creative writing classes cincinnati

Support the creation and experience of contemporary art. Become a CAC Member today!

For Visitors

• Hours & Admission
• Getting Here
• Eat & Drink
• Event Rentals
• Around Town
• Accessibility
• Mission + Vision + Values
• Our Building
• Board of Trustees
• Careers + Internships
• Where We Stand

Exhibitions

Performances

• School Programs

Public Programs

• Special Events
• Family Programs
• Teen Programs
• 20th Building Anniversary

Creativity Center & UnMuseum

Blog & News

Video & Audio

• Education + Programming
• Artist Conversations
• This Time Tomorrow
• 6 Questions
• CONTEXT, in-depth interviews

Ways to Give

• Become a Member
• Become a Contemporary
• Become a Patron
• Become a Corporate Member
• Become a Sponsor

Annual Gala

• Current Exhibitions
• Make a Donation

Contemporary Arts Center Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art 44 E. 6th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 513 345 8400

The Creative Writing Project

The Creative Writing Project is a series of workshops designed to provide adult writers of all levels with opportunities to explore the art of creative writing. Each month-long series puts participants amongst a community of writers and educators, offering instruction and guidance from a diverse group of local and published writers. Throughout the series, writers will produce a piece of their choosing, exploring methods such as poetry, nonfiction, and prose.

Series Costs (5 sessions): This program is sold together as a 5 session series. Registration for the series is required through Passage . $125 for Non-Members, $80 for CAC Members or students.

Ticket Registration

2024 Series Dates at the CAC:

February 3 - Alison Taylor

February 10 - Annette Januzzi Wick

February 17 - Stacy Sims

February 24 - Desirae Hosley

March 2 - Jamie Lee Elizabeth Morris

Inspired by the CAC exhibition, And above the beautiful commune , each 2024 workshop centers around body inspired themes.

Contact the CAC's Education Team if you have any questions.

Included in the Series:

• 5 sessions (1 per week) that explore the creative writing process with a diverse group of local writers.
• The opportunity to submit work to a literary magazine.
• An embossed notebook with guided writing prompts.
• Coffee and refreshments
• Class size is limited, ensuring participants are given time for individual attention.

Past Events

02 March 2024

24 February 2024

17 February 2024

10 February 2024

03 February 2024

18 March 2023

11 March 2023

04 March 2023

25 February 2023

18 February 2023

05 March 2022

26 February 2022

19 February 2022

12 February 2022

05 February 2022

Important Notice

Share this Page

NEW VIDEO COURSE

Learn How to Write a Novel, Join Tom Bromley for a writing master class.

Learn How to Write a Novel

Join Tom Bromley for a writing master class and finish your first draft in 3 months.

2 Best Creative Writing Classes in Cincinnati

Showing 2 courses that match your search.

On Becoming an Author Writers’ Retreat

Clifton Cultural Arts Center

This one-day retreat, led by Victor Vélez, is a journey into becoming an author. Ideal for beginners, it covers why and what genre to write, creating a writing system, exploring publishing options, visualizing the book, and a Q&A with a local author.

Website: https://cliftonculturalarts.org/ccac-events/on-becoming-a...

Categories: Publishing

Start date:

Open all year round

Prerequisites: No prerequisites

The Creative Writing Project

Contemporary Arts Center

The Creative Writing Project is a series of workshops tailored for adult writers at all levels. It provides a platform to delve into creative writing, supported by a community of writers and educators. Each month-long series features guidance and instruction from a diverse group of local and published writers.

Website: https://www.contemporaryartscenter.org/discover/programs/...

Categories: Fiction, Essay, Poetry, Nonfiction, Short Story, Adult, and Book

So you’re looking for creative writing classes in Cincinnati

Cincinnati might not be the first city that you think of when you think of literary cities—but think again. This great midwestern city has featured in many great American classics from Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin to Toni Morrison’s Beloved , and today you can find a number of creative writing classes in Cincinnati.

This directory of the best writing courses in Cincinnati is meant to help you locate the right one for yourself.  We’ve included filters for price and genre so that you can quickly sort through the writing classes. And before you commit to any one writing class, consider the following questions:

• Who is the instructor?
• What is the price of the writing course?
• How far away is the writing course in Cincinnati? Is there a remote alternative?
• How long could the course last?

Got any questions about finding the right writing class in Cincinnati for you? Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] . Good luck!

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

Save your shortlist

Enter your email address to save your shortlist so that you don't lose it!

By continuing, you will also receive Reedsy's weekly publishing tips and access to our free webinars.

We sent over your shortlist. Thank you for using Reedsy's Writing Courses Directory, happy publishing! 🙌

Try our novel writing master class — 100% free

Sign up for a free video lesson and learn how to make readers care about your main character.

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

(513) 497-2860

creative writing

On Becoming an Author: Writers’ Retreat Adults (18+)

Sat, 10:00 am – 1:30 pm Jun 8, Jul 13, OR Aug 3

filter classes

By discipline:, at clifton cultural arts center, we believe that everyone has the right to access the arts and to express themselves., scholarships.

Scholarships of up to $100 are available for any class at CCAC and are awarded based on need and availability. Our simple application takes just a few minutes to complete and can be resubmitted each trimester.

