77 Fully Funded MFA Programs in Creative Writing in the US
The University of Iowa Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:102 Dey House Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1000 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Iowa's Iowa Writers' Workshop is a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing.
It offers degrees in both fiction and poetry. This terminal degree qualifies graduates to teach creative writing at the collegiate level. The program, housed in Dey House in Iowa City, requires full-time residency and attracts 20-25 new students annually in each genre.
The curriculum centers on workshops and seminars taught by established writers. Workshops, the core of the program, allow students to submit their work for peer and faculty critique. Seminars cover various literary topics, designed to enhance students' craft and understanding of the literary landscape. Additionally, students can explore courses outside the department, including creative and scholarly options, as well as professional development seminars offered by the Graduate College.
Every MFA student receives full funding for the two-year program, including tuition waivers and living stipends. This funding package, equal for all students, covers the intervening summer and is composed of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. International students are eligible for all benefits, with some specific fellowships reserved for them, although there may be differences in fee and taxation rates due to policies beyond the program's control.
Teaching experience is a valuable component of the program. While all second-year students teach a light load, some first-year positions are also available. Interested applicants should indicate this on their application, though prior teaching experience is not required.
The University of Iowa provides subsidized health and dental insurance to all students, offering comprehensive coverage with modest co-pays. The proximity to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics ensures excellent healthcare access for program participants.
The Iowa Writers' Workshop aims to foster creativity, deepen literary understanding, and prepare students for careers in writing and academia. By combining intensive writing practice with exposure to diverse literary traditions and professional development opportunities, the program cultivates well-rounded writers equipped to contribute to the contemporary literary landscape.
Brown University Programs Offered:MFA in Literary Arts Location:Brown University Providence, RI 02912 68 & 1/2 Brown Street, Providence Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The Literary Arts Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program at Brown University offers a unique, two-year curriculum designed to foster creative and intellectual growth in aspiring writers. Students can specialize in Fiction, Poetry, or Digital/Cross Disciplinary Writing, with the program structure allowing for maximum creative exploration.
The curriculum comprises two courses per semester: a writing workshop and an elective. In the second and third semesters, students also take a half-course in pedagogy. The final semester focuses on thesis completion through an independent study, alongside an elective. This flexible structure enables students to tailor their academic experience to their interests and goals.
Electives can be chosen from Brown University's diverse course offerings, including literature, history, philosophy, theater, media studies, religious studies, and foreign languages. Many students also opt for studio fine arts courses, translation workshops, or specialized writing workshops in various genres.
The culmination of the program is a thesis project, which may be a substantial work of fiction, poetry, or a digital/cross-disciplinary project. This thesis represents the student's artistic growth and achievement during their time at Brown.
For the past two decades, Brown has provided full funding to all incoming MFA students. The funding package typically includes tuition remission, health fee coverage, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. In the first year, students receive a fellowship with no teaching requirements. The projected stipend for the 2023-2024 academic year is at least $31,809, paid over nine months.
Between academic years, students in good standing receive a summer stipend of $4,712. In the second year, qualified students are awarded teaching assistantships, which involve teaching one undergraduate writing workshop per semester. The second-year stipend matches the first year's amount.
Brown's Literary Arts MFA program aims to provide a supportive environment for writers to develop their craft, explore interdisciplinary connections, and prepare for careers in writing and academia. By combining focused writing practice with broad intellectual exploration and teaching experience, the program nurtures well-rounded, innovative literary artists.
Johns Hopkins University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Fiction and Poetry Location:The Writing Seminars Johns Hopkins University 3400 N. Charles Street Gilman Hall 81 Baltimore, MD 21218 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Johns Hopkins University's Writing Seminars department offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in fiction and poetry. This two-year course is designed for dedicated writers seeking to hone their craft at an advanced level. The program combines rigorous literary seminars with intimate workshops, culminating in a first-year portfolio and a second-year thesis.
Students benefit from working closely with a distinguished faculty of nationally and internationally recognized writers. The curriculum is enriched by various literary events, including the President's Reading Series and the Turnbull Lectures in Poetry, which bring renowned authors like Marilynne Robinson and Salman Rushdie to campus.
The program provides comprehensive financial support, covering full tuition and health insurance. Additionally, students receive a teaching fellowship, which will increase to $39,000 for the 2024-25 academic year. Some students also gain editorial experience working on The Hopkins Review.
Admission to the MFA program is highly competitive, with candidates selected based on manuscript quality, academic records, personal statements, and letters of recommendation attesting to their literary potential. The program's success is evident in its graduates' achievements, with many publishing their first books within three years of completion and winning prestigious fellowships and grants.
A recent addition to the program is the option for graduating MFA students to apply for one-year junior lectureships, teaching creative writing courses with full benefits.
Established in 1947, the Writing Seminars at Johns Hopkins is one of the oldest and most respected creative writing programs in the United States. It maintains a strong reputation for its faculty expertise and small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention and a collaborative learning environment.
University of Michigan Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:435 South State Street 3187 Angell Hall Ann Arbor, MI 48109 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Michigan's Helen Zell Writers' Program offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Creative Writing. This two-year, fully-funded graduate program is designed to nurture talented writers in fiction or poetry, preparing them for lifelong artistic growth and professional publication.
At the core of the curriculum are writing workshops, where students collaboratively critique and discuss their works-in-progress. These sessions foster a supportive community of writers while maintaining high standards of literary craftsmanship. The program also includes literature courses at the graduate level, exposing students to various writing approaches and enhancing their critical skills.
Admission to the program is highly competitive. Applicants must submit writing portfolios in their chosen genre and demonstrate sufficient literary background to excel in graduate-level courses. The selection process focuses on identifying students with exceptional talent and potential for growth.
The Helen Zell Writers' Program stands out for its comprehensive financial support. All accepted students receive full tuition waivers, eliminating hidden fees or additional costs. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the program offers a stipend of $25,980, $6,000 in summer funding, and health care benefits. This generous funding package applies to both domestic and international students, making it truly accessible to talented writers regardless of their financial circumstances.
The program's selectivity is evident in its admission statistics. For the fall 2022 intake, only 18 students were admitted (9 in Prose and 9 in Poetry) out of 807 applications, reflecting an acceptance rate of approximately 2.2%.
By providing full funding, rigorous training, and a supportive writing community, the Helen Zell Writers' Program aims to cultivate the next generation of literary voices, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to pursue successful careers in writing.
The University of Virginia Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:UVA Creative Writing Program PO Box 400121 Charlottesville, VA 22904-4121 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Virginia's Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program offers a distinctive and competitive three-year graduate experience for aspiring poets and fiction writers. Beginning in 2023-24, the program admits four students in each discipline annually, with an option for accelerated two-year completion. The program's hallmarks include full-time study, mandatory residency, and significant financial support for all participants.
Several features set UVA's MFA program apart from its peers. The small cohort size fosters intimate classes and a high faculty-to-student ratio. Uniform funding for all students promotes a collaborative atmosphere and constructive workshops. First-year students benefit from a teaching-free fall semester, allowing them to focus on their craft. When they do teach, students have the opportunity to design their own creative writing courses.
The program's academic flexibility enables students to explore graduate-level courses across various departments, enriching their creative perspectives. UVA is also one of only five programs offering an annual $15,000 Henfield Prize for outstanding fiction. The faculty's reputation for excellence is a major draw for applicants.
UVA's MFA program has a strong track record of producing successful graduates. Alumni have garnered prestigious literary awards, including the Walt Whitman Award, Pushcart Prizes, and the Yale Younger Poets Series Prize. Many have secured major book contracts and academic positions nationwide. The program encourages prospective students to explore the works of recent graduates as a testament to its quality.
Financial support for incoming students in 2024 includes fellowship and teaching income of up to $31,518 for the first two years and $25,214 for the third year. This package also covers full tuition, fees, and single-person health insurance premiums.
The program's commitment to nurturing talented writers, combined with the University of Virginia's prestigious reputation and extensive resources, creates an ideal environment for literary growth and achievement. Prospective students are drawn to the program's intimate setting, financial support, and the opportunity to work with renowned faculty in a supportive and academically rigorous atmosphere.
Indiana University Bloomington Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Ballantine Hall 440 1020 E. Kirkwood Avenue Bloomington, IN 47405-7103 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Indiana University Bloomington offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts program in Creative Writing, designed to nurture and develop aspiring poets and fiction writers over a three-year period. The program is fully funded, providing students with both financial support and dedicated time to hone their craft.
The curriculum is structured around the intensive study and application of literary techniques, with a strong emphasis on generating and workshopping original student work. Throughout their tenure, students benefit from close mentorship by the program's acclaimed faculty. The culmination of the program is a book-length thesis in the student's chosen genre, often serving as a springboard for future publication.
With a deliberate focus on maintaining an intimate learning environment, the program typically enrolls fewer than thirty students at any given time. Each year, eight new students are admitted – four in fiction and four in poetry – with a commitment to fostering a diverse and talented cohort.
A distinguishing feature of Indiana University's MFA program is its three-year structure. While many programs conclude after two years, Indiana University recognizes the value of providing an additional funded year for students to refine their thesis projects. This extended timeframe has proven beneficial, with many graduates successfully publishing books that originated from their thesis work.
Financial support for students is comprehensive. Each student receives a Student Academic Appointment, which includes a teaching assistantship. This package covers tuition for up to 12 credit hours per semester (and 6 in summer) within the College of Arts and Sciences, provides student health insurance, and offers a partial fee waiver. Additionally, students receive a stipend of at least $19,000, supplemented by a $2,000 IU Creative Writing fellowship to offset fees.
Teaching responsibilities typically involve 2-3 courses per year, spanning composition, creative writing, and rhetoric, depending on undergraduate enrollment needs. Continued funding beyond the first year is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress, including successful completion of required pedagogy courses, continuous enrollment, and maintenance of a minimum 3.0 GPA.
The Ohio State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:421 Denney Hall 164 Annie & John Glenn Ave Columbus, OH 43210 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The Ohio State University offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed to nurture and develop talented writers in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. This three-year program is distinguished by its full funding for all admitted students, a strong sense of community, and a faculty deeply committed to both their own writing and teaching.
The program maintains a diverse cohort of approximately 36 graduate students, taught by a combination of tenure-track, visiting, and affiliated faculty. Graduate students serve as teaching assistants, instructing undergraduate courses in creative writing, literary publishing, and required writing courses for Ohio State undergraduates. The teaching load is balanced, with students typically teaching one course each in the autumn and spring semesters.
The curriculum offers a rich variety of courses, including special topics workshops that encourage experimentation and cross-genre exploration. Students can delve into areas such as screenwriting, playwriting, and writing for performance. The program also facilitates interdisciplinary study through the Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in the Fine Arts (GISFA), allowing students to enrich their creative writing practice with courses from other artistic disciplines.
A unique feature of the program is the opportunity for students to work as editors for The Journal, Ohio State's nationally recognized literary magazine, and to participate in the editorial process for two annual book prizes in poetry and prose.
Funding for admitted students comes in the form of graduate teaching associateships or Graduate School fellowships. Teaching associateships provide a stipend of at least $22,000 for the nine-month academic year, along with a full tuition waiver and subsidized health insurance. Graduate School fellowships, awarded on a competitive basis to new students, offer similar benefits.
The Ohio State University's MFA program in Creative Writing stands out for its commitment to fostering a supportive community of writers while providing diverse opportunities for creative and professional growth. The program's structure, funding, and interdisciplinary approach create an ideal environment for aspiring writers to hone their craft and explore new creative territories.
University of Arizona Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Department of English P.O. Box 210067, Modern Languages 445 University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Arizona offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, providing aspiring writers with a fully funded opportunity to hone their craft in fiction, poetry, or nonfiction. This three-year program stands out for its comprehensive support and diverse opportunities for literary exploration.
Students receive full funding, including an annual stipend of $21,750, health insurance, and a complete tuition waiver. This support comes through Graduate Teaching Assistantships, with a typical teaching load of one to two courses per semester. As they progress, students may have the chance to lead creative writing workshops, gaining valuable teaching experience.
The program's structure encourages cross-genre experimentation, allowing writers to explore and blend different forms of creative expression. With a low student-teacher ratio, participants benefit from personalized attention and mentorship from the program's acclaimed faculty. The curriculum balances intensive workshops with craft seminars, providing a solid foundation in both literary technique and critical analysis.
Tucson, the program's home, offers a unique backdrop for creative pursuits. This culturally vibrant, progressive border city provides inspiration and opportunities for engagement with diverse literary communities. The program's Southwest Field Studies in Writing initiative allows students to explore and write about the US-Mexico border region.
Additional features of the program include a visiting writer series, opportunities to work on respected literary publications, and a thesis defense that may involve renowned outside readers. Students can also access funding for research and travel through various university organizations.
Established in 1972, the University of Arizona's MFA program has built a reputation for excellence in creative writing education. It requires the completion of 42 academic units over three years, culminating in the production of an aesthetic statement and a thesis manuscript.
The program's combination of rigorous instruction, financial support, and opportunities for literary engagement in a unique setting makes it an attractive choice for serious writers seeking to develop their craft and launch their careers in a supportive, dynamic environment.
Michener Center for Writers - The University of Texas at Austin Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:702 East Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX 78705 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The Michener Center for Writers at The University of Texas at Austin offers a prestigious three-year Master of Fine Arts program in Creative Writing. Established by Pulitzer Prize-winning author James Michener and his wife, Mari Yoriko Sabusawa, the program graduated its first cohort in 1996 and was renamed in Michener's honor after his passing in 1997.
The Center's faculty structure combines permanent members from UT's English, Theatre and Dance, and Radio-Television-Film departments with a rotating roster of distinguished visiting writers. This blend ensures a dynamic learning environment that balances continuity with fresh perspectives. The program prides itself on selecting faculty members who are equally passionate about teaching and writing, fostering a collaborative atmosphere dedicated to the craft of literary art.
A hallmark of the Michener Center is its commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive community where writers feel empowered to take creative risks. The program's egalitarian approach, providing equal funding to all students, aims to cultivate a non-competitive environment that encourages artistic growth and experimentation.
The Center attracts a diverse cohort of writers from around the globe, valuing the unique perspectives and experiences that each student brings to their work. Rather than adhering to a specific aesthetic, the program seeks writers whose work demonstrates distinction, urgency, and compelling qualities.
Financial support for admitted students is comprehensive. Each Fellow receives an annual fellowship of $34,000, including a $30,000 academic year stipend and a $4,000 summer stipend. Additional benefits include health insurance coverage, full tuition payment, and an annual conference attendance grant. This funding is renewable for the duration of the three-year program, contingent upon satisfactory academic progress.
