The Department of Creative Writing offers an intensive studio-academic apprenticeship in the writing of fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing. Courses include workshops in the three genres, special topics and forms courses, as well as a range of courses in literature. While students are accepted in, and expected to demonstrate mastery of one genre, they are encouraged to study, and must show proficiency in, a second genre. Students, in consultation with their advisors, tailor their course schedules to their own professional and educational interests, selecting a variety of courses in creative writing, literature, criticism, rhetoric and composition, film studies, and applicable cultural studies. Though the M.F.A. is a terminal degree designed for writers wishing to pursue various career paths in teaching, writing, publishing, and community arts organization, students are urged to pursue the degree primarily as a way of mastering their art by rigorous study and practice among a community of other dedicated writers. The M.F.A. degree without supporting publication credentials does not guarantee employment.
Admission Requirements
Applicants seeking admission to the Master of Fine Arts Program in Creative Writing are required to submit the following four items to the Graduate School before the application can be processed.
A typed manuscript in the applicant’s primary genre, labeled “poetry,” “fiction,” or “creative nonfiction”: 10 pages of poetry, 30 pages of fiction, or 30 pages of creative nonfiction (double-space prose, single-space poetry). The manuscript should demonstrate mastery of basic craft and unmistakable literary promise. Applicants are advised not to apply with a mixed-genre manuscript.
An application for graduate admission.
Official transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate).
An essay (300-500 words) on the applicant’s goals in pursuing the M.F.A., including previous educational experience.
An applicant must have successfully completed an appropriate undergraduate degree (usually, but not necessarily, a B.A. in English or a B.F.A in creative writing), with at least a “B” average in the major field of study. Acceptable fulfillment of all the above constitutes the minimum requirements for, but does not guarantee, admission to the M.F.A. program.
In general, we are seeking candidates who show artistic commitment and literary promise in their writing, and whose academic background indicates they are likely to succeed not only in graduate study but as publishing professional writers. Therefore, in evaluating candidates, the admissions committee places great emphasis on the quality of the manuscript.
Applications must be received by the published deadline . All interested applicants will be considered for graduate assistantships, which will be awarded on a competitive basis as they become available.
Degree Requirements (48 total credit hours)
An M.F.A. candidate must successfully complete a minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate study: 21 credit hours in writing ( CRW 530 , CRW 541 , CRW 542 , CRW 544 , CRW 546 , CRW 548 , CRW 550 ); six credit hours of thesis ( CRW 599 ); and 21 credit hours in other graduate literature and publishing courses, ( CRW 501 , CRW 503 , CRW 510 , CRW 520 , CRW 522 , CRW 523 , CRW 524 , CRW 525 , CRW 526 , CRW 540 , CRW 543 , CRW 545 , CRW 547 , CRW 560 , CRW 580 , CRW 581 , CRW 591 , CRW 594 , CRW 598 ; ENG 502 , ENG 504 , ENG 505 , ENG 506 , ENG 507 , ENG 508 , ENG 509 , ENG 511 , ENG 513 , ENG 514 , ENG 560 , ENG 561 , ENG 564 , ENG 565 , ENG 566 , ENG 572 , ENG 580 ) with an option of substituting up to six of those credit hours of study in a related discipline, as determined by the student’s advisor, the M.F.A. coordinator, and the chair of the Department of Creative Writing.
An M.F.A. candidate is required to complete at least 12 credit hours of writing workshop courses in a primary genre (poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction).
An M.F.A. candidate is required to complete a minimum of six credit hours in a secondary genre, which must include at least one 3-hour writing workshop ( CRW 510 , CRW 530 , CRW 542 , CRW 544 , CRW 546 , CRW 548 , CRW 550 ). Forms courses ( CRW 543 , CRW 545 , CRW 547 ) may be used to fulfill the remaining hours.
A maximum of 9 credit hours in secondary genre(s) workshop courses will count toward fulfilling the 21 hour writing requirement.
An M.F.A. candidate is required to complete CRW 520: The Publishing Process, and this course will count toward fulfilling the 21 hour requirement in other graduate literature or publishing courses.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) must be maintained in all graduate course work; a “B” average is required for graduation.
An M.F.A. candidate must complete a substantial book-length thesis manuscript of literary merit and publishable quality acceptable to the thesis committee: this ordinarily will be a novel; a novella; a collection of short stories, poems, or essays; a single long poem; a long nonfiction narrative; or some combination of the foregoing within the primary genre.
An M.F.A. candidate must pass the Master of Fine Arts examination.
A maximum of six credit hours of graduate course credit may be transferred from another regionally accredited institution in partial fulfillment of the M.F.A. UNCW regulations will be applied in determining the transferability of course credits, and requests for transfer credit must be approved by the M.F.A. coordinator, the chair of the Department of Creative Writing, and the Graduate School.
The M.F.A. program is designed to be completed in three calendar years. All requirements must be completed within five calendar years.
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15 Best Creative Writing MFA Programs in 2024
May 15, 2024
Whether you studied at a top creative writing university or are a high school dropout who will one day become a bestselling author , you may be considering an MFA in Creative Writing. But is a writing MFA genuinely worth the time and potential costs? How do you know which program will best nurture your writing? If you’re considering an MFA, this article walks you through the best full-time, low residency, and online Creative Writing MFA programs in the United States.
What are the best Creative Writing MFA programs?
Before we get into the meat and potatoes of this article, let’s start with the basics. What is an MFA, anyway?
A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a graduate degree that usually takes from two to three years to complete. Applications typically require a sample portfolio, usually 10-20 pages (and sometimes up to 30-40) of your best writing. Moreover, you can receive an MFA in a particular genre, such as Fiction or Poetry, or more broadly in Creative Writing. However, if you take the latter approach, you often have the opportunity to specialize in a single genre.
Wondering what actually goes on in a creative writing MFA beyond inspiring award-winning books and internet memes ? You enroll in workshops where you get feedback on your creative writing from your peers and a faculty member. You enroll in seminars where you get a foundation of theory and techniques. Then, you finish the degree with a thesis project. Thesis projects are typically a body of polished, publishable-quality creative work in your genre—fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.
Why should I get an MFA in Creative Writing?
You don’t need an MFA to be a writer. Just look at Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison or bestselling novelist Emily St. John Mandel.
Nonetheless, there are plenty of reasons you might still want to get a creative writing MFA. The first is, unfortunately, prestige. An MFA from a top program can help you stand out in a notoriously competitive industry to be published.
The second reason: time. Many MFA programs give you protected writing time, deadlines, and maybe even a (dainty) salary.
Third, an MFA in Creative Writing is a terminal degree. This means that this degree allows you to teach writing at the university level, especially after you publish a book.
Fourth: resources. MFA programs are often staffed by brilliant, award-winning writers; offer lecture series, volunteer opportunities, and teaching positions; and run their own (usually prestigious) literary magazines. Such resources provide you with the knowledge and insight you’ll need to navigate the literary and publishing world on your own post-graduation.
But above all, the biggest reason to pursue an MFA is the community it brings you. You get to meet other writers—and share feedback, advice, and moral support—in relationships that can last for decades.
Types of Creative Writing MFA Programs
Here are the different types of programs to consider, depending on your needs:
Fully-Funded Full-Time Programs
These programs offer full-tuition scholarships and sweeten the deal by actually paying you to attend them.
Pros: You’re paid to write (and teach).
Cons: Uprooting your entire life to move somewhere possibly very cold.
Full-Time MFA Programs
These programs include attending in-person classes and paying tuition (though many offer need-based and merit scholarships).
Pros: Lots of top-notch non-funded programs have more assets to attract world-class faculty and guests.
Cons: It’s an investment that might not pay itself back.
Low-Residency MFA Programs
Low-residency programs usually meet biannually for short sessions. They also offer one-on-one support throughout the year. These MFAs are more independent, preparing you for what the writing life is actually like.
Pros: No major life changes required. Cons: Less time dedicated to writing and less time to build relationships.
Online MFA Programs
Held 100% online. These programs have high acceptance rates and no residency requirement. That means zero travel or moving expenses.
Pros: No major life changes required.
Cons: These MFAs have less name recognition.
The Top 15 Creative Writing MFA Programs Ranked by Category
The following programs are selected for their balance of high funding, impressive return on investment, stellar faculty, major journal publications , and impressive alums.
FULLY FUNDED MFA PROGRAMS
1) johns hopkins university , mfa in fiction/poetry.
This two-year program offers an incredibly generous funding package: $39,000 teaching fellowships each year. Not to mention, it offers that sweet, sweet health insurance, mind-boggling faculty, and the option to apply for a lecture position after graduation. Many grads publish their first book within three years (nice). No nonfiction MFA (boo).
Location: Baltimore, MD
Incoming class size: 8 students (4 per genre)
Admissions rate: 4-8%
Alumni: Chimamanda Adichie, Jeffrey Blitz, Wes Craven, Louise Erdrich, Porochista Khakpour, Phillis Levin, ZZ Packer, Tom Sleigh, Elizabeth Spires, Rosanna Warren
2) University of Texas, James Michener Center
The only MFA that offers full and equal funding for every writer. It’s three years long, offers a generous yearly stipend of $30k, and provides full tuition plus a health insurance stipend. Fiction, poetry, playwriting, and screenwriting concentrations are available. The Michener Center is also unique because you study a primary genre and a secondary genre, and also get $4,000 for the summer.
