What is the difference between "creative writing" and "fiction writing"?

Question

My college offers many writing courses. I notice, one course is called "Creative Writing" and another is called "Fiction Writing". What is the difference between creative writing and fiction writing?

Answer 1

In terms of what your college is offering and the differences, your best bet is to ask them directly.

In terms of the wider world of writing, based on my own experiences in my own locale:

• creative writing should focus on the art and style of writing,
• fiction writing on the technical and functional.

So in creative writing you'd learn to experiment, have fun, and grow as a writer, while in fiction writing you'd learn how to be a professional author.

Answer 2

In addition to Zayne's answer, Creative might cover poetry, essays, or non-fiction, while Fiction is specifically fictional narratives (short stories or novels).