The Michener Center for Writers stands out for its generous funding, diverse community, and commitment to nurturing bold, innovative writing across various genres. It offers an ideal environment for emerging writers to develop their craft and launch their literary careers.
The University of Texas at Austin Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:The University of Texas at Austin 116 Inner Campus Dr., Stop G6000 Austin, TX 78712-1257 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Texas at Austin offers a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing through its New Writers Project (NWP), a program nestled within the university's esteemed English Department. This three-year program provides students with comprehensive funding and valuable teaching and editing experience.
The NWP is closely affiliated with the university's Michener Center for Writers, allowing students from both programs to benefit from shared courses and faculty resources. This collaboration exposes students to a diverse range of accomplished resident faculty and distinguished visiting writers.
A key feature of the NWP is its integration within Austin's vibrant literary scene, offering students a rich cultural context for their creative development. The program's structure balances intensive writing instruction with practical teaching experience, preparing graduates for potential academic careers.
All NWP students receive full funding for three years, encompassing tuition remission and a stipend. This support is delivered through a combination of teaching assistantships, assistant instructorships, and fellowship opportunities. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the nine-month stipend for teaching assistants is $20,759, while assistant instructors receive $22,994.
The program's funding structure is designed to provide students with a range of professional experiences. In their first two years, students serve as teaching assistants in literature courses. The third year involves one semester as a teaching assistant or instructor in creative writing, followed by a fellowship semester dedicated to thesis completion.
Additional financial support includes a $4,000 English Department Research Grant, typically distributed over two summers. The university also provides full health insurance coverage for eligible academic graduate student employees, with access to high-quality healthcare through the University of Texas Medical Center.
This comprehensive approach to funding and professional development, combined with the program's strong academic foundation and vibrant literary environment, makes the New Writers Project an attractive option for aspiring writers seeking to hone their craft and launch their careers.
Cornell University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:250 Goldwin Smith Hall Ithaca, NY 14853 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Cornell University's Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program offers an intensive two-year course of study in either poetry or fiction. The program is highly selective, admitting only eight students annually—four in each concentration—ensuring a personalized and rigorous educational experience.
The program's structure is designed to provide comprehensive support and mentorship. Each student works closely with a specially selected committee of two faculty members to tailor their course of study within the department's framework. This individualized approach allows for a deep exploration of literary, theoretical, and cultural fields.
The curriculum balances creative writing workshops with literature and cultural studies courses. Students participate in a graduate writing workshop each semester and complete six additional one-semester courses, with at least four focused on literature or cultural studies. The program culminates in the creation of a book-length manuscript—a collection of poems, short stories, or a novel—developed under close faculty guidance.
Cornell's MFA program places a strong emphasis on teaching as an integral part of a writer's career development. First-year students gain editorial experience with Epoch, the program's literary magazine, while second-year students serve as teaching assistants in the university's first-year writing program. These teaching opportunities are designed to be intellectually stimulating, often allowing graduate students to design their own seminars on diverse topics.
Financial support is comprehensive, with all MFA candidates receiving two years of guaranteed funding. This package includes a stipend, full tuition fellowship, and health insurance. Additional summer funding and optional post-graduation lecturer positions are available, supported by generous endowments and trusts.
The program's combination of intensive writing instruction, teaching experience, and full financial support creates an ideal environment for aspiring writers to develop their craft and launch their careers in a supportive and academically rigorous setting.
Florida State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Florida State University 405 Williams Building Tallahassee, Florida 32306-1580 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Florida State University's Creative Writing Program is renowned for its excellence, consistently ranking among the top writing programs nationwide. The program boasts a faculty of accomplished writers, including recipients of prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. These faculty members are not only dedicated to their own craft but are also known for their strong mentorship and committed teaching.
The program has established a reputation for nurturing talented writers who often go on to successful careers in academia and publishing. Situated in Tallahassee, a charming Southern capital city, the program offers a vibrant community for writers seeking to refine their skills and build lasting relationships in the literary world.
Financial support is a key feature of the program, with most graduate students receiving teaching assistantships. These positions provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance subsidy. As of the latest information, the annual stipend is $19,163, which can be increased to $23,953 with additional summer teaching opportunities.
Teaching assistants may work in the College Composition Program or teach courses in the undergraduate English major. For those seeking non-teaching roles, various opportunities exist, including administrative assistantships, positions in the Reading Writing Center or Digital Studio, and roles such as Computer Writing Classroom Coordinator or First Year Composition Mentor.
The application process for assistantships is streamlined, with no separate application required beyond the program admission materials. This integrated approach simplifies the process for prospective students.
Florida State University's Creative Writing Program offers a comprehensive package of academic excellence, financial support, and professional development opportunities. The program's structure, combined with its location in a culturally rich city, creates an ideal environment for aspiring writers to hone their craft and launch their careers in a supportive and stimulating setting.
Washington University in St. Louis Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:1 Brookings Drive / St. Louis, MO 63130 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Washington University in St. Louis offers a highly selective Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, accepting only fifteen students annually across three genres: fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. This two-year program is designed to foster a supportive yet challenging environment for aspiring writers from diverse backgrounds and styles.
The curriculum is centered around intensive workshops in each genre, complemented by craft courses and access to a wide range of literature and interdisciplinary classes within the College of Arts & Sciences. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies to their creative goals, including the option to take courses from other departments.
The program boasts a distinguished faculty of accomplished writers who have collectively earned numerous prestigious awards and fellowships. Their expertise and mentorship are key to developing students' potential as writers. The program is further enriched by partnerships with literary institutions and a dynamic event series that brings renowned writers to campus.
Financial support is a cornerstone of the program. All admitted students receive full and equal funding for both years, including a complete tuition waiver and a generous stipend. For the 2023-24 academic year, this package includes tuition remission valued at $57,750 and a 12-month stipend of $28,152. This comprehensive support allows students to focus on their craft without financial burden and fosters a collegial atmosphere within the program.
The MFA program at Washington University in St. Louis has a strong track record of student success, with alumni achieving significant literary accomplishments and securing prestigious fellowships and awards. The program's combination of rigorous training, financial support, and exposure to diverse literary voices creates an ideal environment for writers to develop their craft and launch their careers.
University of Houston Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:University of Houston Houston, Texas 77204 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Houston's Creative Writing Program offers substantial financial support to its Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and Ph.D. students. For the current academic year, incoming MFA students received an average financial package exceeding $90,000 over three years, while Ph.D. students were awarded packages averaging more than $153,000 over five years, both including tuition remission.
The program provides teaching assistantships through the Department of English to qualified applicants. These positions typically require 20 hours of work per week supporting faculty instruction and offer employment stipends. Non-Texas residents holding these assistantships may qualify for waivers of non-resident tuition fees.
MFA students can receive teaching assistantships for three years, with a teaching load of 2/2 in the first two years and 2/1 in the final year. First-year MFA teaching assistants receive a salary of $18,235.89 for nine months. Ph.D. students are eligible for five years of assistantships, with a 2/2 teaching load for the first four years and a reduced load in the final year. First-year Ph.D. teaching assistants earn $20,448.36 for nine months.
All first-year teaching assistants facilitate rather than teach courses, managing online forums and providing support to undergraduate students without grading responsibilities.
The program offers various fellowships, including those provided by Inprint, a local literary arts nonprofit. These fellowships range from $2,500 to $10,000 and are awarded in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and literary community service. Additional fellowship opportunities include UH Presidential Fellowships, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center Fellowships, and African American Creative Writing Fellowships.
The Creative Writing Program at the University of Houston demonstrates a strong commitment to financial support, enabling students to focus on their craft while gaining valuable teaching experience.
Vanderbilt University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:2201 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37235 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Vanderbilt University offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, combining intensive workshop-style instruction with comprehensive literary studies. The curriculum focuses on developing creative writing skills while immersing students in contemporary and canonical literature. Students specialize in either prose fiction or poetry in this three-year, fully-funded program.
The Creative Writing program, a longstanding component of Vanderbilt's English Department, admits a small, highly selective cohort of talented writers annually. The program's faculty, comprised of distinguished authors, works closely with a total of eighteen MFA students, evenly split between poetry and prose concentrations.
Ranked among the top 15 MFA Programs nationally by Poets and Writers magazine, Vanderbilt's program is noted for its award-winning faculty, Nashville's affordable living costs, and generous student financial support. The program offers a comprehensive three-year funding package to all MFA students, including full tuition remission, health insurance, and a $34,000 annual stipend.
Additional program benefits include teaching opportunities for second and third-year students, involvement with the Nashville Review literary journal, and participation in the Gertrude and Harold S. Vanderbilt Visiting Writers Series. The program also provides travel grants for academic conferences.
Vanderbilt's MFA program is situated within Nashville's vibrant creative community and the university's picturesque campus. This environment fosters a supportive atmosphere for creative pursuits, balancing a peaceful setting with proximity to the city's dynamic cultural scene.
The program emphasizes collaboration, with MFA students working alongside doctoral students in the English Department. This integration extends to shared reading series and literature classes, creating a rich, interdisciplinary learning environment.
University of Notre Dame Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:233 Decio Hall Notre Dame, IN 46556 USA Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Notre Dame offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program that emphasizes a holistic approach to literary development. Established in 1992, the program aims to provide more than just a credential or paid writing time; it fosters an environment of collaborative growth and exploration.
The curriculum combines focused attention on student work with active pedagogy, encouraging a balance between individual initiative and peer-to-peer relationships. Students engage in workshops, prepare book-length theses, and select from a diverse range of graduate courses across disciplines such as gender studies, art history, and film.
Notre Dame's MFA program is committed to diversity, welcoming students from various backgrounds and encouraging a wide range of aesthetic approaches. This commitment extends to the faculty, who represent diverse ethnic, economic, linguistic, and national backgrounds, and are accomplished in multiple genres and media.
Financial support is comprehensive, with admitted students receiving full tuition waivers, fellowship stipends, and health insurance subsidies. The program also provides valuable teaching, editorial, and publication experience.
Beyond the classroom, MFA candidates participate in various extracurricular activities. These include working on literary journals and presses, facilitating community outreach programs, interacting with visiting authors and artists, and conducting reading series.
The program's fellowship responsibilities are structured around four main areas: media and promotion, campus activities, editorial work (including involvement with Notre Dame Review and Action Books), and community outreach. In their second year, students gain teaching experience by leading introductory courses in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or creative writing.
Notre Dame's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, preparing students for the multifaceted challenges of a 21st-century writing career while fostering a supportive and diverse literary community.
University of Washington Programs Offered:Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Department of English University of Washington A101 Padelford Hall Box 354330 Seattle, WA 98195-4330 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Washington offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program within its English Department. Established in 1947 by Theodore Roethke, this two-year program allows students to specialize in either Poetry or Prose.
The curriculum combines intensive writing workshops with coursework in literary studies and critical theory. Students develop a substantial creative manuscript and a critical essay, culminating in an oral presentation to their thesis committee. The program's small size, admitting only 10-12 students annually, fosters close relationships between students and faculty.
The faculty, comprised of accomplished writers in both prose and poetry, have received numerous accolades, including fellowships from the MacArthur Foundation, Guggenheim Foundation, and National Endowment for the Arts. The program's alumni have made significant contributions to American literature, contributing to its top-ten national ranking.
Financial support is provided to all admitted MFA students through a combination of teaching assistantships and fellowships. This package includes tuition waivers, health insurance, and monthly stipends for two academic years. Teaching responsibilities typically involve composition courses, with limited opportunities to teach introductory creative writing classes.
The program benefits from its location in Seattle, a city known for its vibrant literary and arts scene. Students have access to numerous reading series, film festivals, and theater companies, as well as outdoor recreational opportunities in the surrounding natural landscape.
The University of Washington's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a comprehensive and supportive environment for aspiring writers, combining rigorous academic study with practical teaching experience and exposure to a rich cultural milieu.
University of Minnesota Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Creative Writing Program 112 Pillsbury Hall 310 Pillsbury Dr. S.E. Minneapolis, MN 55455 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Minnesota offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program through its Department of English. This three-year program is designed for dedicated writers seeking to refine their craft in poetry, fiction, or literary nonfiction.
The curriculum centers on intensive workshops, complemented by courses in contemporary literature and advanced writing techniques. The program encourages genre experimentation, fostering diverse forms of expression.
Financial support is a key feature, with the Creative Writing Program committed to providing three years of funding to all admitted MFA students. This support typically comes in the form of teaching assistantships or fellowships. Teaching assistantships include a full tuition waiver, health benefits, and a stipend of approximately $21,380 for the 2024-25 academic year, with a teaching load of one class per semester.
The program offers various fellowships to support students' creative and academic pursuits. These include:
1. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) fellowships for work addressing social justice themes.
2. Gesell Writing Residency Fellowships for summer residencies.
3. Graduate Research Partnership Program (GRPP) for collaborative projects with faculty.
4. Genre-specific fellowships such as the Michael Dennis Browne Fellowship in Poetry and the Winifred Fellowship in Fiction.
5. The Gesell Fellowship and Walter Nathan Literary Fellowship, providing additional stipends to promising new MFA candidates.
6. O'Rourke Travel & Research Funds to support creative research and conference attendance.
These diverse funding opportunities reflect the program's commitment to nurturing emerging writers and supporting their creative and professional development. The University of Minnesota's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a supportive environment for writers to hone their craft while gaining valuable teaching experience and engaging with contemporary literary discourse.
Syracuse University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:900 S Crouse Ave, Syracuse, NY 13244 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Syracuse University offers a highly selective Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed to nurture emerging fiction writers and poets over a three-year period. The program admits only twelve students annually, evenly split between fiction and poetry, ensuring an intimate and focused learning environment.
Financial support is a cornerstone of the program, with all students receiving full tuition waivers and an annual stipend of $24,000. In return, students take on undergraduate teaching responsibilities during their second and third years, providing valuable instructional experience.
The MFA program at Syracuse is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community of writers. It actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, international students, veterans, first-generation college students, and those with disabilities. This commitment to diversity aims to create a rich, supportive environment that benefits from a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
The program's structure emphasizes close collaboration among students and faculty, focusing on the craft and quality of literary writing. With its limited enrollment, students benefit from intensive workshops and individualized attention from the faculty, which includes renowned writers such as Mona Awad, George Saunders, and Mary Karr.
Syracuse's MFA program has built its reputation on the excellence of its students and faculty over nearly five decades. The rigorous admission process, based on academic credentials and writing samples, ensures a high caliber of talent within the program. This selective approach, combined with small class sizes, allows for thorough and consistent attention to each student's work from both faculty and peers.
University of North Carolina Greensboro Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:3143 Moore Humanities and Research Administration Building Greensboro, NC 27412 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of North Carolina Greensboro offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, one of the oldest and most distinguished programs of its kind in the United States. This two-year residency program focuses on providing intensive studio time for writers of poetry or fiction.
