Course Overview

The Creative Writing program at Chapman University is designed to foster the artistic and intellectual growth of aspiring writers. Offered through the Department of English, the program emphasizes the development of skills in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting. Students engage in workshops, craft seminars, and literature courses to refine their voice and style while gaining a deep understanding of literary traditions. A unique feature of this program is its focus on individualized mentorship from accomplished faculty and access to a vibrant literary community in Southern California.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Creative Writing program are prepared for diverse career paths in writing, publishing, education, and media. The skills acquired—such as critical thinking, storytelling, and communication—are highly transferable across industries. Many alumni pursue roles in authorship, editing, and content creation, while others continue to graduate studies in creative writing or related fields.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program features award-winning faculty, including published authors and poets who provide personalized guidance. Notable faculty members include Richard Bausch, a celebrated novelist and short story writer, and other instructors with expertise in various genres who contribute to the program’s reputation for excellence.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Chapman University offers access to the Tabula Poetica Poetry Reading Series and the Pub(lishing) Crawl, events that connect students with contemporary writers and industry professionals. The university’s location in Orange, California, provides proximity to literary hubs in Los Angeles, offering networking opportunities with publishers, agents, and film industry contacts. Students also benefit from the resources of the Leatherby Libraries, which house extensive literary collections and archives.