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Creative Writing

Marylhurst University provides many opportunities for the creative writer. Students may take a weekend writing workshop, a series of classes, or complete a bachelor's degree in English Literature & Writing with a concentration in Creative Writing.

In the Creative Writing program, students:

  • Hone and develop skills in imaginative writing;

  • Craft a publishable work of poetry, fiction or nonfiction;

  • Gain a working knowledge of publication through classes and hands-on experience with literary publications; and

  • Gain the critical insight to evaluate their own writing and respond to the writing of others.

The Marylhurst Experience

Marylhurst students enjoy flexibility, convenience and personalized attention.

  • Evening, weekend, daytime and online courses
  • College credit for prior learning, life and work experience
  • Applicable credits are easily transferred
  • Small, seminar-style classes

Marylhurst University is located on a beautiful 63-acre wooded campus just 10 minutes south of Portland, a city with a vibrant literary scene. 

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Outstanding Faculty

The English Literature and Writing faculty includes prize-winning authors and poets, published scholars and professional writers – all committed to a challenging teaching and learning experience that supports each student’s intellectual, creative and professional goals.

Creative writing classes and workshops are taught by professional, working writers including poets Ger Killeen and Joan Maiers and prose writers Martha Gies, Jay Ponteri and Marion Pierce. Visiting writing instructors include Judith Barrington and Ruth Gundle.

Support and Opportunities for Writers

At Marylhurst, student writers find many avenues to express themselves. Campus events and organizations provide opportunities for learning in a supportive environment.

Binford Reading Series

The Binford Reading Series brings acclaimed writers to the Marylhurst campus for readings, lectures and seminars. Past visiting writers include Lynda Barry, Jim Shepard, Antonya Nelson and Charles D'Ambrosio.

Binford Reading Series Calendar

M Review

M Review is an annual publication of literary fiction, social and literary criticism, memoir, poetry and visual art by members of the Marylhurst community.

About M Review

Poetry Post

Marylhurst's poetry post, located on the walkway outside Shoen Library, is a place where anyone can display poetry for the community to read.

About the Poetry Post

Scholarship & Award Opportunities

New Marylhurst students with a strong interest in writing may apply for the Binford Writing Scholarship.

The Jackie Mosier Emerging Writer Award is awarded each spring in memory of Jackie Mosier, class of 2008.

About the Binford Writing Scholarship
About the Jackie Mosier Emerging Writer Award

Teen Writers Workshop

This two-week summer program is an opportunity for high school students to receive college-level creative writing instruction.

About the Teen Writers Workshop

Writing Center

Students come to the Writing Center to discuss writing, to polish skills, to find constructive critiques and useful instruction.

About the Writing Center

Writers' Club

The Writers' Club provides a venue for all Marylhurst students to receive constructive, friendly feedback on their creative endeavors.

Next Step

If Marylhurst sounds like the place for you, request an information packet from the Office of Admissions.

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Marylhurst University
17600 Pacific Highway (Hwy 43) / PO Box 261 / Marylhurst, OR 97036-0261
Phone: 503.636.8141 / Toll-free: 800.634.9982 / Fax: 503.636.9526