University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh , PA
http://www.writing.pitt.edu
Degrees Offered
Fiction, Poetry, CNF
Residency type
Program length, part-time study.
Yes, you can enroll in the program on a part-time basis, but you should keep in mind that the statute of limitations on the degree is four years.
Financial Aid
In each incoming class, the Writing Program awards two Teaching Assistantships to incoming students in each of the three genres, so there are six students each year who enter as TAs. At any given time, approximately 18 students in the Writing Program are active TAs. Six students a year receive William S. Dietrich Fellowships to cover their first year of study, which means their teaching is deferred until their second year. All entering students are fully funded (with salary, medical benefits, and tuition remission). Pitt’s English Department is well-known for its excellent teacher preparation, which is an asset to students who seek careers in teaching after graduation. English Department TAs teach 1 course per semester, typically a course with 24 students or fewer. For teaching this course, work defined as requiring approximately 20 hours per week, full tuition scholarships and medical benefits are provided, and TAs are paid a salary. TAs who are making satisfactory progress as students and teachers will have their appointments renewed for an additional 1-2 years, depending on when they began teaching. After the second year, TAs generally teach advanced composition and introductory creative writing classes. Graduate Student Assistantships A Graduate Student Assistant (GSA) typically assists a faculty member in library research, editorial duties, or similar academic tasks. For such services, a GSA receives a salary for the term of their contract, either one or two terms. A full GSA position requires 20 hours of work each week, a half GSA position 10 hours per week. The University offers GSAs holding full or half positions full or partial tuition remission. Out of the 31 students currently enrolled in the program, 5 have full GSAs and 4 have half GSAs. K. Leroy Irvis Fellowships MFA applicants will be considered for K. Leroy Irvis Fellowships, which are designed to help the university recruit and retain underrepresented minority graduate and professional students, and ultimately enhance their presence in the professorate. These fellowships provide distinguished minority graduate students with individual mentoring and a first-year stipend independent of teaching responsibilities. The value gets adjusted each year, but the fellowship carries full tuition remission, medical benefits, and a stipend of at least $16,000. The stipend for an Irvis Fellowship is the same as for a TAship.
Teaching opportunities
Taships are available
Editorial opportunities
Students may work as editors of the literary journals Hot Metal Bridge and Aster(ix)
Cross-genre study
Welcomed and supported
- Jan Beatty MFA (Poetry) 1990
- Katie Booth MFA (CNF) 2013
- Brian Broome MFA (CNF) 2021
- Laura Lynn Brown MFA (CNF) 1991
- Garnett Kilberg Cohen MFA 1985
- Kristen Cosby MFA (CNF) 2006
- Katie Coyle MFA (Fiction) 2012
- Matthew Ferrence MFA (Fiction) 1999
- Eugene Garcia-Cross MFA (Fiction) 2006
- Amanda Giracca MFA (CNF) 2013
- Terrance Hayes MFA (Poetry) 1997
- Cate Hodorowicz MFA (Poetry) 2003
- Katherine Karlin MFA (Fiction) 2004
- Michael Larkin MFA (Fiction)
- Emily Maloney MFA (CNF) 2015
- Jane McCafferty MFA (Fiction) 1988
- Sarah Menkedick MFA (CNF) 2013
- DovBer Naiditch MFA (Fiction) 2011
- Ashleigh Pedersen MFA (Fiction) 2009
- Adriana E. Ramírez MFA (CNF) 2009
- Aaron Smith MFA (Poetry) 1998
- Brandon Som MFA (Poetry) 2002
- Emily Stone MFA (CNF) 2010
- Julie Marie Wade MFA (Poetry) 2006
- Stacey Waite MFA (Poetry) 2002
- Lois Williams MFA (Poetry/CNF) 2002
- Kara van de Graaf MFA (Poetry)
Send questions, comments and corrections to [email protected] .
Disclaimer: No endorsement of these ratings should be implied by the writers and writing programs listed on this site, or by the editors and publishers of Best American Short Stories , Best American Essays , Best American Poetry , The O. Henry Prize Stories and The Pushcart Prize Anthology .
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The English Department offers a three-year Master of Fine Arts degree program that provides students with the time and opportunity to produce a book-length final manuscript. Our graduate writing faculty members have distinguished themselves nationally and internationally through numerous publications and awards. They include poets Lynn Emanuel, Yona Harvey, Terrence Hayes, and Dawn Lundy Martin; fiction writers Fiona Cheong, Angie Cruz, Bill Lychack, and Irina Reyn; and nonfiction writers Jeanne Marie Laskas, Michael Meyer, and Peter Trachtenberg. Each year we also welcome a number of distinguished visiting faculty.
For requirements, see the Graduate Handbook.
For more information, see the answers to frequently asked questions and other materials on the Writing Program site.
University of Pittsburgh Fully Funded MFA in Creative Writing
University of pittsburgh.
The University of Pittsburgh based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania offers a three-year fully funded MFA in creative writing. This MFA program provides students with the time and opportunity to produce a book-length final manuscript. As in the writing profession, the student needs to decide their path in the program but the faculty are here to guide, instruct, and aid you to reach your goals. Accept students in Poetry, Fiction, and Nonfiction. All students admitted to the program will receive Teaching Assistantships for two or three years. All Assistantships include salary, medical benefits, and tuition remission.
- Deadline: Jan 07, 2025 (Estimated)*
- Work Experience: Any
- Location: North America
- Citizenship: Any
- Residency: United States
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Creative Writing at University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus
Creative writing degrees available at pitt, pitt creative writing rankings.
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Creative Writing Student Diversity at Pitt
Pitt creative writing bachelor’s program.
In the 2020-2021 academic year, 88 students earned a bachelor's degree in creative writing from Pitt. About 70% of these graduates were women and the other 30% were men.
The following table and chart show the ethnic background for students who recently graduated from University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus with a bachelor's in creative writing.
| Ethnic Background | Number of Students |
|---|---|
| Asian | 4 |
| Black or African American | 6 |
| Hispanic or Latino | 7 |
| White | 62 |
| Non-Resident Aliens | 0 |
| Other Races | 9 |
Most Popular Majors Related to Creative Writing
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| 179 | |
| 25 |
Popular Reports
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15 Best Creative Writing MFA Programs in 2024
May 15, 2024
Whether you studied at a top creative writing university or are a high school dropout who will one day become a bestselling author , you may be considering an MFA in Creative Writing. But is a writing MFA genuinely worth the time and potential costs? How do you know which program will best nurture your writing? If you’re considering an MFA, this article walks you through the best full-time, low residency, and online Creative Writing MFA programs in the United States.
What are the best Creative Writing MFA programs?
Before we get into the meat and potatoes of this article, let’s start with the basics. What is an MFA, anyway?
A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a graduate degree that usually takes from two to three years to complete. Applications typically require a sample portfolio, usually 10-20 pages (and sometimes up to 30-40) of your best writing. Moreover, you can receive an MFA in a particular genre, such as Fiction or Poetry, or more broadly in Creative Writing. However, if you take the latter approach, you often have the opportunity to specialize in a single genre.
