Wisconsin’s Own Library
Creative Writing Workshop

Ripon College

Ripon College, located in Ripon, Wisconsin, is a private liberal arts institution founded in 1851. It emphasizes a personalized, student-centered education with a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring close mentorship especially beneficial to aspiring writers. The college offers a major in English with a Creative Writing minor, allowing students to study fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Its academic rigor is complemented by a required Catalyst curriculum, which focuses on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, skills essential for any compelling writer.

Students can engage in a vibrant literary community through organizations like Parallax, the campus literary magazine, and the Heinz Franzen Writing Center, which offers peer-to-peer tutoring. The campus hosts various readings, workshops, and visiting writers, providing exposure to professional authors and diverse literary perspectives. Ripon also encourages interdisciplinary studies, allowing creative writing students to easily double-major or minor in complementary fields like theatre or history. The supportive and close-knit environment fosters both intellectual and creative growth. It’s an excellent choice for students seeking a rigorous, personalized liberal arts experience with a strong focus on developing their voice and craft.