Introduction
Creative writing is a form of artistic expression that uses words to tell stories and engage readers. It can take many forms, such as short stories, novels, poetry, plays, and screenplays. A creative writing degree can open up a range of career options, from journalism and copywriting to teaching and editing. In this article, we’ll explore the various benefits of earning a creative writing degree and what kinds of career paths it can open up.
Become a Professional Writer
With a creative writing degree, you can pursue a career as a professional writer. There are many different types of writing you can do, such as feature articles for magazines or newspapers, blog posts for websites, or even scripts for television shows. You can also develop your portfolio by freelancing or writing for online publications.
In a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers said that they look for candidates who have “strong written communication skills” when hiring for any position. The same survey found that employers value creativity, which a creative writing degree can provide. As author and professor Roxane Gay explains, “Creativity is a tool all professionals should have in their toolbox.”
Teach Creative Writing
A creative writing degree can also prepare you to teach creative writing at a college or university. You’ll need to have a master’s degree in order to teach at the collegiate level, but a bachelor’s degree can qualify you to teach in an after-school program or workshop. You can also offer private tutoring services to help students hone their writing skills.
One benefit of teaching creative writing is that it allows you to stay connected to the craft. As author and professor Charles Baxter explains, “Teaching creative writing keeps you in touch with the process of writing, which is essential for any writer.”
Become an Editor
Another option is to become an editor. Editors are responsible for assessing the quality of writing and providing feedback to authors. They can work with authors to develop their work, edit manuscripts, and ensure that the final product meets the standards of the publication. An editor must have a keen eye for detail, be able to identify errors, and possess excellent communication skills.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for editors was $59,480 in May 2019. That number is projected to grow by 3% over the next decade, making it an attractive career option for those with a creative writing degree.
Publish Your Own Work
A creative writing degree can also help you to publish your own work. There are several options available, including self-publishing or working with a traditional publisher. Self-publishing gives you control over the entire process, from editing and design to marketing and distribution. Working with a publisher, on the other hand, can provide you with additional resources and expertise.
In either case, you’ll need to understand the business side of publishing, such as contracts, copyright law, and royalties. You’ll also need to be willing to promote your work, as author and professor David Shields advises: “You have to learn how to market yourself and your book. Networking is key.”
Pursue a Career in Journalism
Journalism is another potential career path for those with a creative writing degree. Journalists investigate and report on newsworthy events, write news stories, develop sources, and work with multimedia content. It’s important to be able to write clearly and accurately, as well as be knowledgeable about current events and issues.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for reporters and correspondents was $43,490 in May 2019. However, salaries vary depending on the type of employer and the location of the job.
Become a Copywriter
Copywriting is another career path that requires strong writing skills. Copywriters create persuasive copy for businesses, websites, and other organizations. They must understand their target audience and be able to craft effective headlines and messages. They must also be able to write quickly and efficiently, as deadlines are often tight.
The median annual wage for copywriters was $55,240 in May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The field is expected to grow by 4% over the next decade, making it an attractive career option for those with a creative writing degree.
Develop Content for Social Media
Social media has become an increasingly important part of marketing and advertising. Companies need content creators who can create engaging content and understand the best platforms to use. It’s important to be able to write compelling copy and keep up with trends in order to stay ahead of the competition.
As author and professor Roxane Gay notes, “Social media is an incredibly powerful tool for writers, so having a solid understanding of how to use it effectively is essential.”
Conclusion
Earning a creative writing degree can open up a range of career possibilities, from professional writing and editing to publishing and teaching. It can also provide you with the skills to pursue a career in journalism, copywriting, and developing content for social media. With the right skills and knowledge, a creative writing degree can be an invaluable asset.
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