Wondering what actually goes on in a creative writing MFA beyond inspiring award-winning books and internet memes ? You enroll in workshops where you get feedback on your creative writing from your peers and a faculty member. You enroll in seminars where you get a foundation of theory and techniques. Then, you finish the degree with a thesis project. Thesis projects are typically a body of polished, publishable-quality creative work in your genre—fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.
Why should I get an MFA in Creative Writing?
You don’t need an MFA to be a writer. Just look at Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison or bestselling novelist Emily St. John Mandel.
Nonetheless, there are plenty of reasons you might still want to get a creative writing MFA. The first is, unfortunately, prestige. An MFA from a top program can help you stand out in a notoriously competitive industry to be published.
The second reason: time. Many MFA programs give you protected writing time, deadlines, and maybe even a (dainty) salary.
Third, an MFA in Creative Writing is a terminal degree. This means that this degree allows you to teach writing at the university level, especially after you publish a book.
Fourth: resources. MFA programs are often staffed by brilliant, award-winning writers; offer lecture series, volunteer opportunities, and teaching positions; and run their own (usually prestigious) literary magazines. Such resources provide you with the knowledge and insight you’ll need to navigate the literary and publishing world on your own post-graduation.
But above all, the biggest reason to pursue an MFA is the community it brings you. You get to meet other writers—and share feedback, advice, and moral support—in relationships that can last for decades.
Types of Creative Writing MFA Programs
Here are the different types of programs to consider, depending on your needs:
Fully-Funded Full-Time Programs
These programs offer full-tuition scholarships and sweeten the deal by actually paying you to attend them.
- Pros: You’re paid to write (and teach).
- Cons: Uprooting your entire life to move somewhere possibly very cold.
Full-Time MFA Programs
These programs include attending in-person classes and paying tuition (though many offer need-based and merit scholarships).
- Pros: Lots of top-notch non-funded programs have more assets to attract world-class faculty and guests.
- Cons: It’s an investment that might not pay itself back.
Low-Residency MFA Programs
Low-residency programs usually meet biannually for short sessions. They also offer one-on-one support throughout the year. These MFAs are more independent, preparing you for what the writing life is actually like.
- Pros: No major life changes required. Cons: Less time dedicated to writing and less time to build relationships.
Online MFA Programs
Held 100% online. These programs have high acceptance rates and no residency requirement. That means zero travel or moving expenses.
- Pros: No major life changes required.
- Cons: These MFAs have less name recognition.
The Top 15 Creative Writing MFA Programs Ranked by Category
The following programs are selected for their balance of high funding, impressive return on investment, stellar faculty, major journal publications , and impressive alums.
FULLY FUNDED MFA PROGRAMS
1) johns hopkins university , mfa in fiction/poetry.
This two-year program offers an incredibly generous funding package: $39,000 teaching fellowships each year. Not to mention, it offers that sweet, sweet health insurance, mind-boggling faculty, and the option to apply for a lecture position after graduation. Many grads publish their first book within three years (nice). No nonfiction MFA (boo).
- Location: Baltimore, MD
- Incoming class size: 8 students (4 per genre)
- Admissions rate: 4-8%
- Alumni: Chimamanda Adichie, Jeffrey Blitz, Wes Craven, Louise Erdrich, Porochista Khakpour, Phillis Levin, ZZ Packer, Tom Sleigh, Elizabeth Spires, Rosanna Warren
2) University of Texas, James Michener Center
The only MFA that offers full and equal funding for every writer. It’s three years long, offers a generous yearly stipend of $30k, and provides full tuition plus a health insurance stipend. Fiction, poetry, playwriting, and screenwriting concentrations are available. The Michener Center is also unique because you study a primary genre and a secondary genre, and also get $4,000 for the summer.
- Location : Austin, TX
- Incoming class size : 12 students
- Acceptance rate: a bone-chilling less-than-1% in fiction; 2-3% in other genres
- Alumni: Fiona McFarlane, Brian McGreevy, Karan Mahajan, Alix Ohlin, Kevin Powers, Lara Prescott, Roger Reeves, Maria Reva, Domenica Ruta, Sam Sax, Joseph Skibell, Dominic Smith
3) University of Iowa
The Iowa Writers’ Workshop is a 2-year program on a residency model for fiction and poetry. This means there are low requirements, and lots of time to write groundbreaking novels or play pool at the local bar. All students receive full funding, including tuition, a living stipend, and subsidized health insurance. The Translation MFA , co-founded by Gayatri Chakravorti Spivak, is also two years long but with more intensive coursework. The Nonfiction Writing Program is a prestigious three-year MFA program and is also intensive.
- Incoming class size: 25 each for poetry and fiction; 10-12 for nonfiction and translation.
- Acceptance rate: 2.7-3.7%
- Fantastic Alumni: Raymond Carver, Flannery O’Connor, Sandra Cisneros, Joy Harjo, Garth Greenwell, Kiley Reid, Brandon Taylor, Eula Biss, Yiyun Li, Jennifer Croft
Best MFA Creative Writing Programs (Continued)
4) university of michigan.
Anne Carson famously lives in Ann Arbor, as do the MFA students in UMichigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program. This is a big university town, which is less damaging to your social life. Plus, there’s lots to do when you have a $25,000 stipend, summer funding, and health care.
This is a 2-3-year program in either fiction or poetry, with an impressive reputation. They also have a demonstrated commitment to “ push back against the darkness of intolerance and injustice ” and have outreach programs in the community.
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Incoming class size: 18 (9 in each genre)
- Acceptance rate: 2%
- Alumni: Brit Bennett, Vievee Francis, Airea D. Matthews, Celeste Ng, Chigozie Obioma, Jia Tolentino, Jesmyn Ward
5) Brown University
Brown offers an edgy, well-funded program in a place that only occasionally dips into arctic temperatures. All students are fully funded for 2 years, which includes tuition remission and a $32k yearly stipend. Students also get summer funding and—you guessed it—that sweet, sweet health insurance.
In the Brown Literary Arts MFA, students take only one workshop and one elective per semester. It’s also the only program in the country to feature a Digital/Cross Disciplinary Track. Fiction and Poetry Tracks are offered as well.
- Location: Providence, RI
- Incoming class size: 12-13
- Acceptance rate: “highly selective”
- Alumni: Edwidge Danticat, Jaimy Gordon, Gayl Jones, Ben Lerner, Joanna Scott, Kevin Young, Ottessa Moshfegh
6) University of Arizona
This 3-year program with fiction, poetry, and nonfiction tracks has many attractive qualities. It’s in “ the lushest desert in the world, ” and was recently ranked #4 in creative writing programs, and #2 in Nonfiction. You can take classes in multiple genres, and in fact, are encouraged to do so. Plus, Arizona’s dry heat is good for arthritis.
