assignments, and included equipment, saying the school works well for motivated, independent learners who want practical preparation. Negative reviewers focus on high tuition and debt, weak transferability of credits, inconsistent teaching quality, outdated or shallow material, and a frequent reliance on third-party videos instead of direct instruction. Many also cite poor communication from instructors, advisors, financial aid, and career services, plus uneven support for online learners and limited post-graduation job outcomes.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 21,592 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $26,906
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $31,734
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 44%
- Retention Rate: 53%
- Institution Type: For-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Arkansas are broadly positive, with many describing a beautiful campus, strong school spirit, and a welcoming community that feels large yet personal. Students frequently praise caring professors, accessible staff, and practical preparation through internships, networking, study abroad, and flexible online or hybrid formats. Affordability and scholarships stand out as major advantages, especially for working adults and out-of-state students. The most consistent complaints involve severe parking problems, uneven advising, occasional instructor quality issues, limited course availability in some areas, and concerns that some classes lack hands-on application, diversity, or sufficient career support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 1,760 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $8,092
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,092
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Weber State University as a largely supportive, affordable, and flexible place to study, especially for people balancing work, family, or commuting. Many reviewers praise responsive professors, small classes, online and hybrid options, hands-on learning, and practical career preparation, noting strong faculty accessibility and real-world opportunities like research, internships, networking, and community engagement. Several also value the friendly atmosphere, diverse peer connections, and lower living costs nearby. Criticism is concentrated in a few areas: some describe certain programs as filled with busy work, redundant coursework, weak outcomes, limited class availability, difficult parking, poor disability support, and inconsistent teaching quality.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 4,774 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $5,836
- Out-of-State Tuition: $5,836
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $46,871
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Missouri State University as a generally satisfying experience centered on approachable professors, manageable campus size, and abundant ways to get involved socially and professionally. Many reviewers valued hands-on learning, volunteer or research opportunities, flexible online options, and advisors or faculty who were accessible outside class. Several also said the school balanced a big-campus atmosphere with a more navigable, less overwhelming setting. Criticism focused on uneven quality across departments, weak advising in some cases, poor job placement support, and administrative frustrations involving refunds, communication, costs, and required courses seen as irrelevant. A few reviews also reported serious concerns about sexism, harassment, and disrespectful faculty behavior.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Writing Degrees
I loved it. Most wouldn't call my degree (creative writing) very useful, but being able to write opened several doors for me. I loved my experience in college. It taught me to think and ask questions.
- Online Enrollment: 1,853 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,060
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,060
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $50,032
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a sharply divided experience shaped by strong ratings at both ends. Supporters often praise the flexible online format, eight-week terms, transfer options, veteran and first responder discounts, and professors who are responsive, encouraging, and career-focused. Many say the workload is rigorous but manageable with discipline, and some credit the education with promotions, licensure success, or graduate-school preparation. Critics most often cite inconsistent advising, financial aid delays, billing disputes, hidden or confusing fees, and slow administrative communication. A recurring complaint is minimal instruction in some courses, with too much self-teaching, while others felt the religious integration was constant, forced, or distracting from subject-specific learning.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 39,156 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,700
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,700
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 65%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a school that works best for highly self-directed, working adults who value flexible online and hybrid formats, accelerated terms, and broad credit transfer options, especially military-affiliated learners. Many say the workload is heavy, writing intensive, and discussion driven, with group projects often frustrating because peers contribute unevenly. Positive reviewers praise convenience, challenging coursework, practical career relevance, and some knowledgeable, responsive professors. Negative reviews focus on inconsistent teaching quality, limited hands-on instruction in technical areas, weak advising, confusing platforms, and recurring administrative problems, especially with financial aid, billing, transfer credits, admissions, and graduation audits that caused stress, delays, and distrust.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 46,379 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,900
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,900
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Stories Behind the Best Online Writing Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
Writing Across Screens, Games, and Media
Full Sail University
Full Sail takes the most production-oriented approach to creative writing in this list of the highest-rated options for a writing degree online. Its curriculum extends storytelling beyond fiction and poetry into film, games, mobile platforms, multimedia, digital video, and audio, with coursework devoted specifically to gaming, transmedia storytelling, and multimedia storytelling. Students also work with tools such as Final Draft and Adobe Creative Cloud alongside AI-assisted platforms including ChatGPT, Suno, ElevenLabs, and Adobe Firefly.
