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Writing Degrees by Degree Program Level

Aspiring professional writers have a number of fields and specialties to choose from. Here are a few of the most common fields along with their respective degree programs.

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Bachelor's Degree in Writing

Bachelor's degrees in writing are often combined with literature degrees, although they sometimes appear individually (which is most common with creative writing degrees). Writers typically learn about several types of writing in bachelor's programs, such as technical writing and creative writing. Programs commonly allow students to specialize in a particular area.

In all types of programs and in all specializations, students learn the basics of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, style, tone and audience. Students also learn skills specific to each specialization. For example, students in technical writing programs may learn how to write in a minimal, imperative style in the present tense, while students in rhetoric writing programs may learn about persuasive methods, as well as how to relate to different audiences. In nearly all types of programs, students spend time critiquing each other's work in workshop settings.

Educational Prerequisites

Students must have high school diploma or GED certificate to be considered for admission to a bachelor's program in writing, although some students choose to enroll in a program after completing an associate's degree in a related field, like English or communication. Applicants should also expect to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores and letters of recommendation.

Program Coursework

In addition to didactic learning, students participate in workshops, a class structure that allows students to critique other students' work under supervision of an instructor. Classes that might appear in the curriculum are:

  • Technical writing
  • Rhetoric
  • History of rhetoric
  • Communication ethics
  • Introduction to creative writing

Salary Information and Employment Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted that the employment rate for authors, writers and editors is anticipated to grow eight percent between 2008 and 2018, which is a rate about as fast as average nationwide (www.bls.gov). In May 2008, writers made a median annual salary of $53,070.

Technical writers fared slightly better, with a predicted employment growth rate of 18% over the same decade and a median annual salary of $61,620.

Master's Programs in Writing

Master's programs in writing typically specialize in one area. For example, one may find master's programs in creative and technical writing; even more specifically, one might enroll in a speech writing, play writing, television writing or poetry master's degree program.

Whatever the concentration, programs usually feature advanced theory on composition, and most programs offer some sort of pedagogical training because writing master's graduates often take leadership or teaching positions.

Programs usually take from 1 to 2 years to complete (30-60 hours) if a student is enrolled full-time. Students write a thesis instead of taking comprehensive exams. A thesis can take the form of a long technical project, speech or book-length manuscript. The thesis is usually overseen by either an advisor or an advisement committee.

Educational Prerequisites

Students must hold a bachelor's degree to be considered for admission to a master's program. Applicants need to submit college transcripts, writing samples, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

Program Coursework

Like bachelor's degrees in writing students often spend time in both lecture sessions and workshops. Courses often cover advanced composition theory, while workshops help students develop a portfolio or thesis. Courses may include the following:

  • Composition
  • Rhetoric
  • Technical writing
  • Poetry
  • Novel writing

Salary Information and Employment Outlook

Graduates with a master's degree in writing are qualified for a number of careers, such as teaching. The BLS predicted that the employment rate for secondary teachers would grow 13% between 2008 and 2018. In May 2008, teachers made a median annual salary of $51,180.

Continuing Education

Graduates who wish to pursue advanced degrees in creative writing might look into Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs. The MFA is a terminal degree, meaning the MFA does not meet the prerequisites for any higher degree like a Ph.D. An MFA also qualifies its holder to teach creative writing or composition classes at the university level. These programs are 2-3 years long and may culminate in a book-length creative thesis, like a collection of short stories, book of poetry, book of nonfiction or novel.

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