This notoriously supportive program is fully funded. Moreover, teaching assistantships that provide a salary, health insurance, and tuition waiver are offered to all students. Tucson is home to a hopping literary scene, so it’s also possible to volunteer at multiple literary organizations and even do supported research at the US-Mexico Border.
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Incoming class size: usually 6
- Acceptance rate: 1.2% (a refreshingly specific number after Brown’s evasiveness)
- Alumni: Francisco Cantú, Jos Charles, Tony Hoagland, Nancy Mairs, Richard Russo, Richard Siken, Aisha Sabatini Sloan, David Foster Wallace
7) Arizona State University
With concentrations in fiction and poetry, Arizona State is a three-year funded program in arthritis-friendly dry heat. It offers small class sizes, individual mentorships, and one of the most impressive faculty rosters in the game. Moreover, it encourages cross-genre study.
Funding-wise, everyone has the option to take on a teaching assistantship position, which provides a tuition waiver, health insurance, and a yearly stipend of $25k. Other opportunities for financial support exist as well.
- Location: Tempe, AZ
- Incoming class size: 8-10
- Acceptance rate: 3% (sigh)
- Alumni: Tayari Jones, Venita Blackburn, Dorothy Chan, Adrienne Celt, Dana Diehl, Matthew Gavin Frank, Caitlin Horrocks, Allegra Hyde, Hugh Martin, Bonnie Nadzam
FULL-RESIDENCY MFAS (UNFUNDED)
8) new york university.
This two-year program is in New York City, meaning it comes with close access to literary opportunities and hot dogs. NYU also has one of the most accomplished faculty lists anywhere. Students have large cohorts (more potential friends!) and have a penchant for winning top literary prizes. Concentrations in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction are available.
- Location: New York, NY
- Incoming class size: ~60; 20-30 students accepted for each genre
- Acceptance rate: 6-9%
- Alumni: Nick Flynn, Nell Freudenberger, Aracelis Girmay, Mitchell S. Jackson, Tyehimba Jess, John Keene, Raven Leilani, Robin Coste Lewis, Ada Limón, Ocean Vuong
9) Columbia University
Another 2-3 year private MFA program with drool-worthy permanent and visiting faculty. Columbia offers courses in fiction, poetry, translation, and nonfiction. Beyond the Ivy League education, Columbia offers close access to agents, and its students have a high record of bestsellers. Finally, teaching positions and fellowships are available to help offset the high tuition.
- Incoming class size: 110
- Acceptance rate: not publicized (boo)
- Alumni: Alexandra Kleeman, Rachel Kushner, Claudia Rankine, Rick Moody, Sigrid Nunez, Tracy K. Smith, Emma Cline, Adam Wilson, Marie Howe, Mary Jo Bang
10) Sarah Lawrence
Sarah Lawrence offers a concentration in speculative fiction in addition to the average fiction, poetry, and nonfiction choices. Moreover, they encourage cross-genre exploration. With intimate class sizes, this program is unique because it offers biweekly one-on-one conferences with its stunning faculty. It also has a notoriously supportive atmosphere, and many teaching and funding opportunities are available.
- Location: Bronxville, NY
- Incoming class size: 30-40
- Acceptance rate: not publicized
- Alumni: Cynthia Cruz, Melissa Febos, T Kira Madden, Alex Dimitrov, Moncho Alvarado
LOW RESIDENCY
11) bennington college.
This two-year program boasts truly stellar faculty, and meets twice a year for ten days in January and June. It’s like a biannual vacation in beautiful Vermont, plus mentorship by a famous writer. The rest of the time, you’ll be spending approximately 25 hours per week on reading and writing assignments. Students have the option to concentrate in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Uniquely, they can also opt for a dual-genre focus.
The tuition is $23,468 per year, with scholarships available. Additionally, Bennington offers full-immersion teaching fellowships to MFA students, which are extremely rare in low-residency programs.
- Location: Bennington, VT
- Acceptance rate: 53%
- Incoming class: 25-35
- Alumni: Larissa Pham, Andrew Reiner, Lisa Johnson Mitchell, and others
12) Institute for American Indian Arts
This two-year program emphasizes Native American and First Nations writing. With truly amazing faculty and visiting writers, they offer a wide range of genres, including screenwriting, poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. In addition, each student is matched with a faculty mentor who works with them one-on-one throughout the semester.
Students attend two eight-day residencies each year, in January and July, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. At $12,000 in tuition a year, it boasts being “ one of the most affordable MFA programs in the country .”
- Location: Santa Fe, NM
- Incoming class size : 21
- Alumni: Tommy Orange, Dara Yen Elerath, Kathryn Wilder
13) Vermont College of Fine Arts
VCFA is the only graduate school on this list that focuses exclusively on the fine arts. Their MFA in Writing offers concentrations in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction; they also offer an MFA in Literary Translation and one of the few MFAs in Writing for Children and Young Adults . Students meet twice a year for nine days, in January and July, either in-person or online. Here, they receive one-on-one mentorship that continues for the rest of the semester. You can also do many travel residencies in exciting (and warm) places like Cozumel.
VCFA boasts amazing faculty and visiting writers, with individualized study options and plenty of one-on-one time. Tuition for the full two-year program is approximately $54k.
- Location : Various; 2024/25 residencies are in Colorado and California
- Incoming class size: 18-25
- Acceptance rate: 63%
- Alumnx: Lauren Markham, Mary-Kim Arnold, Cassie Beasley, Kate Beasley, Julie Berry, Bridget Birdsall, Gwenda Bond, Pablo Cartaya
ONLINE MFAS
14) university of texas at el paso.
UTEP is considered the best online MFA program, and features award-winning faculty from across the globe. Accordingly, this program is geared toward serious writers who want to pursue teaching and/or publishing. Intensive workshops allow submissions in Spanish and/or English, and genres include poetry and fiction.
No residencies are required, but an optional opportunity to connect in person is available every year. This three-year program costs about $25-30k total, depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state resident.
- Location: El Paso, TX
- Acceptance rate: “highly competitive”
- Alumni: Watch alumni testimonies here
15) Bay Path University
This 2-year online, no-residency program is dedicated entirely to nonfiction. Featuring a supportive, diverse community, Bay Path offers small class sizes, close mentorship, and an optional yearly field trip to Ireland.
There are many tracks, including publishing, narrative medicine, and teaching creative writing. Moreover, core courses include memoir, narrative journalism, food/travel writing, and the personal essay. Tuition is approximately $31,000 for the entire program, with scholarships available.
- Location: Longmeadow, MA
- Incoming class size: 20
- Alumni: Read alumni testimonies here
Best MFA Creative Writing Programs — Final Thoughts
Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded, low residency, or completely online MFA program, there are plenty of incredible options available—all of which will sharpen your craft while immersing you in the vibrant literary arts community.