The Project LaunchBox adds another beneficial component by providing a MacBook and professional creative software. By graduation, students can build portfolios containing screenplays, narrative games, comics, and transmedia projects. That makes Full Sail especially distinct for writers interested in entertainment and digital-media production.
An Internship Built Into the Writing Degree
Missouri State University
Missouri State makes workplace experience a formal part of its professional writing curriculum through a required 135-hour internship in an employment setting. It's one of the clearest experiential requirements in this ranking. The degree also requires students to select a minor, creating a built-in way to pair writing with another professional or industry specialty.
Career applications extend into grant writing, technical communication, content marketing, web content editing, and online help systems. The combination of required internship experience, a complementary minor, and two degree pathways gives Missouri State a notably structured approach to turning writing skills into a more specialized professional profile.
Writing for Multilingual Audiences
Florida International University
FIU's writing program strives to connect writing and rhetoric to multilingual audiences, information design, project management, and community-facing work. The Writing and Rhetoric track emphasizes communicating across diverse audiences, an especially relevant dimension for a university rooted in South Florida.
Students can also work on projects with local nonprofits and businesses, bringing real organizations into the learning experience. Online writing courses span community writing, environmental writing, technical communication, professional editing, and digital content development, giving students several ways to apply rhetoric outside traditional academic writing.
Expert Voices: Building Skill, Confidence, and Career Paths in Online Writing Programs
Two experienced writing professionals 鈥� Rob Swystun, a ghostwriter and content strategist, and Kristina Lucia Pezza, an artist and author 鈥� share their perspectives on thriving in online writing programs. They talk about building consistent habits and seeking out meaningful feedback, among other topics, and their advice underscores the importance of practice, authenticity, and embracing the process.
Finding Your Voice Through Audience Connection
"For writing programs, it is about what the participant brings to the table. It is crucial to absorb the information that has been give to you but this information needs to be put into practice so that the actions become a natural as opposed to a forced habit.
It is very important to gain experience beyond the classroom as putting your writing skills into practice is what is going to make you a writer. Like walking and other daily functions, writing requires certain muscles in our mind that need to be exercised on a regular basis to become natural.
It is important to share with others in these settings as we learn and grow so much from others.
By writing on a regular basis the individual not only expands their skill set and develops a style but also learns to write for an audience. Being able to write for an audience is a key skill as you want to share a piece of yourself but also write about a message that the audience is seeking.
I would advise young writers to:
-
Focus on the genre that they feel the most comfortable with. Writing is very personal and it is very crucial to be authentic to your strengths and what genre you identify with. Once confidence is built in the writer and their work, it is much easier to grow into other genres and explore those possibilities.
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Focus on consistency. Create a routine where you are consistently writing. Next step is to set a time to release your work to an audience. You do not have to release every piece but create a routine to release your work regularly. It is completely normal write ten to twenty pieces and only share one or two of them with readers. Be proud of your first pieces for they are going to shape you into the writer you are destined to be.
Online courses can definitely capture the advantages of an in person course as long as there is interaction with both the instructor and other attendees. Online is a great place to start as it is a first step to building an audience.
The more you write and the more you share your work the better understanding you will receive on what readers are gravitating towards. When you share a piece of your writing, it also shifts the mindset from work in progress to a completed piece. The more pieces a writer completes the stronger their voice becomes and their work truly grows to new heights."
Mastering the Craft Through Honest Feedback
Ghostwriter and Fiction Author
"Online writing programs will have no discernible difference from in-person programs if they are organized and taught well. Writing, reviewing, and editing are all solitary activities, so you need not be in an in-person setting to do anything that you will be learning. Aside from not having the in-person camaraderie of classmates, you won't be missing anything with online programs.
