When a poem or lyric moves you, how does it make you feel what you're feeling? When a story scares you, what's happening on the level of structure and syntax to usher you toward surprise? In the creative writing emphasis, students won't only read and write, they'll learn the very mechanics of prose and poetry, in order to be able to reproduce the effects of literature they love. During their course of study they'll read and interpret the work of contemporary writers, study the history and conventions of various genres, attend literary readings, and share their prose and poetry with classmates. The creative writing emphasis offers concentrated study in the practice and craft of writing as a creative art. Students will study the art and craft of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, and take workshops devoted to one or more of those three genres. Students in this emphasis will develop the skills of critical thinking, creative problem solving, close reading, editing, and logical analysis.

Bachelor of Creative Writing at Old Dominion University
International students can study the Creative Writing at Old Dominion University at its main campus in Aberdeen, United States of America. This Bachelor degree is available as a Full Time program delivered on campus in English. The program has a duration of 4 years and is offered at the university's main campus. Students can apply for the next intake starting on August 28, 2027.
About Bachelor of Creative Writing
- Workshop setting
- Literary readings
- Critiquing of peers' work
- Focus on contemporary literature
- Chance to study with published working writers
- Annual poetry and fiction competitions with cash prizes
Disciplines
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Creative Writing at Old Dominion University
Entry Requirements
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Application and $50 fee
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All prior Secondary/High School or College/University transcripts along with Diploma or Leaving Certificate.
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Demonstrated English Language Proficiency
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Financial Documentation (seeking F/J visas only)
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Passport identification page
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SAT/ACT standardized exams are optional, though highly recommended
Send all materials & correspondence to
International Admissions
Old Dominion University
2101 Dragas Hall
Norfolk, VA 23529 USA
Required Credentials
As a service to applicants, the Office of International Admissions evaluates all foreign academic credentials. All documents submitted during the application process become the property of Old Dominion University and cannot be returned.
- Transcripts, translations and standardized tests must be official, sealed, stamped by the institution or testing agency and sent directly to the Office of International Admissions at Old Dominion University.
- Testing authorities may include the Registrar or the Principal/Controller of Examinations.
- When English is not the language of instruction, academic transcripts and course descriptions are required in both English and one's native language. Certified official translations by a licensed or professional translator must accompany academic documents not written in English. Translations of official documents completed by the student will not be accepted.
- A complete application and supporting credentials must be received by the stated term deadline, or admission consideration will be applied to the next available semester.
- Once submitted, no additional documents can be uploaded through the online application. If you wish to include additional credentials, attach and send them directly to [email protected]. Please be sure your name and date of birth are clearly indicated in the email subject line.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 53
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
Career Opportunities after Completing Bachelor of Creative Writing
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn–half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Reporters and Correspondents
Collect and analyze facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation, or observation. Report and write stories for newspaper, news magazine, radio, or television.
Producers
Plan and coordinate various aspects of radio, television, stage, or motion picture production, such as selecting script, coordinating writing, directing and editing, and arranging financing.
Film and Video Editors
Edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images.
Editors
Plan, coordinate, or edit content of material for publication. May review proposals and drafts for possible publication. Includes technical editors.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Creative Writing at Old Dominion University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Creative Writing at Old Dominion University
Your Choice
The Common Application, which allows you to complete one application and designate it to be used for multiple institutions, OR the new Old Dominion University Application. The choice is yours.
Our Commitment
Whichever method you choose, the admissions staff at Old Dominion University is committed to processing your application in a timely manner. Questions concerning the admissions process may be directed to [email protected], 757-683-3685. Questions relative to The Common Application need to be directed to the Help Center found at commonapp.org
Old Dominion University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. Visit https://www.odu.edu/equity for more information.

United States of America, Aberdeen