Creative Writing and Publishing Major
"A word after a word after a word is power." - Margaret Atwood
Renowned author, poet and activist Margaret Atwood's insight underscores the strength of a degree in creative writing and publishing. At Salve Regina University, creative writers do more than craft stories - they shape the ideas, culture and emotions that influence how we see the world and ourselves. Our program empowers you to develop your voice in poetry, fiction and literary nonfiction while gaining firsthand experience in the print and digital publishing industries.
If you have a passion for writing, this is the place for you.
Jemma Clarke '24, communications professional, Temple Emanu-El
Whether writing the next great novel, revealing profound truths in poetry or crafting compelling narratives as screenwriters or podcasters, our students explore the full spectrum of creative expression.
In the workshop setting, you'll pursue the art of reflection, negotiation and diplomacy while deepening your empathy, imaginative capacity and understanding of the human experience. You'll also combine craft-focused courses with studies of literary genres, periods or themes. Through close reading, you'll develop the essential skill of critical analysis, understanding how successful authors have built memorable characters, brought to life vivid worlds or used metaphor to evoke the intangible.
You'll explore the evolving publishing industry and strategies for getting your work in front of editors. By studying shifting trends in publishing, our students gain insight into traditional and emerging pathways for authors, from literary magazines to digital platforms. With a strong foundation in critical analysis and genre exploration, you'll learn how to position your work for publication while developing skills to navigate the business side of writing.
Small class sizes, a dedicated faculty and a vibrant literary community provide the perfect environment to deepen empathy, strengthen imagination and turn passion into purpose.
What Sets Salve Apart
Salve is ranked in the top 6% of universities nationwide for long-term return on investment, according to Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce.
The Salve Compass program runs through all four years, connecting college to career. With a focus on hands-on, real-world experiences, it ensures every student has the skills and knowledge to succeed in the job market.
The Newport MFA Pathway
Qualified undergraduates can begin our Master of Fine Arts in creative writing program - the Newport MFA - during their fourth year. The Newport MFA immerses students in the creative life through craft talks, residencies, mentorships, and publishing and editing panels, always with a sustained focus on writing.
Find Your People
Our creative writing and publishing program stands out for its strong, close-knit community, where you'll connect beyond the classroom through unique traditions and social events. With a 13:1 student to faculty ratio, this supportive environment fosters collaboration, creativity and lifelong friendships - making Salve a place where you truly belong.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Salve offers study abroad opportunities that allow you to write, explore new cultures and pursue your creative passions in inspiring global settings. Creative writing and publishing majors have the opportunity to spend a summer in Oxford, England. The program emphasizes experiential learning, with trips to sites such as the famous Eagle and Child pub, where C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and their writing club, the Inklings, met to discuss literature and share their latest creative works.
Studio 228
Studio 228 is a creative hub where you can bring your ideas to life. Equipped with podcasting and video production tools - including microphones, cameras, lighting setups, teleprompters and a green screen - this space allows you to develop high-quality multimedia content. Editing bays feature high-end Apple Macs loaded with the full Adobe Creative Suite, providing everything needed for post-production work. Whether you're filming interviews or crafting digital storytelling projects, you'll have access to industry-standard resources to refine your skills and build an impressive portfolio.
Students and Alumni Making Waves
Isabella Strazza
Creative writing and publishing major, religious and theological studies minor
"Something that sets this program apart is that we are encouraged to write in multiple genres. Over my time here, I have been able to study poetry, prose, science fiction, nonfiction and dystopian writing. Because of my time in this major, I have developed the skills necessary to begin the Newport MFA in creative writing a semester early."
Audrey Martin
Creative writing and publishing major, film minor
"I have had the pleasure of being the program assistant for the Newport MFA since my second year of college, so when the accelerated MFA pathway became available, I knew it was something I wanted to do. The workshops and what I have learned from my professors and peers as an undergrad have helped prepare me for the intensive writing and work of my graduate course."
Mackenzie Kirby
Creative writing and publishing major, president of Writer's World
"Being a creative writing and publishing major is one of the best decisions I have ever made. The program really instills in you that your creativity can become your career, and that your voice matters."
Morgan Rizzo '23
Social media and marketing manager, A.T.Y. Hospitality
"While taking Dr. Donna Harrington-Lueker's feature writing class my junior year, she submitted my feature story about Ebbie Young from Sift Bake Shop to alumna Shannon Cushing - who at the time was the editor of Connecticut's The Day magazine - for consideration. The story not only got published, but it was the cover story for the February edition. Since then, I have been freelancing for the magazine and enjoy doing it." Read more about Rizzo's Salve experience.
Career Paths in Creative Writing and Publishing
A creative writing and publishing degree from Salve opens doors to a wide range of careers in fields such as publishing, journalism, marketing, advertising, public relations and education. With strong writing skills and industry insight, you can shape your future in a variety of creative and professional roles.
Make a Difference
We foster empathy and social change through coursework and community engagement. Through courses that emphasize storytelling, media literacy and ethical communication, you'll learn to recognize the transformative power of stories and their ability to inspire meaningful social change. Whether crafting compelling narratives, engaging in community-based projects or exploring the impact of media on society, our students develop the skills necessary to become thoughtful authors, creators and global citizens dedicated to making a positive difference.
Challenging Cultural Norms
During her sabbatical, associate professor Dr. Jen McClanaghan explored the narratives of women pushing back against societal expectations, a journey that led her to Las Vegas - the same place her grandmother traveled 70 years ago to obtain a divorce. Unable to divorce in New York due to restrictive laws, her grandmother’s choice reflected a quiet defiance that resonated across generations of women in McClanaghan's family. Inspired by these stories and the legacy of Catherine McAuley, she examined the strength it takes for women to challenge cultural norms.
Degree Options
Bachelor of Arts in creative writing and publishing
At just 39 credits, our creative writing and publishing program is designed for flexibility, allowing you to tailor your education to your passions and career goals. Whether pairing the degree with a minor, a double major or studying abroad, you'll have the freedom to explore a range of interdisciplinary interests while building a well-rounded skill set.
Minor in creative writing and publishing
Meet Our Creative Writing and Publishing Faculty
Our full-time faculty specialize in different areas of writing and publishing and are supported by adjuncts from the professional world. Our students enjoy close relationships with our highly qualified and dedicated faculty.
Dr. Madeleine Esch
- Associate professor
- Chair, English, Communications and Media
Dr. Sally Gomaa
- Professor
Dr. Donna Harrington-Lueker
- Professor emerita
Dr. Ikea Johnson
- Assistant professor
Dr. Hyoyeun Jun
- Assistant professor
- McAuley scholar
Dr. Jen McClanaghan
- Associate professor
- Writer in residence
Dr. D. Matthew Ramsey
- Professor
Dr. Margaret Svogun
- Professor
Writing at a Professional Level
Our students are uniquely positioned with the knowledge and experience they need for successful careers in the field. Through hands-on opportunities with professional writing, editing and publishing, they build portfolios that showcase their skills and set them apart in the job market.
Mosaic
Salve's independent student newspaper, Mosaic provides campus news, sports and entertainment stories. Mosaic serves as a forum for the Salve student voice and provides an open platform for students from all disciplines. Whether you're interested in writing or reading, the goal of Mosaic is to provide you with a place to publish. Read the Mosaic.
The Willow
Founded in 1998 as a student-organized literary publication, the magazine's purpose is to encourage and celebrate creative expression in the campus community through the publication of poetry, prose, artwork and photography by the student population. Students gain experience soliciting and evaluating literary and artistic submissions while also learning the nuts and bolts of editing and publishing a professional-quality journal.
Ochre
Ochre magazine takes its name from Ochre Court, the Gilded Age summer home of the Goelet family that today serves as the main administrative building of the University. Ochre is an online publication featuring the work of students in the COM371: Feature Writing course. Read Ochre magazine.