The curriculum is designed to nurture individual talents through small, focused classes in writing, literature, publishing, and the arts. A cornerstone of the program is the collaborative community it fosters, with students engaging in peer review under the guidance of acclaimed faculty members, who also provide one-on-one mentorship.
The program's faculty consists of award-winning writers who are also dedicated educators, committed to cultivating emerging literary talents. This commitment has resulted in impressive outcomes, with graduates publishing over 200 works of poetry and fiction since 2008 and receiving numerous prestigious literary awards.
UNCG's MFA program maintains a deliberately small cohort, admitting only 10-14 students annually across poetry and fiction concentrations. This intimate setting allows for personalized attention and fosters a close-knit writing community.
Financial support is comprehensive, with the program offering full funding to all admitted students. This includes tuition waivers, health insurance, and stipends through graduate assistantships. These positions provide valuable professional experience, including opportunities in college teaching and literary journal editing.
The program's success is evident in its alumni achievements, with graduates going on to teach or direct writing programs at renowned institutions and receiving accolades such as the Pulitzer Prize and Guggenheim Fellowships.
UNCG's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a supportive, rigorous environment for writers to hone their craft, backed by a legacy of literary excellence and a commitment to nurturing diverse voices in contemporary literature.
University of Wisconsin–Madison Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts Degree in the areas of fiction and poetry Location:Program in Creative Writing, Dept. of English 600 N. Park St, H.C. White Rm 6195 University of Wisconsin Madison, WI 53706 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, focusing on fiction and poetry. Established in 2003, this selective program admits only six students annually, alternating between fiction and poetry cohorts each year. This unique structure ensures an exceptionally low student-to-teacher ratio of 2:1, allowing for intensive mentorship and focused attention from faculty members.
The program's comprehensive financial support package includes full tuition remission, health insurance comparable to faculty benefits, and teaching assistantships. All MFA candidates receive at least $30,000 in annual support through these assistantships and scholarships. Additionally, one exceptional poet is awarded the Martha Meier Renk Distinguished Graduate Fellowship in Poetry upon admission, which includes a teaching-free second year while maintaining equal financial support.
MFA students at UW-Madison benefit from a rich, multi-generational writing community. They interact regularly with Wisconsin Institute for Creative Writing fellows, accomplished recent MFA graduates from across the country. The program also facilitates connections with visiting writers, editors, and agents, providing valuable networking opportunities and insights into the publishing industry.
While specializing in either fiction or poetry, students have the flexibility to explore other genres, including creative nonfiction, playwriting, and comics. This cross-genre exposure often enhances their primary focus and fosters camaraderie among writers across disciplines.
The program emphasizes pedagogical development, offering significant teaching opportunities and support. First-year MFA candidates teach one section of "Introduction to Creative Writing" per semester, while second-year students instruct "Freshman Composition," a core undergraduate requirement. Comprehensive training and resources are provided to ensure teaching success, with many MFA instructors going on to win teaching awards and pursue successful writing and teaching careers.
UW-Madison's MFA program is designed to nurture emerging writers in a supportive, collaborative environment. By combining rigorous academic study, practical teaching experience, and exposure to diverse literary voices, the program prepares students for successful careers in writing, academia, and related fields.
Northwestern University Programs Offered:MFA+MA Program in Creative Writing Location:Department of English University Hall 215, 1897 Sheridan Road Evanston, IL 60208 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Northwestern University's Litowitz MFA+MA Program in Creative Writing offers a unique, fully-funded three-year experience for aspiring writers. This innovative program combines creative and critical writing, allowing students to earn both an MFA in Creative Writing and an MA in English concurrently.
The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive literary education, featuring small classes, close mentorship by acclaimed faculty, and exposure to multiple genres. Students develop their craft in poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction while also engaging in critical literary analysis.
The program's structure includes two main components: a Capstone essay completed by the end of the second year, and a book-length creative thesis in the third year. This approach allows students to deepen their understanding of literature while honing their creative skills.
A distinctive feature of the Litowitz program is its emphasis on cross-genre exploration. Students are required to take at least one workshop outside their primary genre, fostering versatility and a broader perspective on writing.
Full financial support is provided for the entire 33-month duration, including summers, covering tuition and living expenses. This generous funding allows students to focus entirely on their literary development and the completion of their creative projects.
Arizona State University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ, Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Arizona State University (ASU) offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, renowned for its exceptional faculty and consistently high rankings in poetry and fiction. The program is designed to provide aspiring writers with a supportive and challenging environment to hone their craft.
At the core of ASU's MFA program is a commitment to personalized instruction. Through small classes, intimate workshops, and one-on-one mentoring, students benefit from close relationships with faculty members who have collectively published over 80 books and received numerous accolades. These honors include Guggenheim and MacArthur Fellowships, National Endowment for the Arts grants, Pulitzer Prizes, and the international Griffin Poetry Prize, among others.
The program is enhanced by several campus entities that contribute to the MFA experience. The Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing offers fellowships, professional development support, and teaching opportunities. The Center for Imagination in the Borderlands brings in guest artists for workshops and events, and provides fellowships and research assistantships. Additionally, the program hosts craft lectures and an alumni reading series.
Teaching assistantships are available on a competitive basis, with successful applicants teaching three classes per year. The annual stipend for teaching assistants is $24,586, which includes a tuition waiver and health insurance. International students whose native language is not English must meet specific English proficiency requirements to be considered for teaching assistantships.
ASU's MFA program emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, aiming to serve a student body that reflects Arizona's socioeconomic diversity. Applicants for teaching assistantships are encouraged to demonstrate their ability to engage with and support this diverse student population in their teaching philosophy statements.
The program's structure and resources are designed to foster both creative and professional development, preparing graduates for successful careers as writers, educators, and cultural contributors.
Boston University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:Creative Writing Program Boston University 236 Bay State Road Boston, MA 02215 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Boston University's Creative Writing Program offers a distinctive and accelerated Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in fiction or poetry. As one of the oldest and most prestigious programs in the United States, it provides a unique opportunity for students to complete their degree in just one year, including summer study.
The program's curriculum is intensive and comprehensive, combining creative writing workshops with literature courses. This rigorous structure allows students to achieve in one year what many other MFA programs accomplish in two. The accelerated pace fosters close bonds among the small cohorts of ten fiction writers and eight poets admitted annually.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. For the 2024-25 academic year, all admitted students received full tuition coverage, basic health insurance, and a $20,000 stipend. In return, each student is required to teach one course, either at Boston University or a local public high school, during the fall or spring semester.
The program emphasizes global perspectives, requiring students to fulfill a foreign language requirement during their time in Boston. Upon completion of coursework and thesis submission, students become eligible for a Global Fellowship, which supports travel, writing, and study anywhere outside the United States for up to three months.
Boston University's MFA program boasts an impressive list of alumni, including notable poets like Elizabeth Alexander and Carl Phillips, and fiction writers such as Jhumpa Lahiri and Ha Jin. The program has been consistently ranked among the top creative writing programs in the country by publications like The Atlantic.
The combination of an accelerated curriculum, practical teaching experience, and international focus makes Boston University's Creative Writing Program a unique and valuable opportunity for aspiring writers seeking to hone their craft in a challenging and supportive environment.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:Department of English 608 South Wright Street MC-718 Urbana, IL 61801 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, designed to nurture aspiring authors in fiction and poetry. This three-year terminal degree provides students with an immersive experience in literary craftsmanship under the guidance of a distinguished faculty.
The program's primary objective is to afford writers the time and environment necessary to hone their skills and produce publishable work. Throughout their studies, students engage in a blend of creative writing, teaching, and literary editing. A key component of the curriculum is the completion of a book-length manuscript, which serves as a capstone project and potential springboard for professional literary careers.
Financial support is a cornerstone of the program's structure. All accepted students receive full funding, including tuition waivers and guaranteed teaching assistantships. This financial package, coupled with the area's reasonable cost of living, enables students to focus on their craft without undue financial burden.
The teaching component of the program is carefully structured to provide a gradual increase in responsibility. First-year students teach one class per semester, while second-year students take on a slightly heavier load with opportunities for reduced teaching in exchange for work with the program's literary magazine, Ninth Letter. In the final year, students return to a lighter teaching schedule, allowing for increased focus on their thesis projects.
Teaching assignments primarily involve undergraduate rhetoric courses, with opportunities to lead creative writing workshops. This teaching experience not only provides financial support but also equips students with valuable instructional skills that can enhance their future career prospects in academia or related fields.
The program's faculty, including notable writers such as Ángel García, Janice Harrington, and Alex Shakar, bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to the classroom. Their guidance, combined with the program's emphasis on both creative and professional development, creates a rich learning environment for aspiring writers to cultivate their unique voices and prepare for careers in the literary world.
University of Pittsburgh Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writin Location:Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences Department of English 526 Cathedral of Learning 4200 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15260 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Pittsburgh offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Writing program, designed to cultivate emerging literary talents over a three-year period. This intensive program aims to guide students through the creation of a book-length manuscript, providing them with the necessary time and resources to refine their craft.
At the heart of the program is a distinguished faculty of accomplished writers, including acclaimed poets, fiction authors, and nonfiction experts. These mentors, recognized for their significant contributions to literature, offer students invaluable insights and guidance throughout their academic journey.
The program's commitment to fostering literary talent is evident in its competitive admission process, accepting only nine students across various genres annually. All admitted students receive full funding for the duration of their studies, ensuring they can focus on their creative pursuits without financial burden.
The primary source of support comes in the form of Teaching Assistantships, which provide students with a salary, medical benefits, and tuition remission. These positions not only offer financial support but also valuable teaching experience, preparing students for potential academic careers post-graduation. The English Department at the University of Pittsburgh is renowned for its exceptional teacher preparation program, further enhancing the value of this experience.
In addition to Teaching Assistantships, the program offers the K. Leroy Irvis Fellowship, aimed at promoting academic excellence and diversity within the graduate student body. This fellowship provides a non-duty bearing stipend for the first year of study, along with academic guidance and mentorship opportunities.
To support students' research and professional development, the Department of English offers Research and Development funds. These resources can be used for thesis-related research travel or other professional activities, further enriching the students' academic experience.
This well-structured program, with its blend of creative nurturing, financial support, and professional development opportunities, positions the University of Pittsburgh's MFA in Writing as a compelling choice for aspiring writers seeking to hone their craft and launch their literary careers.
University of Idaho Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:875 Perimeter Drive | Moscow, ID 83844 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Idaho offers a distinguished Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, recognized as the leading fully funded, three-year program in the Northwest. Nestled in the scenic panhandle of Northern Idaho, the program provides an immersive environment for aspiring writers to hone their craft in nonfiction, poetry, and fiction.
Over the course of three years, students receive comprehensive training in literary traditions, techniques, and practical applications. The program culminates in the creation of a publishable manuscript, which undergoes a rigorous preparation process and public defense. This challenging yet rewarding journey is guided by a faculty of accomplished writers who are deeply committed to teaching and mentoring.
The program's location in Moscow, Idaho, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and academic rigor. As spring unfolds, the town comes alive with cherry blossoms and the sound of snowmelt in Paradise Creek, providing an inspiring backdrop for the impressive achievements of thesis-year students.
Financial support is a cornerstone of the program. All admitted students receive full funding through Teaching Assistantships, which include a tuition waiver and a stipend of approximately $15,000 per academic year. This support allows students to focus on their writing while gaining valuable teaching experience in composition, creative writing, and other courses as needed.
The teaching load typically consists of two courses per semester, with opportunities for course reductions for those involved in editorial work with Fugue, the program's literary journal. Additional financial support is available through various scholarships, fellowships, and grants, both within the department and through the university's Graduate and Professional Student Association.
The program's commitment to nurturing well-rounded writers extends beyond the classroom. Students have opportunities to engage in editorial work, participate in writing retreats, and apply for specialized fellowships such as the Hemingway Fellowship and the Writing in the Wild Fellowship.
Virginia Tech Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:323 Shanks Hall (0112), 181 Turner Street NW, Blacksburg, VA 24061 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Virginia Tech offers a distinguished Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, designed to nurture aspiring writers over a three-year period. The program provides specializations in Poetry and Fiction, with opportunities for cross-genre exploration and additional coursework in creative nonfiction, playwriting, and new media writing.
A key feature of this MFA is its commitment to full and equal funding for all admitted students. Each student receives a Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) that includes tuition remission, health insurance, and an annual stipend exceeding $20,000 for the entire duration of the program. This financial support allows students to focus on their craft without the burden of financial constraints.
The curriculum is comprehensive, requiring a minimum of 49 credit hours for completion. It encompasses creative writing workshops, courses in literary theory and form, composition pedagogy, and literature electives. This diverse coursework prepares students for careers as writers or writer-scholars in academic settings. The program culminates in a creative thesis, written final exam, and oral defense.
Virginia Tech's MFA program is selective, admitting only 4-5 students annually in each genre. This small cohort size enables personalized attention from the faculty, who are accomplished and diverse writers themselves. The program prides itself on its rigorous curriculum, respect for students' unique voices, and robust Visiting Writers Series.
Students gain valuable teaching experience in creative writing and composition courses. They also have the opportunity to serve as editors for The New River Journal, a digital literary publication, enhancing their skills in literary editing and publishing.
The program's success is evident in its consistent ranking among the top 30 MFA programs nationwide by Poets & Writers. Alumni have achieved notable success, publishing books, receiving prestigious awards, and establishing successful careers in writing, teaching, and related fields.
University of Florida Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:4008 Turlington Hall P.O. Box 117310 Gainesville, FL 32611-7310 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Florida offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, focusing on poetry and fiction. This three-year program, known as MFA@FLA, is one of the oldest in the United States, dating back to 1949. It has a rich history of distinguished faculty and visiting writers, contributing to its reputation as a top-tier writing program.
The core of the MFA@FLA is the Graduate Writers' Workshop, where students and faculty engage in critical discussions of student work. The program maintains a small, selective cohort of 24 students total, evenly split between poetry and fiction, ensuring personalized attention and fostering a close-knit community.
MFA@FLA prides itself on its international perspective, with a diverse faculty bringing global literary influences to the curriculum. The program emphasizes reading widely across world literature, exposing students to a broad range of writing styles and traditions.
Financial support is a key feature of MFA@FLA. All admitted students receive full tuition waivers and a substantial fellowship and teaching-assistantship package, currently valued at $24,000 per year. This level of support allows students to focus on their craft without financial burdens.
The program's philosophy emphasizes the balance between teachable aspects of writing and those that must be developed through individual talent and practice. It aims to create an environment of rigorous yet respectful critique, where students learn not only from faculty but also from their peers.
