Creative Writing

Conservatory Style

Structured like the college’s intensive conservatory programs, The Lilly Lieb Port Creative Writing BA allows  you to focus intensively on your own writing in small workshops.

Challenge yourself to develop your skills within the tight-knit community of burgeoning writers in the highly selective program. You’ll be mentored by faculty who are themselves accomplished and working authors, and you’ll work one-on-one to complete your senior project.

Inspiration

Several times a semester, find inspiration from visiting authors ranging from internationally acclaimed novelists to emerging writers who just published their first chapbook.

The Durst Distinguished Chair and the Durst Lecture Series bring authors to campus every semester. Past participants include Alison Bechdel, Paul Beatty, Edwidge Dandicat, Aminatta Forna, Neil Gaiman, Ilya Kaminsky, George Saunders, Zadie Smith, and Kevin Young, to name just a few.

High Impact Learning

Several student-run publications on campus provide plenty of opportunity to showcase your talent. The Creative Writing program’s very own Italics Mine also offers the chance to learn firsthand how a publication comes together. The semi-annual publication offered in print and online, showcases the new, creative literary voices of Purchase College students—majors and non-majors alike—through print and web.

Study Abroad

We encourage you to spend a semester or a summer studying abroad at the college’s writing program in France, where you’ll find inspiration exploring your surroundings.

Creative Community

Hone your craft on a unique campus that reveres creativity in a community that’s inclusive, collaborative, and supportive, where you can express yourself freely.

Suburban Campus With NYC Nearby

Our 500-acre suburban campus in Westchester County lies only 30 miles north of New York City.

Practical Skills

Writing remains the skill most central to thinking and professional success. You’ll sharpen your communication and critical thinking skills. You’ll collaborate, critique, and be critiqued. You’ll leave Purchase with a skillset you can take just about anywhere. 

See some pathways taken by Creative Writing alumni below.