Location : Austin, TX
Incoming class size : 12 students
Acceptance rate: a bone-chilling less-than-1% in fiction; 2-3% in other genres
Alumni: Fiona McFarlane, Brian McGreevy, Karan Mahajan, Alix Ohlin, Kevin Powers, Lara Prescott, Roger Reeves, Maria Reva, Domenica Ruta, Sam Sax, Joseph Skibell, Dominic Smith
3) University of Iowa
The Iowa Writers’ Workshop is a 2-year program on a residency model for fiction and poetry. This means there are low requirements, and lots of time to write groundbreaking novels or play pool at the local bar. All students receive full funding, including tuition, a living stipend, and subsidized health insurance. The Translation MFA , co-founded by Gayatri Chakravorti Spivak, is also two years long but with more intensive coursework. The Nonfiction Writing Program is a prestigious three-year MFA program and is also intensive.
Incoming class size: 25 each for poetry and fiction; 10-12 for nonfiction and translation.
Acceptance rate: 2.7-3.7%
Fantastic Alumni: Raymond Carver, Flannery O’Connor, Sandra Cisneros, Joy Harjo, Garth Greenwell, Kiley Reid, Brandon Taylor, Eula Biss, Yiyun Li, Jennifer Croft
Best MFA Creative Writing Programs (Continued)
4) university of michigan.
Anne Carson famously lives in Ann Arbor, as do the MFA students in UMichigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program. This is a big university town, which is less damaging to your social life. Plus, there’s lots to do when you have a $25,000 stipend, summer funding, and health care.
This is a 2-3-year program in either fiction or poetry, with an impressive reputation. They also have a demonstrated commitment to “ push back against the darkness of intolerance and injustice ” and have outreach programs in the community.
Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Incoming class size: 18 (9 in each genre)
Acceptance rate: 2%
Alumni: Brit Bennett, Vievee Francis, Airea D. Matthews, Celeste Ng, Chigozie Obioma, Jia Tolentino, Jesmyn Ward
5) Brown University
Brown offers an edgy, well-funded program in a place that only occasionally dips into arctic temperatures. All students are fully funded for 2 years, which includes tuition remission and a $32k yearly stipend. Students also get summer funding and—you guessed it—that sweet, sweet health insurance.
In the Brown Literary Arts MFA, students take only one workshop and one elective per semester. It’s also the only program in the country to feature a Digital/Cross Disciplinary Track. Fiction and Poetry Tracks are offered as well.
Location: Providence, RI
Incoming class size: 12-13
Acceptance rate: “highly selective”
Alumni: Edwidge Danticat, Jaimy Gordon, Gayl Jones, Ben Lerner, Joanna Scott, Kevin Young, Ottessa Moshfegh
6) University of Arizona
This 3-year program with fiction, poetry, and nonfiction tracks has many attractive qualities. It’s in “ the lushest desert in the world, ” and was recently ranked #4 in creative writing programs, and #2 in Nonfiction. You can take classes in multiple genres, and in fact, are encouraged to do so. Plus, Arizona’s dry heat is good for arthritis.
This notoriously supportive program is fully funded. Moreover, teaching assistantships that provide a salary, health insurance, and tuition waiver are offered to all students. Tucson is home to a hopping literary scene, so it’s also possible to volunteer at multiple literary organizations and even do supported research at the US-Mexico Border.
Location: Tucson, AZ
Incoming class size: usually 6
Acceptance rate: 1.2% (a refreshingly specific number after Brown’s evasiveness)
Alumni: Francisco Cantú, Jos Charles, Tony Hoagland, Nancy Mairs, Richard Russo, Richard Siken, Aisha Sabatini Sloan, David Foster Wallace
7) Arizona State University
With concentrations in fiction and poetry, Arizona State is a three-year funded program in arthritis-friendly dry heat. It offers small class sizes, individual mentorships, and one of the most impressive faculty rosters in the game. Moreover, it encourages cross-genre study.
Funding-wise, everyone has the option to take on a teaching assistantship position, which provides a tuition waiver, health insurance, and a yearly stipend of $25k. Other opportunities for financial support exist as well.
This two-year program is in New York City, meaning it comes with close access to literary opportunities and hot dogs. NYU also has one of the most accomplished faculty lists anywhere. Students have large cohorts (more potential friends!) and have a penchant for winning top literary prizes. Concentrations in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction are available.
Location: New York, NY
Incoming class size: ~60; 20-30 students accepted for each genre
Acceptance rate: 6-9%
Alumni: Nick Flynn, Nell Freudenberger, Aracelis Girmay, Mitchell S. Jackson, Tyehimba Jess, John Keene, Raven Leilani, Robin Coste Lewis, Ada Limón, Ocean Vuong
9) Columbia University
Another 2-3 year private MFA program with drool-worthy permanent and visiting faculty. Columbia offers courses in fiction, poetry, translation, and nonfiction. Beyond the Ivy League education, Columbia offers close access to agents, and its students have a high record of bestsellers. Finally, teaching positions and fellowships are available to help offset the high tuition.
Incoming class size: 110
Acceptance rate: not publicized (boo)
Alumni: Alexandra Kleeman, Rachel Kushner, Claudia Rankine, Rick Moody, Sigrid Nunez, Tracy K. Smith, Emma Cline, Adam Wilson, Marie Howe, Mary Jo Bang
10) Sarah Lawrence
Sarah Lawrence offers a concentration in speculative fiction in addition to the average fiction, poetry, and nonfiction choices. Moreover, they encourage cross-genre exploration. With intimate class sizes, this program is unique because it offers biweekly one-on-one conferences with its stunning faculty. It also has a notoriously supportive atmosphere, and many teaching and funding opportunities are available.
Location: Bronxville, NY
Incoming class size: 30-40
Acceptance rate: not publicized
Alumni: Cynthia Cruz, Melissa Febos, T Kira Madden, Alex Dimitrov, Moncho Alvarado
LOW RESIDENCY
11) bennington college.
This two-year program boasts truly stellar faculty, and meets twice a year for ten days in January and June. It’s like a biannual vacation in beautiful Vermont, plus mentorship by a famous writer. The rest of the time, you’ll be spending approximately 25 hours per week on reading and writing assignments. Students have the option to concentrate in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Uniquely, they can also opt for a dual-genre focus.
The tuition is $23,468 per year, with scholarships available. Additionally, Bennington offers full-immersion teaching fellowships to MFA students, which are extremely rare in low-residency programs.
Location: Bennington, VT
Acceptance rate: 53%
Incoming class: 25-35
Alumni: Larissa Pham, Andrew Reiner, Lisa Johnson Mitchell, and others
12) Institute for American Indian Arts
This two-year program emphasizes Native American and First Nations writing. With truly amazing faculty and visiting writers, they offer a wide range of genres, including screenwriting, poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. In addition, each student is matched with a faculty mentor who works with them one-on-one throughout the semester.
Students attend two eight-day residencies each year, in January and July, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. At $12,000 in tuition a year, it boasts being “ one of the most affordable MFA programs in the country .”
Location: Santa Fe, NM
Incoming class size : 21
Alumni: Tommy Orange, Dara Yen Elerath, Kathryn Wilder
13) Vermont College of Fine Arts
VCFA is the only graduate school on this list that focuses exclusively on the fine arts. Their MFA in Writing offers concentrations in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction; they also offer an MFA in Literary Translation and one of the few MFAs in Writing for Children and Young Adults . Students meet twice a year for nine days, in January and July, either in-person or online. Here, they receive one-on-one mentorship that continues for the rest of the semester. You can also do many travel residencies in exciting (and warm) places like Cozumel.
VCFA boasts amazing faculty and visiting writers, with individualized study options and plenty of one-on-one time. Tuition for the full two-year program is approximately $54k.
Location : Various; 2024/25 residencies are in Colorado and California
Incoming class size: 18-25
Acceptance rate: 63%
Alumnx: Lauren Markham, Mary-Kim Arnold, Cassie Beasley, Kate Beasley, Julie Berry, Bridget Birdsall, Gwenda Bond, Pablo Cartaya
ONLINE MFAS
14) university of texas at el paso.
UTEP is considered the best online MFA program, and features award-winning faculty from across the globe. Accordingly, this program is geared toward serious writers who want to pursue teaching and/or publishing. Intensive workshops allow submissions in Spanish and/or English, and genres include poetry and fiction.
No residencies are required, but an optional opportunity to connect in person is available every year. This three-year program costs about $25-30k total, depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state resident.
Location: El Paso, TX
Acceptance rate: “highly competitive”
Alumni: Watch alumni testimonies here
15) Bay Path University
This 2-year online, no-residency program is dedicated entirely to nonfiction. Featuring a supportive, diverse community, Bay Path offers small class sizes, close mentorship, and an optional yearly field trip to Ireland.
There are many tracks, including publishing, narrative medicine, and teaching creative writing. Moreover, core courses include memoir, narrative journalism, food/travel writing, and the personal essay. Tuition is approximately $31,000 for the entire program, with scholarships available.