Hoping to prepare for your MFA in advance? You might consider checking out the following:
- Best English Programs
- Best Colleges for Creative Writing
- Writing Summer Programs
- Best Writing Competitions for High School Students
Inspired to start writing? Get your pencil ready:
- 100 Creative Writing Prompts
- 1 00 Tone Words to Express Mood in Your Writing
- 60 Senior Project Ideas
- Common App Essay Prompts
Best MFA Creative Writing Programs – References:
- https://www.pw.org/mfa
- The Creative Writing MFA Handbook: A Guide for Prospective Graduate Students , by Tom Kealey (A&C Black 2005)
- Graduate School Admissions
Julia Conrad
With a Bachelor of Arts in English and Italian from Wesleyan University as well as MFAs in both Nonfiction Writing and Literary Translation from the University of Iowa, Julia is an experienced writer, editor, educator, and a former Fulbright Fellow. Julia’s work has been featured in The Millions , Asymptote , and The Massachusetts Review , among other publications. To read more of her work, visit www.juliaconrad.net
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The 10 Best MFA Creative Writing Programs [2024]
Many people have a talent for stories, but not everyone will become a successful author. In many cases, people simply need to hone their skills – and the best MFA creative writing programs are the key.
If you have an undergrad degree and are looking for the next step in your academic adventure, you’re in luck: We’ve scoured MFA creative writing rankings to find you the best programs.
Table of Contents
The 10 Best MFA Creative Writing Programs
1. johns hopkins university – krieger school of arts & sciences.
Master of Fine Arts in Fiction/ Poetry
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins is a world-renowned private research university. Their Master of Fine Arts in Fiction/Poetry is one of the best MFA creative writing programs anywhere. Students take courses and receive writing practice (in fiction or poetry) at the highest level. This MFA program also offers the opportunity to learn with an internationally renowned faculty.
- Duration: 2 years
- Financial aid: Full tuition, teaching fellowship (for all students set at $33,000/year)
- Acceptance rate: 11.1%
- Location: Baltimore, Maryland
- Founded: 1876
2. University of Michigan – Helen Zell Writers’ Program
Master of Fine Arts
The University of Michigan is a public research university – and the oldest in the state. Its Master of Fine Arts program is one of the best MFA creative writing programs in the country, exposing students to various approaches to the craft. While studying under award-winning poets and writers, students may specialize in either poetry or fiction.
- Duration: 2 years
- No. of hours: 36
- Financial aid: Full funding
- Acceptance rate: 26.1%
- Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Founded: 1817
3. University of Texas at Austin – New Writers Project
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
The University of Texas at Austin is a well-known public research university with around 50,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. It offers one of the best MFA programs for creative writing, aiming to enhance and develop its students’ artistic and intellectual abilities.
- Duration: 3 years
- Financial aid: Full funding
- Acceptance rate: 32%
- Location: Austin, Texas
- Founded: 1883
4. University of Nebraska – Kearney
Master of Arts
The University of Nebraska strives to provide quality, affordable education, including its online MA English program. Students can focus on four areas, including Creative Writing (which provides experiential learning in either poetry or prose).
- Credit hours: 36
- Tuition : $315 per credit hour
- Financial aid : Grants, Work-study, Student loans, Scholarships, Parent loans
- Acceptance rate: 88%
- Location: Online
- Founded: 1905
5. Bay Path University (Massachusetts)
MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing
Bay Path University is a private university with various programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels (including women-only undergraduate programs). This creative non-fiction writing program is one of the first fully online programs in the country. No matter their location, students are able to develop their creative writing skills and knowledge – in a range of literary genres.
- Credits: 39
- Tuition: $775 per credit
- Financial aid : Federal Stafford loan, Student loans
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Founded: 1897
6. Brown University (Rhode Island)
MFA in Literary Arts
Brown is a world-famous Ivy League university based in Providence, Rhode Island. Its two-year residency MFA in Literary Arts is designed for students looking to maximize their intellectual and creative exploration. The highly competitive program offers extensive financial support. In fact, over the past 20 years, all incoming MFA students were awarded full funding for their first year of study (and many for the second year).
- Tuition: $57,591 (but full funding available)
- Financial aid : Fellowship, teaching assistantships, and stipends.
- Acceptance rate: 9%
- Location: Providence, Rhode Island
- Founded: 1764
7. University of Iowa (Iowa)
MFA in Creative Writing
The University of Iowa is a public university located in Iowa City. As one of the most celebrated public schools in the Midwest, students learn under established professors and promising writers during their two-year residency program.
- Credits: 60
- Tuition: $12,065 for in-state students, and $31,012 out-of-state
- Financial aid : Scholarships, teaching assistantships, federal aid, and student loans.
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Location: Iowa City, Iowa
8. Cornell University (New York State)
Cornell is an Ivy League university located in Ithaca, New York. This highly competitive program accepts only eight students annually, and just two from each concentration. Not only do students enjoy a generous financial aid package, but they also have the opportunity to work closely with members of the school’s celebrated faculty.
- Tuition: $29,500
- Financial aid : All accepted students receive a fellowship covering full tuition, stipend, and insurance.
- Acceptance rate: 14%
- Location: Ithaca, New York
- Founded: 1865
9. Columbia University ( NYC )
MFA in Fiction Writing
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is the oldest tertiary education institution in New York – and one of the oldest in the country. The school offers a Writing MFA in nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and literary translation. The fiction concentration promotes artistic and aesthetic diversity, with a diverse teaching staff and adjunct faculty from a wide range of diverse experience.
- Credits: 60 points
- Tuition: $34,576
- Financial aid : Scholarships, fellowships, federal aid, work-study, and veterans’ grants.
- Acceptance rate: 11%
- Location: NYC, New York
- Founded: 1754
10. New York University (NYC)
New York University (NYU) is known for delivering high-quality, innovative education in various fields. Located in the heart of NYC, the institution’s MFA in Creative Writing boasts celebrated faculty from poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction backgrounds. This dynamic program fosters creativity and excellence through literary outreach programs, public reading series, a literary journal, and special seminars from visiting writers
- Credits: 32
- Tuition: $53,229
- Financial aid : Fellowships, scholarships, and federal aid.
- Location: NYC
- Founded: 1886
Common Courses for MFAs in Creative Writing
As part of your master’s in creative writing program, you’ll usually need to complete a number of compulsory courses, along with certain electives. Common courses you’ll need to take include:
- Literary theory
- History of storytelling
- Genre conventions
- Market trends
- Marketing manuscripts to publishers
- Thesis or dissertation
Typical Requirements for Applying to an MFA Creative Writing Program
Besides the application form and fee, most MFA in creative writing programs have standard requirements. While the following are the most typical requirements, always check with the specific program first:
Make sure your resume includes all relevant information to showcase your interests, skills, and talent in writing.
2. Writing Sample(s)
MFA creative writing program selection committees look for applicants who are serious about writing. Therefore, they typically ask for at least one 10-20 page writing sample. The best samples showcase talent in your preferred area of writing (e.g., fiction, non-fiction). MFA poetry programs have varied sample requirements.
3. Transcripts
You’ll need to show your undergraduate degree (and possibly high school) transcript.