Online writing programs will have no discernible difference from in-person programs if they are organized and taught well.
Regardless of what you are studying, it is imperative to gain experience beyond the classroom, and this includes writing. You don't even need to publish what you write, as long as you are going through the process. However, you will want to gain feedback from competent editors and competent writers. And, just as important, you will also need to learn how to spot incompetent editors and writers so you can ignore their advice.
[I] recommend that writing students perform their due diligence and research what writing is most in demand. Researching is an integral part of the writing process, anyway. In my travels around the writing corners of the internet, I often see calls for technical and grant writing. These are specialized types of writing, so you may have an easier time procuring jobs if you choose a specialized type of writing.
Remember that the true value of learning to write is in the processes:
That includes trying and failing.
That includes having your work ripped apart by a competent editor.
That includes reading, reading, and more reading.
That includes critiquing your fellow students' work.
That includes writing what you know, writing what you don't know, writing what interests you, and writing about things you couldn't care less about.
The value is in the process. If you use the easy button, you are doing yourself a massive disservice. Writing well is not supposed to be easy. If it was, anyone could do it. You want to get paid to write? Put in the work. Fail. Improve. Read. Edit. Revise. And write write write. This is how you do it."
EXPERT TIP
"Use your own blog, newsletter, Medium, LinkedIn, etc to publish your own work and send out as samples. If you can afford it, hire a professional editor. If you can't afford that, you and a fellow student can act as each other's editors."
Overview of a Bachelor's Degree in Writing
If you have a passion for writing and are interested in a career in communications, earning an online bachelor's degree in writing can help you develop your skill set and adapt your writing capabilities for a broad range of styles. An online writing degree is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the written word. Students learn to effectively convey ideas, arguments, and narratives through various styles of writing. The program aims to develop students' creative, analytical, and technical writing skills, preparing them for careers in fields such as journalism, publishing, content creation, and technical writing.
Online degrees also offer a high level of flexibility, making it much easier to fit higher education into a busy schedule, especially for working adults or those with family responsibilities.
Wondering if your online degree will be respected? Hear from experts on what recruiters and employers think about online degrees.
Common Courses in an Online Creative Writing Bachelor's Program
The core curriculum for an online writing degree includes classes designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the different writing styles and techniques, allowing students to develop skills necessary for a broad range of different writing careers.
Some of the most common classes for writing majors are:
Technical Writing
A cornerstone for those interested in an online technical writing degree, this course focuses on writing clear and concise documents such as manuals, reports, and proposals. Students learn to translate complex technical information into easily understandable text.
Creative Writing
While many people think creative writing only applies to fiction, writers can also bring creativity into the non-fiction and poetry spaces. In this class, students learn how to develop their voice, create compelling characters, and craft engaging narratives. (If this particularly interests you we also have a list of the most popular online creative writing degrees.)
Business Writing
Written communication is critical in the business world. This course teaches students how to write effectively in a business context, including writing memos, business letters, and corporate reports. The emphasis is on clear, concise, and persuasive writing.
Digital Media
This class covers writing for various digital platforms, including websites, blogs, and social media. Students learn to adapt their writing style to different online audiences and to use SEO techniques to help readers find their content online.
Literary Analysis
One of the best ways to become a better writer is through reading other writers' work. This course helps students develop their analytical skills by studying various works of literature. Students learn to interpret, analyze, and critique literary works.
Research and Writing
This course focuses on academic research and writing skills. Students learn how to conduct research, cite sources accurately, and write research papers.
What Can You Do With an Online Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree?
Graduate programs in writing, literature, journalism, or related fields can deepen your understanding of the written word and its uses. Many students go on to earn their Master of Fine Arts in creative writing, poetry, or nonfiction writing, which will allow them to teach at the college level. Certificate programs can also offer focused instruction on specific types of writing, such as technical writing, creative writing, or business writing.
Internships are common in the writing world because it's difficult to get a job without writing samples, and having published work for your portfolio will make it easier for employers to assess your work. Internships also offer a hands-on way to gain experience in the field while building a professional network.
