Master's Concentration

Professional Fiction Writing

Broaden your imagination and share your story through the written word. From short stories to novels, examine the art of writing fiction and develop an authentic voice and style. You’ll learn to create a personal presence in the creative marketplace while honing your fiction writing expertise. Develop a deeper understanding of genres and influential masterworks as you strive to become a published author.

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At a Glance

Classes Begin
January 8
Format
Asynchronous and Hybrid Online
Term Length
10 Weeks
Admission
No GRE or GMAT
Master's Degree
Tuition
$38,688
Time
As few as 18 months
U.S. News Best Colleges
Top-Ranked University

U.S. News & World Report Rankings
Chris Heriza
Talk to an Enrollment Manager

Chris Heriza

Free Application


University College is committed to educational access, and given the difficult circumstances currently impacting millions of people, we are waiving application fees.

Skills You'll Learn


Identify and analyze key elements of strong fiction


Produce fiction writing that connects with the audience for your work


Apply professional editing standards to evaluate both published writing and writing for your peers

Curriculum

Master of Arts in Professional Creative Writing with a concentration in Professional Fiction Writing requires completion of 48 credit hours (12 courses).

All students are required to complete a zero-credit Student Success Course.

5
Core Courses
4
Concentration Courses
3
Elective Courses

Elective courses may be chosen from among non core and concentration courses in the Professional Creative Writing program, and you may also select courses in other University College graduate programs.

Your academic advisor will help you select electives that align with your career and personal goals.

Sample Schedule

Plan out your schedule and determine your preferred timeline for completing your master's degree—finish in as few as 18 months or take up to five years.

Time to Completion
Year 1 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Classes 2 2 2 2
Year 2 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Classes 2 2 0 0
Year 1 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Classes 1 2 1 2
Year 2 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Classes 1 2 1 2

Interested in a graduate certificate?


Explore our four and six course graduate certificates in Professional Fiction Writing.

Take a Course Before You Apply


We know how important it is to get started when you're ready and that's why you can enroll in a course before you officially apply.

Career Outcomes

Predicted outcomes for graduates of Professional Fiction Writing


According to Publishing Perspectives, 81% of Americans want to write a book, but how many actually possess the skills and determination to achieve the dream?


According to the Association of American Publishers, the U.S. book and journal publishing industry generated $28 billion dollars in revenue last year, massive growth primarily due to the increasing popularity of audiobooks.


The International Trade Administration Top Market Reports found that the U.S. publishing industry is the largest in the world. PwC forecasts that total global consumer book revenue will continue its upward trajectory.

Job Titles

Writer
Editor
Editor
Screenwriter
Copywriter
Teacher
Blogger
Writing Coach

Writer and Author Salary: National Average

$61,820
(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Get Ahead with Career Services


One-on-one career coaching and mock interviews


Job database dedicated to DU students and alumni


Résumé and cover letter guidance

Hear from Our Students

Theme: Job Satisfaction
Flexible Online Classes

Flexible Online Classes

We understand the demands of balancing work, friends and family, and school can be challenging. That's why at University College, you can complete your program entirely online. Our online learning platform makes it easy to work anywhere at any time.

Featured Instructors

Accreditation

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Higher Learning Commission

University College programs maintain the highest level of accreditation offered by The Higher Learning Commission, one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The University of Denver and all of its academic programs are regionally accredited by this commission, and regional accreditation is the highest standard for universities in the United States.

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