4. Statement of Purpose
A statement of purpose is usually 1-2 pages and shows your passion for writing and potential to succeed in the program.
5. Recommendation Letters
Most programs require letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts who know you well.
Related reading: How to Ask a Professor for a Grad School Recommendation
6. GRE Scores
Some MFA programs require GRE scores (though this is not the case for all universities). If you happen to need some assistance while studying for your GRE or GMAT, be sure to check out Magoosh for easy test prep!
What Can Creative Writers Do After Graduation?
As a creative writer with an MFA, you’ll have a variety of career options where your skills are highly valued. Below are a few of the common jobs an MFA creative writing graduate can do, along with the average annual salary for each.
Creative Director ( $90,389 )
A creative director leads a team of creative writers, designers, or artists in various fields, such as media, advertising, or entertainment.
Editor ( $63,350)
An editor helps correct writing errors and improve the style and flow in media, broadcasting, films, advertising, marketing , and entertainment.
Academic Librarian ( $61,190)
An academic librarian manages educational information resources in an academic environment (such as a university).
Copywriter ( $53,800 )
Copywriters typically work to present an idea to a particular audience and capture their attention using as few words as possible.
Technical Writers ($78,060)
Technical writers are tasked with instruction manuals, guides, journal articles, and other documents. These convey complex details and technical information to a wider audience.
Writer ( $69,510 )
A writer usually provides written content for businesses through articles, marketing content, blogs, or product descriptions. They may also write fiction or non-fiction books.
Social Media Manager ( $52,856 )
A social media manager is responsible for creating and scheduling content on social media, and may also track analytics and develop social media strategies.
Journalist ($ 48,370 )
Journalists may work for newspapers, magazines, or online publications, researching and writing stories, as well as conducting interviews and investigations.
Public Relations Officer ( $62,800)
A public relations officer works to promote and improve the public image of a company, government agency, or organization. This is done through work such as: preparing media releases, online content, and dealing with the media.
Lexicographer ( $72,620 )
Lexicographers are the professionals who create dictionaries. They study words’ etymologies and meanings, compiling them into a dictionary.
Can You Get a Creative Writing Degree Online?
Yes, a number of institutions offer online master’s degrees , such as Bay Path University and the University of Nebraska. Online courses offer a high degree of flexibility, allowing you to study from anywhere – and often on your own schedule. Many students can earn their degrees while continuing with their current job or raising a family.
However, students won’t receive the full benefits of a residency program, such as building close connections with peers and working with the faculty in person. Some on-campus programs also offer full funding to cover tuition and education expenses.
Pros and Cons of an MFA in Creative Writing
Like anything, studying an MFA in Creative Writing and pursuing a related career can have its benefits as well as drawbacks.
- It’ll motivate you to write.
Many people are talented but struggle sitting down to write. An MFA program will give you the motivation to meet your deadlines.
- You’ll have a community.
Writing can be a solitary pursuit. It can be hard to connect with others who are just as passionate about writing. An MFA program provides students with a community of like-minded people.
- Graduates have teaching prospects.
An MFA is one option that can help you find a teaching job at the university level. Unlike some majors that require a Ph.D. to enter academia, many post-secondary instructors hold an MFA.
- Not always the most marketable job skills
Although an MFA in Creative Writing will provide several useful skills in the job market, these are not as marketable as some other forms of writing. For example, copywriting arguably has a wider range of job prospects.
- It could limit your creativity.
There is a risk that your writing could become too technical or formulaic, due to the theories learned during your MFA. It’s important to know the theory, but you don’t want to let it limit your creativity.
How Long Does It Take to Get an MFA Degree in Creative Writing?
A master’s in creative writing typically takes between 2-3 years to complete. Unlike other master’s degrees’ accelerated options, creative writing program requirements require a greater number of workshops and dissertations.
Alternatives to Creative Writing Majors
There are plenty of similar majors that can set you on the path to a career in the creative writing field. Consider alternatives like an MA in English , literature, humanities, media studies, and library sciences.
Related Reading: Master’s in Fine Arts: The Ultimate Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What can i do with an mfa in creative writing .
An MFA graduate could teach creative writing at a secondary or college level. They may pursue a career in advertising, publishing, media, or the entertainment industry. They could also become an author by publishing fiction, non-fiction, or poetry.
Are MFA Creative Writing Programs Worth It?
Having an MFA opens doors to a range of well-paid careers (more on that above). If you’re skilled in writing – and want to make a decent living with it – an MFA program might be an excellent choice.
How Do I Choose an MFA in Creative Writing?
First, consider whether an on-campus or online MFA program is best for you (depending on your lifestyle and commitments). Another key consideration is a university with renowned authors on their teaching staff who will give you the highest levels of training in creative writing. Also, consider your preferred focus area (e.g., fiction, poetry, nonfiction) .
What Are MFA Writing Programs?
An MFA in writing or creative writing is an advanced program that teaches students the art and practice of writing. During these programs, students hone their writing skills and equip themselves to publish their own work – or pursue a career in media, teaching, or advertising.
Can You Teach with an MFA?
Yes! Teaching is one of the many career options an MFA provides . An MFA in creative writing can qualify you to be a teacher in creative writing (in schools or the higher education sector).
Is It Hard to Be Admitted to MFA Creative Writing Programs?
MFA creative writing programs are relatively competitive. Therefore, not all applicants will get into the program of their choice. However, if you are talented and ambitious that becomes more likely. Having said that, the most prestigious universities with the best MFA creative writing programs accept a small percentage of the applicants.
What Is the Best Creative Writing Program in the World?
A number of creative writing programs are known for their famous faculty and excellent courses, like the Master of Fine Arts in Fiction/ Poetry from Johns Hopkins and the MFA in Literary Arts from Brown University . Outside the US, the most celebrated English program is likely the University of Cambridge’s MSt in Creative Writing.
How Hard Is It to Get an MFA in Creative Writing?
An MFA is an intensive, highly-involved degree that requires a certain amount of dedication. Anyone with a passion for creative writing should find it rewarding and satisfying.
Should I Get an MA or MFA in Creative Writing?
Whether you choose an MA or MFA in creative writing depends on your own interests and career ambitions. An MFA in creative writing is ideal for anyone passionate about pursuing a career in fiction, poetry, or creative non-fiction. An MA is a broader degree that equips students for a wider range of career choices (though it will qualify them for many of the same roles as an MFA).
Can I Get Published Without an MFA?
Absolutely. However, studying for an MFA will equip you with a range of skills and knowledge that are extremely helpful in getting your work published, from honing your craft to submitting your manuscript to working with publishers.
What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs with a Master’s in Creative Writing?
An MFA in creative writing can help you land a range of jobs in the creative and literary fields. The highest-paying jobs for graduates with a master’s in creative writing include creative directors ($90,000) and technical writers ($78,000).
Key Takeaways
An MFA in creative writing program will hone your talents and develop the skills you need to become a successful writer. The best MFA creative writing programs will give you incredible knowledge of the field while developing your practical skills in fiction, non-fiction, or poetry.