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Incoming class size: 20
Alumni: Read alumni testimonies here
Best MFA Creative Writing Programs — Final Thoughts
Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded, low residency, or completely online MFA program, there are plenty of incredible options available—all of which will sharpen your craft while immersing you in the vibrant literary arts community.
Hoping to prepare for your MFA in advance? You might consider checking out the following:
Best English Programs
Best Colleges for Creative Writing
Writing Summer Programs
Best Writing Competitions for High School Students
Inspired to start writing? Get your pencil ready:
100 Creative Writing Prompts
1 00 Tone Words to Express Mood in Your Writing
60 Senior Project Ideas
Common App Essay Prompts
Best MFA Creative Writing Programs – References:
https://www.pw.org/mfa
The Creative Writing MFA Handbook: A Guide for Prospective Graduate Students , by Tom Kealey (A&C Black 2005)
Graduate School Admissions
Julia Conrad
With a Bachelor of Arts in English and Italian from Wesleyan University as well as MFAs in both Nonfiction Writing and Literary Translation from the University of Iowa, Julia is an experienced writer, editor, educator, and a former Fulbright Fellow. Julia’s work has been featured in The Millions , Asymptote , and The Massachusetts Review , among other publications. To read more of her work, visit www.juliaconrad.net
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hello! I’m a transfer student going into my sophomore year and i’ve been between UNC and UNCW. I know it’s a no brainer for most people but i’ve been having a really difficult time deciding where to go and wasn’t sure where else to ask. I’m planning to major in Creative Writing and want to know more about the program at UNCW. My film teacher at my community college sang praises for this school and highly recommended it to me, but I still want another opinion. I’m just not sure which is the better option for me. I’d like to know more about the student life there too and how easy or difficult it is for a transfer student to fit in and make friends. I loved the campus when i visited but wasn’t a huge fan of the town itself, however i don’t go out much so it’s not a big problem for me. Can anyone share their experience at UNCW specifically in the Creative Writing program?
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The 10 Best MFA Creative Writing Programs [2024]
Many people have a talent for stories, but not everyone will become a successful author. In many cases, people simply need to hone their skills – and the best MFA creative writing programs are the key.
If you have an undergrad degree and are looking for the next step in your academic adventure, you’re in luck: We’ve scoured MFA creative writing rankings to find you the best programs.
Table of Contents
The 10 Best MFA Creative Writing Programs
1. johns hopkins university – krieger school of arts & sciences.
Master of Fine Arts in Fiction/ Poetry
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins is a world-renowned private research university. Their Master of Fine Arts in Fiction/Poetry is one of the best MFA creative writing programs anywhere. Students take courses and receive writing practice (in fiction or poetry) at the highest level. This MFA program also offers the opportunity to learn with an internationally renowned faculty.
Duration: 2 years
Financial aid: Full tuition, teaching fellowship (for all students set at $33,000/year)
Acceptance rate: 11.1%
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Founded: 1876
2. University of Michigan – Helen Zell Writers’ Program
Master of Fine Arts
The University of Michigan is a public research university – and the oldest in the state. Its Master of Fine Arts program is one of the best MFA creative writing programs in the country, exposing students to various approaches to the craft. While studying under award-winning poets and writers, students may specialize in either poetry or fiction.
Duration: 2 years
No. of hours: 36
Financial aid: Full funding
Acceptance rate: 26.1%
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Founded: 1817
3. University of Texas at Austin – New Writers Project
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
The University of Texas at Austin is a well-known public research university with around 50,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. It offers one of the best MFA programs for creative writing, aiming to enhance and develop its students’ artistic and intellectual abilities.
Duration: 3 years
Financial aid: Full funding
Acceptance rate: 32%
Location: Austin, Texas
Founded: 1883
4. University of Nebraska – Kearney
Master of Arts
The University of Nebraska strives to provide quality, affordable education, including its online MA English program. Students can focus on four areas, including Creative Writing (which provides experiential learning in either poetry or prose).
Credit hours: 36
Tuition : $315 per credit hour
Financial aid : Grants, Work-study, Student loans, Scholarships, Parent loans
Acceptance rate: 88%
Location: Online
Founded: 1905
5. Bay Path University (Massachusetts)
MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing
Bay Path University is a private university with various programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels (including women-only undergraduate programs). This creative non-fiction writing program is one of the first fully online programs in the country. No matter their location, students are able to develop their creative writing skills and knowledge – in a range of literary genres.
Credits: 39
Tuition: $775 per credit
Financial aid : Federal Stafford loan, Student loans
Acceptance rate: 78%
Founded: 1897
6. Brown University (Rhode Island)
MFA in Literary Arts
Brown is a world-famous Ivy League university based in Providence, Rhode Island. Its two-year residency MFA in Literary Arts is designed for students looking to maximize their intellectual and creative exploration. The highly competitive program offers extensive financial support. In fact, over the past 20 years, all incoming MFA students were awarded full funding for their first year of study (and many for the second year).
Tuition: $57,591 (but full funding available)
Financial aid : Fellowship, teaching assistantships, and stipends.
Acceptance rate: 9%
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Founded: 1764
7. University of Iowa (Iowa)
MFA in Creative Writing
The University of Iowa is a public university located in Iowa City. As one of the most celebrated public schools in the Midwest, students learn under established professors and promising writers during their two-year residency program.
Credits: 60
Tuition: $12,065 for in-state students, and $31,012 out-of-state
Financial aid : Scholarships, teaching assistantships, federal aid, and student loans.
Acceptance rate: 84%
Location: Iowa City, Iowa
8. Cornell University (New York State)
Cornell is an Ivy League university located in Ithaca, New York. This highly competitive program accepts only eight students annually, and just two from each concentration. Not only do students enjoy a generous financial aid package, but they also have the opportunity to work closely with members of the school’s celebrated faculty.
Tuition: $29,500
Financial aid : All accepted students receive a fellowship covering full tuition, stipend, and insurance.
Acceptance rate: 14%
Location: Ithaca, New York
Founded: 1865
9. Columbia University ( NYC )
MFA in Fiction Writing
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is the oldest tertiary education institution in New York – and one of the oldest in the country. The school offers a Writing MFA in nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and literary translation. The fiction concentration promotes artistic and aesthetic diversity, with a diverse teaching staff and adjunct faculty from a wide range of diverse experience.
Credits: 60 points
Tuition: $34,576
Financial aid : Scholarships, fellowships, federal aid, work-study, and veterans’ grants.
Acceptance rate: 11%
Location: NYC, New York
Founded: 1754
10. New York University (NYC)
New York University (NYU) is known for delivering high-quality, innovative education in various fields. Located in the heart of NYC, the institution’s MFA in Creative Writing boasts celebrated faculty from poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction backgrounds. This dynamic program fosters creativity and excellence through literary outreach programs, public reading series, a literary journal, and special seminars from visiting writers
Credits: 32
Tuition: $53,229
Financial aid : Fellowships, scholarships, and federal aid.
Location: NYC
Founded: 1886
Common Courses for MFAs in Creative Writing
As part of your master’s in creative writing program, you’ll usually need to complete a number of compulsory courses, along with certain electives. Common courses you’ll need to take include:
Literary theory
History of storytelling
Genre conventions
Market trends
Marketing manuscripts to publishers
Thesis or dissertation
Typical Requirements for Applying to an MFA Creative Writing Program
Besides the application form and fee, most MFA in creative writing programs have standard requirements. While the following are the most typical requirements, always check with the specific program first:
Make sure your resume includes all relevant information to showcase your interests, skills, and talent in writing.
2. Writing Sample(s)
MFA creative writing program selection committees look for applicants who are serious about writing. Therefore, they typically ask for at least one 10-20 page writing sample. The best samples showcase talent in your preferred area of writing (e.g., fiction, non-fiction). MFA poetry programs have varied sample requirements.
3. Transcripts
You’ll need to show your undergraduate degree (and possibly high school) transcript.
4. Statement of Purpose
A statement of purpose is usually 1-2 pages and shows your passion for writing and potential to succeed in the program.
5. Recommendation Letters
Most programs require letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts who know you well.
Related reading: How to Ask a Professor for a Grad School Recommendation
6. GRE Scores
Some MFA programs require GRE scores (though this is not the case for all universities). If you happen to need some assistance while studying for your GRE or GMAT, be sure to check out Magoosh for easy test prep!
What Can Creative Writers Do After Graduation?
As a creative writer with an MFA, you’ll have a variety of career options where your skills are highly valued. Below are a few of the common jobs an MFA creative writing graduate can do, along with the average annual salary for each.
Creative Director ( $90,389 )
A creative director leads a team of creative writers, designers, or artists in various fields, such as media, advertising, or entertainment.
Editor ( $63,350)
An editor helps correct writing errors and improve the style and flow in media, broadcasting, films, advertising, marketing , and entertainment.
Academic Librarian ( $61,190)
An academic librarian manages educational information resources in an academic environment (such as a university).
Copywriter ( $53,800 )
Copywriters typically work to present an idea to a particular audience and capture their attention using as few words as possible.
Technical Writers ($78,060)
Technical writers are tasked with instruction manuals, guides, journal articles, and other documents. These convey complex details and technical information to a wider audience.
