Most Affordable Online Creative Writing Degrees

A writing program can help you finesse your storytelling. These affordable online creative writing degrees ensure flexibility and a quality curriculum.
by

Updated October 20, 2023

check mark Edited by
check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for AffordableCollegesOnline.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

The requirements to enter an affordable creative writing program vary by school. Creative writing degree-seekers typically must first complete introductory classes in reading and writing literature.

A degree in creative writing typically combines literature coursework with writing workshops. Schools often offer workshops in the students' chosen genres, such as fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.

Bachelor's degree in creative writing graduates can pursue a master's or MFA in creative writing. Others pursue careers in fields like publishing or education.

View Our Rankings List Here

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Questions About Creative Writing Programs


What can you do with a creative writing degree?

A creative writing degree prepares graduates for publishing, editing, or communication careers. They can also work in education or journalism.

Is creative writing a BA or BS?

Most schools offer creative writing as a BA.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's in creative writing?

Full-time students typically complete a bachelor's in creative writing in four years.

Why Get a Degree in Creative Writing?

For students who enjoy writing, a degree in creative writing offers an opportunity to hone their craft. It also helps prepare them for a career that needs strong writing skills. According to Jan. 2022 Payscale data, students with a bachelor's degree in creative writing earn a $58,000 average annual salary.

The flexibility of attending an affordable creative writing program online benefits busy students. They can complete classwork around their full-time job or family responsibilities.

How Much Does a Creative Writing Degree Cost?

The cost of a cheap creative writing program varies by school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition and fees at public four-year schools averaged $9,349 for the 2019-20 academic year. Out-of-state students paid an average of $27,023. Private schools charged $32,769 on average. Some schools charge all students the same tuition no matter their residency status.

Full-time students should expect to take four years to finish a bachelor's degree in creative writing. Degree-seekers can attend a cheap creative writing program either online or in person. Besides tuition, students might need to cover additional expenses, such as textbooks or technology fees.

Additional Online Student Fees

Earning an online creative writing degree typically costs less than an in-person program. However, online students may need to pay extra fees, such as technology or tech support fees.

Online students might need to visit campus for in-person classes or meetings. They should budget for travel costs. Students should also expect to pay for textbooks and other required class materials.

Finally, students should budget for graduation fees. They may also need to pay for certifications after graduating.

How Much Do Creative Writing Graduates Make?

Possible careers for creative writing majors include freelance writer, editorial assistant, or journalist. Salaries in these fields vary based on the writer's skill and experience.

An advanced degree, such as a master's or MFA, can boost earning potential in the creative writing field. Publication also enhances earning potential and job eligibility.

High-paying jobs in the field include professor, editor, or author. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors earn a median annual salary of $67,120. Editors earn a median of $63,400 per year.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Courses in Creative Writing

A creative writing degree helps students build writing, editing, and critical reading skills. Students in creative writing programs can pick from fiction, nonfiction, or poetry specializations. Some schools may offer screenwriting or playwriting specializations. Degree-seekers typically take writing classes or workshops, along with literature courses.

Some schools offer creative writing degrees as bachelor's degrees in English with a concentration in creative writing. Such programs tend to feature more literature requirements.

Not every affordable creative writing program offers the classes below. However, the selected course descriptions represent a sample creative writing curriculum.

Most Affordable Creative Writing Programs

#1 Most Affordable Online Creative Writing Degrees

Northeastern State University

  • Tahlequah, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Northeastern State University is a public institution educating students from its Tahlequah campus. The school offers 29 online programs, allowing students to pursue their degree without relocating. The online bachelor's in creative writing features a curriculum designed to prepare learners for creative writing careers.

In addition to core coursework, degree-seekers in the creative writing program complete advanced classes in field-related topics. Learners gain transferable critical thinking and communication skills, which apply to careers in a variety of fields. The 120-credit bachelor's program typically takes four years for full-time degree-seekers to complete.

The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for online and on-campus learners. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant.

Northeastern State University at a Glance:

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Total Programs: 94

Total Bachelor's Programs: 60

Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Awards Transfer Credits: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,913
Out-of-state
$14,313
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,500
Out-of-state
$9,999
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
7,517
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Most Affordable Online Creative Writing Degrees

Adams State University

  • Alamosa, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Adams State University's bachelor's in creative writing prepares online learners to succeed in writing careers. Located in Alamosa, Colorado, the school delivers academic programs on campus. Among the school's 34 available programs are 20 online options for distance students.

The online creative writing program is ideal for individuals who need flexible scheduling options. Working professionals often benefit from the online program's customizable scheduling options. Learners in the online program complete assignments and participate in class discussions virtually. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate with a bachelor's.

The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. Financial aid counselors help students explore funding options.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,736
Out-of-state
$17,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,590
Out-of-state
$7,830
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
3,114
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Most Affordable Online Creative Writing Degrees

Central Washington University

  • Ellensburg, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Central Washington University offers an online bachelor's degree in creative writing for busy learners who want to earn their creative writing degree while maintaining employment. Based in Ellensburg, the school educates degree-seekers through high-quality academic programs. The university educates students through 49 programs, all of which are available online.

Learners who need flexible scheduling options can enroll in the creative writing program. The online program's customizable nature is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. Learners enrolled in the online bachelor's program view lectures and participate in discussions virtually. Undergraduates typically require four years to earn their bachelor's degree.

Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing higher education easier for many learners. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA to receive federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. The school offers financial aid advising to help admitted students identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,318
Out-of-state
$21,999
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,582
Out-of-state
$22,449
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
11,658
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#4 Most Affordable Online Creative Writing Degrees

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online bachelor of arts in creative writing for busy students who want to earn their creative writing degree while maintaining employment. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online creative writing program's flexible scheduling options.

Enrollees can attend classes at Southern New Hampshire University's campus in Manchester. In addition to on-campus offerings, the school delivers 84 online programs. Degree-seekers who want to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree can enroll in one of the institution's 35 online bachelor's programs.

While earning the online bachelor's degree in creative writing, learners complete core major classes to develop a foundation for upper-division coursework. To complete the online bachelor's program, degree-seekers earn at least 120 credits. Enrollees finish a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training in creative writing.

The school's support services, including tutoring and academic advising, help learners succeed academically. Online undergraduates can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors. Financial aid counseling can help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,756
Out-of-state
$30,756
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
113,514
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Keep up with the latest

Never miss a detail on the news, trends, and policies that could directly impact your educational path.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Do this for you

Explore your possibilities- find schools with programs you’re interested in and clear a path for your future.