In Bird by Bird, Anne Lamott says that writing is about "learning to pay attention," "learn[ing] to be reverent" and "helping others have [a] sense of 'wonder.'" If you love to write (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, or plays), if you are motivated to write by a deep desire for exploration and a persistent sense of wonder regarding your own life, the world, and the Divine, then consider pursuing the BFA Degree in Creative Writing at Belhaven University.

One way to find out about this one-of-a-kind program (teaching the craft of writing from a Christian worldview perspective) is to attend Arts Discover Day. During this day, participants will learn about the writing program, meet Creative Writing and English department faculty and creative writing students, and workshop their own poems and stories in an informal small group led by the Director of Creative Writing.

All Creative Writing students should bring a portfolio of their writing to include 6-12 pages of poetry, fiction, plays, etc. But if you want to apply for the Angie Thomas Scholarship, you will need to submit your admission application and portfolio by November 16, 2023.

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to meet others who share your passion for creative expression, for paying attention, for being struck by wonder.

Registration will open for this event 6 weeks in advance.

Please contact the admission office at admission@belhaven.edu or 800-960-5940 with any questions.

Angie Thomas Writer's Scholarship

Learn how to become an Angie Thomas Writer's Scholar. This scholarship is open to incoming freshmen who wish to major in Creative Writing. Begin working on your portfolio today as it is due November 16, 2023. We can't wait to welcome our new Angie Thomas Scholars in the fall of 2024!

One of the Only Christian BFA in Creative Writing

Belhaven University is one of only three Christian universities in the U.S. offering a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in creative writing. Plus, our BFA program is one of the most storied and longest-serving writing programs in the country.

Arts Discover Day Schedule:

New schedule will be posted spring 2024. See sample schedule from fall.

Creative Writing Arts Discover Day Schedule
Friday, November 17, 2023
7:00 a.m. Check-in – Center for the Arts Concert Hall on Riverside Drive
7:45 a.m. Kick-off and Opening Prayer
8:00 a.m. Welcome from the President
8:30 a.m. Meet Creative Writing Faculty, Preston 3rd Floor
9:30 a.m. Campus Tour
11:00 a.m. Creative Writing Class: Mission and Calling for Writers
12 Noon Lunch with Arts Showcase, Billy Kim International Center
1:00 p.m. Admission and Financial Aid Overview
2:00 p.m. Individual Meetings with Dr. Smith/Portfolio Reviews
7:00 p.m.
Thursday– Saturday
Nov. 16-18
Fall Dance Concert – Bitsy Irby Visual Arts and Dance Center Studio Theatre
Complimentary tickets
7:30 p.m.
Friday
Nov. 17
Cinderella, Blackbox Theatre, Center for the Arts
Complimentary tickets
7:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 17
Symphony Orchestra Concert , Concert Hall, Center for the Arts
Complimentary tickets
two girls in jeans visiting over coffee outside

You Visit Us; Earn a $1,000 Scholarship

It’s absolutely true! We’re so confident that you’ll love what you experience on your visit to Belhaven, we’ll add $1,000 to your first-year scholarship package when you come for a personal visit or one of our Discover Days.

Contact Us

Office of Admission

Phone: 601-968-5940

Mailing Address:
1500 Peachtree Street, Box 153
Jackson, MS 39202

For campus visit:
Jimmy Hood Welcome Center
855 Riverside Drive
Jackson, MS 39202

Fax: 601-300-2932

admission@belhaven.edu

BU letters displayed outside admission office

Verse of the Year

God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.

Philippians 2:13