About Creative Writing

What is Creative Writing at SOU?
The Creative Writing program at SOU encourages and energizes students to write in a dynamic, collaborative environment where they learn as much from their peers as from their teachers. It’s a safe, non-judgmental space founded on mutual respect and support where everyone is free to explore their creative interests and be themselves. Students in the Creative Writing program enjoy the stimulation afforded by an arts-specific environment. The Creative Arts complex is rich in interdisciplinary opportunities for collaboration between writers, visual artists, digital innovators, and more.

Why is Creative Writing a great field?
In addition to being an immensely satisfying artistic practice in itself, creative writing sharpens your ability to communicate expressively and persuasively, which makes you a more attractive candidate for jobs and positions of influence. Hirers actively seek out employees who know how to draw on their imaginative faculties to connect with other people.

Why SOU?
Although they are growing in number, BFAs in Creative Writing are still relatively rare. An undergraduate program of this kind provides both a substantive education in itself and an excellent preparatory path for advanced studies. The Creative Writing faculty at SOU are successful, practicing writers who have strong connections to writing communities and programs nationwide. They forge strong connections with their students that continue after graduation.

Why Ashland?
The Rogue Valley is a beautiful place to study, work, hike, play, shop, or just hang out. Ashland is an arts-based community (home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and many other exciting programs). Within a small downtown radius, you can find galleries, boutiques, cafes, theaters, fine dining, organic markets, dance studios, and much more.

What is the Oregon Center for the Arts?
The Oregon Center for the Arts at SOU brings creatives together to practice their individual artistic passions while inspiring one another. Whether you are heeding an inner call to put pen to paper, brush to canvas, note to staff, shoe to stage, or pixel to screen, you will find a welcoming home in one of our academic programs and rich opportunities to collaborate with artists across a wide range of disciplines..