Potential Careers With An Online Writing Bachelor's Degree
Every industry in the modern world needs writers to craft memos, instructions, documents, marketing materials, speeches, video and audio scripts, and creative content. Here are some career paths you can pursue with a writing degree, with information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Writers and Authors
create content for various types of media, including advertisements and marketing, blogs, books, magazines, and movie, play, and television scripts. They choose subjects that interest readers, write fiction or nonfiction scripts, biographies, and other formats, conduct research, and work with editors and clients to ensure the content meets their needs. Writers and authors are often self-employed or freelance workers, and are often able to work remotely.
Technical Writers
write highly specialized content such as instruction manuals and training guides. They may focus in an area like information technology, engineering, or manufacturing鈥�. Technical writing tends to be less creative and more informational, and can be a good career option for those with strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Editors
play an essential role in making sure content is error-free and meets the needs of clients and their audience. Copy editors work on a variety of different types of content, including books, magazines and newspapers, blogs, websites, marketing materials, speeches, and technical documents. Managing editors typically work in the publishing industry, overseeing the content and production of books and magazines. They work with writers and fellow editors to ensure content adheres to the vision, guidelines, and goals of a publication. They also supervise staff, engage with advertisers, accept and reject pieces, and oversee daily operations鈥�.
Is an Online Writing Degree Worth It?
An online writing degree can be highly beneficial, depending on your career goals. The skills you gain 鈥� such as critical thinking, research, creativity, and communication 鈥� are in high demand in many industries. The flexibility of online learning can also make it easier to balance your studies with other commitments, like work or family responsibilities.
A bachelor's degree in writing can open a world of opportunities for students who have a creative streak. It provides the tools needed to succeed in a variety of writing roles in today's digital age. Whether you're interested in creative, technical, or business writing, an online writing degree program can equip you with the skills you need to thrive in your writing career.
Potential Benefits
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Skill Development: A degree in writing can help you refine your writing skills, learn to write in different styles and for different audiences, and become adept at crafting compelling narratives.
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Transferable Skills: In addition to writing, you'll develop critical thinking, research, editing, and communication skills, which are valuable in many different careers.
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Career Opportunities: A degree in writing can lead to a variety of careers, including roles as a writer, editor, technical writer, content strategist, marketer, and more. You could also use your writing skills in fields like law, business, education, or public relations.
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Creativity and Self-Expression: For those who enjoy writing, a writing degree can provide an outlet for creativity and self-expression, allowing you to explore and develop your unique voice.
Potential Downsides
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Career Stability: Writing careers can sometimes be less stable than other fields, with many writers working on a freelance basis or moving from project to project. As technology continues to advance, writers will need to stay on top of new skills such as SEO or using AI to aid their work to remain relevant.
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Income: While there are certainly successful and high-earning writers, starting salaries in writing-related fields are often lower than other industries.
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Job Market Competition: Depending on your specific career goals, the job market can be competitive, particularly for jobs like authors or journalists.
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Limited Practical Experience: While many writing programs do offer opportunities for internships or real-world experience, some may focus more on theory and academic study, which may not fully prepare you for the practical aspects of a writing career.
FAQs About Online Creative Writing Bachelor's Degrees
Can You Earn a Highly Rated Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Online?
Many colleges and universities offer online bachelor's degrees in writing. as the list above (of the highest rated by students) indicates. These programs are designed to provide the same rigorous education as their on-campus counterparts, covering different writing styles and their practical uses.
How Long Does It Take To Get an Online Writing Degree?
Most bachelor's degrees require around 120 credit hours to finish and are designed to be completed in four years for full-time students. Students who opt for part-time programs will take longer to graduate. Some online colleges also offer accelerated degree options which allow students to finish their degree sooner.
Online writing students will complete general education courses in areas such as math, science, and history, as well as major-specific courses and electives. To earn this degree, students must maintain a minimum GPA (usually around 2.0 or higher), and some programs may require a capstone project or a portfolio showcasing the student's best work.