MFA@FLA also recognizes the importance of connecting students to the publishing world. Through events like the annual Visiting Editors weekend and the faculty's industry connections, students gain valuable insights into the professional writing landscape.
While the program acknowledges various rankings, it places greater emphasis on the achievements of its graduates as a measure of success. The program's alumni have gone on to successful careers in writing, teaching, and publishing, demonstrating the effectiveness of MFA@FLA's approach to nurturing literary talent.
University of California San Diego Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing. Location:UC San Diego 9500 Gilman Dr. La Jolla, CA 92093 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of California San Diego offers a distinctive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, designed to nurture innovative and courageous writers. This intimate program admits between 4 to 8 new students annually, ensuring close collaboration among students and faculty.
The two-year, full-time program emphasizes the interconnectedness of literary practice, production, and distribution, alongside rigorous study of literature, arts, and culture. Most students opt to extend their studies to a third year.
A unique feature of the program is its cross-genre, often interdisciplinary workshops, which challenge traditional distinctions between studio and academic approaches in advanced literary education. The program encourages interdisciplinary research and holistic teaching methods, with many students serving as Teaching Assistants in creative-critical reading and writing.
Financial support is a key component of the program. All admitted students receive a three-year guarantee of financial assistance, covering most tuition and fees. This support may include Teaching Assistantships, other campus employment, or non-employment awards. The typical support package includes a 50% Teaching Assistantship with a current nine-month salary of $29,125.
The MFA program is part of the Department of Literature, known for its focus on critical theory, social justice, and cultural studies. While workshops are conducted in English, students can pursue multilingual projects, including translations, with faculty from various departments.
The program benefits from its connections to other university departments and initiatives, including Visual Arts, Music, the Clarion Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers' Workshop, and the Arthur C. Clarke Center for Human Imagination. These affiliations foster unique combinations of artistic and scholarly experimentation.
UCSD's status as a top-tier research university provides an environment rich in intellectual and creative possibilities, making it an ideal setting for writers seeking to push boundaries and explore new literary territories.
University of Maryland Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:Department of English 2119 Tawes Hall College Park, MD 20742 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Maryland offers a distinctive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program that combines creative work, scholarly study, and professional development. This fully funded program admits six students annually - three poets and three fiction writers - selected from a competitive pool of over 200 applicants.
The program's curriculum is designed to nurture emerging writers over a two to three-year period. Students engage in workshops, literature courses, and creative forms classes, while also receiving one-on-one mentorship from faculty. A unique aspect of the program is its emphasis on teaching experience, with students leading undergraduate workshops and academic writing courses in their second and third years.
Central to the MFA program is a commitment to social justice and antiracism. The workshop process actively works to decenter whiteness and amplify BIPOC voices, fostering an equitable space for creative collaboration. This approach encourages students to extend their creative practice beyond personal expression and into the wider world.
The program culminates in a thesis project - typically a book-length collection of poetry, short fiction, a novel, or a hybrid work - developed under close faculty guidance. This process concludes with a thesis defense and a public reading, celebrating each student's artistic achievement.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. All admitted students receive Teaching Assistantships that cover tuition for up to 60 credit hours over three years and provide an annual stipend of approximately $26,000. This funding allows students to focus on their craft without financial burden.
The MFA program is enriched by the Writers Here & Now reading series, which brings renowned authors to campus for readings and student interactions. This series, along with professionalization courses, prepares students for careers in creative writing.
With its blend of artistic development, scholarly rigor, and professional preparation, the University of Maryland's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to shape the next generation of influential poets and fiction writers.
Bowling Green State University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:English Department Bowling Green State University Bowling Green, OH 43403 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Bowling Green State University (BGSU) offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, renowned for its contribution to contemporary literary culture over the past five decades. This comprehensive program focuses on developing professional writers and poets, emphasizing artistic growth, craft mastery, and industry preparation.
The MFA curriculum requires 36 semester hours, primarily consisting of writing workshops. Students must complete courses in writing techniques, literary editing, and pedagogy, with additional electives tailored to individual interests. The program's studio-based approach allows students to concentrate on creating original literary work within a supportive peer environment, guided by experienced faculty.
A unique feature of BGSU's MFA program is the opportunity to intern with Mid-American Review, the university's acclaimed international literary magazine. This experience, along with courses in literature and other disciplines, provides students with a well-rounded education in the literary field.
Financial support is a key component of the program. Eligible face-to-face students can receive graduate assistantships that include both stipends and scholarships. For the 2024-25 academic year, newly funded graduate assistants receive a 100% tuition scholarship, a waiver of non-Ohio resident fees for the first year (extended to two years for international students), and a $12,000 stipend.
The scholarship package covers instructional fees for both years of the program during fall and spring semesters. Non-resident fees are covered for all students in their first year, with non-international students expected to apply for Ohio residency before their second year. Students are responsible for additional fees and insurance, which vary per individual.
BGSU's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to prepare graduates for diverse careers in writing, teaching, journalism, technical writing, editing, and publishing. Some alumni also pursue doctoral degrees in creative writing, further extending their academic and professional development in the field.
University of Montana Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:32 Campus Drive Missoula, MT 59812 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Montana's MFA in Creative Writing program, established over five decades ago by Richard Hugo, has become a cornerstone of literary education in the United States. This prestigious program offers students a unique blend of rigorous academic training, creative development, and practical teaching experience.
The curriculum is designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of creative writing across multiple genres. Students are required to complete four workshops in their chosen concentration (fiction, nonfiction, or poetry), a techniques course, and four literature or special topics courses. A highlight of the program is the year-long, one-on-one mentorship with a faculty member, culminating in a thesis manuscript. Additionally, elective courses in critical theory, film, storytelling, and pedagogy prepare graduates for diverse career paths in academia and beyond.
Financial support is a key feature of the program, with approximately half of the enrolled students receiving teaching assistantships. These positions provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching one freshman composition class per semester. In the second year, some teaching assistants may have the opportunity to teach creative writing courses. The program also offers the prestigious Truman Capote Fellowship in prose, a two-year award that includes a tuition waiver and stipend without teaching obligations.
The MFA program fosters a vibrant literary community through student-led initiatives. Second Wind, a reading series directed by students, pairs second-year MFA candidates with community writers. Students also manage Cutbank, a respected literary journal showcasing works from emerging and established artists across various mediums.
The program's success is evident in its alumni achievements, with over 50 graduates holding tenure-track positions in creative writing at universities nationwide. Thirteen of these alumni currently direct creative writing programs, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of the University of Montana's MFA program on the broader literary landscape.
Enrollment typically ranges from 40 to 50 students across three years of study in both prose and poetry. The program's selective nature ensures a close-knit community of dedicated writers while maintaining a competitive edge in the field of creative writing education.
Miami University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:500 Harris Drive Harris Hall 134 Oxford, OH 45056 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Miami University's MFA in Creative Writing program offers an intimate and dynamic learning environment for aspiring writers. This two-year program blends contemporary experimentation with traditional literary exploration, attracting students from diverse backgrounds to study creative nonfiction, poetry, fiction, and multimedia writing.
The curriculum centers on four intensive workshops focused on developing students' writing skills. Complementing these workshops are literature seminars, typically covering contemporary British and American works, and a course exploring the intersection of theory and practice. The program's structure, including close mentorship from faculty, is designed to guide students towards completing a publishable manuscript by graduation.
Graduates of Miami's MFA program have achieved notable success in their writing careers, with some securing book deals with major publishing houses. Additionally, alumni have pursued diverse career paths in academia, public service, and the publishing industry.
All admitted students receive Graduate Assistantships, which include teaching first-year composition courses in Miami's acclaimed rhetoric and composition program. In their second year, students have the opportunity to teach creative writing classes. Non-teaching assistantships may also be available, providing various financial support options for students.
University of Massachusetts Amherst Programs Offered:MFA for Poets and Writers Location:E445 South College 150 Hicks Way Amherst, MA 01003 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a prestigious three-year MFA for Poets and Writers program, renowned for its longstanding commitment to fostering literary excellence. Established over five decades ago, this program has consistently ranked among the most respected in the United States, attracting a diverse cohort of aspiring writers from across the globe.
Each academic year, the program selects approximately 20 students, evenly split between poetry and prose concentrations. The admission process is highly competitive, with an average of 450 applicants vying for these coveted positions annually. A faculty committee, in conjunction with Graduate School approval, determines admissions based on the strength of applicants' writing samples and overall applications.
The curriculum is designed to provide an immersive writing experience, focusing on workshops and the development of a book-length manuscript. Students complete 60 hours of coursework, which allows for in-depth exploration of craft, diverse literatures, and individual areas of interest. Close mentorship from the program's acclaimed faculty helps students hone their unique voices and reach their full artistic potential.
Beyond the classroom, the program offers valuable professional development opportunities. Through the Juniper Initiative for Literary Arts, students gain experience in arts administration, literary festival organization, and publishing. Teaching positions in both creative writing and composition prepare graduates for academic careers, while connections with various literary organizations in the region provide additional avenues for growth.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. Teaching Associate positions offer tuition credits, health insurance coverage, and a substantial stipend in exchange for teaching undergraduate writing courses. Additionally, all admitted applicants are considered for MFA fellowships or Graduate School fellowships, with nominations determined by faculty.
Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue diverse careers, including professorships, editing, journalism, law, translation, filmmaking, and arts administration. The program's location in the culturally rich Pioneer Valley, with its proximity to New York and Boston, further enhances the literary experience for students.
University of Oregon Programs Offered:MFA for Poets and Writers Location:1030 East 13th Ave Eugene, OR 97403-1245 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Oregon offers a prestigious two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, focusing on either poetry or fiction. This fully-funded residency program is designed to provide an immersive and supportive environment for aspiring writers to hone their craft and develop their unique voices.
The curriculum is structured around three key components: workshops, craft seminars, and individualized reading tutorials. Students are required to complete six workshops, four seminars, and three writing and conference tutorials over the course of their study. The program culminates in an MFA exam and a terminal creative project, all of which must be completed under faculty supervision while enrolled in the program.
A typical term for MFA students involves 9-16 credit hours, usually comprising a workshop, a seminar, and a tutorial. In the second year, the tutorial is replaced by hours dedicated to the terminal creative project. The program also hosts a Reading Series, bringing in six accomplished writers annually to engage with students and share their expertise.
Financial support is a cornerstone of the program. All incoming MFA students receive funding through teaching appointments, serving as instructors of record for undergraduate creative writing or composition courses. These positions provide tuition remission, monthly stipends (approximately $24,000 for the 2024-25 academic year), some fees, and health coverage. First-year students typically teach introductory courses in fiction or poetry, or sections of the Kidd Workshops. Second-year students usually teach English composition, after completing a required training program during their first year.
The University of Oregon's Creative Writing Program stands out for its commitment to nurturing emerging writers through a combination of rigorous academic study, practical teaching experience, and exposure to established authors. This comprehensive approach aims to prepare graduates not only for successful writing careers but also for potential roles in academia and beyond.
Rutgers University-Newark Programs Offered:MFA for Creative Writing Location:195 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Rutgers University-Newark's MFA in Creative Writing, established in 2008, has quickly become a nationally recognized program. Embedded in Newark's vibrant arts community, this full-time program offers specializations in fiction and poetry while encouraging cross-genre exploration.
The curriculum is designed to foster creativity and literary growth. First-year students engage in a variety of craft and literature classes, while the second year focuses on one-on-one mentorships with distinguished faculty members. This structure allows students to receive personalized guidance during the critical development of their creative writing thesis.
A key feature of the program is its commitment to providing funding for all admitted full-time students over two years. This financial support allows students to dedicate themselves fully to their craft. However, the program's ethos extends beyond individual development to community engagement. Partnerships with local cultural institutions, such as The Newark Museum and the New Jersey Performance Art Center, have resulted in various literacy and literary initiatives benefiting the broader Newark community.
The program takes pride in its diverse and supportive student cohort, which fosters a collaborative rather than competitive environment. Reflecting Rutgers-Newark's status as one of the most diverse universities in the nation, graduate students have opportunities to teach writing courses to a varied undergraduate population.
Led by program director Rigoberto González, the faculty includes award-winning writers such as Alice Elliott Dark, John Keene, and Pulitzer Prize recipient Salamishah Tillet. The program's alumni have achieved significant literary success, with notable graduates including Saeed Jones, Tracy Fuad, and Ryan Lee Wong.
The Rutgers-Newark MFA program stands out for its combination of rigorous literary training, financial support, community engagement, and commitment to diversity. It offers aspiring writers a unique opportunity to develop their craft in a supportive and culturally rich environment.
The University of Mississippi Programs Offered:MFA in English Location:Bondurant Hall, P.O. Box 1848 University, MS 38677 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Mississippi's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a unique and immersive experience for aspiring writers. Established less than two decades ago, this small but prestigious program has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional faculty and nurturing environment.
The program boasts a remarkable student-to-teacher ratio of less than 3:1, with 9 full-time faculty members overseeing approximately 24 MFA students. This intimate setting allows for personalized attention and mentorship, fostering a close-knit community of writers. All accepted students receive full funding, with additional scholarship opportunities available, including the UM Longleaf Scholar program.
Oxford, Mississippi, the program's home, is steeped in literary history. The legacy of William Faulkner looms large, with his Rowan Oak estate serving as a tangible reminder of the area's rich literary tradition. This cultural heritage, combined with a vibrant contemporary arts scene and renowned culinary offerings, creates an inspiring atmosphere for writers.
The program offers two tracks: fiction and poetry. Each year, two incoming students (one in each track) are awarded the prestigious John and Renée Grisham Fellowships. This generous package includes full tuition, health care, and an annual stipend of $16,000, renewable for three years, allowing fellows to focus entirely on their craft without teaching responsibilities.
Other students receive Teaching Assistantships with an annual stipend of $11,500, including health insurance coverage and tuition waivers. Teaching assignments typically progress from assisting with literature courses to leading composition classes and potentially teaching creative writing workshops.
The UM MFA program has produced numerous successful writers and continues to attract talented faculty and students. Its commitment to fostering creativity, combined with the unique cultural backdrop of Oxford, offers aspiring writers a truly enriching experience as they embark on their lifelong writing journey.
University of California, Riverside Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts Location:900 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92521 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of California, Riverside offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts. This two-year program encompasses fiction, poetry, nonfiction, screenwriting, and playwriting, drawing faculty from both the Creative Writing and Theatre, Film, and Digital Production departments.
Students in the program focus on their chosen genre while being encouraged to explore others, fostering cross-disciplinary creativity. The curriculum includes genre-specific workshops and culminates in a master's thesis or manuscript, which may take the form of a poetry collection, novel, short story anthology, memoir, essay compilation, screenplay, or full-length play.
