Creative Writing

Creative Writing

Ces programmes sont offerts en anglais seulement. Les travaux et les examens doivent être présentés ou rédigés en anglais.

Optez pour l’un des programmes de création littéraire en langue anglaise les plus rigoureux et les plus complets du genre. Vous développerez des compétences pratiques dans au moins trois genres littéraires (fiction en prose, poésie, écriture pour l’écran, fiction graphique et non-fiction créative), tout en acquérant une compréhension critique des concepts clés et une connaissance historique des méthodologies, des techniques et des modes d’expression littéraire.

Why choose this program

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Critical Thinking Skills: The Creative Writing program emphasizes reading closely, thinking deeply, and writing effectively, which provides valuable skills for life-long learning and professional development.

Wide Range of Courses: Students have the opportunity to explore various literary traditions and topics, including science fiction, fantasy, children’s literature and environmental literature, enabling them to engage with contemporary issues from different perspectives.

Flexible Program Options: With options for minor, certificate, and microprogram, students can tailor their degree to their interests and career goals, while the co-op program provides valuable work experience and networking opportunities.

Culture and Creativity: The Department offers numerous opportunities for students to develop their creative capacities and cultural literacy, including a writer-in-residence program, an in-house arts journal, and many links with the Ottawa arts community.      

Diverse Career Paths: Graduates of the program are equipped with critical thinking, research and communication skills that are highly valued in various fields, including book editing, content development, digital copywriting and advertising, with opportunities to work in government agencies, health-care institutions and cultural organizations. 

Browse program options

Opportunity to acquire a solid foundation while following a Specialization or a Major in another discipline.

Must be taken in addition to a main program.

Program structure

Course sequence

Admission requirements and deadlines for Creative Writing

After your studies

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After completing your undergraduate studies in Creative Writing, you have two main paths to consider: continuing your education or entering the workforce.

You may choose to pursue graduate studies in English, including a Master of Arts (MA) with options such as coursework, a major research paper, or a thesis. You can also specialize in Creative Writing, where you continue developing your creative work alongside strong critical and analytical skills. These programs may include opportunities like co‑op placements or collaborative specializations, helping you gain practical experience and refine your voice as a writer while preparing for advanced research or even a PhD.

Alternatively, you can move directly into the job market. A degree in creative writing builds strong communication, storytelling, and critical thinking skills that are valued in many fields. Graduates often pursue careers in publishing, communications, media, marketing, content creation, editing, or the arts, where they can apply their writing creatively and professionally.

Whether you continue your studies or begin your career, a degree in Creative Writing provides a strong foundation for a wide range of creative and professional opportunities.

Potential Career Paths

Career development and experiential learning

The Department of English annually sponsors a writer-in-residence, both to offer support to Canadian writers and to give students direct access to the writer's advice and experience.

Student experience

UESA

The Undergraduate English Students' Association (UESA)

The Undergraduate English Students’ Association (UESA) represents undergraduate students in the Department of English at the University of Ottawa. That means we represent you and your interests at the department, faculty, and university level. Any student enrolled in an English degree program is considered a member of the UESA.
SAFA

Students' Association of the Faculty of Arts uOttawa

SAFA represents the interests of undergraduate students of the Faculty of Arts within the UOSU, the Faculty, the University, the community, and the provincial and federal governments. The students’ association also works to foster a sense of community through social, academic, and cultural events, while at the same time offering a variety of services to its members.
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The Graduate Students’ Association

The Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) of the Department of English represents graduate students studying English at the University of Ottawa. The purpose of the English GSA is to foster a sense of community among graduate students, to liaise with faculty and staff on issues relevant to graduate students, and to represent our department at the campus-wide Graduate Students’ Association (GSAÉD) and the Union of Student Workers at the University of Ottawa (CUPE 2626).

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