Fair Share Pricing

With Fair Share Pricing, CCAC has eliminated the need for a scholarship application for some programs and instead provides subsidized pricing that you can select for yourself at checkout if you are unable to pay the full tuition amount.

Receive emails about classes, exhibits, events and news from your friends at CCAC.

Donors and volunteers make CCAC possible. Here’s how you can help make it happen.

Follow and connect with us on social media.

3412 Clifton Avenue Cincinnati OH 45220 (513) 497-2860

EVENTS Coming Events Carpool Cinema Highly Improvable Madcap Puppets Second Sunday Family Showtime Sunset Salons Wednesdays in the Woods

OUR NEW HOME

EXHIBITS Current & Upcoming Exhibits Uptown & Around Community Art Show CCAC @ Calhoun Gallery Submission Guidelines

SHOPPING CART

EDUCATION Class Calendar Blast Off Arts CCACMakes Creative Writing Culture & Languages Dance Music Theatre Visual Arts Wellness Scholarships

RENTALS Details Food & Drink Spaces

SUPPORT Donate Online Donate as you Shop Volunteer Donors

ABOUT Mission, Vision & History Meet the Board & Staff Partners What’s Next Job Openings

© 2024 Clifton Cultural Arts Center. All Rights Reserved. Site design by Kaiser Design Studio

Would you like to add a donation?

• Become A Member
• Remember Me      Forgot Password?
• CANCEL Login

Association of Writers & Writing Programs

• Writing Programs & Pedagogy
• Community & Calendar
• Magazine & Media
• AWP Conference
• Writers' Conferences & Centers
• Guide to Writing Programs

• Advice Articles
• Campus Visit Video Series

University of Cincinnati

Ohio, united states.

The English Department is home to a thriving Creative Writing program. Our faculty have collectively published more than forty books of fiction, poetry, literary nonfiction, and criticism. They have won awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Ingram Merrill Foundation, and the Fulbright Program, as well as University-wide awards for outstanding teaching and mentoring. For undergraduates, we offer a track within the English major, as well as a certificate in Creative Writing. For graduate students, we offer a PhD. Students at all levels focus on either fiction, literary nonfiction, or poetry. We are home to an undergraduate journal, Short Vine, and the nationally prominent literary journal The Cincinnati Review. Our PhD program was recently ranked eighth in the country by Poets & Writers.

Contact Information

Department of English & Comparative Literature PO Box 210069 Cincinnati Ohio, United States 45221-0069 Phone: 513-556-0913 Email: [email protected] http://artsci.uc.edu/creativewriting

Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing +

Undergraduate program director.

Degree: English Major, Creative Writing Track

The Creative Writing track in the English major is designed for students who wish to explore the writing of poetry, fiction, and literary nonfiction; improve their editorial skills; and examine works of literature through the lens of craft. Students take a three-class workshop sequence, culminating in a capstone that will result in a substantial body of work. In Forms of Fiction, Forms of Poetry, and Forms of Literary Nonfiction, students increase their understanding of the techniques involved in the creation of the literary arts, from meter to point of view. Literature classes in the chosen genre continue to expand students' reading, writing, and critical thinking skills, as well as their knowledge of both canonical and contemporary works.

Master of Arts in Creative Writing +

Graduate program director.

The MA in Creative Writing and Literature is a two-year course of study designed to prepare students for an MFA or PhD in creative writing. The two years of course work include workshop, forms classes, pedagogical training, literature, and theory, and, in the second semester of the second year, thesis hours during which students work with a faculty director on a longer manuscript. Students take three courses and teach one per semester. Recent MA graduates have gone on to MFA programs at Ohio State University, Bowling Green University, the University of South Carolina, Virginia Tech, the University of Wyoming, and the University of Wisconsin; and PhD programs at the University of North Texas, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and here at UC.

PhD in Creative Writing +

The PhD in Creative Writing and Literature is a four-year course of study. Following two years of course work that includes workshop, forms classes, pedagogical training, literature, and theory, students take exams in two areas, one which examines texts through the lens of craft and another which examines them through the lens of literary history and theory. Recent examples of the genre area include Comic Fiction, History of the Love Lyric, and Fantasy; recent examples of the scholarly area include History of the Novel, 20th Century American Poetry, and Modern & Contemporary British Fiction. In the first two years, students take three courses per semester; the teaching load throughout the program is one class per semester.

Every PhD student has the opportunity to teach creative writing, with many also teaching literature classes. Most students are funded by teaching, with two or three at a time funded by editorial work at The Cincinnati Review, and others funded in their dissertation year by college- or university-level fellowships. Fifth-year support, while not guaranteed, has generally been available to interested students in the form of student lecturerships, which carry a 2-2 load. The Creative Writing PhD at the University of Cincinnati has maintained over the last decade more than a 75% placement rate into full-time academic jobs for its doctoral graduates. Two-thirds of these positions are tenure-track.

