Why Study Creative Writing?
Creative writing is a discipline that builds connections, sometimes unexpected, between the visual and tactile experiences of our world. Drawing pictures with words—whether as poetry or prose, leisure or business writing—is a skill necessary to becoming an effective communicator and flexible problem solver. Learn to write and read critically, offer constructive feedback to others, and become an expert in the nuances of language.
Chicago’s Creative World
Faculty will challenge—and accompany—you to explore the literary creativity all over the city of Chicago. You’ll attend readings at venues like Harold Washington Library, The Guild Complex, or Myopic Books, or may find an editorial internship at places like Rhino Poetry Journal, the Poetry Foundation, or the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Double Major
An English major focused on creative writing complements many subjects by teaching how to read, think, and write critically about the significant issues in our culture, society, and human experience. Common double majors include art, business, history, and philosophy.
Meet the Faculty
Professor Kristy Odelius encourages collaboration amongst disciplines to inspire her students’ writing and create thoughtful connections between visual, written, and performance art forms.
Beyond the Classroom
Enhance your education through a variety of activities outside the classroom, including:
- The North Branch, student literary and fine arts journal
- The Writing Center
- Feather Bricks NewsletterÌý Ìý Ìý Ìý ÌýÌý Ìý Ìý ÌýÌý
- North Park Theatre Company
Careers and Graduate Schools
An English major with a concentration in creative writing can lead to a number of careers, including author, editor, journalist, technical writer, teacher, publisher, marketing writer, and literary agent. You’ll be qualified for positions in a wide range of fields, or may choose to pursue graduate work in a specialized area such as journalism, writing, law, or education.