There are numerous places in the United States and Canada to study for a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. The growth of college and university based writing programs now means that almost all large universities have a creative writing MFA program. These programs are varied in scope and focus, and many offer low-residency tracks along with more traditional residential programs. Besides the delivery format of the programs, MFA curriculum varies from program to program, and it is now possible to study in a program tailored to your particular interest, whether that is creative non-fiction, short-stories, novels, or poetry.
Because there is such a variety in MFA programs, it is important that you research your options carefully so you can select the program that is the best fit for you and your particular goals as a writer. When you begin looking seriously at MFA programs, take the following into account:
- What is the format that you want… residency or low-residency, or perhaps part-time study.
- Who is actually teaching the courses and seminars you will take. Many universities and colleges will list high-profile writers as instructors when in reality they only teach one lecture per semester or make very minimal appearances. Find out the names of the full-time teachers and read some of their work.
- What is the overall reputation of the program you are applying for. Has it been around for a long time? How do potential publishers, employers, and writers regard the program and university where it is located? A course with a good reputation, such as the one at Stanford, Pacific University, Bennington, or the University of Iowa, can make a huge difference when you are applying for initial jobs.
Finally, one of the most important things to look for is the content of the course of study and define how it would benefit you and your particular goals as a writer. One size does not fit all when it comes to MFA programs. Look for the program that interests you the most and where you think you will be pushed to develop as a writer. This is a case where you want to be challenged and to grow.
Remember, it costs nothing to begin to do some research on-line, and the more you know about possible MFA programs, the more likely you are to make the right decision for you.