What can i do with a creative writing major?

Question

To go along with my previous question. I do really want to be a writer, and i know by going to college for creative writing i'd improve so much, but what can i do with a creative writing major. Why i should go for it basically? Because i kinda don't want to be a starving artist but a creative writing major sounds like exactly what i'm looking for.

Answer 1

Take a few creative writing classes, maybe minor in it, but honestly, it would be a waste of money as a major. There is _nothing_ you can do with a creative writing major. Nothing. You don't need a degree in creative writing to be a writer, you just need to write. A major in creative writing will not get your manuscripts/poems/prose published; only precision and talent will do this, the former of which you gain by practice, practice, practice. There is really no reason for you to go for a creative writing major. If you want to write for a living, go into journalism or publishing, advertising. Be a technical writer. Or pick another career and write on the side, because if you try to survive solely on a creative writing degree, you will end up working at three different fast food restaurants, scarcely able to keep up rent let alone write.

Answer 2

I studied English Literature and Creative Writing at University in the UK with similar aspirations to you, all I've ever really wanted to do is write. The only thing I would suggest is that a standalone degree in Creative Writing is fairly constrictive but it works well as a secondary aspect or minor. Consider that very few people manage to get published and most of those that do haven't got a qualification in creative writing, so think about what you'd like to do if you didn't get your 'Harry Potter idea'. An English major does also place some restrictions on you but that's the same with a lot of majors, it often comes down to the individual modules (credits in USA?) that you choose as they well affect how you develop. I know work in Banking although I constantly write and my writing has improved from what I learned in my course. If I were to do anything differently I would probably take Creative Writing as a minor and Spanish as a major. I also wish I'd stayed to complete a teaching qualification as well before getting tied up with marriage and a mortgage.

Answer 3

Consider a double major in writing and business.



There is precious little you will be able to do with a creative writing major on its own.



Good luck with your decision,

~Dr. B.~

Answer 4

You can't just get a creative writing degree. As much as I wish it would get you places, it won't. However, you should do a double major deal. Or minor in creative writing.

Answer 5

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You could always sell the card stock your diploma's printed on.