The acceptance rate for the best MFA writing programs is fairly low, so it’s crucial to understand the requirements well and prepare thoroughly. To help you with your application, check out our guide to applying to grad school .
- Top 5 Easiest Master’s Degrees + 10 Easiest Grad Schools to Get Into
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Lisa Marlin
Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.
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2022 Creative Writing MFA Applicants Forum
- creative writing
By CanadianKate March 22, 2021 in Literary
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CanadianKate
For those of us who plan to apply for a Creative Writing MFA in 2021 (start date 2022)
- Brother Panda and CHRISTOPHER QUANG BUI
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March 3, 2022
GUYS I GOT INTO IOWA OMFG
March 10, 2022
WAITLISTED AT HOLLINS!!!!!!!
February 11, 2022
Cross posted to Draft but I JUST GOT INTO GEORGE MASON???? FOR POETRY???? WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL??? I'M SO HAPPY I just checked the portal and the decision was there I haven't heard about notifs or
Hi, I may or may not apply this fall. It all depends if I can obtain letters of rec from these continuing studies English instructors since I've been out of school for eight years. It would be my first application cycle. ?
- Leeannitha , Brother Panda and CanadianKate
Hi! I am an extreme planner and planning to apply this year. Working on getting my list of schools whittled down over the next few months. :)
- CanadianKate , lenagator1997 , Leeannitha and 1 other
- 2 weeks later...
Hello! This will be my second time applying. (Didn’t apply last year but the year before.) I am starting much earlier this year than last time!
So far, I am applying to Iowa (fiction), UMass Amherst (poetry), Stegner Fellowship @ Stanford (LOL- thought I’d give it a shot) and Michener. Going to be adding some more as I narrow it down.
Brother Panda
On 3/22/2021 at 3:26 PM, CanadianKate said: For those of us who plan to apply for a Creative Writing MFA in 2021 (start date 2022)
Thanks for starting this! Didn’t apply for the season getting results right now but did do some major lurking.
- 3 weeks later...
On 3/22/2021 at 12:26 PM, CanadianKate said: For those of us who plan to apply for a Creative Writing MFA in 2021 (start date 2022)
Hey, thanks for starting a new thread, Kate!
Oof, here we go again...
- CanadianKate and Brother Panda
- 3 yr dr. t pinned this topic
Hey all! I'm an MFA student who haunts these forums because I remember what it was like to be waiting to hear back from programs. I have a few things to say to applicants if you're willing to listen.
1) Only apply to funded programs. I know it's old advice, but it's still good advice. Even funded programs that are "lower" tier are still better than the best unfunded program. Consider that Columbia costs around 150k, comparable to medical school, and that even doctors have a hard time paying off their loans. So please don't think you'll be paying it off with writing. Only go to a non-funded school if you have 150k to spend, in which case, do it if you really want to. It will still be the same thing--some workshops, some other classes, some award-winning writers. Every MFA has that stuff.
2) Actually do your homework. Read some work by the authors at these programs. If you like the work, mention that author by name in your statement of purpose. Everyone loves to be complimented, and they will feel good knowing that you have actually done the work of seriously looking into the school. And speaking of SoPs, actually take the time to truly tailor each one to the school.
3) Submit your best (and favorite) work. Take your best and favorite story or two (or poem or essay) and revise and revise and revise until every single word can stand trial and still remain in the story. As Raymond Carver said (quoting another author), you are finished revising when, on one pass, you take a single comma out of the story, and on the next pass, you put it back in.
4) Submit and forget. Once you've submitted, go back to doing things you love. Go to the gym. Hang out with friends. Anything that will be good for your soul and push the dreaded decision letter out of your mind.
Good luck everyone! It took me a couple application rounds to get into a program. If you don't get in, just keep living and writing and try again next time.
- feralgrad , lenagator1997 , evergreen13 and 3 others
Hey, y'all! Glad to see some familiar faces around here. For those of you who don't know me, I've been on GradCafe for a couple years. I did two rounds of applications before I got into the right program, and this board was so helpful! I'll be popping in occasionally to offer my opinions/bother y'all.
It's still way early in the cycle, but I will say: don't underestimate the importance of the research phase! I rushed through it my first round, and it bit me in the butt. If funding is a major concern (and it should be for most applicants), I recommend digging deep for less famous programs. UMass, Michener, Iowa, etc. are great, but applying to 5 programs that accept >1% of applicants gives you much lower chances than applying to one program that accepts 10% (e.g. Hollins -- which is still fully-funded and well-respected). And trust me, each program you add to your list piles on more work than you think.
Aaaanyway, good luck, everyone! I'll see you around :)
- CHRISTOPHER QUANG BUI and Brother Panda
I was a bit of lurker last year. I can't even remember what my username was. But I am taking the 2022 application round much more seriously. I've already started on my writing sample. I know someone else started a thread for 2022. The problem is she called it 2021, which is the same thing the thread was called last year. People are going to end posting on both threads called 2021, and we'll have to check two threads. It is better to have a thread called 2022. So what are people doing: are they editing their writings sample from last year, or are they starting from scratch?
After getting rejected this year I was finally able to put MFAs out of my mind. I didn't feel at all motivated for this next application cycle, even though I explicitly had the intentions of applying again. Well, now I'm finally sucked back into thinking about it every day.
Janice Salley
Considering applying to (in alphabetical order):
Alabama Alaska Denver Houston Iowa Johns Hopkins Kansas Mississippi Missouri Nebraska Syracuse Tennessee Vanderbilt WashU (in St. Louis)
lenagator1997
I'm an incoming MFA CW Nonfiction student going to The University of New Hampshire who applied in Fall 2020. If anyone wants any advice on the application process as a whole, or about any of the programs I applied to below let me know! My biggest pieces of advice are:
1. Have your portfolio reflect your best work, as well as the widest range of your abilities as a writer possible. Admission committees like to see your depth.
2. Ask for your letters of recommendation as early as possible to have a stress-free life for you and your professor.
3. Cast a wide net when applying for schools. I know they say rankings and selectivity don't matter but they do. (see book below for some statistics)
4. Figure out what type of program works best for you. Consider if you want high or low res, cross genre or a more focused program, size, faculty, ect.
Also here is a link to the book: The Insiders Guide to Graduate Degrees in Creative Writing, which I wish I would have found sooner in the process: https://www.amazon.com/Insiders-Graduate-Degrees-Creative-Writing/dp/1350000418
University of Wyoming
University of Minnesota
Columbia College Chicago
Rosemont College
University of New Hampshire
Hollins College
Sarah Lawrence
UNC Wilmington
Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) University of Washington (Seattle)
Colorado State
Hofstra University
Hey Guys, ( I think I posted on the wrong forum but if not, apologies for the double post!)
Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)
University of Washington (Seattle)
On 5/31/2021 at 12:52 AM, mrvisser said: After getting rejected this year I was finally able to put MFAs out of my mind. I didn't feel at all motivated for this next application cycle, even though I explicitly had the intentions of applying again. Well, now I'm finally sucked back into thinking about it every day.