To broaden their perspectives, students engage in supplementary coursework from various departments, including comparative literature, foreign languages, English, Hispanic studies, and media and cultural studies. This interdisciplinary approach enhances the overall learning experience and allows for diverse influences on students' creative work.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. For domestic and international students who apply by the fellowship deadline, the university typically offers full fellowships and stipends for the first year. This package covers tuition and most fees, with students responsible for minimal course fees and a one-time document fee. The stipend amount varies annually, with potential add-ons for qualifying domestic students based on factors such as undergraduate GPA.
In the second year, students may apply for teaching assistantships, which cover tuition and most fees while providing a monthly salary. These positions are awarded based on academic performance, program citizenship, teaching potential, and professionalism. While not guaranteed, the program strives to fund all qualified students.
For exceptional students, there is an opportunity to apply for additional funding for an optional third year. This competitive process, involving both program faculty and the Graduate Division, selects candidates demonstrating extraordinary creative talent and strong potential for future publication or production.
The MFA program at UC Riverside aims to nurture creative talent while providing practical support for aspiring writers and performers. By combining focused genre study with interdisciplinary exploration and financial assistance, the program creates a conducive environment for artistic growth and professional development.
Northern Michigan University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:1401 Presque Isle Marquette, MI 49855-5301 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Northern Michigan University (NMU) offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program designed to foster versatile and skilled writers. This three-year, 48-credit degree program encourages students to explore multiple genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and occasionally screenwriting.
The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive literary education alongside practical writing experience. Students engage in workshops across various genres, complete two literature courses and one critical theory course. For those with teaching assistantships, a Teaching Practicum is included to prepare them for instructional responsibilities.
The application process seeks candidates who demonstrate a unique aesthetic vision and genuine enthusiasm for the craft. Prospective students may apply in one or more genres, including poetry, nonfiction, fiction, or hybrid work. Once enrolled, students have the flexibility to write across genres without being confined to a single specialization.
NMU provides significant financial support for MFA students. The funding package includes a yearly stipend of $11,461 and a full tuition waiver for both in-state and out-of-state students. While health insurance is not currently part of the package, the University Health Center offers some free services.
Beyond the first year, additional opportunities for Graduate Assistantships (GAs) become available. These roles may include positions such as managing editor of Passages North or assistant director of the Writing Center. Teaching Assistantships (TAs) are also offered, typically involving instruction in composition courses, with some opportunities to teach introductory creative writing or literature classes.
Both GA and TA positions provide valuable experience for those aspiring to teach or work at the college level. These roles offer a tuition scholarship for eight credits per semester and a stipend. The practical skills gained through these assistantships complement the creative and academic aspects of the MFA program, preparing students for diverse career paths in writing and education.
NMU's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to cultivate well-rounded writers by combining creative exploration, literary study, and practical teaching experience in a supportive academic environment.
University of Georgia Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:Lamar Dodd School of Art University of Georgia 270 River Road Athens, GA 30602 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Georgia (UGA) offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program that combines rigorous academic study with innovative artistic practice. This three-year, full-time program admits ten students annually, fostering a close-knit community of diverse and ambitious artists and scholars.
The curriculum is designed to be flexible and interdisciplinary, allowing students to focus deeply on their chosen area or explore multiple disciplines. Coursework includes studio and seminar classes in art, as well as relevant courses from other humanities and science departments. This approach reflects the program's philosophy that art is a unique form of inquiry, essential to knowledge production and the university's academic mission.
Faculty members bring expertise in various media, both traditional and contemporary, and engage with a wide range of themes and theoretical frameworks. These include ecology, gender politics, postcolonial studies, and more. This rich academic environment supports students in creating diverse artworks, from tangible objects to ephemeral performances, installations, and digital media.
Financial support is a key feature of the program, with all MFA students receiving full funding. Several funding options are available:
1. Departmental Assistantships: All applicants are automatically considered for these positions, which may involve teaching, grading, or assisting with gallery operations.
2. UGA Arts Collaborative Assistantships: These merit-based awards support interdisciplinary research between the arts and other fields. Applicants must submit a statement outlining their research interests and experience in collaborative environments.
3. Graduate School Fellowships and Scholarships: Various opportunities are available through the Graduate School, with nominations made by the home department.
4. Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Assistantships: These positions are open to all UGA graduate students and involve work in various campus offices.
The MFA program at UGA aims to nurture artists who create meaningful, impactful work while contributing to the broader academic community. By combining artistic practice with scholarly inquiry and providing comprehensive financial support, the program prepares students for diverse careers in the arts and academia.
University of Colorado Boulder Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:Department of English University of Colorado Boulder 226 UCB Boulder, CO 80309-0226 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Colorado Boulder offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program designed to challenge and nurture aspiring writers. This three-year program emphasizes versatility in writing across various genres while encouraging students to approach literature from a writer's perspective. The curriculum culminates in a creative thesis in poetry or fiction, with opportunities for customized programs in non-fiction and scriptwriting, subject to faculty availability.
The program's graduates have found success in diverse fields, including publishing, journalism, editing, and education at both secondary and collegiate levels. The MFA program values literary study and innovative writing that pushes the boundaries of conventional forms.
Financial support is available to a significant portion of admitted students. Approximately 70% of accepted MFA applicants receive funding through teaching assistantships (TAs), Graduate Part-time Instructorships (GPTIs), or various graduate-level awards. These positions are awarded competitively, and separate applications are not required.
MFA students with teaching appointments focus exclusively on creative writing courses. The funding structure typically progresses as follows:
1. First-year TAs receive a monthly stipend and a tuition waiver for five credits per semester. They teach one section of Introduction to Creative Writing each semester.
2. Upon satisfactory performance, students are promoted to GPTI status in their second and third years. GPTIs may teach up to three creative writing sections per year, with increased compensation and larger tuition waivers.
3. Both TAs and GPTIs receive a substantial contribution towards the CU Boulder Student Gold Health Insurance premium.
It's important to note that students are responsible for tuition costs exceeding their waivers. Non-resident students pay out-of-state rates, while residents pay in-state rates. Tuition waivers must be used within the semester they are awarded and cannot be carried over.
This comprehensive support package allows MFA students to focus on developing their craft while gaining valuable teaching experience in a supportive academic environment.
University of Miami Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Fiction and Poetry Location:Department of English 1252 Memorial Drive Ashe Bldg., Room 321 Coral Gables, FL 33146 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Miami's Creative Writing Program, housed within the English Department, offers a unique Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Fiction and Poetry. This program stands out as the nation's only MFA with a broad multilingual focus, reflecting Miami's diverse international character.
The two-year curriculum, with an optional third year, provides intensive study in reading, writing, and teaching creative writing. Students are encouraged to explore their linguistic and cultural backgrounds, incorporating various language modalities into their work, including regional dialects, slang, and technical jargon. This approach allows for innovative and meaningful writing that draws from each student's unique cultural heritage and personal interests.
Faculty members offer critical support and mentorship, guiding students towards publication and a sustainable writing career. The program welcomes writers working exclusively in English as well as those who incorporate multiple languages into their work.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. All graduate students receive James Michener Fellowships or Teaching Assistantships, which include full tuition waivers and an annual stipend of $25,915. In their second year, MFA candidates typically teach one section of Introduction to Creative Writing per semester, or one section each of Creative Writing and Composition.
For those opting for a third year, the program offers additional teaching opportunities and professional development mentorship. These students teach two Composition sections per semester while receiving faculty guidance to enhance their career prospects.
The program has a strong track record of success, with graduates publishing award-winning works across various genres, securing prestigious fellowships and residencies, and finding employment in teaching and publishing industries.
By embracing linguistic diversity and providing comprehensive financial and academic support, the University of Miami's MFA in Creative Writing program prepares students f
Southern Illinois University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Interim Graduate Studies Coordinator Faner 2262 1000 Faner Dr Carbondale, IL 62901 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Southern Illinois University offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program designed to nurture and develop aspiring writers. This program provides students with dedicated time to hone their craft and immerse themselves in the writing world, offering benefits that may be challenging to attain independently.
The faculty consists of acclaimed authors recognized for their literary contributions and frequently invited to participate in readings, anthologies, and award ceremonies. The program's association with Southern Illinois University Press and its tradition of hosting literary events create an active writing community, expanding opportunities for graduate students.
The curriculum includes workshops where students share and critique each other's work under faculty guidance. Additionally, students engage in one-on-one sessions with writing faculty and produce an original thesis under close advisor supervision. The program encourages exploration of various forms and styles within the chosen focus of poetry or fiction, exposing students to both traditional and experimental approaches, including new technologies and non-traditional publishing venues.
With a small program size, the MFA offers an excellent student-teacher ratio, fostering formal and informal mentorship relationships. While the program cannot guarantee success, it aims to provide committed writers with the necessary guidance, instruction, support, and community to produce their best work.
Financial support is a key feature, with most MFA students receiving graduate assistantships. These include annual stipends ranging from $13,000 to $14,500 and full tuition remission. Assistantships are renewable for up to 32 months for students in good standing. Graduate assistants typically teach two sections of first-year composition per semester, with opportunities to expand their teaching experience to literature courses and Writing Center tutoring.
The program offers pre-semester workshops, a seminar on teaching college composition, and a mentoring system to support professional development. Limited summer teaching opportunities are also available.
By combining focused writing instruction, diverse literary exposure, and practical teaching experience, Southern Illinois University's MFA in Creative Writing program prepares students for successful careers in writing and academia.
The University of Alabama Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:103 English Building The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0244 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Alabama offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, a 48-hour program designed to cultivate students' artistic and intellectual abilities. Renowned for its flexibility and experimentation, the program allows students to explore workshops across various genres while working closely with resident faculty and visiting writers.
The curriculum combines genre-based writing workshops with literature courses and a diverse range of forms classes. Students can also select courses from other university departments, tailoring their education to their specific interests. In their final year, students complete and defend a thesis under faculty mentorship, often producing a book-length manuscript.
While the program can be completed in three years, students are guaranteed support for a fourth year, allowing for intensive focus on their thesis and additional teaching experience. This flexibility enables students to develop naturally as writers and explore diverse interests.
A unique feature of the program is the student-run Black Warrior Review, an award-winning literary journal that provides valuable editorial experience. Additionally, MFA students can gain professional experience through various roles such as Writing Center tutors, research assistants, and program assistants.
Teaching opportunities are a significant aspect of the program. After the first year, all students teach, with a wider variety of courses available than in many other programs. These include composition, literature classes, and creative writing courses at both introductory and intermediate levels.
Financial support is comprehensive, with admitted students guaranteed full funding for up to four years. This includes a nine-month stipend (currently $15,930) and full payment of up to 15 credit hours of graduate tuition per semester. Some students have leveraged this generous funding to pursue an additional master's degree alongside their MFA.
First-year assignments typically involve working in the Writing Center, leading discussion sections for literature courses, or assisting faculty with research. In subsequent years, students usually teach two courses per semester, starting with first-year writing and potentially expanding to other undergraduate courses.
Additional awards and scholarships are available to both new and returning MFA students, offering increased stipends and support. These are considered automatically for all eligible students without separate applications.
Virginia Commonwealth University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Hibbs Hall, Room 306 900 Park Ave. Box 842005 Richmond, Virginia 23284-2005 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Alabama offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, designed to nurture and develop talented writers over a three-year period. This selective and academically rigorous 48-credit program provides students with the opportunity to work closely with accomplished faculty and skilled peers.
The curriculum aims to enhance students' writing craft, develop their literary aesthetics, broaden their understanding of existing traditions and compositional techniques, and actively engage them in the broader literary community. While the primary focus is on poetry and fiction, the program also offers courses in drama, nonfiction, and screenwriting, as well as practical editing experience.
The MFA degree requirements are straightforward, consisting of 12 semester hours of writing workshops, 12 hours of graduate literature courses, and 6 to 12 hours dedicated to thesis work. The thesis component allows students to produce a substantial creative work, which is a graduation requirement.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. Starting in Fall 2024, graduate assistantship stipends range from $14,000 to $22,000 annually, accompanied by a full tuition waiver. The primary funding source for full-time students is the Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA), which includes teaching opportunities in writing, rhetoric, and undergraduate creative writing courses.
Some select GTA positions, such as those coordinating VCU's national literary awards, offer higher annual stipends of up to $22,000. Currently, all full-time students receive funding.
Additional financial support includes travel stipends for summer writing conferences and study abroad opportunities. The program also provides yearly travel funding and registration fee waivers for students attending the annual Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) conference.
By combining intensive writing instruction, diverse course offerings, and comprehensive financial support, the University of Alabama's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to provide a nurturing environment for aspiring writers to develop their skills and launch their literary careers.
University of South Carolina Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Department of English Welsh Humanities 107 Columbia, S.C. 29208 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of South Carolina offers a fully funded, three-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, combining the intimacy of a small cohort with exposure to renowned authors from around the world. Established three decades ago by James Dickey, the program is housed within the English department and accepts four poets and four fiction writers annually.
The curriculum provides a rigorous yet nurturing environment for aspiring writers to develop their craft. Students engage in fiction and poetry workshops, study literature and composition theory, and complete a book-length project under faculty mentorship. The core faculty includes award-winning poets, fiction writers, and creative non-fiction writers.
The program boasts two long-running reading series, bringing diverse, internationally acclaimed writers to campus each semester. These visiting authors offer exclusive master classes to MFA students, enhancing their learning experience.
All MFA students receive funding through various assistantships and fellowships. Second- and third-year students, as well as qualified first-year students, are eligible for Graduate Teaching Assistantships with full tuition abatement and a substantial annual stipend. Other first-year students receive Graduate Instructional Assistantships, which also include tuition abatement and a stipend.
Students gain valuable teaching experience, typically instructing three courses per academic year in the First-Year English program, with opportunities to teach creative writing or literature courses. The program also offers unique professional development opportunities, such as working on the university's literary journal and participating in community outreach programs.
Graduates of the program have achieved notable success, receiving prestigious fellowships, publishing in renowned literary venues, and pursuing careers as authors, agents, editors, and university faculty members.
The MFA community at USC is described as inviting and dynamic, providing an ideal environment for writers to evolve, experiment, and compose. The program's location in Columbia, a lively yet affordable city, adds to its appeal for aspiring writers.
The University of Kansas Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:Wescoe Hall 1445 Jayhawk Blvd. Lawrence, KS 66045 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Kansas offers a three-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, with specializations in fiction, poetry, and playwriting. The curriculum is structured to allow students two years of coursework followed by a third year dedicated to thesis writing, resulting in a book-length manuscript.
The program boasts a distinguished faculty of widely published authors who have garnered numerous prestigious awards and accolades in their respective fields. These include the Nebula Award, Hugo Award, and Pushcart Prize, among others.
