TeamMaybe you want to be a writer, or you already are. Either way, you might not have a college education, or you have studied something unrelated to writing. These best degrees that writers can get by taking college courses online can help you decide on the type of degree that you’d like to have. The best part is that you don’t really have to go to college, in the literal sense, because you can get your degree online. Many well-known universities now offer classes online, so you can finish college from the comfort of your home. If you’re passionate about writing, you’ll discover many more interesting subjects that you can also learn and be equally passionate about. Consider some of the following areas of study!
1. Fine Arts
One of the best degrees that writers can get by taking college courses online is a Master’s degree in Fine Arts. If you choose an MFA program, you can learn about creative writing, digital arts, technology, and education. You’ll find creative writing courses and workshops that you can attend online, and it will help you create a publishable manuscript. Online MFA degrees are perfect for aspiring authors who want to get published, regardless of their choice of genre. Many students already have a literary agent even before graduating, and you can check the MFA programs that Liberty University and Boston University offer on their websites.
2. English
A Bachelor’s degree in English is obviously one of the best degrees that writers can get by taking college classes online. You’ll learn to do in-depth studies and analyses of literature. Most importantly, you’ll spend a lot of your time reading and analyzing that literature, which is going to help you improve your writing skills. You’ll learn to think critically, grow your passion for reading, and write clearly and engagingly. After graduation, you can start a career in writing, editing, or publishing. Your bachelor’s degree in English might even lead you to a master’s in fine arts, library science, or even law school. Read more about this online program on the websites of the University of Colorado Denver and Arizona State University.
3. Creative writing
Getting a bachelor’s degree in creative writing is clearly a good choice if you are, or want to be, a writer. Experience is necessary to perfect writing and this program will provide you with a lot of hands-on experience. If you want to be an author of poetry and fiction, you’ll surely gain valuable knowledge. You won’t learn only about writing because your work will also get reviewed, edited, and critiqued. Unfortunately, a part of being a writer is getting used to being criticized and rejected, so learning to take criticism is definitely going to come in useful. The University of Central Florida and Lesley University might have a program you’re looking for!
4. Journalism Studies
If you’re more interested in writing for media than creative writing, Journalism Studies might be the right choice for you. You’ll gain editing skills and research skills, as well as learn how to write as a journalist. This is one of the best degrees that writers can get by taking classes online because you’ll also improve both written and oral communication skills. It’s a great program if you want to start a career in public relations too. You’ll learn a lot, from media writing and social media management to broadcast writing and news reporting. All this will leave you with a very valuable skill set. Learn more about this program on the websites of the University of Massachusetts and North Dakota State University.
5. Arts in Theatre
Maybe you’re not that interested in journalism, but writing screenplays sounds like a job for you. If so, you might want to consider getting a Master’s degree in Arts in Theatre. Getting this degree gives you more career options besides writing. While you write at night, you could work in an acting school or a local theatre during the day. With this degree, you can work as a theatre company manager, set designer, casting director, and more. Check out the University of Northern Colorado and Regent University because they might have the right program for you!
6. Liberal Arts
Learn about humanities, writing, history, philosophy, and literature by enrolling in a bachelor’s program of Liberal Arts. You’ll improve your writing skills, give oral presentations, white papers, and gain valuable hands-on experience. This is one of the best degrees that writers can get by taking classes online so learn more about it on the websites of the University of Massachusetts Online and Ashford University.
7. Library Science
Most writers like to be surrounded by books, and if you feel the same way about your work environment, a Master’s degree in Library Science might be exactly what you’re looking for. In addition, you’ll have an option for a second occupation, which is quite related to writing. This program is made for working students, just make sure to choose an accredited program that doesn’t go against the Americal Library Association. You’ll find such programs at the University of Maryland and East Carolina University.
8. Literature
A Bachelor’s degree in English literature, or literature, is one of the best degrees that writers can get by taking college classes online. You will study both contemporary hits and classics, and you can choose a specialization. You won’t just learn from professors, but from the best writers in the history of writing, by reading their books. Look for this degree on the website of the University of Central Florida.
