So, you've got a creative writing degree or you're thinking about getting one. But now, you're staring at your diploma (or your future) and wondering, "What can I do with this?" Fear not, aspiring wordsmith! A creative writing degree opens up a world of possibilities.
Whether you dream of seeing your name on the spine of a novel or crafting compelling content for the digital age, there are plenty of paths you can take. Let’s explore the fun and diverse career options available for those with a knack for storytelling and a creative writing degree in hand.
What are the perks of having a creative writing degree?
Having a creative writing degree offers numerous perks, starting with the significant improvement in writing skills. Through structured coursework and continuous feedback from experienced professors and peers, students learn to refine their craft, develop a unique voice, and experiment with various writing styles and genres.
This academic environment encourages rigorous practice and discipline, which are crucial for any aspiring writer.
Also, students gain exposure to a wide range of literary works, enhancing their analytical abilities and understanding of different writing techniques and narratives.
Beyond honing technical skills, a creative writing degree provides valuable networking opportunities. Being surrounded by fellow writers, professors, and visiting authors allows students to build connections that can be beneficial for their future careers.
These interactions often lead to collaborations, mentorships, and introductions to the publishing world. Furthermore, the degree can serve as a credential that opens doors to various writing-related careers, such as copywriting, editing, and content creation.
Employers in these fields value the creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills that creative writing graduates bring to the table!
What Can You Do With a Creative Writing Degree
so what can you actually do with a creative writing degree? we have come to answer the long awaited question, below you will find plenty of answers as a creative writing major!
1. Author or Novelist
If you major in creative writing then one of the most obvious and exciting paths is of course becoming an author.
With a creative writing degree, and a writing job like this you've likely honed your ability to craft compelling narratives, develop rich characters, and create vivid settings. the good thing is you can do this both as a freelancer or through publishing houses!
Whether you write fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or even graphic novels, the skills you’ve gained can help you on your journey to becoming a published author.
Imagine seeing your book on the shelves of bookstores or available for download on e-readers worldwide!
2. Copywriter
If you have a way with words and can sell ice to a penguin, consider a career in copywriting. Copywriters create engaging and persuasive content for advertisements, websites, brochures, and more.
This role is perfect for those who enjoy the challenge of capturing attention and conveying a message succinctly and creatively. Plus, the demand for skilled copywriters is high, making it a lucrative option.
3. Content Writer
Content writers are the unsung heroes of the internet, crafting everything from blog posts and articles to social media updates and email newsletters. If you enjoy being a creative writer researching diverse topics and writing informative, engaging content, this might be the perfect job for you.
As a content writer, you can work in various industries, including marketing, education, healthcare, and technology, making it a versatile and stable career choice.
4. Journalist
Journalism is another natural fit for creative writing graduates. Whether you’re interested in reporting the news, writing feature articles, or producing investigative pieces, journalism allows you to use your writing skills to inform and engage the public.
Many journalists work for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or broadcast media. It’s a fast-paced career that can be incredibly rewarding for those who enjoy uncovering stories and presenting them to a wide audience.
5. Editor or Proofreader
If you have a keen eye for detail and a passion for perfecting prose, a career in editing or proofreading might be your calling.
Editors work on manuscripts, articles, and other written content to improve clarity, coherence, and overall quality. Proofreaders focus on catching grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies.
Both roles are crucial in the publishing industry, and they offer the satisfaction of shaping and refining written works before they reach their audience.
6. Screenwriter or Scriptwriter
Do you love movies, TV shows, or theater? Then you might consider becoming a screenwriter or scriptwriter.
These professionals write scripts for film, television, radio, and stage productions. It’s a highly creative field where you can bring stories to life through dialogue, action, and visual elements.
While it can be competitive, successful screenwriters often enjoy substantial rewards and the thrill of seeing their work performed.
7. Literary Agent
Literary agents are the gatekeepers of the publishing world. They discover new talent, help authors get their work published, and negotiate contracts on their behalf.
If you have a passion for books and an eye for potential bestsellers, a career as a literary agent could be very fulfilling.
It combines a love for literature with the excitement of scouting new voices and helping them navigate the complex publishing landscape.
8. Marketing Coordinator
Marketing coordinators play a crucial role in promoting products and services. They develop marketing strategies, create promotional materials, and manage social media accounts.
A creative writing degree is invaluable in this field because it equips you with the skills to craft compelling messages and engage audiences.
It’s a dynamic and ever-evolving career that offers plenty of room for creativity.
9. Social Media Manager
In today’s digital age, social media managers are essential for any business or organization. They create and curate content for social media platforms, engage with followers, and analyze the performance of social media campaigns.
This role requires creativity, strategic thinking, and excellent writing skills, all strengths of a creative writing graduate. Plus, it’s a fun way to stay connected with the latest trends and technologies.
10. Technical Writer
Technical writers create manuals, guides, and other documentation that explain complex information in a clear and concise manner.
This role is particularly suited for those who enjoy writing and have a knack for understanding technical subjects.
Technical writers are in high demand in industries such as technology, engineering, and healthcare, making it a stable and well-paying career option.
11. Grant Writer
Nonprofit organizations and institutions rely on grant writers to secure funding for their projects and programs.
Grant writers research funding opportunities, write proposals, and submit applications to potential donors.
This role is ideal for those who enjoy persuasive writing and want to make a positive impact on society. It’s a rewarding career that combines creativity with a strong sense of purpose.
12. Travel Writer
If you have a passion for travel and adventure, consider a career as a travel writer. Travel writers explore new destinations and share their experiences through articles, blogs, and books.
They provide insights into different cultures, cuisines, and attractions, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys. This career offers the opportunity to see the world while doing what you love, which is writing.
13. Arts Administrator
Arts administrators work behind the scenes to support and promote the arts. They manage arts organizations, plan events, and develop programs to engage the community.
This role requires strong organizational skills, creativity, and a passion for the arts. With a creative writing degree, you can help bring artistic projects to life and make a significant contribution to the cultural landscape.
14. Ghostwriter
Ghostwriters create content that is credited to another person, often a public figure or executive. They write books, articles, speeches, and more, capturing the voice and style of their clients.
Ghostwriting can be a lucrative and interesting career, allowing you to work on a variety of projects without the pressure of having your name attached.
It’s a great way to hone your writing skills after scoring a degree in creative writing to gain experience in different genres.
15. Community Arts Worker
Community arts workers use the arts to engage and inspire communities. They develop and lead arts programs, workshops, and projects that bring people together and foster creativity. This role is perfect for those who want to use their creative skills to make a positive impact at the grassroots level. It’s a fulfilling career that combines artistic expression with community building.
Bottom Line
As you can see, a creative writing degree opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you want to write the next great novel, craft compelling marketing copy, or engage with communities through the arts, your degree has equipped you with the skills to succeed in a variety of fields.
The key is to explore different options, find what you’re passionate about, and pursue it with creativity and enthusiasm. The world is your oyster, and with your creative writing degree, you’re ready to make your mark!