Chris Bachelder

Dayswork, The Throwback Special; Abbott Awaits; US!; Bear v. Shark

http://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/english/profiles/chris_bachelder.html

Michael Griffith

The Speaking Stone; Trophy; Bibliophilia; Spikes

http://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/english/profiles/michael_griffith.html

Kristen Iversen

Full Body Burden: Growing Up in the Nuclear Shadow of Rocky Flats; Molly Brown: Unraveling the Myth; Shadow Boxing: Art and Craft in Creative Nonfiction

http://www.kristeniversen.com/

Rebecca Lindenberg

The Logan Notebooks; Love, an Index

http://www.rebeccalindenberg.com/

Aditi Machado

Emporium; Some Beheadings; Rhapsody; The End

https://www.aditimachado.com/

James Schiff

Critical Essays on Reynolds Price; John Updike Revisited; Understanding Reynolds Price; Updike's Version: Rewriting "The Scarlet Letter"

http://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/english/profiles/james_schiff.html

Leah Stewart

What You Don't Know About Charlie Outlaw; The New Neighbor; The History of Us; Husband and Wife; The Myth of You & Me; Body of a Girl

http://www.leahstewart.com/

Felicia Zamora

Quotient; I Always Carry My Bones; Body of Render; Instrument of Gaps; & in Open, Marvel; Of Form & Gather

https://www.feliciazamora.com/

Publications & Presses +

The Cincinnati Review

The John Updike Review

Visiting Writers Program +

The Creative Writing Program's Visiting Writers Series brings a number of distinguished authors to campus each semester. Visitors often conduct a colloquium with creative writing students in addition to giving a public reading.

Each year, through the Elliston Poet-in-Residence Program, a distinguished poet comes to campus to give public lectures and readings, and to conduct poetry seminars and workshops. The biennial Emerging Fiction Writers Festival brings four writers to campus for two days of readings and panels.

Past visiting writers have included Nicholson Baker, Charles Baxter, Mark Doty, Rita Dove, Alice Fulton, Terrance Hayes, Denis Johnson, Lorrie Moore, Antonya Nelson, Robert Pinsky, Tracy K. Smith, Mary Szybist, and Colson Whitehead.

Reading Series +

UC Visiting Writers Series ( http://www.artsci.uc.edu/departments/creative_writing/visiting_writers_series.html )

Share this page:

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 by AWP. All rights reserved.

BFA Program Offerings

Design your own inter-disciplinary art school experience..

At AAC, we believe that you don’t need to know exactly what you want to do – or who you are – on your first day of school. We’re excited to help you through that process. We’ve started by curating programs we’d love to take. Try just one or two, or tackle them all: It’s your choice.

Undergrad program by year

First year experience, major courses, fourth year, curriculum overview.

The AAC maintains a unique 1:2:1 curriculum that optimizes our carefully curated enrollment size to offer the greatest possibility of breadth, depth, collaboration, and personal engagement in art and design throughout the four-year program. Each first year BFA student begins with the First Year Experience (FYE), second and third years provide in-depth learning within a specific discipline accompanied by a wide range of Studio Arts and Liberal Arts electives, then fourth year students from all majors come together in the Senior Pathways Studio experiences to focus on the work that defines them as artists, designers, and writers.

The Senior Thesis is comprised of three essential components:

1.) A comprehensive written statement articulating pertinent issues and concerns in the culminating body of work

2.) Formal Capstone Project

3.) A Culminating Capstone Review

BFA Curriculum Overview

Creative Writing

Digital Arts Animation

Illustration

Painting & Drawing

Photography

Print Media

Exclusive BFA Minors

All other majors can be taken as a minor, but these two are exclusive as minors. 

Other Programs

Associate of Science in Graphic Design

Go from zero to ready for anything.

Master of Arts in Art Education

Focus on yourself, for your students.

Need help selecting the perfect programs for you? No problem.

1212 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Phone: 513-562-6262 | Toll Free: 800-323-5692 Fax:513-586-0483

Consumer Information

AAC Employment

HEERF Reporting

Exhibitions

Accreditations

Campus Cafe

Cookie Policy

Accessibility Statement

Diversity Statement

Title IX Hub

About Us & Policies

• Money Matters

Admissions Overview

How to Apply

Requirements & Deadlines

Request Info

Leave of Absence

International Students

DACA & Undocumented Student Policy

Explore Cincinnati

Money Matters Overview

Financial Aid Overview

Scholarships

Grants & Loans

• Programs & Majors
• Register for Classes
• Faculty, Staff, & President

Undergrad Program Overview

Painting and Drawing

Academic Calendar

Academic Catalog

Course Offerings

Request a transcript

Employee Bios

President & Board of Trustees

• News & Events
• Office of Engagement

Facilities & Rental

Student Studios & Amenities

Office of Engagement Overview

Community Education

Camp Art Academy

Teen Academy

Future BFA Prep

Outreach & Enrichment

Scholastic Art & Writing

Artist & Writer in Residence

Social Impact

Corrina Mehiel Residency

• Student Affairs

Student Affairs Overview

Academic Opportunities

Student Life

Housing & Parking

Safety & Security

Counseling & Academic Assistance

Studios & Facilities

Office of Professional Development

Student Employment

Food Services

Academic Catalog & Handbook

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

Alumni Association

Due To Inclement Weather

Classes are cancelled, january 25th, 2023.