Is an Online Writing Degree Hard?
How hard an online writing degree will be depends on each person's interests, strengths, and challenges as a student. Like any degree, it will require commitment and hard work. Students who struggle with writing and communications may find this degree more difficult than others. However, writing is a skill that can always be developed and improved upon with practice. Online students need to be self-motivated and disciplined, as online programs often require a significant amount of reading and writing assignments. The lack of in-person interaction can also make it harder for some students to learn, while others prefer the online environment.
Student Reviews of Online Writing Programs
The process of enrolling and things like school counseling were all great and I never had any problems with anything administrative. I was not involved in many school activities as I was online only, but I felt generally happy with my choice of university. I liked most of my professors very much.
Review Date: 2/10/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
During my time at the University of Central Florida, the staff, faculty, and even my peers cultivated a sense of creativity, ambition, and academic excellence within me that has propelled me forward in my aspirations. The coursework and support of the school has also instilled me with the confidence and capability to pursue my dreams. As their motto goes: "Reach for the stars." But this is not just a motto. It is a culture that is evident at every level of the school; to drive, motivate, and inspire... Read More
Review Date: 1/16/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Southern New Hampshire University's online program for a degree in Creative Writing with a concentration in fiction was perfect for me. As a single mother of two children in school, working full time and with a full time life outside of work, this program has been excellent. The advisers and teaching staff were helpful. Anything I asked was answered promptly. Financial aid was explained to me and was an expedient process. Graduation was beautiful and I flew from California to go. I would recommend... Read More
Review Date: 5/17/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love this new online college- If you are online and dissatisfied- look around! I was drowning at the old one- bored and miserable- the people- including professors-were only going for a piece of paper or paycheck. I just assumed online was like that everywhere! Not so! My new college has forums for each major and most students are really engaging in the DB's! The professor I have currently is actually READING our work and giving REAL feedback- after three years of misery, I am finally excited to... Read More
Review Date: 9/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My school is a good fit for me as I could not find any online writing schools that were not specifically focused on journalism. I wanted a creative writing degree and it is difficult to find a school that focuses on this particular subject. I am elated that I found this school.
Yes, I would pursue the same degree as writing is a passion of mine and is very therapeutic as well since I am disable and cannot attend... Read More
Make sure you make yourself marketable and take a variety of courses.
Review Date: 7/14/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
If you aren't an independent learner, then you will not like this institution. I loved it! It was not easy but I am happy that I stuck in there. I transferred from another institution with years of military experience. Tesu is generous with transfers but I still had to complete a lot of math and writing. I was discouraged when I failed my chem course but the mentor was very patient, however they will not hold your hand*. They really stand behind the "For adults" perspective. TESU is the perfect place... Read More
Review Date: 4/1/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The atmosphere of USF is very friendly and accepting. The professors are always available by email and office hours. They are many extracurricular activities. The library resources are very user friendly and so is the online interface. I am returning for my Masters because I liked the school a lot.
Review Date: 11/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The low residency program at Union Institute & University was the ideal education situation for me. I was able to complete my degree in less than two years with transfers from community college. I'm not sure if the program exists anymore (it may all be online now). The low residency program allowed me to work and collaborate with a small group of peers and my professors and advisor in person. There was a lot of self-direction involved and I had to prioritize my assignments and reading.
Review Date: 8/12/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
When I was an under graduate student enrolled full time at Vermont College it transitioned to Union Institute and University. I had a very positive experience as an undergraduate going to Union Institute in Vermont. It was a high-bred/ low residency program. The Montpelier campus was beautiful and I had residency there a weekend every month where I could be immersed in my studies. The class sizes were small which enabled my professors to invest a lot of time coaching me one on one. There was a lot... Read More
Review Date: 7/10/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is a very unique degree program. There are only a few programs of its kind in the country. In NYU's Rita and Burton Department of Dramatic Writing, one gets to study film, television, and playwriting. The program really emphasizes Aristotle and his version of dramatic structure, but depending on which professors one gets, there is more room for deviation from that structure.