The admissions process prioritizes applicants interested in exploring multiple genres and forms under the guidance of various faculty members. This approach encourages versatility in writing styles and techniques.
Financial support is available through Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs), which provide a tuition waiver for six semesters and a competitive stipend. GTA responsibilities typically include teaching first-year composition courses, with opportunities to teach introductory creative writing courses in the third year.
The program has a strong track record of student success, with many graduates publishing in reputable journals and securing book deals with notable presses.
Iowa State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Environment Location:Office Hours Department of English 203 Ross Hall 527 Farmhouse Ln. Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Iowa State University offers a unique three-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing and Environment. This innovative program combines traditional creative writing disciplines with a focus on environmental themes and the influence of place on literary works.
The curriculum emphasizes the exploration of complex relationships between human stories and the natural world, recognizing the importance of geological, biological, and cultural landscapes in shaping narrative and lyrical expression. Students engage in various genres, including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and drama, while examining the environmental imagination's role in literature.
The program structure includes creative writing workshops, literature coursework, environmental fieldwork, and interdisciplinary studies. Students also benefit from intensive mentorship with a major professor, allowing for personalized guidance in their creative endeavors.
A distinctive feature of the program is its association with Flyway: Journal of Writing & Environment, an online publication that showcases works exploring diverse environmental themes. Additionally, students have access to the Everett Casey Nature Center and Reserve, a 76-acre wilderness area specifically designated for MFA program projects.
Financial support is a priority, with efforts made to offer assistantships to all admitted students. Current assistantships provide a substantial stipend, full tuition waiver, and health insurance coverage. Teaching responsibilities typically involve four classes per year in ISUComm Foundation Courses or Speech Communication programs, with comprehensive training and mentoring provided.
The program also houses the Pearl Hogrefe Fellowship in Creative Writing, offering additional support to students.
By combining rigorous creative writing instruction with environmental studies and fieldwork experiences, Iowa State's MFA program prepares writers to engage with and document the complexities of our changing natural world. This approach reflects the program's recognition of the vital role of place and environment in shaping literary arts throughout history and in contemporary times.
Georgia State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Location:25 Park Pl NE #2500 Atlanta, GA 30303 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Georgia State University offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, designed as a terminal degree to prepare students for careers in writing, publishing, and academia. The program also provides a solid foundation for those considering doctoral studies.
With concentrations in fiction and poetry, the MFA program allows students to work closely with award-winning faculty while immersing themselves in Atlanta's vibrant literary culture. The faculty includes distinguished writers such as Danielle Cadena Deulen, Beth Gylys, John Holman, Sheri Joseph, and Josh Russell. The program is further enriched by visiting writers and editors who conduct readings, workshops, and Q&A sessions.
Financial support is available through Teaching Assistantships, Editorial Assistantships, and Fellowships. Eligible applicants may receive funding packages that include an annual stipend of $6,000 and a tuition waiver. Additional awards, such as The Paul Bowles Fiction Fellowship and the Virginia Spencer Carr Prose Fellowship, are considered for all applicants without requiring separate applications.
The program boasts a strong track record of student success, with recent graduates publishing works with renowned publishers like Random House, Algonquin Books, and Bloomsbury. Students have also garnered prestigious accolades, including the National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Fellowship and the Philip Levine Prize for Poetry.
Georgia State's Creative Writing Program is home to two literary publications: the award-winning Five Points: A Journal of Literature and Art, and the student-edited New South magazine. These platforms provide valuable editorial experience and exposure for aspiring writers.
By combining rigorous academic training, close mentorship, and opportunities for practical experience in writing and publishing, Georgia State University's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to nurture the next generation of literary talents while preparing them for diverse career paths in the literary world.
Louisiana State University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:Department of English 260 Allen Hall Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Louisiana State University's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary approaches to literary arts. Situated at the intersection of Louisiana's rich cultural heritage and a vibrant modern arts scene, this nationally-ranked program attracts diverse writers exploring various genres, including new media formats.
The three-year program provides comprehensive funding for all admitted students, including an in-state tuition waiver and a $23,000 stipend for teaching one class per semester. This financial support allows students to focus on their craft without financial constraints.
LSU's MFA program is characterized by its flexibility and encouragement of interdisciplinary exploration. Students are not confined to their initial genre choice and are actively encouraged to explore various forms of writing. This openness is reflected in the diverse interests of the faculty, the innovative curriculum, and the varied career paths of program alumni.
The program's structure promotes a rich learning environment, with all workshops and PhD seminars open to MFA students. This inclusive approach facilitates a broader network of connections among students, enhancing the overall educational experience. The manageable teaching load allows ample time for writing and creative development.
Professional development is a key component of the program. Students gain valuable experience through various initiatives, including editing a literary journal, curating reading series, organizing literary festivals, and interning at The Southern Review. These opportunities provide students with extensive leadership and professionalization prospects.
To support new students, the program pairs each incoming student with a faculty mentor for their first year. This mentorship, along with intensive work with award-winning faculty throughout the program, creates a supportive environment for creative and academic growth.
Located in southern Louisiana with proximity to New Orleans, the program offers a culturally rich environment ideal for literary pursuits. This unique setting, combined with the program's comprehensive approach, creates an optimal atmosphere for writers to develop their craft and engage with the broader literary community.
George Mason University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:4400 University Drive, 3E4 Fairfax, VA 22030 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
George Mason University's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program offers a comprehensive and well-funded educational experience for aspiring writers. The program is designed to support students financially while providing them with diverse opportunities for professional growth and creative development.
The MFA program at George Mason University is highly selective, admitting approximately 22-24 new students each fall from a pool of about 130 applicants. The program maintains a balanced community of 65-70 students, with 50% focusing on fiction, 25% on nonfiction, and 25% on poetry.
A key feature of the program is its robust funding structure. For the past three years, 88% of MFA students have received Graduate Assistantships, which provide full funding for the entire three-year program. This funding includes a stipend, full tuition waiver (valued at about $35,000 for the 48-credit program), and optional health insurance.
The program offers two types of assistantships: Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) and Graduate Professional Assistantships (GPAs). GTAs follow a structured path, starting with tutoring in the Writing Center, then progressing to teaching composition and literature courses. GPAs, introduced in 2019, offer opportunities in publishing, editing, and literary arts administration through the Watershed Lit initiative.
In addition to assistantships, the program offers various fellowships and scholarships. These include Third-Year Thesis Fellowships, which allow students to focus on their thesis without teaching responsibilities, and several named scholarships supporting diverse voices and social justice topics.
The program also provides unique opportunities for international research through the Cheuse Center Fellowships and supports summer research through the Provost Summer Research Fellowships. Additionally, spring writing contests offer students the chance to win cash prizes and gain recognition from accomplished writers.
This comprehensive approach to funding and professional development ensures that George Mason University's MFA in Creative Writing program provides a supportive and enriching environment for students to hone their craft and prepare for diverse careers in writing and related fields.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:301 McClung Tower Knoxville, TN 37996-0430 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program that combines studio and academic coursework to provide a comprehensive education in literary arts. This program is designed to nurture aspiring writers in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction while also grounding them in theoretical and historical contexts.
The curriculum features writing workshops where students receive critical feedback on their work, as well as special topics classes that explore various aspects of genre. Students also engage in literature, rhetoric, writing, and linguistics courses to develop a broader understanding of their craft. The program culminates in a creative thesis, which consists of a book-length manuscript of original work.
One of the program's strengths is its commitment to professional development. Students have the opportunity to gain editorial experience by working with Grist: A Journal of the Literary Arts. They can also participate in cultural outreach programs such as The Young Writers' Institute, further enhancing their skills and community engagement.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. The University offers various forms of assistance, including teaching assistantships, research positions, and editorial roles. First-year MFA students typically receive Graduate Teaching Assistantships, which include a stipend and tuition waiver. These assistants work with experienced instructors, observe classes, and assist in the Writing Center.
In their second year, students who have completed satisfactory work are promoted to Graduate Teaching Associates. They become instructors of record for first-year composition courses, with MFA students usually teaching one creative writing course during this time.
The program also provides funding for travel and manuscript submission, supporting students' professional growth and literary pursuits. Additionally, the Graduate Students in English organization and various study groups foster a vibrant intellectual and social community among the students.
Prospective students can apply for financial aid simultaneously with their program application, simplifying the process. This comprehensive support system, combined with the rigorous academic and creative curriculum, makes the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's MFA in Creative Writing an attractive option for aspiring writers seeking to develop their craft in a supportive environment.
University of Kentucky Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Department of English 1215 Patterson Office Tower Lexington, KY 40506-0027 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Kentucky offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, building upon a rich literary tradition that dates back to 1947. Located in the historic city of Lexington, the university is surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of thoroughbred horse farms and renowned bourbon distilleries. The program has produced numerous accomplished writers, including Pulitzer Prize winners and celebrated authors across various genres.
The MFA program provides a flexible and interdisciplinary approach to creative writing, emphasizing both artistic development and literary study. Students can specialize in fiction, poetry, or creative non-fiction, guided by a diverse faculty of experienced writers and educators. The curriculum combines writing workshops with research components, allowing students to hone their craft while exploring related areas of study.
The program requires 30 credit hours of coursework, including writing workshops focused on producing original work in the student's chosen genre. During the second year, students dedicate time to shaping their work into book form through thesis hours. The culmination of the program is a substantial thesis project, typically consisting of over 120 pages of fiction or non-fiction, or a collection of approximately 48 poems. Students must also defend their thesis in an oral examination before a committee of three faculty members.
Financial support is available for MFA students in the form of Teaching Assistantships. These positions include a tuition scholarship, health insurance, and an annual stipend of at least $19,000. Students receiving funding through the university are required to enroll in three courses per semester.
The University of Kentucky's MFA in Creative Writing program offers aspiring writers a supportive environment to develop their skills, engage with a community of fellow writers, and prepare for careers in the literary world. By combining rigorous coursework with opportunities for creative expression and professional development, the program aims to nurture the next generation of talented authors and poets.
Hollins University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:7916 Williamson Rd, Roanoke, VA 24020 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Hollins University offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing that stands out for its generous financial support and intimate learning environment. The program, situated in a small liberal arts school with a renowned writing tradition, provides students with individualized attention and a strong sense of community.
All incoming students receive Graduate Assistantships, which include full tuition waivers and $10,000 stipends. These assistantships, renewable for the second year, require an average of 10 hours per week of program support or community outreach, allowing students ample time to focus on their writing. Additionally, the Jackson Center offers support for graduate travel and research.
Second-year students can apply for Teaching Fellowships, which provide a full tuition waiver and a $7,000 salary. These fellowships involve teaching two introductory creative writing courses per year, offering valuable experience without overwhelming students' own creative pursuits. Other teaching opportunities are available through course assistantships and community tutoring roles.
The program's structure emphasizes frequent feedback and small-group interactions. Graduate tutorials are limited to 3-5 students, and individual conferences are encouraged. This approach allows for more frequent and in-depth discussion of students' work compared to larger workshop formats.
Financial considerations are a key strength of the program. With Roanoke's low cost of living and the potential for combined funding sources, students can potentially receive significant financial support. In the most favorable scenario, a student could receive a tuition waiver plus $10,000 in the first year, and a tuition waiver plus $17,000 in the second year if awarded both a Teaching Fellowship and Graduate Assistantship.
Hollins University's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to provide a supportive and financially viable environment for aspiring writers to develop their craft. The program's administration continues to work on improving funding options, recognizing the importance of financial support in graduate education.
Colorado State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Colorado State University (CSU) offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed for students with advanced abilities in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. This three-year program provides a balanced curriculum of intensive writing workshops and literature courses, along with form and technique studies and related electives.
The program's faculty consists of distinguished, award-winning writers who work closely with students to develop their craft. The culmination of the program is a thesis project, typically a collection of poetry, short stories, essays, or a novel or memoir. Students also complete a comprehensive portfolio. For exceptionally talented students, a dual-genre thesis option is available.
CSU's Creative Writing Program is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in the literary world. The program actively seeks to support voices from historically marginalized communities, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives in creating a vibrant literary culture. The program's pedagogy emphasizes close mentoring and a supportive community that embraces various approaches to writing.
Financial support is available through competitive Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs), which provide full funding, including a tuition waiver and monthly stipend for the academic year. GTA positions require separate applications and involve teaching college composition. Extensive training is provided through a required orientation and pedagogy seminar. For those not awarded GTAs, other fellowships and financial support options are available.
The application process requires a statement of purpose, writing samples, letters of reference, and transcripts. Those applying for GTAs must also submit an additional application highlighting their teaching qualifications and enthusiasm.
In their final year, most MFA students, regardless of GTA status, have the opportunity to teach a paid section of Beginning Creative Writing, providing valuable teaching experience.
CSU's MFA program aims to nurture talented writers in a supportive, diverse environment while preparing them for careers in writing and academia.
University of Wyoming Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Creative Writing Program 1000 E. University Avenue Laramie, WY 82071 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Wyoming (UW) offers a unique Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, focusing exclusively on prose writing. This fully funded program encompasses fiction, nonfiction, and hybrid forms, providing students with an intensive and interdisciplinary course of study.
The program's distinctive feature is its dedication to prose writing, setting it apart from many other MFA programs. UW's Creative Writing department boasts award-winning faculty members who are active in their fields, publishing novels, philosophical works, and engaging in public dialogues. This practical experience allows them to offer valuable insights into post-graduation career paths for aspiring writers.
With a commitment to small class sizes, typically admitting only eight new students each year, the program fosters a collaborative learning environment. This intimate setting facilitates close interactions between students and professors, enhancing the learning experience.
UW's MFA program offers various experiential learning opportunities, including collaborations with literary agents and Wyoming Public Radio. These connections provide students with networking opportunities and practical applications of their classroom knowledge. Students also have the chance to work with campus media outlets such as The Owen Wister Review, Western Confluence, and Wyoming Public Radio, gaining hands-on experience in the field.
To support their studies, full-time MFA students receive a two-year graduate assistantship. This financial package includes an annual stipend of $12,825, a tuition and fees waiver, and student health insurance. Additionally, the program offers teaching opportunities, allowing students to share their knowledge and enhance their career prospects while maintaining a balance with their own studies.
The UW Creative Writing MFA program aims to equip students with the skills necessary for successful writing careers, offering a combination of intensive study, practical experience, and financial support. By focusing on prose and providing diverse learning opportunities, the program prepares students for various career paths in the writing industry.
University of Nevada, Las Vegas Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:4505 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89154 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, a three-year terminal degree program with a unique international focus. This intensive studio arts program culminates in the creation of a book-length creative thesis in fiction, literary nonfiction, or poetry.
