5 Great Universities for Aspiring Writers

E.B. White once stated that if a writer waits for ideal conditions from which to work, he will never get a word on paper. Many aspiring writers feel this way when searching for the school that will help them succeed in the vocation of writing and can quickly become overwhelmed at the prospects. Turns out, however, that many colleges have made it a priority to become ideal conditions for these aspiring writers both in and outside of the classroom. Below are five of the best universities for these bright-eyed aspiring writers.

1. University of Iowa

There’s no doubt that the University of Iowa’s Creative Writing program is one of the best, if not the best, in the country. The esteemed school doesn’t let just any writer in; aspiring students must have a strong 3.3 GPA or higher as well as provide plenty of portfolio pieces for the admissions board to critique with a close eye. The program is extremely extensive and plays hosts to modern-day and influential writers that are cutthroat about the business. Creative writers will flourish in this program as well as business, environmental and social writers.

2. Emory University

Buried in Atlanta, Georgia’s busy suburbia, Emory University is quite the blossoming ground for creative writers looking to make a dent in prose and poetry. Even before stepping foot in a classroom, aspiring writers must submit a manuscript as part of the application process to this highly regarded school. Students who are looking to dive into the more creative and theatrical side of writing will thrive in the Theater Studies program Emory also offers to its prospective writers.

3. Boston University

Who wouldn’t be inspired to write in the beautiful New England school just across the river from the brilliant minds at Harvard and MIT? Boston University, while maybe not extremely diversified in its course offerings, is a strong foundation for writers seeking one-on-one attention and guidance. Higher-numbered classes only seat about 10 students, allowing for extreme critique and development from some of the top-rated professors in the world.

4. New York University

If you already earned a bachelor’s degree in creative writing, New York University will be your next step to mastering the art. In its Master’s classes, NYU students can expect to be exposed to many writing disciplines, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. But similar to Emory, NYU requires their students to be committed and serious about their art, thus requiring a manuscript upon submission to the program. Once accepted, aspiring writers have access to key connections in the writing world as well as the chance to take part in some of the best studies abroad courses available.

5. Columbia University

Amazing writers have walked the halls of Columbia University, including Pulitzer-Prize winning names such as Mitch Albom, Langston Hughes, and Patricia McCormack. Students pursuing a creative writing degree from Columbia must be strong-willed and determined because this program is not for the faint of heart. Only students who are unwavering in their dream to impact the literature world need to apply.

These are just a few of the colleges that offer programs but don’t be afraid to look into online options as well such as UAB’s online is a degree or other opportunities.