Tyler Said:

Universities & colleges with great Creative Writing programs?

We Answered:

iowa, renowned for both their english and creative writing programs

you might find these of interest as well:
http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200708/mf…
http://www-as.phy.ohiou.edu/~rouzie/569A…

i went to arizona and was severely disappointed.

Claudia Said:

Anybody know of any summer creative writing programs/camps?!?

We Answered:

Yeah, there's one in London this July about two blocks down from my grandma's house. I think I'm going. Email me if you want more info.

Nicole Said:

What are essential programs for creative writing?

We Answered:

Creative Writing is a broad topic. What your friend needs is a good word processing program and his brain. Creative Writing programs can be taxing on the psyche...how 'bout the latest book by his/her favorite author or a biography of the favorite author.....something to help maintain their interest and enthusiasm.

If you friend has a specific area of interest, you might look for something in that area. Poetry, short-story, novel, plays, screenplays, etc...... It's difficult to recommend with little information.

Jessie Said:

Are creative writing computer programs such as Dramatica Pro worth the cost?

We Answered:

I tried the demo for a while, and was never impressed by it. I can't imagine that the full version is worth the money.

In my opinion, all you need is a good word processor. My favorite is actually a free one called Rough Draft. It's interface is similar to word, but with some extra helpful features:
http://www.richardsalsbury.com/

I think the money is best spent to improve your library, if you really have extra to burn! I would recommend reading as many books as possible in the genres that you like to write, as well as about the craft of writing. When you are reading other fiction books, pay attention to how the authors structure their work. Look at the pacing, character development, and dialogue. How do these authors make their books work?

Here are some of my favorites about writing:
1) "Writing Down The Bones" by Natalie Goldberg
2) "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott
3) "On Writing Well" by William Zinsser
4) "How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy" by Orson Scott Card
5) "On Writing" by Stephen King
6) "No Plot? No Problem!" by Chris Baty
7) "Eats, Shoots, and Leaves" by Lynne Truss
8) "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White

Also, take a look at a few websites where authors gather. Some of them have very helpful articles and forums. Holly Lisle has a fantastic website that has articles on both the business and writing aspects, including an excellent article on worldbuilding that I highly suggest for any fantasy writer:
http://hollylisle.com/fm/

Forward Motion is a wonderful, helpful community:
http://www.fmwriters.com/

Absolute Write is one of my favorite author communities, with a vast pool of resources and helpful people:
http://www.absolutewrite.com

Write every single day. Set a target for yourself. For instance, my goal right now is to write 1,000 words a day. I get this done before I go on the internet, read, watch TV, or goof around. To begin, maybe set an easier goal for yourself-- try 250 words each day. Write in a journal as well, if you feel so inclined!

Also, never forget how important it is to edit and rewrite! When you finish a short story or novel, I suggest setting it aside for a month. Don't look at it or think about it (if you can help it). Work on another project. Once that time has passed, go back and read what you wrote. Try to be objective-- are there parts that need to be expanded? Cut out? Rewritten? How is the grammar and spelling? Editing could (and should) take more time than the original draft!

The ideas really have to come from within you. We can give you all the ideas in the world, but if you aren't passionate about it then the novel won't end up being any good IF you even finish it. Write about what you love. The rest will come!

Ian Said:

What are the best Creative Writing MA programs in the UK?

We Answered:

You couldn't do better than Oxford University (first link).

Check out the other links below for alternative courses.

Everett Said:

does anyone know of any creative writing summer camps/programs for teen writers?

We Answered:

http://www.surdna.org/programs/programs_…

http://www.mysummercamps.com/camps/Detai…

Not sure what else I can give you, sorry.

Lois Said:

Good colleges with Creative Writing Programs (Financial Aid)?

We Answered:

careers.scienceontheweb.net - it has detailed info how to apply for financial aid and scholarships to get more cash.