MyEngagement & Events

Help A Norse

Handshake (HireNKU)

Virtual OneStop

Change Password

• Steely Library
• Ways to Give
• Quick Links
• Search the NKU Site   Enter the search term or name

COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES

• NKU Home Page
• College of Arts and Sciences
• Majors and Programs

Creative Writing Minor

Schedule a Visit

Program Type: Undergraduate

Minor Requirements: View Requirements

Department: English

If you're interested in creating literary worlds of your own, the minor in Creative Writing is for you! Classes are small and workshop oriented. You will work closely with your peers and instructor to develop and refine your skills at creative self-expression and in how to work in groups.  

Now more than ever, the powers of creativity, curiosity, and effective communication are not just highly valued workplace skills but life skills as well. Whether you continue to pursue creative writing as a profession or follow other career opportunities, your love of thinking imaginatively and your experience in the complex problem solving that defines the work of the artist will serve you well whatever path you travel.

Program Contacts

Dr. Andrea Gazzaniga Professor, English, Chair 859-572-5619 [email protected]

Students in the Spotlight

Josafina Garcia

Graduating Year: 2023

Education: B.A. in Integrative Studies, Focus in Creative Writing

Career: Planning on pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Necessary job skills: Writing and communication skills; creative and critical thinking, problem-solving and working in teams.

Find Your Passions & Build Your Future

• Focus on Interactive Workshop Experiences : In Creative Writing, the focus is on your writing, whether poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or scriptwriting. The interactive workshop model means that creative writing students form a fun and supportive community of artists with a passion for self-expression and imagining new worlds.
• Student Publications and Activities: As a Creative Writing minor or focus student, you will have the opportunity to work on and submit to Loch Norse Magazine, our student-run journal of creative writing, and to take part in our monthly open mic nights.
• Mentorship and Publishing: Creative writing students work closely with our award-winning and widely published creative writing faculty. Our instructors take pride in our tradition of mentorship, including advice and support to help you submit work for publication. 

Other Related Programs

Experience NKU

Our campus is more than classrooms. It’s a hive of activity and connections that instantly feel familiar. Come walk it, take it in, check it out.

Visit Today

Financial Aid

A variety of financial assistance is available, from grants to scholarships, loans to veteran benefits.

Get Started

College of Arts & Sciences

Highland Heights, KY 41099

(859) 572-5860

• Twitter Facebook Pinterest
• Virtual Tour
• Applications
• Entering Class Stats
• Accreditation
• Faculty Composition
• Distance Learning
• International
• Tuition And Fees
• Room And Board
• Financial Aid
• Graduation & Retention
• Return On Investment

Creative Writing at University of Cincinnati - Main Campus

Jump to any of the following sections:

• Available Degrees
• Student Demographics
• Related Majors

Creative Writing Degrees Available at UC

• Undergraduate Certificates in Creative Writing
• Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing
• Graduate Certificates in Creative Writing
• Master’s Degree in Creative Writing
• Doctorate Degree in Creative Writing

UC Creative Writing Rankings

UC was ranked #23 on College Factual's most recent list of the best schools for creative writing majors. This puts the bachelor's program at the school solidly in the top 15% of all colleges and universities in the country. It is also ranked #2 in Ohio .

Popularity of Creative Writing at UC

During the 2020-2021 academic year, University of Cincinnati - Main Campus handed out 27 bachelor's degrees in creative writing. This is an increase of 42% over the previous year when 19 degrees were handed out.

In 2021, 2 students received their master’s degree in creative writing from UC. This makes it the #198 most popular school for creative writing master’s degree candidates in the country.

In addition, 6 students received their doctoral degrees in creative writing in 2021, making the school the #2 most popular school in the United States for this category of students.

Creative Writing Student Diversity at UC

Take a look at the following statistics related to the make-up of the creative writing majors at University of Cincinnati - Main Campus.

UC Creative Writing Bachelor’s Program

During the 2020-2021 academic year, 27 students graduated with a bachelor's degree in creative writing from UC. About 37% were men and 63% were women.

The majority of bachelor's degree recipients in this major at UC are white. In the most recent graduating class for which data is available, 81% of students fell into this category.

The following table and chart show the ethnic background for students who recently graduated from University of Cincinnati - Main Campus with a bachelor's in creative writing.

UC Creative Writing Master’s Program

All of the 2 students who graduated with a Master’s in creative writing from UC in 2021 were women.

The majority of master's degree recipients in this major at UC are white. In the most recent graduating class for which data is available, 100% of students fell into this category.

The following table and chart show the ethnic background for students who recently graduated from University of Cincinnati - Main Campus with a master's in creative writing.

Most Popular Related Majors

View All Creative Writing Related Majors >

• National Center for Education Statistics
• O*NET Online
• Image Credit: By Bike756 under License

More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.

• Youth Writing Program

Teen Writers Fellowship

• Teen Writer Resource Page
• Youth Outreach
• Submit to the Teen Zine! “Musings”

The Muse Youth Program believes that power, healing, and change happen when creative writing  meets community and inspiration. By offering young minds  creative writing classes, mentorship programs, and  community events, we welcome young writers to explore  and develop their unique voices, improve their craft, and  pursue professional opportunities in the literary world. We  hope to foster a nurturing environment where writers of all  stripes come together, share ideas, and experience the power  that words can hold. 

