Creative Writing: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Salaries for Creative Writing graduates vary by role and location. Postsecondary Teachers, All Other earn a median of $78,490 annually, while English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary earn around $78,270. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $101,483 compared to $52,105 in Arkansas. Approximately 354,400 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Currently 441 accredited institutions offer Creative Writing degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) (785 graduates), Liberty University (289 graduates), and Emerson College (228 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 5,406 in 2010 to 7,423 in 2023-24. This represents a 37% increase overall from 2010.

The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.

This degree prepares you for roles such as Postsecondary Teachers, All Other, English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary, and Editors. Related occupations employ approximately 354,400 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.