Writer ( $69,510 )
A writer usually provides written content for businesses through articles, marketing content, blogs, or product descriptions. They may also write fiction or non-fiction books.
Social Media Manager ( $52,856 )
A social media manager is responsible for creating and scheduling content on social media, and may also track analytics and develop social media strategies.
Journalist ($ 48,370 )
Journalists may work for newspapers, magazines, or online publications, researching and writing stories, as well as conducting interviews and investigations.
Public Relations Officer ( $62,800)
A public relations officer works to promote and improve the public image of a company, government agency, or organization. This is done through work such as: preparing media releases, online content, and dealing with the media.
Lexicographer ( $72,620 )
Lexicographers are the professionals who create dictionaries. They study words’ etymologies and meanings, compiling them into a dictionary.
Can You Get a Creative Writing Degree Online?
Yes, a number of institutions offer online master’s degrees , such as Bay Path University and the University of Nebraska. Online courses offer a high degree of flexibility, allowing you to study from anywhere – and often on your own schedule. Many students can earn their degrees while continuing with their current job or raising a family.
However, students won’t receive the full benefits of a residency program, such as building close connections with peers and working with the faculty in person. Some on-campus programs also offer full funding to cover tuition and education expenses.
Pros and Cons of an MFA in Creative Writing
Like anything, studying an MFA in Creative Writing and pursuing a related career can have its benefits as well as drawbacks.
It’ll motivate you to write.
Many people are talented but struggle sitting down to write. An MFA program will give you the motivation to meet your deadlines.
You’ll have a community.
Writing can be a solitary pursuit. It can be hard to connect with others who are just as passionate about writing. An MFA program provides students with a community of like-minded people.
Graduates have teaching prospects.
An MFA is one option that can help you find a teaching job at the university level. Unlike some majors that require a Ph.D. to enter academia, many post-secondary instructors hold an MFA.
Not always the most marketable job skills
Although an MFA in Creative Writing will provide several useful skills in the job market, these are not as marketable as some other forms of writing. For example, copywriting arguably has a wider range of job prospects.
It could limit your creativity.
There is a risk that your writing could become too technical or formulaic, due to the theories learned during your MFA. It’s important to know the theory, but you don’t want to let it limit your creativity.
How Long Does It Take to Get an MFA Degree in Creative Writing?
A master’s in creative writing typically takes between 2-3 years to complete. Unlike other master’s degrees’ accelerated options, creative writing program requirements require a greater number of workshops and dissertations.
Alternatives to Creative Writing Majors
There are plenty of similar majors that can set you on the path to a career in the creative writing field. Consider alternatives like an MA in English , literature, humanities, media studies, and library sciences.
Related Reading: Master’s in Fine Arts: The Ultimate Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What can i do with an mfa in creative writing .
An MFA graduate could teach creative writing at a secondary or college level. They may pursue a career in advertising, publishing, media, or the entertainment industry. They could also become an author by publishing fiction, non-fiction, or poetry.
Are MFA Creative Writing Programs Worth It?
Having an MFA opens doors to a range of well-paid careers (more on that above). If you’re skilled in writing – and want to make a decent living with it – an MFA program might be an excellent choice.
How Do I Choose an MFA in Creative Writing?
First, consider whether an on-campus or online MFA program is best for you (depending on your lifestyle and commitments). Another key consideration is a university with renowned authors on their teaching staff who will give you the highest levels of training in creative writing. Also, consider your preferred focus area (e.g., fiction, poetry, nonfiction) .
What Are MFA Writing Programs?
An MFA in writing or creative writing is an advanced program that teaches students the art and practice of writing. During these programs, students hone their writing skills and equip themselves to publish their own work – or pursue a career in media, teaching, or advertising.
Can You Teach with an MFA?
Yes! Teaching is one of the many career options an MFA provides . An MFA in creative writing can qualify you to be a teacher in creative writing (in schools or the higher education sector).
Is It Hard to Be Admitted to MFA Creative Writing Programs?
MFA creative writing programs are relatively competitive. Therefore, not all applicants will get into the program of their choice. However, if you are talented and ambitious that becomes more likely. Having said that, the most prestigious universities with the best MFA creative writing programs accept a small percentage of the applicants.
What Is the Best Creative Writing Program in the World?
A number of creative writing programs are known for their famous faculty and excellent courses, like the Master of Fine Arts in Fiction/ Poetry from Johns Hopkins and the MFA in Literary Arts from Brown University . Outside the US, the most celebrated English program is likely the University of Cambridge’s MSt in Creative Writing.
How Hard Is It to Get an MFA in Creative Writing?
An MFA is an intensive, highly-involved degree that requires a certain amount of dedication. Anyone with a passion for creative writing should find it rewarding and satisfying.
Should I Get an MA or MFA in Creative Writing?
Whether you choose an MA or MFA in creative writing depends on your own interests and career ambitions. An MFA in creative writing is ideal for anyone passionate about pursuing a career in fiction, poetry, or creative non-fiction. An MA is a broader degree that equips students for a wider range of career choices (though it will qualify them for many of the same roles as an MFA).
Can I Get Published Without an MFA?
Absolutely. However, studying for an MFA will equip you with a range of skills and knowledge that are extremely helpful in getting your work published, from honing your craft to submitting your manuscript to working with publishers.
What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs with a Master’s in Creative Writing?
An MFA in creative writing can help you land a range of jobs in the creative and literary fields. The highest-paying jobs for graduates with a master’s in creative writing include creative directors ($90,000) and technical writers ($78,000).
Key Takeaways
An MFA in creative writing program will hone your talents and develop the skills you need to become a successful writer. The best MFA creative writing programs will give you incredible knowledge of the field while developing your practical skills in fiction, non-fiction, or poetry.
The acceptance rate for the best MFA writing programs is fairly low, so it’s crucial to understand the requirements well and prepare thoroughly. To help you with your application, check out our guide to applying to grad school .
Top 5 Easiest Master’s Degrees + 10 Easiest Grad Schools to Get Into
Top 10 Cheap Online Master’s Degrees in the US
Lisa Marlin
Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.
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University of North Carolina Wilmington, North Carolina
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Find details about every creative writing competition—including poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, awards for novels, grants for translators, and more—that we’ve published in the Grants & Awards section of Poets & Writers Magazine during the past year. We carefully review the practices and policies of each contest before including it in the Writing Contests database, the most trusted resource for legitimate writing contests available anywhere.
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Find publishers ready to read your work now with our Open Reading Periods page, a continually updated resource listing all the literary magazines and small presses currently open for submissions.
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Our series of subject-based handbooks (PDF format; $4.99 each) provide information and advice from authors, literary agents, editors, and publishers. Now available: The Poets & Writers Guide to Publicity and Promotion, The Poets & Writers Guide to the Book Deal, The Poets & Writers Guide to Literary Agents, The Poets & Writers Guide to MFA Programs, and The Poets & Writers Guide to Writing Contests.
Find a home for your work by consulting our searchable databases of writing contests, literary magazines, small presses, literary agents, and more.
Poets & Writers lists readings, workshops, and other literary events held in cities across the country. Whether you are an author on book tour or the curator of a reading series, the Literary Events Calendar can help you find your audience.
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Research newspapers, magazines, websites, and other publications that consistently publish book reviews using the Review Outlets database, which includes information about publishing schedules, submission guidelines, fees, and more.
Well over ten thousand poets and writers maintain listings in this essential resource for writers interested in connecting with their peers, as well as editors, agents, and reading series coordinators looking for authors. Apply today to join the growing community of writers who stay in touch and informed using the Poets & Writers Directory.
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Find information about more than two hundred full- and low-residency programs in creative writing in our MFA Programs database, which includes details about deadlines, funding, class size, core faculty, and more. Also included is information about more than fifty MA and PhD programs.
Whether you are looking to meet up with fellow writers, agents, and editors, or trying to find the perfect environment to fuel your writing practice, the Conferences & Residencies is the essential resource for information about well over three hundred writing conferences, writers residencies, and literary festivals around the world.
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Establish new connections and enjoy the company of your peers using our searchable databases of MFA programs and writers retreats, apply to be included in our directory of writers, and more.
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Each year the Readings & Workshops program provides support to hundreds of writers participating in literary readings and conducting writing workshops. Learn more about this program, our special events, projects, and supporters, and how to contact us.
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Find information about how Poets & Writers provides support to hundreds of writers participating in literary readings and conducting writing workshops.
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University of North Carolina, Wilmington
North carolina, united states.
The UNCW Department of Creative Writing is a community of passionate, dedicated writers who believe that the creation of art is valuable to self and culture. Our faculty encourages a rigorous yet supportive environment in which writers can grow as artists and as individuals. We believe excellence starts with an informed application of craft and we encourage writers to explore aesthetics and methods across genre lines.
The Department of Creative Writing is an independent department housed in its own building, keeping its undergraduate and graduate communities all in one place. It offers BFA and MFA degrees in Fine Arts (Creative Writing), both programs also having the potential of an extensive publishing and editing component.