Creative Writing Classes for Kids & Teens 

2024 summer session:.

The Young Writers Workshop (Elementary students )

Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Students

Creative Writing Exploration for High School Students (Hybrid)

 2024 Spring Session: 

Spring Creative Writing for Middle School Youth  (Saturday Mornings In-Person)

Spring Creative Writing for High School Teens (Saturday Mornings Hybrid)

2024 Creative Writing Summer Camps

Our summer camps are a great opportunity for young creative writers to have fun with words–both out loud and on paper. Join us for a week-long  exploration of different creative writing expression, including comic writing, fiction, song writing, and more!

Creative Writing Summer Camp: Elementary School (ages 8-10)

Creative Writing Summer Camp: Middle School School (ages 11-13)

Teen Zine Musings

The Muse Writers Center offers our teen students the opportunity to submit to our in-house zine, Musings . Currently, submissions are closed for the 2023 Teen Zine, but the 2024 teen Zine will be coming soon and we are currently looking for Editorial Interns (apply below!). If you've attended a class, club or event affiliated with The Muse, we welcome you to submit!

This program is open to any sophomore or junior high school student local to the Hampton Roads area. Those selected have access to free creative writing classes and mentorship from professional writers.

Applications will open in the fall for the 2025 Fellowship. The 2024 Fellowship class is underway and our Fellows are amazing!

Upcoming Events

Join us at The Muse June 27 from 4-5:30 PM to write poetry, fold it into origami, and socialize with fellow writers. A fter the event, we will scatter your creations around Ghent!

Muse Opportunities

Internships.

We offer a number of opportunities for students to receive hands-on experience with us, one of the nation's largest literary centers.

Teen Writers Club

(currently on hiatus).

Join us at The Muse Writers Center, in person or online, every second and fourth Monday for the Teen Writers Club ! The club is open to all teens with an interest in any creative writing form, including songwriting, comics, fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and anything else word related. You don’t need to be a Muse student to participate—drop by anytime during club open hours and stay for as long as you like.

Teen Open Mic Nights & Events

We regularly host teen readings and open mic nights, both virtual and in person.  If you have any questions or are interested in co-hosting a youth event or co-sponsorships, please contact our Youth Program Manager Jessica Grace Kelley at [email protected].

Welcome to The Muse!

READY TO WRITE?

HAVE THE MUSE SEND YOU CLASSES, TIPS, & TRICKS STRAIGHT TO YOUR MAILBOX :

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

You’ve been successfully subscribed to our newsletter!

• Grades 4 - 12 Arts

Creative Writing

Mission statement.

The Creative Writing Department at SCPA is dedicated to creating an imaginative, inspirational and productive environment focused on the process of writing. In our community of artists, the objective is to write honestly, producing professional quality pieces resonating with life and voice. Through daily practice in reading, writing, listening and speaking, students will mature artistically and aesthetically while reaching a wide audience through numerous performance and publication opportunities.

Course Sequence

• Fundamentals 4-6 
• Techniques 7-8 
• Global Issues 9-11 
• Dramatic Process 10-12 
• Advanced Media Communications 11-12 
• Critical Concerns 11-12 
• Pandora’s Ink: Honors 12

Dramatic Process provides students with a foundation in theatre/film script writing. Students analyze and explore Dramatic Structure as it applies to theatre and film. Students work on script projects culminating in a theatre performance or film piece.

Advanced Media Communication is a continuation of the Dramatic Process class. Students conceptualize, write, revise and direct a play or film that is performed for the public and entered in local, state and national competitions.

National Standards: English/Language Arts

(Revised {see italics} by Dr. Joy A. Fowler for SCPA Creative Writing Department, 2002)

READING FOR PERSPECTIVE Students read a wide range of print and non-print texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; to tap into the potential and power of literature and writing as an art, and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, poetry and drama, classic and contemporary works.

UNDERSTANDING THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions (e.g., philosophical, ethical, aesthetic) of human experience, reflected by the evolution of literature and the changing societal role of the author.

EVALUATION STRATEGIES Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, create and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies, and their understanding of textual features (e.g., sound-letter correspondence,, sentence structure, context, graphics).

COMMUNICATION SKILLS Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.

COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.

APPLYING KNOWLEDGE Students apply knowledge of language structure, language conventions (e.g., spelling and punctuation), media techniques, figurative language, and genre to create, critique, and discuss print and non-print texts.

EVALUATING DATA Students conduct research on issues and interests by generating ideas and questions, and by posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources (e.g., print and non-print texts, artifacts, people) to communicate their discoveries in ways that suit their purpose and audience.

DEVELOPING RESEARCH SKILLS Students use a variety of technological and information resources (e.g., libraries, databases, computer networks, video) to gather and synthesize information and to create and communicate knowledge.

MULTICULTURAL UNDERSTANDING Students develop an understanding of and respect for diversity in language use, patterns, and dialects across time, cultures, ethnic groups, geographic regions, and social roles.

APPLYING NON-ENGLISH PERSPECTIVES Students whose first language is not English make use of their first language to develop competency in the English language arts and to develop understanding of content across the curriculum.

PARTICIPATING IN SOCIETY Students participate as knowledgeable, reflective, creative, and critical members of a variety of literacy communities.

