College of Arts and Humanities
Professional and Creative Writing
Master of Arts | Graduate
Professional and Creative Writing
At CWU, we have created a unique graduate degree that blends professional and creative writing, reflecting the diverse needs of writers in today's rapidly evolving world.
We work closely with you to develop a tailored course of study that aligns with your goals and culminates in a comprehensive portfolio course. The Professional and Creative Writing specialization of the English, MA is designed to help you achieve your goals as a writer. We offer collaborative, feedback-based genre workshops with award-winning writers in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, and in-depth, themed genre seminars to encourage your creative and analytic expertise. Our professors provide the guidance and support you need to excel in your craft. We cover topics like persuasive writing, rhetoric, research methods, and advanced technical writing in dedicated courses to equip you with skills for professionalization and career advancement.
Questions? Contact Us.
English Department
The Center of a Better Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | English Department Website
Core Courses
- ENG 513 - Composition Theory
- ENG 518 - Advanced Literary and Critical Theory
- ENG 556 - Studies in Rhetoric
- ENG 585 - Publishing Strategies and Practice for Writers
Intro Course
- ENG 511 - Introduction to Graduate Writing
Literary Genre
- ENG 553 - Studies in Fiction
- ENG 554 - Studies in Creative Nonfiction
- ENG 555 - Studies in Poetry
Department-Approved Electives
- ENG 420 - English Linguistics
- ENG 504 - Advanced Technical Writing
- ENG 510 - Teaching First-year Composition
- ENG 564 - Advanced Fiction Writing
- ENG 565 - Advanced Poetry Writing
- ENG 566 - Advanced Creative Nonfiction
- ENG 568 - Contemporary Writers Colloquium
- ENG 572 - Workplace Writing Research Methods
- ENG 573 - Grant Writing: Theory and Practice
- ENG 574 - Professional Writing with New Media
- ENG 592 - Practicum
- ENG 598 - Special Topics
Final Portfolio
- ENG 589 - Portfolio
Career Planning
Choose from a wide array of jobs in all sectors including education, law, medicine, government, non-profit, and technology.
Small Class Sizes
Find connection in our program with small class sizes that foster a supportive community and allow faculty to get to know you personally, ensuring a more tailored and engaging educational experience.
Personalized
We'll work with you to tailor a course of study that aligns to your goals, culminating in a comprehensive portfolio course.
Professional Writing With New Media
We work to keep our students relevant with classes that shift the ways we work and communicate such as writing with AI.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Experience the Program
Learn how the Professional and Creative Writing program can work for you.
Degrees Matter
Many employers seek candidates with advanced degrees. Stand out with this foundational program.
Learning Options
Most of our programs are available in-person, online, or with a hyflex (Zoom) online class option.
Assistantships
A limited number of paid teaching assistantships are offered on a competitive basis for resident on-campus students to teach ENG 101 Academic Writing I.
Why Study English at Central?
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and a collaborative learning environment, led by faculty who are recognized for their expertise and commitment to student success
- You will acquire versatile, in-demand skills that are critical across a wide range of industries, preparing you for a successful and dynamic career path.
- We offer flexible class options to accommodate diverse schedules and learning preferences, making it easier for you to balance your education with other commitments.
Career Pathways
Teaching at community-college and university level
Higher education advising and administration
Professional training and research
Professional Writing
Technical Writing
Corporate and Non-profit Administration and Management
Commitment to a Sustainable World
Central Washington is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. CWU English programs embed sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.
Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.