UNCW’s MFA Program is celebrating its 20th anniversary and there is no better way to do that than by looking back on the successes of our students. That is where we pride ourselves. Our students and alumni have published more than 90 books and chapbooks. Jason Mott’s first novel became last season’s ABC TV series The Returned; Brad Land’s debut memoir Goat is being filmed as I write this; Hannah Dela Cruz Abrams received a $25,000 Rona Jaffe Foundation Writer’s Award and a $50,000 Whiting Writers Award; Arianna Nash won the Philip Levine Prize for Poetry; Rochelle Hurt won the Barrow Street Book Prize; Leah Osowski won the Wick Poetry Prize at Kent State; Emily Carr won the New Measures Poetry Prize; Xhenet Aliu won the Prairie Schooner Book Prize; the list of books goes on and on-- publishers such as St. Martins; Algonquin; Viking; Ballantine; Morrow; Random House; Simon and Schuster. Alumni have published some hundreds of poems, stories, essays, reviews in prominent and vital venues. Indeed, here are a few of the magazines with which recent students published while still in the program: The Georgia Review, Black Warrior Review, The Journal, Crazyhorse, Indiana Review, Colorado Review, Agni, North American Review, Green Mountains Review, Third Coast, Puerto del Sol, Passages North, Oxford American, River Teeth, Creative Nonfiction, Fourth Genre; The Paris Review Daily, Poetry International, Granta Online, and The Nation.
We are a faculty of 15 seasoned, well published, working writers, all teaching graduate coursework in writing, literature, translation, or publishing, editing and book design. We offer the traditional tracks of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, with a graduate course available in screenwriting.
We enjoy a community of 63 students undertaking a three-year program of study in an independent department of creative writing housed in its own building. The community is all in one place. Cross-genre study is not only encouraged—it is required. Our workshops are capped at 14 and often run much smaller. No one phones it in here. We take pride in mentoring our students. And we take pride in engendering a rigorous, but very supportive atmosphere amongst the students.
We offer 9-10 GTAships each year, each paying a stipend of $15,500 and involving the teaching of creative writing or publishing and editing, or, in two cases, film studies, at the undergraduate level.
One opportunity that sets us apart is our Publishing Laboratory and its imprint Lookout Books. Students have now edited, designed and published five national titles, one of which won the National Book Critics Circle Award. The Pub Lab also houses two national literary magazines, Ecotone and Chautauqua.
Please visit our website (below) and view a short video about us. We are proud of our MFA and BFA programs in Creative Writing, and of that unique, state-of-the-art Publishing Laboratory, where both graduate and undergraduate students learn all aspects of publishing in a hands-on environment that is unique in higher education. You can also read about our award-winning semiannual journal, Ecotone, and its sister book imprint, Lookout Books, at ecotonelookout.org.
Get to know us. Check out the faculty.
Then, we hope you’ll consider joining us.
Let us know if you have any questions.
Contact Information
601 S. College Road Creative Writing Department Wilmington North Carolina, United States 28403 Phone: (910) 962-3331 Email: [email protected] Fax: 910-962-7461 http://http://uncw.edu/writers/
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing +
Undergraduate program director.
Students may declare a major in Creative Writing and enter the BFA degree program only after submitting a successful portfolio for review by the faculty. Students must also have demonstrated their talent and dedication in one of the basic prerequisite courses in creative writing by receiving a grade of B or better.
The BFA program provides an intensive apprenticeship in writing, informed by the close study of literature, to serious, aspiring writers, among a community of accomplished professional writers. Training is provided in the art of writing within the context of studies in aesthetics, the literary tradition, the craft and profession of publishing, and broad liberal arts subject matter relevant to the student's need and goals. Our primary educational goals include: 1) providing dedicated and talented students with a rigorous apprenticeship in the art and craft of creating literature; 2) developing students' critical faculties, their understanding of literary forms, and their aesthetic judgment; 3) providing students with a strong intellectual foundation in the historical literary tradition, grounding their practice of the art of writing in an understanding of how that art has been practiced by the greatest classic and contemporary authors; and 4) providing a thoughtful interdisciplinary foundation for understanding creative writing's relationship to other arts and scholarly areas.
We value and promote cross-genre versatility. The major and minor require a beginning creative writing course in the chosen genre, then specialization in one or more genres, culminating in a senior seminar, a senior thesis, and a reading. Courses are also offered in screenwriting and playwriting. Atlantis is the undergraduate literary magazine, fully staffed by student editors. Each year, based on a judging of undergraduate manuscripts, the program awards the Sam Ragan Prizes in Poetry and the Jessie Rehder Short Story Awards. Students benefit from contact with numerous nationally-known visiting Writers-in-Residence and speakers, including guests during the department's annual week-long Writers' Symposium.
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing +
Graduate program director.
We enjoy a community of approximately 66 students undertaking a three-year program of study in an independent department of creative writing housed in its own building. The community is all in one place. Cross-genre study is not only encouraged—it is required. Our workshops are capped at 14 and often run much smaller. No one phones it in here. We take pride in mentoring our students. And we take pride in engendering a rigorous, but very supportive atmosphere amongst the students.
We offer differing numbers of GTAships each year, but each pays a stipend of $15,000 and involves the teaching of creative writing or publishing and editing, or, in one case, film studies, at the undergraduate level.
One opportunity that sets us apart is our Publishing Laboratory and its imprint Lookout Books. Students have now edited, designed and published five national titles, one of which won the National Book Critics Circle Award. The Pub Lab also houses two national literary magazines.
Please visit our website (below) and view a short video about us. We are proud of our MFA and BFA programs in Creative Writing, and of that unique, state-of-the-art Publishing Laboratory, where both graduate and undergraduate students learn all aspects of publishing in a hands-on environment that is unique in higher education. You can also read about our award-winning semiannual journal, Ecotone, and its sister book imprint, Lookout Books, at ecotonelookout.org!
Natural Causes, Thirty-Seven Years from the Stone, Smoulder: Poems
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/cox.html
Nina de Gramont
The Last September; The Boy I Love; Meet Me at the River; Of Cats and Men; Gossip Of The Starlings
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/degramont.html
Clyde Edgerton
Papadaddy's Book for New Fathers,The Night Train, The Bible Salesman, Solo: My Adventures in the Air,
Lunch at the Piccadilly: A Novel (2003)
Where Trouble Sleeps ,Redeye: A Western ,In Memory of Junior, Killer Diller , The Floatplane Notebooks (1988)
Walking Across Egypt ,Raney
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/edgerton.html
David Gessner
All the Wild That Remains; The Tarball Chronicles;)
My Green Manifesto; Soaring with Fidel; The Prophet of Dry Hill; Sick of Nature; Return of the Osprey; Under the Devil's Thumb; A Wild, Rank Place
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/gessner.html
Rebecca Lee
Bobcat and Other Stories, The City Is a Rising Tide
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/lee.html
Robert Anthony Siegel
All Will Be Revealed, All the Money in the World
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/siegel.html
BFA Coordinator, work in Haunted Voices, Haunting Places: An Anthology of Writers of the Old and New South, Big Muddy, 55 Words, Prick of the Spindle, Aries, Calliope, winner, Authors in the Park Short Story Prize
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/bass.html
Malena Morling
Ocean Avenue; Astoria; The Star By My Head: Poets from Sweden; On Foot I Wandered Through The Solar Systems
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/morling.html
Anna Lena Phillips Bell
A Pocket Book of Forms; 32 Poems, Colorado Review, the Southern Review, the Southern Poetry Anthology Vol. VII: North Carolina, the Raintown Review, Southern Poetry Review, the Anthology of Appalachian Writers, Really System, Canary, and 111O.
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/phillips.html
author of two poetry collections: We Call This Thing Between Us Love and … Hide Behind Me… His debut novel, The Returned, was optioned
-pre-release!- by actor Brad Pitt's production company, Plan B, as a television series and premiered on the ABC network in 2014 under the title Resurrection (2 seasons). His second novel, The Wonder of All Things has been optioned -also pre-release!- by Lionsgate Films for the big screen.
https://jasonmottauthor.com/
Sayantani Dasgupta
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/dasgupta.html
Michelle Donahue
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/donahue.html
KaToya Ellis Fleming
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/fleming.html
Jill Gerard
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/gerardj.html
Melody Moezzi
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/moezzi.html
Michael Ramos
https://uncw.edu/writers/faculty/ramos.html
Sarah Domet
https://sarahdomet.com/the-guineveres/
Emily Louise Smith
https://www.emilylouisesmith.org/
Publications & Presses +
Lookout Books
Publishing Laboratory
Visiting Writers Program +
Mei Fong, John Jeremiah Sullivan, Ilya Kaminsky, Steve Almond, Scott Cairns, Cristina Garcia, Patricia Hampl, Cynthia Huntington, Van Jordan, Jason Mott, Aimee Nezhukumatathil, Bob Reiss, Mary Ruefle, Natasha Trethewey; Nikki Finney; Roxane Gay; Michael Taeckens; Bill Roorbach; Jill McCorkle;
Graduate students in Brown's Literary Arts MFA program may choose to focus in one of three tracks – Fiction, Poetry, or Digital/Cross Disciplinary Writing. The Graduate School has notified candidates regarding admission decisions for Fall 2024 in all three tracks: Cross-Disciplinary, Fiction and Poetry.