APPLYING LANGUAGE SKILLS Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for becoming an author of literature, learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Copyright 1996-2002 by Education World, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Italics added 6/1/2002 by Dr. Joy A. Fowler

Writing Department Policy

Boards proficiencies will be held in the Writing Department during January. All students will read a brief selection for other writing majors and teachers available during each particular class bell. All students will prepare a portfolio, the content of which is to be determined by the teacher. All students will critique the readers they hear. All students will receive the critique sheets from staff and students. Students taking more than one writing class will read and prepare portfolios for each class.  For juniors, this portfolio will be developed into an entry for the Corbett-Meyerson competition whether that student competes or not. The format and content will be similar to that of the National ARTS competition and Scholastic competition portfolio requirements. A similar portfolio review will take place after mid-term of the fourth quarter without the department-wide reading, but culminating in the Spring Festival recital.

Purposes of boards

• Assess student progress
• Assess artistic growth
• Provide a pathway to excellence
• Emphasize the importance of maintaining an up to date portfolio
• Provide an audience for student work
• Allow all teachers and students to hear a variety of work, practice audience skills, practice critiquing skills
• Practice presenting skills
• Demonstrate a continuum of writing skills and techniques
• Create a community of writers across age levels
• Teach and encourage professionalism

Boards requirements

Prepare portfolio items per class as assigned by teacher at beginning of quarter

• Arranged in chronological order
• Best of representative genre typed (depending on class and grade level)
• Selected by student with teacher input as requested for all drafts available to show strength in one area
• Two-minute reading limit  

Accompanying reflection in literary terms may include

• Written rationale for the choice of the piece
• Compare/contrast

(Public speaking rubric will be provided beforehand.)

Portfolios will be evaluated according to their completeness; adherence to the individual teacher's stipulated content, format and deadlines; and demonstration of artistic growth as a writer.  Individual pieces will be evaluated by the following department wide rubric developed from those used by Power of the Pen, CPS, Career Technical Education and the State of Ohio Proficiency tests. The scale will run from 1-4, with 1 indicating inadequate performance; 2, minimal performance; 3, acceptable performance; and 4, exemplary performance.

• Inadequate performance : Writing is absent, difficult to follow or lacks intelligibility.  Language and writing are unclear, dull, vague and/or unimaginative. There are irrelevant elements and details. The main idea is not developed or off topic. There is little demonstrated understanding of the purpose of the chosen genre.    Writing contains some concrete details but is not clearly developed. Some ideas are missing, out of order or inappropriate for audience or purpose.  Errors are distracting.
• Minimal performance : Writing is clear in the main but lacks creative organization, depth and/or detail. Content is communicated but does not sustain reader's interest. The topic is developed but with more telling than showing, and details are in evidence, but the voice is weak, the style fades and there is no depth. Writing is too personal, preventing audience identification. Language is understandable but unimaginative and/or uninspired.   The potential of the chosen genre is undeveloped. Mechanics involve little variation and contain some errors.
• Acceptable performance : Topics are well developed, genre elements are in evidence and details are well ordered and clear. Writing includes appropriate detailed description and fresh beginnings.  Ideas are creative and innovative. Voice and intensity are present but not sustained.  Message lacks universal application. Characters are not fully developed. Plot needs more energy. Poetry needs more power. The strength of the genre is not fully shown. Mechanical errors are rare.
• Exemplary performance : This writing is strong, effective, unique and captures the readers interest. The ideas are original, creative, imaginative, resonating and/or thought provoking. The writing is well organized, expressed with clarity and clear individual voice. The writing demonstrates technical mastery using vivid detail, complex imagery and/or subtle literary devices, creating a sustained level of excellence of expression. A strong sense of purpose and audience is evident throughout. The author's voice emerges clearly from the piece. Infrequent technical or grammatical errors.

Review policy

Parents and students will be notified if grades fall below the required "C" average, beginning at first quarter mid-term. In the event a student is not maintaining a "C" average at the end of first semester, the portfolio will be assessed by the teacher, department chair, parents and student, and a progress exam administered to determine the appropriate action. Options range from counseling out of the department for two successive quarter failures, to probation of one quarter, contingent on all missing work being made up at at least a "C" level by the next mid-term. If at the end of third quarter, the student still has not earned at least a "C" average, barring emergency situations, re-audition for another major or attending another school will be recommended.

Suspicions of plagiarism will result in a conference with student, parent, teacher, department chair and principal where pertinent evidence may be brought forth.  Proven plagiarism will result in an "F" for the assignment, immediate department probation and disciplinary action according to the Disciplinary Code for CPS. Department recommendations for inconclusive situations with strongly grounded suspicions include redoing the assignment.

Co-curricular time commitment expectations

All majors are expected to participate in at least one event per quarter outside the regular school day.  Required attendance events are one's own class recital, the BookFair! and Spring Festival. Options include attending other writing classes' recitals, Open House for new students, Fine Arts Sampler Weekend, Power of the Pen and the Corbett-Mayerson competition and/or participation in creating interdisciplinary performances with other departments such as Fireworks, Tall Stacks and the African Dance Ensemble.   Failure to attend an event per quarter will result in an "F" being averaged into the quarter grade. Excused absences, per parent note, may be permitted but must be made up within a quarter to satisfy the obligation.

