Which Creative Writing Program Do You Recommend

by Denise
(Vancouver)

Pearl: I am a beginning fiction writer and I am interested in getting a creative writing degree to better prepare me for writing novels. What Canadian University Creative Writing program do you recommend? Should I get a Bachelor's or a Master's degree? Which program do you think would best prepare me for writing novels?

Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

ANSWER

Denise, writers often choose the creative writing program they will attend based on the faculty and their interests. Is there a particular writer with whom you'd love to work? Do you want to focus solely on novel technique, or would you be interested in also learning about other genres--poetry, drama, non-fiction, etc.?

You'll find a list of Canadian programs (and some US programs) on the Writing Degrees page of this site.

If you click on the link to each program, you'll see a list of the faculty, and their achievements. You'll also learn how many writing genres the program requires.

Another factor to consider: In general fine arts degrees, BFA and MFA programs, focus about 2/3 on creative writing and 1/3 on academic subjects. BA and MA programs focus about 2/3 on academic subjects, and 1/3 on the creative writing.

Whether you acquire a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree, and what type, depends on your goals. For example, if you want to teach writing, you will do well to get a master's degree, possibly even a PhD.