The two-year program is structured to allow graduate student writers maximum possible time for creative and intellectual exploration. Students attend two courses each semester: the writing workshop and an elective in the first three semesters (with an additional half-course in pedagogy in semesters two and three); and in the final semester an independent study for completing the thesis as well as an elective.
Elective courses may be selected from among the full offerings of the Brown University curriculum. In years past, students have taken courses in literature, history, philosophy, theater and performance studies, modern culture and media, religious studies, and foreign languages. Studio fine arts courses and translation workshops are often appropriate choices – as are workshops offered on special topics or in other genres.
The thesis may be a substantial work of fiction or poetry, or a substantial digital or cross-disciplinary project. It is intended to represent the student’s achievement during the two years in residency at Brown.
Application deadline
Applications may be submitted from 30 September to 11:59 pm ET on 15 December 2023. If seeking a fee waiver , the deadline is 1 December.
Learn More About the Program
Graduate program handbook, learn about applying, financial information.
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Online MFA in Creative Writing Programs Focus Your Future in Fiction
Cost per credit $637
Total courses 16
Term length 10 Weeks
Program Overview Why get an MFA online?
Share your story with the world with an online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing . Throughout the program, you'll learn from talented writers who will help you sharpen your skills. Not only will you graduate from the program with a completed novel, but you'll also learn about the business side of creative writing — so you can feel prepared to market your work.
And while most MFA programs require a residency, Southern New Hampshire University's online MFA in Creative Writing can be completed entirely online, with no travel necessary.
Skills you'll learn:
The business and technical sides of professional writing
Navigating the publishing ecosystem, identifying agents and editors, and marketing your work
Using social media to gain a following and build your brand
Teaching writing in a classroom setting
Courses & Curriculum Put pen to paper with online MFA Creative Writing courses
Explore genres, develop your writing skills and learn how to market yourself with an MFA in Creative Writing from SNHU. By the end of the program, you'll have written and revised a complete novel in one of four genres: contemporary, young adult, romance and speculative.
And with embedded certificates in either online teaching of writing or professional writing , you'll have the skills to support your writing career – no matter where you're headed next.
MFA Creative Writing course curriculum
In the MFA Creative Writing program, you'll study the craft of writing, selecting novels for close study of the elements of writing, authorial techniques, genre conventions and creative decisions.
And as one of the only programs of its kind that encourages a focus on genre fiction, our online MFA lets you hone your craft in an area specific to your strengths and interests. This culminates as your thesis project – a completed novel in the contemporary, young adult, romance or speculative genre.
At SNHU, we also know there's more to a career in writing than perfecting your craft. That's why the online MFA Creative Writing program puts a strong focus on the practical skills you'll need to succeed in the industry. This includes studying the publication process, helping you make informed decisions to get your work into readers' hands.
Courses may include:
Visit the course catalog to view the full MFA in Creative Writing curriculum .
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type
PC (Windows OS)
Operating System
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft.
Memory (RAM)
8GB or higher
Hard Drive
100GB or higher
Antivirus Software
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.
SNHU Purchase Programs
Internet/ Bandwidth
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type
Apple (Mac OS)
Operating System
Currently supported operating system from Apple.
Memory (RAM)
8GB or higher
Hard Drive
100GB or higher
Antivirus Software
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.
SNHU Purchase Programs
Internet/ Bandwidth
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency
Additional Information:
Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page .
Earn a career-focused writing certificate before graduating
In addition to a focus on your creative interests, part of our 48-credit online MFA curriculum requires you to choose from 2 certificate offerings. These certificates are included as part of your MFA program and are thoughtfully designed to round out your education and better prepare you for a multitude of writing-related careers.
The Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching of Writing could be the right fit for you if you're interested in teaching in an online classroom setting — a great supplement to a writing career. You'll learn approaches to editing and coaching, as well as how to establish a virtual instructor presence and cultivate methods for supporting and engaging students within online writing communities.
Alternatively, you might be more drawn to the Graduate Certificate in Professional Writing , which highlights the technical and business opportunities available to writers. Students will develop a range of skills, such as copywriting, social media, marketing principles and content generation, learning many of the freelancing skills integral to today’s project-driven economy.
Graduate with a completed and revised novel
Every graduate of Southern New Hampshire University's online MFA program will leave the program with a 50,000-word manuscript for a novel in one of the four genres the program covers – contemporary, young adult, romance or speculative genre.
If you'd rather combine elements of the four offered genres, you can do that, too. For example, you might write a YA speculative fiction novel. Throughout your tenure in the program, you can choose to work on a singular idea that you will develop during the three thesis courses, or begin a new project for your thesis.
"My three thesis classes for the MFA degree were the most helpful," said Kathleen Harris '21 . "I was actually writing a book as my thesis, so it was both enjoyable and advantageous for the degree. And it was the end of a very long milestone of accomplishments."
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: January 06, 2025 | March 24, 2025
Next term starts: Oct. 14, 2024
Online student experience what’s it like going to snhu.
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
Schedule of weekly assignments
Discussion boards
Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
Chat with your advisors Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors.
Drop in for tutoring Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary.
Learn from industry professionals Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away.
Use the online library Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7.
Reach out for accessibility help Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities.
Focus on your well-being Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn from published authors and award winners
Our online MFA program is taught by a diverse and accomplished faculty of professional writers, who bring with them decades of experience and exhibit strong leadership both in the classroom and in their professional careers. This experience informs the development of courses and curriculum that can help position MFA graduates for success, wherever they go next.
Featured Faculty
Melissa hart.
Melissa Hart is the author of seven books. Her nonfiction writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Smithsonian, CNN, The Los Angeles Times and more. She was a contributing editor at The Writer Magazine for 15 years and is a frequent contributor at writing conferences across the Northwest.
Position Adjunct Instructor, MFA
Joined SNHU 2017
BA in Literature from the College of Creative Studies at the University of California-Santa Barbara
MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College
"This is a smart, well-crafted program designed for diverse writers who may work full-time and be involved in caregiving, as well. Kind-hearted, talented instructors guide you every step of the way, from a basic study of genre fiction to preparing a polished thesis manuscript for professional publication."
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
U.S. News & World Report Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North
The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology
Google.org Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932 , Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
It's easy, fast and free.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Additional requirements:
A personal statement of 200-300 words is required. Students are asked to explain how someone else’s story - such as a novel, movie or personal account - has impacted their life and influenced their drive to become a writer.
A creative writing sample of 8-12 pages of fiction is required (either a short story or an excerpt from a longer work). The creative writing sample should include a brief, up to 50-word introductory paragraph that explains the literary genre of the submission, whether the submission is a complete short story or an excerpt from something longer, and, if the latter, any information the writer believes is essential to properly evaluate the submission.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) , which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
If 3 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,199
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $13,377
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,466
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. This master's degree requires 48 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 36 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer credits toward your master's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. And consider asking your employer about tuition reimbursement.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online MFA?
If becoming a novelist is your dream, the online MFA in Creative Writing program is a great stepping stone. You'll sharpen your writing skills and apply critique to your work, finishing the program with a complete and publishable novel.
At SNHU, embedded certificates prepare you for even more career opportunities. You’ll graduate with skills needed to make a living as a professional writer in a variety of fields – from marketing, public relations and content writing to grant writing, publishing and teaching.
In addition to careers as authors or editors, MFA graduates can find roles in a wide array of industries, including:
Teach writing courses in higher education at a college or university, either in-person or online.
Influence consumer action through copywriting, from print ads to digital advertising and broadcast commercials.
Create written content such as blog posts, ebooks and podcasts that attract and retain customers.
From movies and plays to comedy and podcasts, writers often find success in the entertainment industry.
Increase in postsecondary teaching positions through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1
Median annual salary for writers and authors as of May 2023. In the same timeframe, editors made $75,020 and postsecondary teachers made $84,380. 1
Understanding the numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
I came out of the MFA program with a whole toolbox of writing skills, a solid idea of how the business side of writing works, a finished manuscript — and the confidence to go forward with publishing.
Tara Lynn Conrad '21G
I was attracted to the program because it was fully online. I work full time and have two small children – I did not have time to attend in-person classes. This program gave me the flexibility that I needed to attend school and live my life.
Felicia Warden '20G
Helping others to put pen to paper is a passion of mine. I am now working as an assistant professor of English/Literature at two universities and loving every minute of my work.
Kathleen Harris '21G
Frequently Asked Questions
A well-designed MFA in Creative Writing will build solid writing skills and a foundation in the business of many writing-related careers. Southern New Hampshire University’s online MFA in Creative Writing is one such practical, business-focused program. It teaches students to revise and reflect on their art while learning the print and digital business models — even digital tools — they need to support their creative endeavors.
Graduates of SNHU’s program come away knowing how to use business tools like project management software and online freelance editing resources.
Publishing industry expert and “Publishers Weekly” columnist Jane Friedman – and a subject-matter expert who helped develop the program at SNHU – points to another important aspect of business-oriented programs: writing in the digital age. Most MFA creative writing programs, she said, “are concerned only with artistic excellence. That's fine up until the point you start thinking about how to build a paying career."