Arts diploma criteria for writing

Students must:

• Take both bells of an ensemble level class in grades 11 and 12
• Maintain a minimum of a "B" average in writing in grades 11 and 12 maintain a minimum of "C" average overall during grades 11 and 12

Creative Writing Department at a Glance

• Fundamentals  4-5-6
• Techniques  7-8
• Global Issues  9-10-11
• Dramatic Process  10-11-12
• Advanced Media Communications  11-12
• Critical Concerns  11-12
• Pandora’s Ink, Honors  12
• All Juniors prepare Corbett-Mayerson entries. All Seniors prepare Capstone projects. Both participate in after school practicum, accumulating over 250 hours per year in career path exploration.
• To be considered for Pandora’s Ink, students must participate in leadership roles on at least one major publication. Designation to be awarded at end of senior year.
• 7-12 graders must submit for Scholastics annually.
• All writing majors must submit to every in-house publication they are eligible for including Pandora's, 1310, etc., plus at least four others during the school year in or outside of school.
• Students must come to at least four after school events a year. Your recital, the BookFair! and Spring Festival are required. Other possibilities include the New Playwrights Festival, Got A Clue?, Anthology, author appearances at the library and poetry readings at bookstores.
• Volunteer service beyond the school day. For example, working on yearbook, auditions, and performances or maybe even sponsoring a poetry slam. For younger students, service might include putting up bulletin boards, straightening the computer lab or recycling.
• Boards portfolios are prepared according to individual instructions per class. These usually occur the last two weeks of every semester and are assessed for artistic growth, improved skill level, maturity, emerging voice and increased depth and complexity. Students can receive ratings of excellent, passing, warning, or failure. Boards are designed to help students progress in their arts majors, giving feedback for improvement. For grades 4-6, the process is formative. In grades 7-12, portfolios scoring a warning or failure will put the student on probation and recommend a remediation process. If a student receives scores of warning or failure two out of three times or twice in a row, that student and his or her parents will be counseled about the best course of action for the future, including choosing another major or repeating the class.
• Students must maintain an active and in good standing Cincinnati Public library card.
• Students must spend time reading and writing every night. Writers need to read like writers, looking for technique, structure and pattern.

• Future Students
• Information For Future Students Partners Alumni Parents
• Take Action Inquire Visit Apply Give
• Quick Links MY CState Academic Advising Course Search Register for Classes Tuition & Fees Starfish Library Job Opportunities Community Wellness Updates
• Support Career Center College Access Programs Concerning Behavior Counseling Disability New Student Orientation Parenting Tech & Computer Transfer Center Tutoring & Support William L. Mallory Early Learning Center
• Campus Life Bookstore Clubs & Organizations Dining Events Parking Student Activities

Women Writing for (a) Change

For over 30 years, Women Writing for (a) Change ®  has provided a safe and non-competitive environment for individuals to develop their writing skills, cultivate their creativity and strengthen their voices.  At WWf(a)C, our writers, whether first-timers or the more experienced, find community, connection and meaningful conversation within our writing circles.  

We encourage writing as a process of self-discovery and self-expression — a celebration of the individual voice. Our classes provide a unique setting in which honoring each other’s words enriches participants’ lives.

Creative Writing

Summer Camps!

Taft Museum of Art

All are Welcome!

Spark the Writer in You!

CURRENTLY REGISTERING FOR SUMMER CAMPS! In-Person at Women Writing for (a) Change Grades 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12

womenwritingcincy

Register Now!

People are Saying...

"I came for the writing; I stayed for the community."

"My teen daughter attended summer camp this year, and it was a profound experience for her. Thank you for all you do to provide an inspiring, safe and empowering environment. She will be back!"

"Writing in this supportive community changed my life!"

News at Women Writing for (a) Change

Roots to Sky Readaround

Roots to Sky: a Community Journey

Meet the Staff Happy Hour

Meet Jinai Amos, Development Director

Quick View: See all of our Programs and Classes

Category Filter Show All Adult All Gender Adult Women and Nonbinary Adults Adult Women Only Grades 10-12 Grades 4-6 Grades 7-9

• Admissions & Aid
• Workforce Training
• Success Stories
• Future Students

ENG - English

ENG 100 English Principles: Grammar and Structure 2 Credits. 2 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

A comprehensive review of writing mechanics for professional communication. Topics include: grammar, punctuation, word usage, style, proofreading, and techniques for writing and revising effective sentences. Prerequisites: None View Sections

ENG 101 English Composition 1 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

Ohio Transfer Module Approved

ENG 101A Intensive English Composition 1 4 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 2 Lab Hours.

ENG 102 English Composition 2: Contemporary Issues 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

ENG 103 English Composition 2: Writing about Literature 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

ENG 104 English Composition 2: Technical Communication 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

ENG 105 English Composition 2: Business Communication 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

Ohio Transfer Assurance Guide Approved

ENG 131 Creative Writing: Poetry 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

A workshop-oriented poetry writing course. Topics include: the invention process, revision, poetic form, and critical response to works of literature and student work. Prerequisites: 6 Credit Hours of English Composition View Sections

ENG 132 Creative Writing: Fiction 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

A workshop-oriented fiction writing course. Topics include: the invention process, revision, form of fiction, and critical response to works of literature and student work. Prerequisites: 6 credit hours of English Composition View Sections

ENG 134 Creative Writing: Writing for Children 3 Credits. 3 Lecture Hours. 0 Lab Hour.

