Good writing schools

[Leilah]

I'm thinking of going to school for writing. I just can't find any good ones!Does anyone know of universities that have good creative writing programs? I've tried searching it several times but it's all just scattered information.

Even if the school you know of is not in the US, that's fine. It'd be great to go to university out of country - although I am not sure how one would go about doing it.

I've only got a year left before I have to apply to schools. Questions, Comments, or Concerns? Shoot.

[ubiquitous]

Maybe poetry.com has more info i have submitted a few poems there.

[Leilah]

Thanks,  I'll check it out. I didn't even think I would get a reply...

[Greenrat]

creativity is something that shouldnt be taught im afraid.
you should simply start writing in whatever style feels right for you.

[greatoutdoors]

Leilah,

If you are considering a career in writing, you might consider technical writing courses -- there are colleges that give degrees/certifications in that.

I took a few journalism courses when I was in school. I did learn a few things, but could not recommend it to anyone with ethics or empathy.

As for creative writiing, almost any college will offer courses. Talk with the Dean of the English department (or counselors in that department) and see what they offer. I have taken several -- learned a lot and enjoyed every one!  

Probably the best way to improve your writing skills is to join a writers' group in your area. A group with published authors as members is your best bet, but again, any of them will be helpful.


Greenrat said:

creativity is something that shouldnt be taught

Excuse me?   And what else would you withhold from the "huddled masses" in your role as lord and master?

If you are sayiing that some folks have more natural creativity than others, I would agree. But any skill can be enhanced by knowledge and practice! Even painting a house goes a lot easier if someone bothers to learn a bit about it before beginning.

It sounds like you may be young and still in the "school is a waste of time" mindset. Dude, that could not be farther from the truth!

[Doch]

If you wanted to leave the US for a year and spend a bit of time in one of the best cities in the world imo ( Melbourne) you could try to organize an exchange from the University of your choice. I think you may have had to already completed at least one year  though. Not entirely sure. Might be worth a look though:

http://www.sca.unimelb.edu.au/cw/index.html

[Parmenion]

Greetings,

Personally I found that any creative writing courses offered by colleges here (Dublin, Ireland) are short term evening or weekend courses. I dont think creative writing is something you can study for and get qualifications at, at least not here.

I think I know what Greenrat meant when he said creativity is something that shouldnt be taught. It is true that creativity comes from within and is nurtured rather than taught. However, and particularly with writing, there are basics which need to be learned if you wish to get published. There are exceptions to every rule of course but most writers who are successful will have learned these basics. These basics naturally enough, can and should be taught.

Greatoudoors' advise about joining a writers group is sound. If you're like me and face to face groups aren't your thing, then there are some good writers groups online also.

If you have a passion for writing I would say to first learn the basics (self taught or otherwise) and then just get stuck in. Enjoy it!

Regards,

Dave

P.S. Have we got and aspiring novel writers here?

[Namra]

I'm writing my book right now.