Grow your voice in a community of storytellers
If you’re here, you love writing, reading and storytelling — and so do we. Linfield’s creative writing program is robust, dynamic and intimate, giving you space to grow as both a writer and a thinker. From your first days on campus, you’ll work in small classes with engaged peers and professors who are both excellent teachers and published writers. Through workshops, interdisciplinary courses and hands‑on opportunities, you’ll develop the craft, confidence and creativity needed to thrive as a storyteller in any field.
Curious whether this program is the right fit?
Share a little about yourself through our information request form to connect with an admission counselor and get answers about the creative writing program.
What You Can Expect
Genre‑spanning workshops
Write and revise fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction and screenwriting in small, collaborative classes.
Experiential learning
Join the creative writing club, edit Camas, study abroad or take interdisciplinary courses that blend writing with ecology, film or the arts.
A year‑long capstone
Complete an ambitious senior project — a novella, screenplay or collection of stories or poems — with close faculty mentorship.
Why Study Creative Writing at Linfield
You’ll learn in a small, supportive program where faculty know you well and guide your growth from your first workshop to your final capstone. Unique opportunities — from masterclasses with nationally known writers to interdisciplinary field courses and study abroad — help you expand your creative range. Students gain professional experience through internships, editorial roles, campus leadership and community partnerships. With a strong foundation in storytelling, communication and creative thinking, you’ll graduate prepared for careers across the arts, media, education, nonprofits and beyond.
View program requirements
Accolades & Rankings
#1 Liberal Arts College in Oregon for Earning Performance
- Washington Monthly
#1 Liberal Arts College in Oregon for Social Mobility
- U.S. News and World Report
#1 Best Value College in Oregon
- Niche
What financial assistance is available?
Financing your college education can feel like a lot to manage, but Linfield University is here to help make the process clearer and more manageable. Linfield’s Financial Aid Office offers personalized guidance from experienced counselors who can help you understand your options, plan ahead, navigate the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) and answer any questions along the way.
You can also plan ahead by estimating your cost of attendance using Linfield’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Linfield University offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to help reduce the cost of college. When you apply for admission, you’ll automatically be considered for many Linfield scholarships. Additional scholarships are available based on academic interests, achievements, life experiences and personal background.
Learn more about available scholarships on Linfield’s Scholarships page.
Creative Writing Career Outlook
A creative writing degree can open doors for your career
Through 2034, writer-related occupations are expected to grow by 4%*. In 2024, the median annual wage for writers and authors was $72,270, exceeding the national average of $49,000. While your income heavily depends on where you live, your level of education and the depth of your experience, enriching your expertise can help support your career growth and financial stability.
- Author or poet
- Screenwriter or filmmaker
- Editor or literary magazine staff
- Copywriter or content strategist
- Communications or marketing specialist
- Public relations or brand storyteller
- Grant writer or nonprofit communications lead
- Publishing assistant or literary agent assistant
- Writing center or library professional
- Wine industry storyteller or brand writer
- Graduate pathways in MFA programs -- law, education, library science, marketing and more
Ready to take the next step?
Creative Writing Admission
Begin your journey to studying at Linfield University. Start your application.
Questions about the program?
Reach out to our department chair and they will be happy to answer your questions.