The MFA program at UNLV aims to develop writers who can produce publishable work in their chosen genre while also providing a strong foundation in literary studies and writing pedagogy. The curriculum includes practical training in literary translation and publishing, preparing students for diverse career paths both within and outside academia.
A key objective of the program is to foster an international perspective on literary creation, publication, and education. This global outlook is designed to broaden students' appreciation of literature and writing across cultures, encouraging them to become literary activists and public intellectuals with a worldwide vision.
The program structure is tailored to prepare graduates for teaching positions at various levels of higher education, from community colleges to universities. It also equips students with the skills necessary for professional writing careers beyond academic settings.
UNLV's Creative Writing International program offers substantial financial support to all admitted MFA students. This includes a Graduate Assistantship with an annual stipend of $21,000, in-state tuition coverage, and health insurance provisions. In exchange, students are expected to dedicate 20 hours per week to various duties, which may include teaching, tutoring in the Writing Center, or contributing to publications associated with the English Department or Black Mountain Institute.
This combination of rigorous creative training, international perspective, and financial support makes UNLV's MFA in Creative Writing an attractive option for aspiring writers seeking to develop their craft in a globally-minded environment while gaining valuable teaching and publishing experience.
Boise State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:1910 W University Dr, Boise, ID 83725 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Boise State University offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, a fully-funded three-year program focusing on poetry and fiction. The program is distinguished by its award-winning faculty and regular visits from renowned writers, providing students with diverse learning opportunities.
The MFA program at Boise State is intentionally small, admitting only 6-10 students per genre annually. This limited enrollment ensures personalized attention and fosters a close-knit community among students and faculty. The program's structure allows for flexibility, with students primarily taking workshops in their chosen genre but also having the option to explore creative nonfiction, screenwriting, and translation.
In addition to workshops, the curriculum includes varied form and theory classes each semester. These courses range from genre-specific studies to in-depth explorations of particular authors or literary themes. The program culminates in the third year with students developing a book-length manuscript under the guidance of a thesis director.
A unique aspect of Boise State's MFA program is its emphasis on practical publishing experience. Students can participate in the production of The Idaho Review, an award-winning literary journal, through a literary publishing course. This hands-on experience covers all aspects of journal production, from manuscript selection to promotion. Select third-year students have opportunities to serve in editorial roles for The Idaho Review or assist with Free Poetry, a poetry publishing initiative.
The program provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition waivers, health insurance, and teaching assistantships with an annual stipend of $11,450. Teaching responsibilities typically involve instructing one introductory course per semester in the student's genre, with possibilities for teaching other writing-related courses.
This combination of creative writing instruction, publishing experience, and financial support makes Boise State's MFA program an attractive option for aspiring writers seeking to develop their craft in a supportive, hands-on environment.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:1747 South Chandalar Drive Gruening Building, Suite 404 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a three-year residential Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing. This comprehensive program encompasses poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, providing students with a diverse educational experience.
The curriculum includes multi-genre and genre-specific workshops, alongside courses focusing on literary forms and special topics. Students also engage in extensive literature studies, broadening their literary knowledge and perspective.
In their second year, MFA candidates undergo a comprehensive examination, which encourages wide-ranging reading and helps students articulate their aesthetic goals. The final year is dedicated to close collaboration with faculty mentors, preparing manuscripts for thesis defense and potential publication.
The program offers merit-based teaching assistantships, providing financial support through stipends, tuition waivers, and student insurance. Assistantship responsibilities include teaching first-year writing and tutoring in the Writing Center. Interested applicants can easily express their interest in these positions by submitting a simple UAF English Teaching Assistantship form.
Oklahoma State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Stillwater, OK 74078 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Oklahoma State University (OSU) offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed to nurture aspiring poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their curriculum to their artistic and intellectual interests, preparing them for careers in publishing, academia, or further graduate studies.
The MFA program at OSU is distinguished by its association with four leading journals in the field: Milton Quarterly, American Indian Quarterly, Journal of Linguistic Geography, and The Cimarron Review. These publications, edited by faculty and advanced graduate students, provide valuable experience in the literary world.
OSU's Creative Writing faculty, recognized for their achievements in the field, have a strong track record of mentoring emerging writers. Many program alumni have gone on to publish in prestigious venues such as The New Yorker and the New York Times, and have received notable accolades including the AWP Award Series Grace Paley Prize for Short Fiction and selection as National Book Award finalists.
The program offers substantial financial support to its students. Most qualified applicants receive assistantships and tuition waivers. Graduate teaching assistants have the opportunity to instruct their own courses, work in the OSU Writing Center, and receive mentoring and pedagogical training. These positions cover a range of subjects including freshman composition, technical writing, creative writing, and literature.
Additionally, the program provides travel funding opportunities on a competitive basis, supporting students' conference presentations and archival research. Scholarships are also available to recognize outstanding work.
OSU's MFA in Creative Writing program aims to foster the next generation of literary talents, providing them with the skills, experience, and support necessary to succeed in the competitive world of creative writing.
University of Arkansas Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Department of English Kimpel Hall 333 University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Arkansas offers a distinguished Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing and Translation, recognized as one of the most innovative in the nation. Established in 1966, this program has a rich history of nurturing talented writers across three disciplines: fiction, poetry, and literary translation.
The curriculum spans 60 hours, combining traditional workshop experiences with in-depth studies of craft and literature. This comprehensive approach aims to develop students' creative voices while grounding them in the literary tradition. With small class sizes and guidance from award-winning faculty, students receive personalized attention throughout their four-year journey.
The program's selectivity is evident in its admission process, accepting only five students per genre annually from hundreds of applicants. While students focus on a primary genre, the curriculum allows for exploration across disciplines.
Two reading series enhance the program: the Walton Reading Series, featuring established authors for public readings and student conferences, and the Distinguished Readers Series, which brings literary luminaries to campus for public events and private MFA sessions.
Financial support is a key feature of the program. Starting Fall 2024, teaching assistantships will provide an annual stipend of $16,000, along with full tuition waivers. Most accepted students receive these assistantships, which involve teaching two courses per semester (reduced to one in the fourth year).
Additional funding opportunities include Walton Fellowships ($16,000), University of Arkansas Distinguished MFA Fellowships ($4,000 annually), and the J. Chester and Freda S. Johnson Fellowship (up to $5,000 for first-year students), which aims to promote diversity within the program. After the first year, students can compete for various other fellowships and awards.
This combination of rigorous training, distinguished faculty, visiting writers, and substantial financial support makes the University of Arkansas MFA program an attractive option for aspiring writers and translators.
Oregon State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:1500 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Oregon State University (OSU) offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, building on a rich literary tradition dating back to the 1950s. The program, based in Corvallis, has evolved into a highly competitive and vibrant community for aspiring writers in fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction.
A key feature of OSU's MFA program is its commitment to full funding for all admitted students. This financial support comes through various channels, including Graduate Teaching Assistantships, external non-teaching positions, and prestigious fellowships. These funding opportunities provide full tuition remission and substantial stipends, ranging from $16,000 to $25,000 annually, along with options for heavily subsidized health insurance.
The program boasts a distinguished faculty who have collectively published over 40 books, many of which have received national recognition. Their work regularly appears in top-tier publications and anthologies, and they have been recipients of numerous prestigious awards.
OSU's MFA program fosters a dynamic writing community through its Visiting Writers Series and the biennial Stone Award in Lifetime Literary Achievement. The curriculum emphasizes personalized mentorship, with small class sizes and one-on-one thesis advising. Students produce a substantial creative thesis as the culmination of their studies.
Professional development is a core component of the program, offering internships in various writing-related fields and encouraging participation in national writing conferences. The program also promotes interdisciplinary connections with other graduate programs at OSU.
Graduates of the program have achieved significant success, with many publishing books and having their work featured in over 100 literary journals and magazines. This track record of post-graduate achievement underscores the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers in creative writing.
University of Missouri-St. Louis Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:1 University Blvd. 445 Lucas Hall St. Louis, MO 63121-4400 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Oregon State University (OSU) offers a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, building on a rich literary tradition dating back to the 1950s. The program, based in Corvallis, has evolved into a highly competitive and vibrant community for aspiring writers in fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction.
A key feature of OSU's MFA program is its commitment to full funding for all admitted students. This financial support comes through various channels, including Graduate Teaching Assistantships, external non-teaching positions, and prestigious fellowships. These funding opportunities provide full tuition remission and substantial stipends, ranging from $16,000 to $25,000 annually, along with options for heavily subsidized health insurance.
The program boasts a distinguished faculty who have collectively published over 40 books, many of which have received national recognition. Their work regularly appears in top-tier publications and anthologies, and they have been recipients of numerous prestigious awards.
OSU's MFA program fosters a dynamic writing community through its Visiting Writers Series and the biennial Stone Award in Lifetime Literary Achievement. The curriculum emphasizes personalized mentorship, with small class sizes and one-on-one thesis advising. Students produce a substantial creative thesis as the culmination of their studies.
Professional development is a core component of the program, offering internships in various writing-related fields and encouraging participation in national writing conferences. The program also promotes interdisciplinary connections with other graduate programs at OSU.
Graduates of the program have achieved significant success, with many publishing books and having their work featured in over 100 literary journals and magazines. This track record of post-graduate achievement underscores the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers in creative writing.
Georgia College & State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:231 W. Hancock St. Milledgeville, GA 31061 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Georgia College & State University (GCSU) in Milledgeville, Georgia, offers a unique Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing. This fully-funded, three-year residential program is designed to nurture dedicated writers in a supportive, creative community.
The program's distinctive features include its location in Flannery O'Connor's hometown and its commitment to providing full funding for all admitted students. Each student receives a Graduate Assistantship for the entire duration of the program, which includes a stipend and tuition remission.
GCSU's MFA curriculum is comprehensive, offering workshops in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. The program emphasizes cross-genre exploration, requiring students to participate in workshops outside their primary focus. In addition to creative writing courses, students engage in classes on literature, pedagogy, and special topics.
A unique aspect of the program is its emphasis on practical publishing experience. Students have the opportunity to work on Arts & Letters, a nationally recognized literary journal, gaining hands-on experience in editing, design, and publication.
The program's teaching component is robust, with students working as tutors in the Writing Center, teaching undergraduate composition courses, and participating in an Early College Program modeled after the Writers in the Schools initiative. This teaching experience is valuable for students considering careers in education or community service.
GCSU's MFA program also participates in the Peace Corps Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program, offering assistantships to returned Peace Corps volunteers. Additionally, the Arts & Letters Journal Editing Fellowship provides specialized experience for students interested in literary journal management.
With its 42-hour curriculum, the program is typically completed in three years, with the first year focusing on coursework and the subsequent years dedicated to thesis development. This structure, combined with close mentorship from award-winning faculty and exposure to visiting writers, creates a rich environment for aspiring writers to hone their craft and prepare for careers in creative writing.
North Carolina State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:2211 Hillsborough Street Campus Box 8105 Raleigh, NC 27695-8105 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
North Carolina State University offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, specializing in either poetry or fiction. This two-year, fully-funded program is designed to provide aspiring writers with intensive training and personalized attention from award-winning faculty.
The curriculum combines workshops, interdisciplinary coursework, and literature studies, culminating in a publishable thesis. The program's small size, admitting only about a dozen students annually split between poetry and fiction, ensures individualized mentorship and a supportive creative environment.
All eligible admitted applicants receive full funding through graduate teaching assistantships, making this program accessible to talented writers regardless of financial background. The program aims to provide a strong foundation for a career in creative writing, offering students the opportunity to develop their craft under expert guidance.
Prospective students interested in joining this selective program must apply by February 1st. The MFA at North Carolina State University stands out for its commitment to nurturing emerging writers and providing them with the skills and support necessary for a successful literary career.
University of South Florida Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:4202 E. Fowler Avenue, CPR 107, Tampa, FL 33620 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of South Florida offers a fully funded three-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing. This comprehensive program provides students with a full tuition waiver, a teaching assistantship that includes a stipend, and health insurance. The program admits an average of nine students annually, accommodating a diverse range of writing interests including comics, creative nonfiction, fiction, and poetry.
The MFA program boasts an award-winning faculty who guide students in various genres, from traditional forms to more experimental and hybrid works. The curriculum emphasizes a supportive and collaborative environment, with workshops designed to be both positive and generative. Students are encouraged to participate in public readings, writing groups, and internships, gaining valuable experience in literary editing and publishing through involvement with the program's literary magazine, Saw Palm.
A unique feature of the program is its Literary Editing and Publishing course, which has led to student-initiated literary magazines, anthologies, and freelance businesses. The program also hosts various reading series and salons, providing students with opportunities to engage with established writers and share their own work.
The teaching component of the MFA program is particularly strong. First-year students teach first-year writing courses, supported by a pedagogy practicum and mentoring. Second-year students may have the opportunity to teach creative writing courses. The program offers a rare creative writing pedagogy practicum, preparing students to design and deliver high-quality introductory creative writing courses.
Overall, the University of South Florida's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a well-rounded experience that combines rigorous creative development, practical publishing and editing skills, and valuable teaching experience, all within a supportive and diverse community of writers.
West Virginia University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Department of English 100 Colson Hall | 1503 University Ave. | P.O. Box 6296 West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506-6296 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
West Virginia University's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program offers a comprehensive three-year experience for aspiring writers. The curriculum combines focused work in a primary genre—fiction, nonfiction, or poetry—with exploration of at least one additional genre. Students also engage in courses covering literature, pedagogy, and professional writing and editing.
A key feature of the program is its full funding package. All MFA students receive a tuition waiver and an assistantship with a stipend of $16,750, ensuring financial support throughout their studies.
The program's success is evident in its alumni achievements. Graduates have pursued further academic studies in English, entered editing and publishing careers, and secured positions in academia. They have been recognized with prestigious fellowships and awards, including the Olive B. O'Connor Fellowship at Colgate and the Emory University Creative Writing Fellowship. Notable accolades such as the Iowa Award for Poetry and the Association of Writers and Writing Programs Prize for Nonfiction have been earned by program alumni.
Publishing success is a hallmark of WVU's MFA graduates. Their works have appeared in numerous esteemed literary journals, including AGNI, Southern Review, and The New York Times. Book-length collections have been published by respected presses such as Autumn House Press, University of Georgia Press, and William Morrow/Harper Collins.
The program emphasizes practical experience and community engagement. All MFA students teach composition courses, with opportunities to instruct creative writing in their final year. Students participate in various outreach initiatives, including the Appalachian Prison Book Project, which provides reading materials to incarcerated individuals. They also contribute to Hellbender Magazine, a national literary journal, and assist with the West Virginia Writers' Workshop.