Friedman went on to say, “I have a special interest in how the digital age is transforming writing careers, publishing and storytelling. Rather than taking a dark view of how the Internet era has affected writers’ livelihoods, I'm more interested in how revolutionary change can inspire new business models and how authorship will ultimately evolve.”
Yes. SNHU’s MFA in Creative Writing requires no specific undergraduate background. You could have a degree in accounting, as long as you have a passion for writing and your writing sample shows potential.
Because we understand that people start or change careers at any point across their lifetime, we want to ensure access to all of our programs to any student who wishes to learn more about that area of study and earn a credential in that field.
According to Poets & Writers, there are more than 200 MFA in Creative Writing programs throughout the United States. Of those, the vast majority are either full-residency or low-residency programs. 2
Determining which is the best creative writing program comes down to how you answer this question: Which one is best for you ?
Once you’ve narrowed your options by reviewing rankings, school reputations and course offerings, consider the demands on your life: Can you take time off from work to pursue a traditional MFA with a residency requirement? Do you have responsibilities at home that will limit how much time you can devote to your studies? How quickly do you want to earn your degree? And, last but not least, what’s your budget?
Many elite literary programs require 2-year residency commitments. Some welcome only traditional literary fiction – not a wide range of genres. SNHU’s online MFA in Creative Writing can be completed entirely online with no residency requirement. It’s also one of the only programs that welcomes genre writers, which means you can hone your craft in an area tailored to your strengths and interests.
You'll also have a sense of community – even in an online environment. So if you're looking for the chance to get involved as an online student, SNHU's the place for you. Our opportunities to join the ranks of fellow writers include:
Submitting to, and being published in, our online literary journal, the Penmen Review
Joining Word for Word, our bimonthly live-streamed event, to hear published authors read their work aloud and discuss both their creative process and their path to publishing success
Entering our annual short-story competition (known as the Fall Fiction Contest ) for the chance to win SNHU scholarships, publication in the Penmen Review and other prizes
Viewing, or participating in, our Student Writers Spotlight, a live-streamed event where our talented creative writing students share their work
Finally, our program gives you the option to pursue one of 2 graduate writing certificates – online teaching of writing and professional writing – making it a pragmatic choice for a wide variety of career directions.
To MA or to MFA? Once you've decided to earn an advanced degree in creative writing, you need to drill down into the specifics to know which option best fits your needs: What do you want to learn? What skills do you want to acquire? What are your career aspirations?
Practically speaking, a Master of Fine Arts differs from a Master of Arts in a few fundamental ways:
MFAs generally have higher credit requirements and take longer to complete
MFAs tend to be more “studio-based” or writing-intensive than MAs, culminating in a manuscript-length thesis
MAs typically have more of an English literature focus, often containing more literary analysis and theory in addition to reading and writing
Kathleen Harris '21G completed both her MA and MFA at SNHU.
"Both programs were wonderful not only because of the capable professors and instructors, but mainly because I felt I was working toward a goal of both writing and teaching in the field," said the graduate, who finished her MFA in 2021.
Read more about MA vs MFA .
Yes. The MFA is considered a terminal degree, which is similar to professional degrees granted in other fields, such as the PhD or the EdD, according to guidelines established by the College Art Association of America. 3 For that reason, most universities view it as a qualification to teach creative writing at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
In fact, the curriculum for the online MFA degree at Southern New Hampshire University may set you up for success in this area. Students in the program are required to choose one of two embedded certificate offerings – one of them being a Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching of Writing.
The certificate requires 4 courses:
Storytelling
Editing and Coaching
Engaging Online Writing Students
Seminar in Writing Instruction or Online Teaching Experience
Throughout your courses, you'll learn how to develop your own approach to teaching the craft. You'll explore tools for web-based courses and writing workshops, and you'll practice effective approaches to editing and coaching.
Once completed, you should be able to create a positive and influential virtual instructor presence and methods for supporting and engaging students within online communities.
Yes, you can earn your MFA online, but many schools require a face-to-face residency component – meaning time away from your current job and busy schedule. Many, but not all.
In fact, SNHU’s program is one of the few 100% online MFAs available. The university assembled a who's-who from the world of professional writing to build the program, bringing together authors from a diverse range of genres in the process. The result is an online MFA program that embraces the perspectives of many different writers and students.
For many students, earning an MFA online is the only way they'd be able to make it happen. Learning online certainly doesn't mean you'll be isolated – especially at SNHU. No matter the type of fiction they want to write, MFA students will find teachers and fellow students who share their interests.
It depends on how you define “worth it.” Whether it's an undergraduate creative writing degree or a master's, a degree in the subject is worth pursuing if your goals include becoming a better writer and increasing your chances of successfully publishing your work.
SNHU’s online creative writing MFA is designed to teach students how to adapt to an evolving literary and publishing landscape. In their courses, students embrace the digital tools that will help them forge successful writing careers.
Our curriculum creators and faculty also know the road to becoming a successful author is not always easy. That's why our creative writing program has a dual focus:
To help you develop your writing skills while finishing your studies with a novel that's ready to be published.
To give you the tools you need for professional success – no matter where your writing career takes you.
Related Programs
Related articles.
Sources & Citations
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/writers-and-authors.htm (viewed June 20, 2024)
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/editors.htm (viewed June 20, 2024)
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm (viewed June 20, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2 Poets & Writers, MFA Programs Database, on the internet, at https://www.pw.org/mfa (viewed June 20, 2024).
3 College Art Association of America, Guidelines for the MFA Degree in Art and Design, on the internet, at https://www.collegeart.org/standards-and-guidelines/guidelines/mfa (viewed June 20, 2024).
The MFA at UNCW is a 48-hour apprenticeship, requiring a total of 21 hours of writing workshops, 21 hours of literature or other elective courses, and 6 thesis hours, leading to completion and defense of a substantial book-length manuscript of literary merit and publishable quality. While students apply in poetry, fiction or creative nonfiction ...
MFA Admissions Process
Here's an overview of how the creative writing MFA admissions process works, and when and how you will be notified of admission. ... (Waitlisted applicants will also be considered for admission around mid-April.) UNCW finishes classes and enters the exam period at the end of April, and we need to have our incoming class decided before we ...
Apply to the MFA Program
The Fall 2024 application system is closed. The system will re-open Sept. 1, 2024 for Fall 2025 admission. Applications are due for Fall 2025 by 11:59 p.m. ET on Jan. 15, 2025. Your application to the MFA program in creative writing at UNC Wilmington will be submitted online to UNCW's Graduate School. Along with your online application, you are ...
Prospective Student FAQs
Applications for admission to the MFA program in Creative Writing must meet the general admission requirements for the UNCW Graduate School. More details can be found at the Graduate School FAQ. There is no specific minimum GPA score for the MFA program, but the Graduate School requires a "B average" (3.0 GPA) or better. There is no GRE ...
MFA Creative Writing Program Decisions : r/gradadmissions
MFA Creative Writing Program Decisions. Fine Arts. Saw someone else create a thread for applicants of a different discipline to communicate and it sounds like a great idea, especially given there are not too many of us applying for CW MFAs. So here we go!
Average Acceptance Rate on Creative Writing MFA : r/ucf
Each school's acceptance rate is going to be different. Top name (and funding) schools like Iowa and Michener have an acceptance rate of about 1-3% depending on genre. Low-res programs will typically have a higher acceptance rate. If you have a particular program in mind, you can often find their respective acceptance rates on their website; if ...
Department of Creative Writing
Welcome! Since 1999, the UNCW Department of Creative Writing has cultivated a community of deeply committed writers who believe that the creation of art is of crucial personal and collective value. We think you'll find we are an open-minded and big-hearted group. Our faculty encourages a rigorous yet safe, supportive environment in which ...
Program: Creative Writing, M.F.A.
Creative Writing, M.F.A. Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Melissa Crowe. The Department of Creative Writing offers an intensive studio-academic apprenticeship in the writing of fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing. Courses include workshops in the three genres, special topics and forms ...
15 Best Creative Writing MFA Programs in 2024
1) Johns Hopkins University, MFA in Fiction/Poetry. This two-year program offers an incredibly generous funding package: $39,000 teaching fellowships each year. Not to mention, it offers that sweet, sweet health insurance, mind-boggling faculty, and the option to apply for a lecture position after graduation.
Creative Writing Program : r/UNCW
You have to declare as Pre-Creative Writing, and then apply to get into the full CRW program. It's not hard, but it's not good for the anxiety, either. Once you're through, you'll find some of the best professors on campus (shout out to Tim Bass, he's great); they'll go through fire to help you out. As far as making friends, I had a small group ...
Department of Creative Writing
Contact Information. 601 S. College Rd. Kenan Hall 1202. Wilmington, NC 28403-5938. E: [email protected]. Discover unique opportunities at WaveLink! Find and attend events, browse and join organizations, and showcase your involvement.
Financial Info & Opportunities
Lisa Bertini, MFA Program Assistant Kenan Hall 1202 Department of Creative Writing University of North Carolina at Wilmington 601 South College Road Wilmington, NC 28403-5938 910.962.3070 [email protected] . Melissa Crowe, MFA Program Coordinator Kenan Hall 1207 Department of Creative Writing University of North Carolina at Wilmington 601 South ...