After being rejected on the first round, I didn't think about my next round of MFA applications until mid July. The urge to apply came, went, then came back again. It's one of the things that stuck in my mind, much like writing, and there wasn't a way to get rid of it completely.
Hi, lenagator1997 . Where did you hear that you should show "depth"? It just sounds impossible to do with the word caps.
2 hours ago, molly s said: Hi, lenagator1997 . Where did you hear that you should show "depth"? It just sounds impossible to do with the word caps.
This might not be for all MFA programs, but I've observed if the page limits for the portfolios are 30+ or 20+ pages on certain applications, they like to see the different types of skills you have as a writer. (Unless you want to submit 20+ pages of a fiction novel. I'm nonfiction so I am less well versed in what you would do for that.) I made a very diverse portfolio which showed my range of style and thus depth. Even if the page limit was 10 pages, I would submit two very different essays in the two contrasting forms I was strongest in. (I think I had at least four different essays in my portfolio if the page limit was 30+ pages).
" different types of skills." - lenagator1997
Can you list these skills? All them, if possible because I don't really understand.
11 hours ago, zacv said: " different types of skills." - lenagator1997 Can you list these skills? All them, if possible because I don't really understand.
By skills I mean anything in your writing that would make you stand out as an applicant. Pick stories, poems, essays ect that best represents your strengths/uniqueness and thus skills as a writer. For example, my strongest skills (and uniqueness) as a nonfiction writer include weaving external research or information into longer personal narratives and playing with form. In contrast my weakest skills are writing shorter essays that require a lot of poetic imagery. So in my portfolio I didn't include any essays that didn't represent the best of what I can do. There isn't any list I can give because the skills you have as a writer are so individual and different for everyone. I think it's important to understand your own work inside and out, especially in what you are submitting in the portfolio know what your writing shows about you as the applicant.
- 4 weeks later...
Just wanted to wish all who are applying or re-applying for Fall 2022 admission this round luck! For those just coming into this world, do your research while making your school spreadsheet! I have seen many a post from people who didn't get in anywhere because they only applied to the top 3 in the whole country. Cast a wide net everyone. Getting into full residency MFA programs are competitive. I personally had no idea. Selectivity percentage should not deter anyone from applying, but to be aware of it is helpful, and these numbers usually fluctuates from year to year. At the end of the day, apply to the places that are the best fit for you and I would hate to see anyone become devastated. Below is information paraphrased (not directly quoted) from "The Insiders Guide to Graduate Degrees in Creative Writing" by Seth Abramson. I believe he is a sound source on this topic.
The heavy hitting schools we have all heard about like; Vanderbilt, University of Iowa, NYU, Washington University in St. Louis, University of Texas Austin, Boston University, University of Wyoming, UMass Amherst, Brown, Cornell, Johns Hopkins ect. all have an acceptance rate less than 5%. These also happen to be in the "very selective" category and tend to have a smaller group of students. The schools in the "selective" category like; University of Maryland, University of North Carolina Wilmington, New Mexico State, and University of New Hampshire (UNH) fall around (8-15%). If you want to find out more, check out the book: https://www.amazon.com/Insiders-Graduate-Degrees-Creative-Writing/dp/135000040X/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=guide+to+graduate+degrees+in+creative+writing&qid=1609448517&sr=8-2#reader_135000040X
mr. specific
Hey so I applied last year to 5 places (in poetry) and wound up being waitlisted at Michener and Wisconsin. Not a total loss, but I'm finding it hard not to be discouraged and go through the whole thing again, even though I do think my writing is better than this time last year. So who knows. I'm wondering if I should cast a wider net, or if there is some way to improve my application.
On 7/6/2021 at 8:40 AM, mr. specific said: Hey so I applied last year to 5 places (in poetry) and wound up being waitlisted at Michener and Wisconsin. Not a total loss, but I'm finding it hard not to be discouraged and go through the whole thing again, even though I do think my writing is better than this time last year. So who knows. I'm wondering if I should cast a wider net, or if there is some way to improve my application.
MFA CW programs are selective at the best of times so casting a wider net may be beneficial! I applied to 13 places in 2020. It was difficult to discern which ones were more selective than others, but I focused more on if I liked their curriculum, faculty, and if I thought my writing style meshed with their programs.
On 7/6/2021 at 11:40 AM, mr. specific said: Hey so I applied last year to 5 places (in poetry) and wound up being waitlisted at Michener and Wisconsin. Not a total loss, but I'm finding it hard not to be discouraged and go through the whole thing again, even though I do think my writing is better than this time last year. So who knows. I'm wondering if I should cast a wider net, or if there is some way to improve my application.
I tend to be suspicious of casting a wide net for grad apps. That strategy can make it harder to research each program thoroughly, which can lead you to attend one that's a poor fit. For example, there have been a few people in my program that ended up disappointed because they actually wanted cohort with a more conservative, literary aesthetic (in other words, they probably didn't do any research aside from reading the website...).
I know the feeling: you're itching to get in and want to ensure success. But I think you can save yourself a lot of trouble by looking for a handful of programs that are truly what you want -- because those are also the programs most likely to accept you. They're the programs that will get your most inspired personal statements, and they're more likely to have adcoms with similar aesthetics to yours.
If you don't have many specific ideas about what you want, I'd really recommend starting there (e.g. Do you want teaching experience? Do you want to take classes outside your genre? Will it piss you off if you're required to take a lot of literature courses?). I highly, highly advise talking to current students/alums before you even start on your application to a program. Last year, I talked to a student who helped me decide that her program was a bad fit for me. This saved me hours of work and 75 dollars.
Also, keep in mind that 10+ applications is a LOT of work. As you probably know, many programs have different requirements. Moreover, tailoring your personal statement to each school will take twice as long as you expect (at least, this was my experience in my 2 rounds of apps).
The wide net approach can certainly work, as it did for lenagator. But personally, I believe in quality over quantity. And anyway, if you got waitlisted at Michener, you certainly don't need to worry about being "good enough" ;-)
Thanks feralgrad. That makes a lot of sense.
I guess the first time around I used one metric only—how much was the fellowship, and didn't do any more research. This still seems like the critical question, like can i afford to live on this without debt or taking on another fulltime job outside the program. And I only came up with five that seemed like they promised that—Brown, Cornell, Michener, Wisconsin, Umass, (and Michigan and Florida, but I didn't remember to do these apps). So I'd be interested in other schools people know of that 1) promise funding upwards of ~25,000 a year and 2) guarantee funding (more or less equally) to all their students.
Not to single any one school out, but I just looked at Hollins' page, which up front claims that they are "extremely well-funded," but after clicking through a few more pages saw that the first year stipend was $7000!
12 hours ago, mr. specific said: Not to single any one school out, but I just looked at Hollins' page, which up front claims that they are "extremely well-funded," but after clicking through a few more pages saw that the first year stipend was $7000!