WVU's MFA program fosters a vibrant literary community through monthly readings, visiting writer series, and the annual Sturm Writer-in-Residence program. These events expose students to diverse voices in contemporary literature and provide valuable networking opportunities.
Overall, West Virginia University's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a supportive, immersive environment for writers to hone their craft, gain teaching experience, and prepare for successful careers in writing, publishing, and academia.
The University of New Orleans Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:2000 Lakeshore Drive New Orleans, LA 70148 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of New Orleans (UNO) offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program that capitalizes on the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant artistic community. This program, which has been nurturing writers for over 25 years, provides a unique environment for students to develop their skills in poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, and drama.
UNO's Creative Writing Workshop stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore multiple genres and integrate academic work with theatre and film studies. The program prides itself on providing high faculty support and individualized attention, ensuring that each student receives tailored guidance throughout their journey.
One of the program's key advantages is its affordability, boasting one of the lowest tuition rates among MFA programs nationwide. This commitment to accessibility has not compromised the quality of education, as evidenced by the program's recognition from Publishers Weekly as a "Program to Watch" and its designation as a "Top 25 Underrated Program" by The Huffington Post.
The success of UNO's MFA program is reflected in its alumni achievements, with over 100 published books and numerous produced plays to their credit. The faculty, renowned for both critical acclaim and popular success, contribute significantly to the program's reputation.
UNO's MFA program is deeply integrated into New Orleans' literary scene. Students participate in monthly reading series, interact with visiting writers, and gain practical experience through involvement with Bayou Magazine and the Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival. The program also offers internship opportunities with local theatres and publishers, as well as teaching positions within UNO's Department of Language and Literature.
To support students financially, UNO offers several scholarship opportunities, including the Lagniappe Scholarship for out-of-state students and the Master's Scholarship for in-state residents. Graduate assistantships are also available, providing tuition waivers and stipends for eligible students.
The program's flexibility, with evening classes and study abroad options in Austria, Japan, and Mexico, allows students to balance their academic pursuits with work and personal commitments. This combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and cultural immersion makes UNO's MFA in Creative Writing an attractive option for aspiring writers seeking to hone their craft in a unique and inspiring environment.
Minnesota State University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:Minnesota State University, Mankato Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program designed to nurture and develop writers in poetry, creative nonfiction, and fiction. This three-year program is built on the principles of community engagement and professional development, providing students with a supportive environment to hone their craft.
The program's location in southern Minnesota offers students access to a rich literary scene with a strong tradition of supporting the arts. This cultural backdrop serves as an inspiring setting for aspiring writers to cultivate their skills and expand their creative horizons.
At the core of the MFA program is a curriculum that balances workshops with form and technique courses. Special topics classes, such as History of the Short Story and Major Authors, complement the primary coursework, offering students a comprehensive understanding of literary traditions and contemporary practices.
A key strength of the program lies in its faculty, comprised of bestselling and award-winning writers who provide mentorship and guidance to students throughout their academic journey. This close interaction with experienced professionals helps students refine their writing skills and gain insights into the publishing industry.
The MFA program places a strong emphasis on professional development. Students have the opportunity to work on the university's literary journal, The Blue Earth Review, and contribute book reviews to the Mankato Free Press. Additionally, they can participate in the Good Thunder Podcast, an author-interview program that airs on local radio and popular streaming platforms.
A highlight of the program is the Good Thunder Reading Series, which brings distinguished writers to campus for workshops, craft discussions, and public readings. This series provides students with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to diverse writing styles and perspectives.
Financial support is available through Graduate Assistantships, which offer a stipend of $10,000 over two semesters and full tuition remission for up to 18 credits per academic year. Prospective students are encouraged to apply for these assistantships alongside their MFA program application to maximize their funding opportunities.
The Rutgers University–Camden Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:303 Cooper St, Camden, NJ 08102 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The Rutgers University–Camden Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program offers a unique approach to literary education. This 39-credit terminal degree emphasizes cross-genre exploration, encouraging students to venture beyond their primary focus in poetry, fiction, or nonfiction.
Located on a picturesque campus near Philadelphia, the program benefits from its proximity to major East Coast cultural centers. Students have easy access to the vibrant literary scenes of Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C.
The faculty comprises accomplished writers across genres, including poet Patrick Rosal, fiction writers Lauren Grodstein and Lisa Zeidner, and nonfiction writers Paul Lisicky and Tom McAllister. The program also features visiting professors, enriching the educational experience with diverse perspectives.
Financial support is available through teaching assistantships, which provide tuition remission, a living stipend, and health benefits. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the stipend is set at $36,395. These assistantships typically involve teaching two undergraduate composition courses per year. Partial scholarships are also available for some students.
The program's interdisciplinary approach, coupled with its strategic location and strong financial support, makes it an attractive option for aspiring writers seeking a comprehensive and collaborative creative writing education.
University of Massachusetts Boston Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:100 Morrissey Blvd. Boston, MA 02125 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
The University of Massachusetts Boston offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program that provides an intensive, three-year experience for aspiring writers. This program stands out for its commitment to diversity, being part of the most diverse university in New England.
The MFA curriculum blends rigorous creative writing workshops with literature courses from the English MA Program. Students benefit from mentorship by accomplished faculty members who are recognized nationally for their literary achievements. The program offers a range of specialized electives, including literary editing, creative writing pedagogy, documentary poetics, and memoir writing, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests.
A key feature of the program is its commitment to funding all accepted students. Graduate assistantships are available, providing opportunities for students to gain experience as teaching assistants or in editorial positions with partnering organizations. These partners include 826 Boston, Hanging Loose Press, Write on the Dot, Consequence Magazine, Breakwater Review, and Arrowsmith Press.
The UMass Boston MFA program aims to cultivate a professional writing life for its students, offering the guidance and resources necessary for them to fully develop their talents and prepare for careers in the literary world.
Eastern Washington University Programs Offered:Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing Location:The MFA at EWU C/O Eastern Washington University CAT 400 601 East Riverside Ave. Spokane, WA 99202 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Eastern Washington University's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing program, established in 1978, offers a rigorous two-year, full-residency experience focused on fiction and poetry. This studio-based program is designed to provide intensive study and practical experience in various aspects of the literary world.
A hallmark of the program is its commitment to fully funding students through a variety of positions. These include teaching assistantships in composition, which cover full tuition and provide an annual stipend of approximately $9,000-$10,000 for the entire two-year duration. Select students may have the opportunity to teach creative writing in their second year. Additionally, four second-year students can receive full funding through unique professional practicum opportunities, such as serving as Managing Editor for Willow Springs and Willow Springs Books, Student Director of Writers' in the Community, or Assistant Coordinator for the annual GetLit! literary festival.
The program places a strong emphasis on hands-on experience, offering students opportunities in book and magazine publishing, festival promotion, and teaching. This practical approach extends beyond the university, with MFA students placed in various positions throughout the community to gain valuable real-world experience.
Faculty members are accomplished writers with significant national book publications, who are dedicated to providing accessible and passionate instruction. Their expertise and commitment contribute to a rich learning environment for aspiring writers.
Diversity, inclusion, and equality are core values of the Creative Writing program. These principles are actively integrated into the curriculum, admissions process, and daily practices, fostering an environment that respects and protects diverse voices and viewpoints.
While the program no longer admits students for an MFA focus in creative nonfiction as of Fall 2021, it continues to offer graduate workshops and form and theory classes in this genre. This allows students to explore creative nonfiction alongside their primary focus in fiction or poetry.
Additional funding opportunities are available through other departments at Eastern, including positions in technical writing, advising, and work at the Writers' Center. This array of options ensures that students have ample opportunities to fund their education while gaining diverse professional experiences.
Florida Atlantic University Programs Offered:MFA of Creative Writing Location:777 Glades Road Boca Raton, FL 33431 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed to foster a vibrant literary community and nurture aspiring writers. This three-year, 48-credit program provides students with a diverse array of opportunities to hone their craft and expand their literary horizons.
The curriculum encompasses writing workshops in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry, complemented by literature courses. Students are encouraged to explore multiple genres, fostering versatility and experimentation in their work. Additional coursework in Literary Translation, Bookarts, and Creative Writing Pedagogy further enriches the educational experience.
FAU's distinguished faculty, recognized for their publications and accolades, including O. Henry Awards, Pushcart prizes, and a Guggenheim fellowship, guide students through their academic journey. The program offers teaching assistantships with tuition waivers, allowing students to gain valuable experience in teaching composition and creative writing.
Extracurricular opportunities abound, including a summer internship program, involvement with the literary magazine Coastlines, and travel stipends for conferences and summer excursions. The Off the Page reading series brings renowned writers to campus, while the annual Lawrence A. Sanders Writer-in-Residence program offers exclusive workshops with acclaimed authors.
Financial support is available through Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) positions, which provide a $12,000 annual stipend for teaching two courses per term, along with a tuition waiver. Competitive Lawrence Sanders Fellowships, offering enhanced stipends and tuition waivers, are also available. GTAs are required to enroll in specific courses and attend orientation workshops before their first Fall semester.
The program emphasizes a balance between academic rigor and creative exploration. Students are expected to prioritize their coursework and teaching duties, which together constitute a full-time commitment. The idyllic South Florida setting provides an inspiring backdrop for literary pursuits, allowing students to enjoy the region's natural beauty while developing their craft.
In summary, FAU's MFA in Creative Writing program offers a comprehensive and supportive environment for aspiring writers to refine their skills, explore diverse genres, and engage with a thriving literary community.
Western Washington University Programs Offered:MFA of Creative Writing Location:Old Main 530, MS 9037 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Western Washington University's English Department offers a distinctive two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed to cultivate both creative prowess and intellectual versatility. The program's unique approach emphasizes multigenre and cross-genre writing, recognizing the importance of adaptability in the evolving literary landscape.
Students in this program engage with a diverse curriculum that integrates creative writing practice with comprehensive literary studies. The coursework encompasses seminars in creative writing and literature, as well as classes in rhetoric, composition, digital and technical writing, film studies, and linguistics. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a well-rounded understanding of the literary arts and their various applications.
A hallmark of the program is its emphasis on experimental works that challenge traditional genre boundaries. This focus encourages students to explore innovative forms of expression and develop a versatile skill set applicable across various writing disciplines.
The MFA program offers Graduate Assistantships, providing valuable teaching experience and opportunities to work with the acclaimed Bellingham Review journal. These positions are available to eligible students with full admit status who are making satisfactory progress toward their degree.
Teaching Assistantships, limited in number, are typically offered for on-campus programs in Bellingham. Full-time appointments require 20 hours of service per week, while half-time appointments necessitate 10 hours. Graduate students can serve as teaching assistants for up to seven full-time quarters.
Financial support for Teaching Assistants includes a stipend and a partial tuition waiver for eligible enrollment. While full-time appointees are restricted from accepting additional on-campus employment, half-time appointees may work up to 9 additional hours per week on campus.
The program structure encourages a balance between academic rigor and creative exploration, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in writing, editing, and academia. By blending practical experience with theoretical knowledge, Western Washington University's MFA in Creative Writing equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in the contemporary literary world.
Western Kentucky University Programs Offered:MFA of Creative Writing Location:1906 College Heights Blvd. Bowling Green, KY 42101 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Western Kentucky University (WKU) offers a comprehensive three-year residential Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, designed to nurture aspiring writers and prepare them for diverse career paths in the literary world. The program, established in 2015, has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach and student achievements.
The MFA curriculum encompasses multiple tracks, including fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, and scriptwriting. Students engage in a rigorous 48-credit hour course of study, culminating in comprehensive exams and the completion of a publishable creative thesis. The program's structure emphasizes both creative development and practical career preparation.
A distinctive feature of WKU's MFA is its required secondary concentration in literature, composition and rhetoric, or teaching English as a second language. This additional focus enhances graduates' employability in academia, publishing, and related fields. The program also incorporates courses in creative writing pedagogy and the history and craft of creative writing, providing a well-rounded education in the discipline.
Students begin their journey with an introductory course on creative writing studies, exploring the field's academic history, pedagogical approaches, and professional landscape. The curriculum balances traditional workshops with innovative courses like "Reading as a Writer," where students analyze and apply various literary techniques to their own work.
Recognizing the challenges of pursuing a full-time writing career immediately after graduation, WKU's MFA program emphasizes career preparedness. Students gain valuable experience through tutoring in the Writing Center, teaching undergraduate classes, and completing two internships related to creative writing or their career interests. This practical experience, combined with the secondary concentration, positions graduates for success in various professional settings.
The program boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio and is led by widely published faculty members dedicated to teaching excellence. WKU offers five assistantships annually, providing students with opportunities for tutoring and teaching experience.
Since its inception, the program has produced notable student accomplishments, including published poetry collections, chapbooks, and numerous publications in prestigious literary journals. Graduates have secured positions in publishing and academia, and several have been accepted into competitive Ph.D. programs.
Set on WKU's beautiful campus in a town renowned for its livability, the MFA program offers a supportive environment for writers to hone their craft, develop their teaching skills, and prepare for successful careers in the literary arts.
Wichita State University Programs Offered:MFA in Creative Writing Location:1845 Fairmount St. Wichita, Kansas 67260 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Wichita State University offers a distinguished Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Creative Writing, renowned for its longevity and comprehensive approach to developing skilled writers and educators. Established over five decades ago, this program has consistently produced graduates who excel not only in writing but also in teaching, editing, and related literary fields.
The three-year, 48-credit hour program emphasizes a balance between studio work and academic study. Students specialize in either fiction or poetry, engaging in intensive workshops and tutorials while also pursuing broader coursework in English literature. This curriculum culminates in a substantial final project, typically a collection of writing in the student's chosen genre.
A hallmark of Wichita State's MFA program is its commitment to financial support for students. Nearly all participants receive funding for the full three years, primarily through Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) or fellowships. This funding structure allows students to focus on their craft without financial strain or competition among peers.
The program offers several unique advantages:
- Early teaching opportunities, with many students gaining experience in multiple course types
- Eligibility for various awards and fellowships
- Cross-genre study opportunities
- Small class sizes facilitating personalized mentorship
- Tutorials with visiting distinguished writers
- Access to the "Writing Now Reading Now" reading series featuring prominent authors
GTAs typically teach two composition classes per semester, receiving tuition remission and a stipend. The program also offers specialized fellowships in fiction and poetry writing.
Wichita State's MFA program stands out for its comprehensive approach to writer development. It not only nurtures creative talent but also prepares students for diverse career paths in academia, publishing, and other writing-related fields. The program's structure, combining intensive writing practice with broad literary study and teaching experience, equips graduates with a versatile skill set highly valued in the literary world.
Admission to the program is extremely competitive. 
Admission to the program is highly competitive.
Admission to the program is more competitive.