For Creative Writing:
* Iowa Writers' Workshop (University of Iowa): A highly competitive and prestigious program, known for its renowned faculty and strong alumni network.
* The New School (MFA in Creative Writing): Offers a rigorous program with a focus on experimental and innovative writing.
* Columbia University (MFA in Creative Writing): A well-established program with a diverse faculty and a strong emphasis on literary craft.
* Princeton University (MFA in Creative Writing): Known for its small class sizes and individualized attention, with a focus on literary excellence.
* Syracuse University (MFA in Creative Writing): Offers a range of concentrations, including poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, with strong connections to the publishing industry.
* University of California, Irvine (MFA in Creative Writing): Known for its emphasis on diverse voices and contemporary writing styles.
* University of Michigan (MFA in Creative Writing): Offers a strong program with a focus on literary history and theory.
* University of Texas at Austin (MFA in Creative Writing): A large and diverse program with a focus on both experimental and traditional writing.
For Journalism:
* Columbia University (Graduate School of Journalism): A world-renowned program with a strong reputation for investigative journalism and media innovation.
* University of California, Berkeley (Graduate School of Journalism): Known for its commitment to social justice and its focus on digital media.
* Northwestern University (Medill School of Journalism): Offers a range of programs, including print, broadcast, and digital journalism, with a focus on practical skills and industry connections.
* Stanford University (Department of Communication): A strong program with a focus on media studies, journalism, and digital media.
* University of Missouri (School of Journalism): One of the oldest and most prestigious journalism schools in the country, with a strong focus on print journalism.
For Professional Writing:
* University of Southern California (MFA in Writing for Screen & Television): A highly competitive program with a focus on screenwriting and television writing.
* Emerson College (MFA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing): Offers a range of programs, including creative writing, literary publishing, and professional writing.
* New York University (MFA in Writing): A large program with a variety of concentrations, including fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and playwriting.
* Carnegie Mellon University (Master of Arts in Professional Writing): A program with a strong focus on technical and business writing.
* DePaul University (Master of Arts in Writing): Offers a range of programs, including creative writing, professional writing, and writing for the web.
This is just a starting point, and there are many other excellent writing programs out there. Be sure to research programs thoroughly and consider factors such as location, faculty, course offerings, and career support. Also, visit college websites and attend open houses to get a better feel for the programs and the campus environment.
Remember, the "best" college for writing is the one that is the best fit for you and your writing goals.