From copywriting to creating trade journals or novels, writers influence the world
through words. In CBU’s creative writing program, students develop their writing technique,
hone their creative style and establish a voice that is uniquely and distinctly their
own. They will be part of a close-knit writing community that offers feedback, support
and constructive criticism as they refine their craft, eventually working on a final
writing project of publishable quality that expresses universal themes and their personal
worldview.
Small workshops help improve writing This is the first bachelor of fine arts degree offered at CBU, and one of only two
BFA creative writing programs offered at a Christian college in the U.S. Writing workshops
are kept small so that students can get frequent feedback on their writing from their
professors and peers. The program culminates with a creative capstone project, which
is usually a collection of poems or short stories or a novel/novella.
Use writing skills in any industry The skills students acquire in this program will equip them for all types of careers
where keen, lucid writing is expected, whether analytical, editorial or creative.
This program also prepares students for graduate study in both creative writing (MFA)
and English (MA).
Write for the campus literary journal Students have the opportunity to work on the campus literary journal, The Dazed Starling. This literary journal is published every spring and features poetry, fiction and
creative nonfiction by CBU students. Students select and edit submissions, then format
and design the journal, which is usually about 125 pages. After the journal is published,
the creative writing program hosts an event where students read aloud from the issue.
Writing Fiction
ENG 384
An intensive writing workshop designed to permit the student to study and practice
fiction in various forms.
Writing Poetry
ENG 385
This college course is an intensive workshop designed to encourage creativity in poetry.
Writing Creative Nonfiction
ENG 386
An intensive writing workshop designed to permit the student to study and practice
creative nonfiction in various forms.
Student Learning Outcomes
Creative Writing and Revision – Evaluate how craft, style, and technique in creative
writing influence the writing process and strategies for revision.
Language and Voice – Create an approach to crafting poetry, fiction, nonfiction with
a distinct voice, style, faith and/or worldview, and with effective use of grammar,
syntax, and mechanics.
Essay Writing and Research – Incorporate research from scholars in the appropriate
literary and theoretical fields into well-organized and revised essays.
Reading and Interpretation – Develop textually grounded interpretations of the content,
form, aesthetics, genre, historical significance, themes, and relevant topics in literary
texts.
Writers’ Community (the classroom, the campus, the world) – Evaluate peer work and
communication, constructive feedback writers give and receive, public readings of
creative writing, and submissions to literary journals for publication.
The Dazed Starling
Founded in 2014, The Dazed Starling is a student-edited literary journal that features poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction
submitted by California Baptist University students and recent graduates. Our mission
is to demonstrate the diversity of human imagination and provide enjoyment for our
readers. Submissions are accepted from every major, genre, and walk of life to open
the doors to new experiences. It is published in the spring of each year.
To learn more about the journal or read pieces from the current issue, visit the website
at the link below.
Take the next step toward living your purpose
As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational
experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and
fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do
more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training
and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and
knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and
all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.
Request More Information
Career Opportunities
Editor
Author
Producer
Copywriter
Professional blogger
Creative director
Technical writer
Publishing professional
Teacher
*Some career opportunities may require further education
51–52
Units
2
Optional Concentrations
2015
Year the Program Began
Student Testimonials
"I enjoy writing and hope to be a novelist and travel writer. Because CBU offers classes
in so many areas of writing, I can learn a number of writing styles. I like that the
professors pray in the beginning of class and often start with a devotional." Harmony Taetz, 2020
"I chose my major because I wanted a creative outlet, to write to express the things
I cannot say. My professors are all very compassionate and willing to serve. I have
learned to trust the gifts and instincts God has given me, and in the future, I hope
to heal others with my words." Amber Jackson, 2021
Meet Some of Our Faculty
Jennifer Tronti
Assistant Professor of English
“Once upon a time”—a familiar phrase, right? I think my love of literature began with
the transporting wonder of these four simple words. Reading has long been a refuge
and a delight, and the decision to teach was a natural extension of this love. After
a long day of teaching, grading and advising, I wrestle with (I mean, write) poetry.
“Once upon a time”—a familiar phrase, right? I think my love of literature began with
the transporting wonder of these four simple words. Reading has long been a refuge
and a delight, and the decision to teach was a natural extension of this love. After
a long day of teaching, grading and advising, I wrestle with (I mean, write) poetry.