A workshop-oriented course on writing picture books, chapter books, and middle grade novels. Topics include: the invention process, revision, form of children's literature, and critical response to works of literature and student work. Prerequisites: 6 credit hours of English Composition View Sections

ENG 205 Scriptwriting: Short 3 Credits. 2 Lecture Hours. 3 Lab Hours.

A course on developing scripts for short form electronic media messages such as commercials and public service announcements. Topics include: analyzing audiences and products; applying basic concepts of marketing; conducting research; preparing copy platforms, scripts, and storyboards; and persuasively presenting concepts. Prerequisites: 6 credits of English Composition (minimum grade C) View Sections

ENG 210 Scriptwriting: Long 3 Credits. 2 Lecture Hours. 3 Lab Hours.

A course on developing scripts for long form electronic media messages such as instructional and promotional video and documentaries. Topics include: analyzing audiences and products; conducting research; preparing documentation, scripts, and storyboards; and persuasively presenting concepts. Prerequisites: 6 credits of English Composition (minimum grade C) View Sections

ENG 215 Copywriting 3 Credits. 2 Lecture Hours. 3 Lab Hours.

A course on developing promotional messages for print and online distribution. Topics include: analyzing audiences and products, conducting research, developing concepts, preparing copy platforms, selecting writing styles and formats, and designing materials. Prerequisites: 6 credits of English Composition (minimum grade C) View Sections

ENG 230 Writing Online Content 3 Credits. 2 Lecture Hours. 3 Lab Hours.

A course on developing content for websites and web-supported publishing such as blogs and e-newsletters. Topics include: analyzing audiences and goals, choosing writing styles, creating and revising content, and applying best practices for online and digital document design. Prerequisites: 6 credits of English Composition (minimum grade C) View Sections

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

Download Full Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2023-2024 catalog.

College of Arts and Sciences » Programs and Degrees » Doctoral Degrees » English and Comparative Literature

Why study English?

The University of Cincinnati offers a doctoral degree in English with tracks in Literary and Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, and Rhetoric & Composition. The English Department, home of The Cincinnati Review, receives additional support in its activities from the Elliston Poetry Foundation, The Schiff Foundation for Fiction, and the Helen Weinberger Center for Drama and Playwriting. 

All doctoral coursework is seminar- or workshop- style, and all classes are supervised by our most active researchers and publishing writers. The curriculum is enhanced by speakers from the Taft Center for the Humanities, and a superlative array of visiting creative writers. 

The doctoral program emphasizes the study of modern and contemporary literature, but has strengths in a variety of areas and time periods. Our literature curriculum is driven by a broad interest in theory and the relationship between writing and culture. UC was one of the first programs in the nation to have developed the option for a creative dissertation, which currently includes an independent critical essay, along with a body of fiction, poetry, or non-fiction. Our doctoral students have outstanding publication histories and a strong record of job placement.

Virtually all admitted doctoral students receive departmental financial aid in the form of scholarships and assistantships. Students that are awarded graduate assistantships teach one course per term. They receive extensive theory- and practice-based training in teaching composition, and additional pedagogical training and opportunities in their own fields of study are available.

Admission Requirements

Step One: Online Application  https://grad.catalyst.uc.edu/apply/

You will be required to submit the following materials as part of the  Online Application :

All applications are given careful and individual review. In some cases, students who do not meet the required GPAs and GRE scores may be admitted.

• Letter of Intent: state academic goals and professional objectives (1-2 pages double spaced).
• Curriculum Vitae
• Critical writing sample - a literary analysis or research paper totaling 20 pages
• Creative writing sample - a chapter of a novel, two short stories, pages of poetry, or an act of a play totaling 15-20 pages
• Critical writing sample - a literary analysis or a research paper totaling 10-15 pages
• Critical writing sample - pedagogical and/or rhetorical analysis, research paper, or literary analysis totaling 15-20 pages
• Unofficial transcripts from all universities and/or colleges attended are uploaded to the  Online Application  system

Step Two: Required Supplementary Materials

• Three letters of recommendation (no form required): Recommenders will submit letters through the Online Application system.
• GRE General Test Scores: Must be reported directly from GRE to the University of Cincinnati.
• MFA or MA in English from an accredited university or college. See the Department Guide to Graduate Studies for BA-PhD Direct information.
• Minimum graduate GPA: 3.75
• Verbal: 160
• Analytical: 5.0
• Guide: Phd in Literary and Cultural Studies - Effective for graduate students admitted in and after Fall 2020
• Guide: PhD in Rhetoric and Composition - for students admitted in and after Fall 2019
• Guide: PhD in Creative Writing - for students admitted in and after Fall 2020

Application Deadlines

Early Admission

General Admission

Please refer to our departmental website for annual admission deadlines.

Contact Information

Find related programs in the following interest areas:.

Program Code: 15DOC-ENGC-PHD