I also had been considering Hollins, but laughed out loud at the stipend. It's nice to offer some funding, but for that you'll have to take out loans, which I am totally unwilling to do for an MFA.
Has everyone decided where they're applying to? So far, I've decided on Alabama, Brown, Chatham, Cornell, Emerson, Hollins, UMich, Vanderbilt, and WashU.
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Average Acceptance Rate on Creative Writing MFA
Hello, I'm going to be graduating after this semester and want to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing. Frankly however, my nerves have been racking me on average acceptance rates. I was going to go schedule an appointment with an admin to talk more on this but the acceptance rate thing is kind of shaking me up. Does anyone by chance know or have a guess as to what a CRW MFA acceptance rate might be?
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| University of Houston | ||||||||||||||||||
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COMMENTS
Since our MFA program began, our graduates have published an impressive number of books in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. In the past 20 years, our students have won major book publication and literary prizes, including the Barnard Women Writers Award, the Nelson Algren Award, The Drue Heinz Literature Prize, and the Whiting and Tufts Awards ...
In late 2019 I applied to around 15 of the best Creative Writing MFA's in the United States. All of these programs have less than a 3% acceptance rate--the most competitive among them less than 1% (yes, they received over 1000 applicants and accepted less than 10).
The MFA in Writing is a three-year degree providing students with the time and opportunity to produce a book-length final manuscript. Our graduate writing faculty are distinguished nationally and internationally through numerous publications and awards. They include poets Diana Khoi Nguyen and Joy Priest; fiction writers Angie Cruz, William ...
I don't think location is a factor in MFA admissions. The most important thing is your writing sample. Jim VK ... I'm applying to 7 programs for CNF in the U.S.: OSU, SAIC, Wash U., Northwestern (MFA + MA), Oregon State, U. of Pittsburgh, and U. of Washington. I've also applied to all three programs in Canada. ... 2024 Creative Writing MFA ...
In each incoming class, the Writing Program awards three Teaching Assistantships in each of the three genres (nine total), which means that at any given time, we have approximately 27 students who are active TAs in the Writing Program. We also nominate students for the Dietrich School's K. Leroy Irvis Fellowship during the regular application ...
The MFA in Writing will be awarded for the completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.0, plus the completion of an acceptable final manuscript. There is no language requirement for MFA students. The requirements below are a general guideline for prospective MFA students. Current MFA students in the Department of English should refer to the MFA section of the graduate ...
All entering students are fully funded (with salary, medical benefits, and tuition remission). Pitt's English Department is well-known for its excellent teacher preparation, which is an asset to students who seek careers in teaching after graduation. English Department TAs teach 1 course per semester, typically a course with 24 students or fewer.
MFA. The English Department offers a three-year Master of Fine Arts degree program that provides students with the time and opportunity to produce a book-length final manuscript. Our graduate writing faculty members have distinguished themselves nationally and internationally through numerous publications and awards. They include poets Lynn ...
University of Pittsburgh. The University of Pittsburgh based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania offers a three-year fully funded MFA in creative writing. This MFA program provides students with the time and opportunity to produce a book-length final manuscript. As in the writing profession, the student needs to decide their path in the program but the ...
The English Department offers a three-year Master of Fine Arts degree program that provides students with the time and opportunity to produce a book-length final manuscript. Our graduate writing faculty are distinguished nationally and internationally through numerous publications and awards. They include poets Diana Khoi Nguyen and Joy Priest; fiction writers Angie Cruz,
Learn more about the creative writing program at University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus. Ranking, average salary of creative writing grads, average debt, student debt, and more.
4) University of Michigan. Anne Carson famously lives in Ann Arbor, as do the MFA students in UMichigan's Helen Zell Writers' Program. This is a big university town, which is less damaging to your social life. Plus, there's lots to do when you have a $25,000 stipend, summer funding, and health care.
UNO's yearly graduate tuition is $8,892 for Louisiana residents and $13,462 for non-residents. Columbia charges $28,230 per semester. MFA programs operate under the jurisdiction of the college of liberal arts or arts and sciences. This means they usually charge rates that match other graduate programs in that area.
The University of Texas at Austin is a well-known public research university with around 50,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. It offers one of the best MFA programs for creative writing, aiming to enhance and develop its students' artistic and intellectual abilities. 4.
Graduate Admissions. Students can apply to the PhD program in English, the English concentration of the Interdisciplinary Film & Media Studies PhD, the Master of Arts (MA) program, and the Master of Fine Arts program through GradCAS, the online application used by the Unviersity of Pittsburgh. Applications for the 2024-2025 admissions season ...
The Writing Program at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. 1,033 likes. Pitt Writers is a dynamic community of writers in all forms, styles, and genres.
28. Location:Toronto, Ontario. Application Season:2021 Fall. Program:MFA Creative Writing Fiction. Posted March 22, 2021. For those of us who plan to apply for a Creative Writing MFA in 2021 (start date 2022) Brother Panda and CHRISTOPHER QUANG BUI. 1. 1.
The Writing Program at the University of Pittsburgh is a large and diverse community of poets, novelists, short story writers, essayists, and journalists interested in traditional forms and emerging media. The work we produce is wide-ranging, ambitious, and provocative, and has been showcased in journals, magazines, and digital publications ...
Ranking of the best Pittsburgh Area colleges for creative writing majors. Compare the creative writing schools in your area. ... Acceptance Rate: 11%,Net Price: $33,499,SAT Range: 1490-1570 ... Junior: Attending the University of Pittsburgh was one of the best decisions I have ever made regarding my social and academic life. Pitt pushes me in ...
After the second year, TAs generally teach advanced composition and introductory creative writing classes. K. Leroy Irvis Fellowships MFA applicants will be considered for K. Leroy Irvis Fellowships, established in 1994 to enhance the academic excellence and diversity of the Pitt's graduate student body. The program provides a non-duty bearing ...
Each school's acceptance rate is going to be different. Top name (and funding) schools like Iowa and Michener have an acceptance rate of about 1-3% depending on genre. Low-res programs will typically have a higher acceptance rate. If you have a particular program in mind, you can often find their respective acceptance rates on their website; if ...
College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences > Department of English > Creative Writing, MFA. Admission Requirements. In addition to meeting the college graduate admission requirements , applicants to the MFA in Creative Writing program must meet the following minimum requirements for admission to the program and for the degree:. The applicant should have completed 12 hours of advanced English ...
Undergraduate. We believe that writing is a practice and discipline, and it is central to making connections between oneself and the world, and to understanding the world more deeply. Writers imagine the future. They keep the living from falling asleep and keep the imagination from growing complacent. Writers say what isn't otherwise being said.
The Creative Writing Minor (18 credits) A student must complete 18 credits of English writing courses, with a 3-course concentration in one of the tracks. (A student can declare both a major and a minor in different tracks, provided that they do not overlap courses. Completion of both programs requires 51 credits.) View the creative writing ...