B.A. in English - Creative Writing

The B.A. in English with a concentration in Creative Writing is designed for students passionate about writing and storytelling. This program offers a comprehensive exploration of various writing genres, including fiction, poetry, and nonfiction, while fostering critical thinking and creativity. Students develop their unique voices and gain the skills necessary to succeed in various writing-related careers.

Curriculum: The curriculum encompasses a blend of core English courses and specialized creative writing workshops. Students study literary theory, the history of literature, and various genres while participating in intensive writing workshops that encourage peer feedback and revision. Key courses include fiction writing, poetry writing, and advanced creative writing, alongside electives that explore editing, publishing, and contemporary literature.

Research Focus: Students are encouraged to engage in research related to literary studies and creative writing. This includes analyzing contemporary works, exploring the writing process, and examining the role of narrative in society. Faculty mentorship helps students develop research projects that deepen their understanding of creative writing's theoretical and practical aspects.

Industry Engagement: The program emphasizes real-world experience through partnerships with local literary organizations, writing groups, and publishing houses. Students have opportunities to participate in internships, attend workshops, and network with established writers and professionals in the industry. Events such as readings and literary festivals provide additional exposure and engagement with the writing community.

Global Perspective: With a focus on diverse voices and perspectives, the program encourages students to explore global literature and cultural contexts. Courses often examine international authors and writing traditions, fostering an appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience expressed through creative writing. This global perspective prepares students to engage with a wide array of narratives and cultural expressions.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 18 in each section.
• PTE: Overall score of 58 with a minimum of 42 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) recognizes the importance of providing financial assistance to international students and offers various scholarships to support their education. 

International Freshman Scholarships: CU Denver offers scholarships specifically for international freshmen students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships are merit-based and awarded based on the students' high school GPA, standardized test scores, and other criteria. The university provides partial tuition scholarships, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of attending CU Denver.

International Merit Scholarships: CU Denver provides merit-based scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. The amounts awarded can vary and are renewable for up to four years for undergraduate students and up to two years for graduate students, depending on the specific scholarship.

International First-Year Student Scholarships: CU Denver offers scholarships to international first-year students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. These scholarships are renewable for up to four years and provide partial tuition coverage. The university considers factors such as high school GPA, standardized test scores, and other criteria when awarding these scholarships.

College/School-Specific Scholarships: Many of CU Denver's colleges and schools offer scholarships specific to their respective academic disciplines. These scholarships are available to international students pursuing undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, arts and media, and more. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific scholarship and college/school.

Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship offered by CU Denver to a limited number of international undergraduate and graduate students. It is a highly competitive scholarship that recognizes exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and a commitment to global engagement. The scholarship provides significant financial support to recipients.

Other External Scholarships: In addition to CU Denver's scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships and funding opportunities. Various organizations, foundations, and governments offer scholarships specifically for international students studying in the United States. The university's Office of International Affairs provides resources and guidance to help students explore and apply for these external scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and award amounts may vary each year.

Graduates of the B.A. in English with a concentration in Creative Writing have diverse career opportunities across various fields.

Author/Novelist: Many graduates pursue careers as published authors, writing novels, short stories, or poetry that contribute to the literary landscape.

Content Writer: Graduates often work as content writers for websites, blogs, and companies, crafting engaging copy that enhances online presence and brand storytelling.

Editor: Some graduates become editors for publishing houses, literary journals, or magazines, reviewing and refining manuscripts for publication.

Copywriter: Many find roles in advertising and marketing as copywriters, creating persuasive and creative content for promotional materials and campaigns.

Screenwriter: Graduates interested in film and television can pursue careers as screenwriters, developing scripts for movies, series, and digital content.

Creative Writing Instructor: Some graduates teach creative writing at schools, community colleges, or workshops, sharing their passion for writing with aspiring authors.

Literary Agent: Graduates may work as literary agents, representing authors and helping them navigate the publishing industry to secure book deals.

Public Relations Specialist: Many graduates enter the field of public relations, using their writing skills to craft press releases, speeches, and communication strategies for organizations.

Grant Writer: Some graduates become grant writers, helping nonprofits and educational institutions secure funding by crafting compelling grant proposals.

Freelance Writer: Many graduates choose to freelance, writing for various publications, websites, and clients on topics they are passionate about.