The BFA in Creative Writing is unlike any other writing degree offered in Wisconsin. A rigorous and focused curriculum for arts-minded students, this degree prepares students for a variety of careers, including creative writing, editing and publishing.
Cooperative Education experiences and internships pair students with national literary journals, a national book press Seems, the Great Lakes Writers Festival, the Community Book Read, and the campus’ digital media outlet, The Mirror.
At Lakeland, students take three tiers of creative writing workshops in three genres, as well as courses in our other fine arts programs – Music, Art, and Theater – in order to magnify study, extend practice and enrich experience.
Lakeland’s experienced Writing faculty takes great pride in working one-on-one with all students. The primary instructors are well-versed in all facets of the written word, and include award-winning poets and experts in fiction and nonfiction.
*Data provided by Job Center of Wisconsin's Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics for Editors.
Lakeland University also offers a major in Professional Writing, which helps students develop their skills in research, drafting, and copy editing to meet the needs of both corporate and nonprofit employers through courses like Copywriting and Editing, Technical Writing, News Writing, Advertising and Public Relations Writing, Writing for Nonprofits, Literary Publishing, etc.
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*Exceptions to the above admission criteria may be granted for students with a cumulative GPA range from 1.75 to 1.99 if the academic experience that resulted in the less than 2.0 GPA was more than two years ago. Furthermore, typically students with a cumulative GPA range from 1.50 to 1.75 will only be considered if the poor academic performance experience that resulted in the less than 2.0 GPA was more than five years ago. Students receiving an exception will be admitted conditionally.
Lakeland University offers a vibrant lineup of events that celebrate writing and creative expression — giving students opportunities to engage with accomplished authors, showcase their own work and develop their craft through workshops, readings and hands-on experiences.
Since its inception in 1991, the Great Lakes Writers Festival has brought together students, readers, and acclaimed writers from around the world to foster a dynamic literary community at Lakeland University.
BFA in Creative Writing students have the exclusive opportunity to take part in this free, two-day immersive event, which features master classes, live readings, open mics, and direct engagement with award-winning authors. Upperclassmen can also apply to be festival assistants, gaining hands-on experience in event coordination, marketing, and hospitality under the mentorship of faculty member Jodie Mortag, Associate Professor of Writing.
"Interning with the Great Lakes Writers Festival was one of my most impactful college experiences. In addition to working closely with four award-winning writers, I developed skills in organization, communication, and event planning—abilities that will serve me well beyond the world of writing."
—Leah Henckel, December '24 BFA Graduate