Review Date: 7/30/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
A surprisingly left-leaning institution in a very conservative community. I was part of the Education major for the first 3 years of my schooling, switched to Nursing for one semester, then landed on Writing until I graduated. Most of the faculty in the department are wonderful and very knowledgeable; if not obsessive sometimes. The Nursing students are all very competitive, as the program limits the amount of people they license; when I was there, I was told only 20 would be moving forward. The... Read More
Review Date: 4/1/2026
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Florida State University really puts emphasis on each student. Going to advisers or even professors in the English department for anything, they go above and beyond for you. My program was freshly new when i first started, but one of the deciding factors that made me went to apply was the internship opportunity that they put a lot of emphasis on. Internships are vital. Having experience, while pursuing your degree at the same time is something that benefits you in the long run. I recommend students... Read More
Review Date: 7/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall, I think Syracuse University is a well-rounded school that has a wide variety of different majors and specialties that the students can pick from. The campus is nice and medium sized with varying architecture. The university is not really involved in the surrounding Syracuse city, but it is a good change in environment from the University. As for the academics, I had personal troubles and difficulties with specific professors and advisors during my freshman and sophomore years specifically... Read More
Review Date: 6/5/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I chose Emerson specifically because of its writing, literature, and publishing (WLP) major, since publishing is usually offered only at a masters degree level and rarely as a focus for undergraduates. I enjoyed my time there, and if given the option to go back in time and 鈥渞edo鈥� college, I would not choose another school. Still, I feel strongly that the biggest benefit of attending Emerson was not the quality of academics and teaching but the alumni connections offered. I was able to get a job in... Read More
Review Date: 4/23/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
When I was choosing a college, I applied to and toured dozens of schools looking. When I stepped on to Michigan State's campus, I just felt something internally that made me realize maybe I did belong here. The vibes of campus, the level of education, and the supportive feeling were all things that kept me here through graduation. My biggest regret is not staying longer!
Review Date: 2/10/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Since I was a little girl, I had always dreamed about attending Saint Mary's College in South Bend, IN. After being accepted and starting school in the fall of 2013, I realized I had made a huge mistake. I decided to transfer to Florida State University after my freshman year of college. I was extremely nervous going from a school with about 1,400 people to a school with over 30,000 people. However, I could not be more thankful for that unique experience at such a large institution. FSU's campus... Read More
Review Date: 6/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Loyola University Maryland provides a lot of great learning opportunities for prospective business students, and they definitely cater their needs of their business students as well. Because I was not in the Business school, I did feel as though my needs as a creative were considered secondary. However, the Writing program did have many knowledgable and encouraging professors that helped my creative writing greatly. The main appeal of going to Loyola is their study abroad programs. In the second... Read More
Review Date: 6/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Marquette is an extremely warm and welcoming university. The undergraduate size (~8K) makes it possible to have a really close one-on-one relationship with your professors, but still have plenty of opportunities to always meet new people. In the College of Arts & Sciences, the faculty was extremely dedicated to giving us the best education possible. They always made themselves available, made sure we were aware of new fellowship or work opportunities, and gave incredible feedback. My major in English... Read More
Review Date: 4/19/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Boise State University offers so many opportunities to explore your interests. During my undergraduate degree, I was really interested in traveling and studying Spanish in a foreign country. Boise State gave me the tools and resources I needed to study in Spain for one year. It was the best year of my undergraduate program. I accomplished the main goal I had set for myself thanks to the help of the on-campus study abroad office. Boise state also hosts events that teach you about new cultures, poetry... Read More
Review Date: 5/27/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I currently attend Georgia State College of Law in hopes of becoming a capable asset in the legal community. Thus the Writing and Linguistics degree that I obtained at Georgia Southern University has been essential to the path I chose. Legal writing is a huge and often scary part of the legal profession. While it is a very different style, the fundamentals and techniques I learned through my undergrad majors courses made it significantly less terrifying. Georgia Southern enabled me to reach for more.... Read More
Review Date: 7/14/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes