Yes, Kenyon College is widely regarded as one of the best colleges in the United States for creative writing. Its creative writing program, literary tradition, and campus resources have made it a top choice for aspiring writers for decades. Below, we’ll explore what makes Kenyon stand out, how its program works, and what you should consider if you’re thinking about studying creative writing there.
Kenyon’s Creative Writing Reputation
Kenyon College, a small liberal arts college in Gambier, Ohio, has a national reputation for excellence in the literary arts. It is perhaps best known in literary circles for its association with The Kenyon Review, one of the most prestigious literary magazines in the country. Alumni and faculty include Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Award recipients, and notable authors such as John Green, E.L. Doctorow, and James Wright.
This reputation is not just historical. Kenyon is frequently listed among the top colleges for creative writing in college guides and rankings. Its alumni’s publishing successes and the continuing strength of its literary community have cemented its status as a leader in the field.
The Structure of the Creative Writing Program
Kenyon College offers a robust English major with a concentration in creative writing, rather than a standalone creative writing major. Students can choose from workshops in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and playwriting. The program emphasizes close reading, critical analysis, and extensive writing practice.
- Workshops: Small, discussion-based classes are the centerpiece, allowing students to share their work and receive detailed feedback from peers and faculty.
- Faculty: Courses are taught by accomplished writers, many of whom are active in publishing and participate in the broader literary scene.
- Flexibility: Students can blend creative writing courses with literary analysis, gaining a well-rounded understanding of literature.
- Capstone Experience: Seniors may complete a thesis project, such as a collection of poems or short stories, under faculty mentorship.
Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Kenyon’s literary culture extends far beyond coursework. Students can participate in a range of extracurricular activities and opportunities:
- The Kenyon Review: Students can intern or work as associates with the literary magazine, gaining hands-on editorial experience.
- Visiting Writers: The college hosts a steady stream of visiting authors and poets, offering readings, masterclasses, and Q&A sessions.
- Student Publications: Kenyon has several student-run publications where undergraduates can publish creative work.
- Writing Prizes: The college awards several competitive prizes for poetry, fiction, and nonfiction each year.
- Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop: This summer program for high school students is also staffed by Kenyon faculty and alumni, further enhancing the college’s literary environment.
Faculty and Alumni: Concrete Examples of Success
Kenyon’s faculty includes writers with significant literary accomplishments. For example, the late P.F. Kluge, who inspired the film Dog Day Afternoon, taught at Kenyon for decades. Geeta Kothari, a noted essayist and fiction writer, has led creative writing workshops. The faculty’s commitment to mentoring students is often cited by alumni as a defining feature of the Kenyon experience.
Notable alumni include:
- John Green (author of The Fault in Our Stars)
- Laura Hillenbrand (author of Seabiscuit and Unbroken)
- E.L. Doctorow (novelist, taught at Kenyon)
- James Wright (Pulitzer Prize-winning poet)
These writers credit Kenyon’s literary atmosphere and mentorship with shaping their careers.
How Kenyon Compares to Other Creative Writing Schools
Many colleges and universities offer creative writing programs, but Kenyon stands out for its blend of rigorous academics, literary tradition, and small college environment. Here’s how it compares on some key factors:
- Size: Kenyon’s small student body (about 1,800 students) allows for personalized attention and close relationships with faculty.
- Curriculum: Unlike larger universities with standalone creative writing majors, Kenyon’s program is integrated with the English department, emphasizing both craft and analysis.
- Literary Community: The presence of The Kenyon Review and the college’s literary events create a uniquely immersive environment.
- Peer Schools: Other top creative writing programs include Oberlin, Wesleyan, Brown, and Iowa. Kenyon’s program is generally considered on par with these, especially at the undergraduate level.
Costs and Financial Considerations
Kenyon College is a private liberal arts college with tuition and fees that are similar to other selective private institutions. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition was over $66,000, not including room, board, and other expenses. However, Kenyon offers need-based financial aid and some merit scholarships. The college is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students.
Prospective creative writing students should consider:
- Availability of scholarships specifically for writing or the arts (Kenyon offers a few, but most aid is need-based)
- The return on investment, considering the networking and publishing opportunities
- The cost of living in rural Ohio, which is generally lower than in urban areas
Campus Life and Safety
Kenyon is located in Gambier, a small village in central Ohio. The campus is secluded and picturesque, with historic buildings and the iconic Middle Path. For writers seeking a quiet, distraction-free environment, this setting is often seen as a plus. The college emphasizes community and inclusivity, offering a range of clubs, events, and support services.
In terms of safety, Kenyon is considered a very safe campus. The rural location and strong campus security contribute to a low incidence of serious crime. Students should, as always, take standard precautions, but overall Kenyon is regarded as a safe and supportive place to live and study.
Common Challenges and Considerations
While Kenyon’s creative writing program is highly regarded, it may not be the perfect fit for every student. Some potential challenges include:
- Rural Location: Gambier is remote, with limited off-campus entertainment and resources. Some students may crave a more urban or culturally diverse environment.
- Competitive Admissions: Kenyon is selective, and creative writing courses (especially advanced workshops) can be competitive to get into.
- Limited Major Options: Kenyon does not offer a separate creative writing major; students must major in English with a creative writing emphasis.
- Career Preparation: While the program is strong academically, students interested in journalism, screenwriting, or commercial writing may want to supplement their studies with internships or other experiences.
Alternatives to Kenyon for Creative Writing
If you are considering other colleges with strong creative writing programs, here are a few alternatives to explore:
- Oberlin College: Another Ohio liberal arts college with a robust creative writing major.
- Wesleyan University: Known for its writing workshops and literary tradition.
- Brown University: Offers an undergraduate concentration in Literary Arts.
- Sarah Lawrence College: Renowned for its writing curriculum and faculty.
- Iowa Writers’ Workshop (University of Iowa): Best known for its graduate program, but also has undergraduate writing courses.
- Emerson College: Located in Boston, offers a BFA in Creative Writing.
Each of these schools has a distinct campus culture and curriculum, so it’s important to research which environment matches your needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Kenyon College hard to get into for creative writing?
Kenyon College is a selective school, with an overall acceptance rate typically below 40%. While there is no separate application for creative writing, strong writing samples and academic performance can help your application stand out, especially if you highlight your interest in writing in your personal statement and activities. - Can I major in creative writing at Kenyon?
Kenyon does not offer a standalone creative writing major. Instead, students major in English and can choose a concentration or track in creative writing, taking a significant number of writing workshops and related courses. - What are the requirements for the creative writing concentration?
Requirements include a mix of introductory and advanced writing workshops, as well as literature courses. Students typically complete a capstone project, such as a thesis of original creative work, in their senior year. - Does Kenyon offer scholarships for creative writing?
Most financial aid at Kenyon is need-based, but there are some writing prizes and scholarships awarded to students with exceptional talent. These are often competitive and may require submission of a writing portfolio. - Are there publishing opportunities for undergraduates?
Yes. Students can work with The Kenyon Review, contribute to campus literary magazines, and participate in writing contests. These opportunities provide valuable experience in both writing and editing. - Is Kenyon’s rural location a disadvantage for writers?
For some, the rural setting is ideal for focusing on writing without distractions. Others may miss the cultural resources of a city. Kenyon addresses this by hosting many literary events and visiting writers, but students should consider what environment helps them thrive.
Conclusion: Is Kenyon Right for You?
Kenyon College offers one of the most respected undergraduate creative writing programs in the country, with a rich literary tradition, accomplished faculty, and abundant opportunities for aspiring writers. Its rural setting and tight-knit community foster a focused, supportive environment for developing your craft. However, its small size, remote location, and integrated rather than standalone writing major may not suit everyone. If you value a literary community, close faculty mentorship, and the chance to be part of a storied writing tradition, Kenyon is an excellent choice for creative writing.
See the main Kenyon College pros and cons.