Accepted Applicants
Welcome, and congratulations on your acceptance to the UNCW MFA Creative Writing program! This group is a place for newly accepted students to connect with each other and with current students.... Accepted Applicants - UNCW MFA
MFA in Creative Writing Programs Guide
UNO's yearly graduate tuition is $8,892 for Louisiana residents and $13,462 for non-residents. Columbia charges $28,230 per semester. MFA programs operate under the jurisdiction of the college of liberal arts or arts and sciences. This means they usually charge rates that match other graduate programs in that area.
The 10 Best MFA Creative Writing Programs [2024]
The University of Texas at Austin is a well-known public research university with around 50,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. It offers one of the best MFA programs for creative writing, aiming to enhance and develop its students' artistic and intellectual abilities. 4.
MFA in Creative Writing at UNCW : Admission 2024
MFA in Creative Writing at University Of North Carolina Wilmington 2024 - 2025: Check Rankings, Course Fees, Eligibility, Scholarships, Application Deadline for Creative Writing at University Of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) at Yocket.
2019 MFA Index: Your Guide to More Than 220 Programs
With well over two hundred MFA programs in the United States, choosing which ones to research, much less apply to, can be a daunting prospect. The 2019 MFA Index is designed to make that process easier by providing information about 158 full-residency programs, organized by region and state, and 64 low-residency programs.
AWP: Guide to Writing Programs
We offer 9-10 GTAships each year, each paying a stipend of $15,500 and involving the teaching of creative writing or publishing and editing, or, in two cases, film studies, at the undergraduate level. One opportunity that sets us apart is our Publishing Laboratory and its imprint Lookout Books. Students have now edited, designed and published ...
Graduate
Graduate students in Brown's Literary Arts MFA program may choose to focus in one of three tracks - Fiction, Poetry, or Digital/Cross Disciplinary Writing. The Graduate School has notified candidates regarding admission decisions for Fall 2024 in all three tracks: Cross-Disciplinary, Fiction and Poetry.
Creative Writing, BFA
Complete CRW 201 and CRW 203, plus ALL THREE of these introductory courses with a minimum grade of B (not B-) in at least one: CRW 207: Introduction to Fiction Writing. CRW 208: Introduction to Poetry Writing. CRW 209: Introduction to Creative Nonfiction Writing. Submit BFA application for admission through Canvas.
View Transfer Guide
Have completed or be enrolled in 24 hours of transferable undergraduate credit hours. Transfer applicants are also recommended to have: A minimum 2.4 college GPA or higher. Have completed or enrolled in college-level English and/or math. Note: Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to a specific academic program.
UNC Wilmington Creative Writing (@uncwcrw)
1,580 Followers, 972 Following, 1,052 Posts - UNC Wilmington Creative Writing (@uncwcrw) on Instagram: "MFA and BFA in creative writing, MFA and BFA Certificate in Publishing. Home to @ecotonemagazine, @lookoutbooksuncw, and Writers' Week."
Online MFA in Creative Writing Degree Program
Every graduate of Southern New Hampshire University's online MFA program will leave the program with a 50,000-word manuscript for a novel in one of the four genres the program covers - contemporary, young adult, romance or speculative genre. If you'd rather combine elements of the four offered genres, you can do that, too.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
The MFA at UNCW is a 48-hour apprenticeship, requiring a total of 21 hours of writing workshops, 21 hours of literature or other elective courses, and 6 thesis hours, leading to completion and defense of a substantial book-length manuscript of literary merit and publishable quality. While students apply in poetry, fiction or creative nonfiction ...
Here's an overview of how the creative writing MFA admissions process works, and when and how you will be notified of admission. ... (Waitlisted applicants will also be considered for admission around mid-April.) UNCW finishes classes and enters the exam period at the end of April, and we need to have our incoming class decided before we ...
The Fall 2024 application system is closed. The system will re-open Sept. 1, 2024 for Fall 2025 admission. Applications are due for Fall 2025 by 11:59 p.m. ET on Jan. 15, 2025. Your application to the MFA program in creative writing at UNC Wilmington will be submitted online to UNCW's Graduate School. Along with your online application, you are ...
Applications for admission to the MFA program in Creative Writing must meet the general admission requirements for the UNCW Graduate School. More details can be found at the Graduate School FAQ. There is no specific minimum GPA score for the MFA program, but the Graduate School requires a "B average" (3.0 GPA) or better. There is no GRE ...
MFA Creative Writing Program Decisions. Fine Arts. Saw someone else create a thread for applicants of a different discipline to communicate and it sounds like a great idea, especially given there are not too many of us applying for CW MFAs. So here we go!
Each school's acceptance rate is going to be different. Top name (and funding) schools like Iowa and Michener have an acceptance rate of about 1-3% depending on genre. Low-res programs will typically have a higher acceptance rate. If you have a particular program in mind, you can often find their respective acceptance rates on their website; if ...
Welcome! Since 1999, the UNCW Department of Creative Writing has cultivated a community of deeply committed writers who believe that the creation of art is of crucial personal and collective value. We think you'll find we are an open-minded and big-hearted group. Our faculty encourages a rigorous yet safe, supportive environment in which ...
Creative Writing, M.F.A. Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Melissa Crowe. The Department of Creative Writing offers an intensive studio-academic apprenticeship in the writing of fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing. Courses include workshops in the three genres, special topics and forms ...
1) Johns Hopkins University, MFA in Fiction/Poetry. This two-year program offers an incredibly generous funding package: $39,000 teaching fellowships each year. Not to mention, it offers that sweet, sweet health insurance, mind-boggling faculty, and the option to apply for a lecture position after graduation.
You have to declare as Pre-Creative Writing, and then apply to get into the full CRW program. It's not hard, but it's not good for the anxiety, either. Once you're through, you'll find some of the best professors on campus (shout out to Tim Bass, he's great); they'll go through fire to help you out. As far as making friends, I had a small group ...
Contact Information. 601 S. College Rd. Kenan Hall 1202. Wilmington, NC 28403-5938. E: [email protected]. Discover unique opportunities at WaveLink! Find and attend events, browse and join organizations, and showcase your involvement.
Lisa Bertini, MFA Program Assistant Kenan Hall 1202 Department of Creative Writing University of North Carolina at Wilmington 601 South College Road Wilmington, NC 28403-5938 910.962.3070 [email protected] . Melissa Crowe, MFA Program Coordinator Kenan Hall 1207 Department of Creative Writing University of North Carolina at Wilmington 601 South ...
Welcome, and congratulations on your acceptance to the UNCW MFA Creative Writing program! This group is a place for newly accepted students to connect with each other and with current students.... Accepted Applicants - UNCW MFA
UNO's yearly graduate tuition is $8,892 for Louisiana residents and $13,462 for non-residents. Columbia charges $28,230 per semester. MFA programs operate under the jurisdiction of the college of liberal arts or arts and sciences. This means they usually charge rates that match other graduate programs in that area.
The University of Texas at Austin is a well-known public research university with around 50,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. It offers one of the best MFA programs for creative writing, aiming to enhance and develop its students' artistic and intellectual abilities. 4.
MFA in Creative Writing at University Of North Carolina Wilmington 2024 - 2025: Check Rankings, Course Fees, Eligibility, Scholarships, Application Deadline for Creative Writing at University Of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) at Yocket.
With well over two hundred MFA programs in the United States, choosing which ones to research, much less apply to, can be a daunting prospect. The 2019 MFA Index is designed to make that process easier by providing information about 158 full-residency programs, organized by region and state, and 64 low-residency programs.
We offer 9-10 GTAships each year, each paying a stipend of $15,500 and involving the teaching of creative writing or publishing and editing, or, in two cases, film studies, at the undergraduate level. One opportunity that sets us apart is our Publishing Laboratory and its imprint Lookout Books. Students have now edited, designed and published ...
Graduate students in Brown's Literary Arts MFA program may choose to focus in one of three tracks - Fiction, Poetry, or Digital/Cross Disciplinary Writing. The Graduate School has notified candidates regarding admission decisions for Fall 2024 in all three tracks: Cross-Disciplinary, Fiction and Poetry.
Complete CRW 201 and CRW 203, plus ALL THREE of these introductory courses with a minimum grade of B (not B-) in at least one: CRW 207: Introduction to Fiction Writing. CRW 208: Introduction to Poetry Writing. CRW 209: Introduction to Creative Nonfiction Writing. Submit BFA application for admission through Canvas.
Have completed or be enrolled in 24 hours of transferable undergraduate credit hours. Transfer applicants are also recommended to have: A minimum 2.4 college GPA or higher. Have completed or enrolled in college-level English and/or math. Note: Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to a specific academic program.
1,580 Followers, 972 Following, 1,052 Posts - UNC Wilmington Creative Writing (@uncwcrw) on Instagram: "MFA and BFA in creative writing, MFA and BFA Certificate in Publishing. Home to @ecotonemagazine, @lookoutbooksuncw, and Writers' Week."
Every graduate of Southern New Hampshire University's online MFA program will leave the program with a 50,000-word manuscript for a novel in one of the four genres the program covers - contemporary, young adult, romance or speculative genre. If you'd rather combine elements of the four offered genres, you can do that, too.