For creative individuals eager to refine their craft under the guidance of accomplished mentors and dedicate significant time to their writing, pursuing a master’s in creative writing may be the next step in your journey. While these programs don’t guarantee a future as a bestselling novelist or a lauded poet, they offer substantial mentorship and a comprehensive education, setting a solid foundation for success in the literary field.
Most graduates find opportunities in academia, where the demand for college and university professors is expected to grow by 8% in the next decade, offering a median salary of $80,840. These programs span 18 months to three years, and while costs vary, the average tuition was $19,749 for the 2020-2021 academic year.
How to Choose a Master’s in Creative Writing Program
Choose your area of study
Selecting an area of study for your master’s in creative writing is an especially important first step for this degree, as many programs offer specialized tracks to better align with student interests.
For some students, deciding between poetry, fiction, nonfiction, or screenwriting may be relatively straightforward, as many come to these programs with existing interests and writing experience. This choice can be more challenging for others, requiring reflection on their interests and career goals.
Understanding your preferred genre or form is crucial. It will direct you to a program that best supports your aspirations, offering workshops, mentorship, and resources to hone your craft.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve decided on an area of study, it’s time to research potential schools and programs that can support your educational and professional interests. Consider asking the following questions to guide your research:
- What are the faculty’s backgrounds and areas of expertise?
- How does the curriculum align with your specific interests?
- What opportunities exist for workshops, readings, and publishing?
- Are there assistantships, fellowships, or financial aid options?
- How does the program support career development post-graduation?
This information can be found on university websites, by contacting admissions counselors or program coordinators, or by connecting with current students and alumni.
Prepare for tests and applications
With your shortlist of programs in hand, you can begin preparing for tests and applications.
Focusing on crafting a solid writing sample is crucial, as this illustrates your skills and potential. However, it’s equally important to dedicate time to writing your personal statement and preparing for the GRE — if your program requires standardized test scores. Consider enrolling in a test prep program to improve your performance and boost your scores.
Remember transcripts and letters of recommendation; you’ll want to request these early, as they often take time to gather. To avoid any last-minute rushes, provide your recommenders with clear deadlines, typically around two months.
Select your program
If you submit multiple applications, you may receive multiple acceptance letters. In these situations, set aside some time to revisit your initial research criteria to ensure you select the right program.
Consider curriculum relevance, faculty experience, and the strength of the alumni network, as mentorship is an essential aspect of these programs. Given their significant role in your development, you’ll want to choose faculty you’re eager to learn from. Lastly, assess the total cost of attendance alongside any financial aid offers, including fellowships and assistantships.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
While financing your degree can feel daunting, many financial aid resources are available to help. Start by exploring scholarships and grants that don’t require repayment. Next, look into assistantships and fellowships offered by your institution, as these provide funding alongside resume-boosting professional experience.
Use federal loans sparingly to cover any remaining financial gaps. Remember that every dollar taken out on a loan will have to be repaid with interest, so minimize your reliance on these to avoid accruing debt.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Creative Writing Programs
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How we rank schools
We reviewed many master’s in creative writing programs, including ones offered on-campus, online, and through both modes. Most of these degrees are offered as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), which is considered a terminal degree in the fine arts field.
The institutions on this list are all approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) or the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Attending an accredited degree program guarantees you’ll receive a quality education and ensures your degree will be recognized by other schools and employers. Recognition is important if you decide to transfer or hope to teach at a school.
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Creative Writing Program?
By earning a master’s in creative writing, you’ll enter an immersive program designed to refine your writing craft, critical thinking, and editorial skills across various genres — including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and even screenplay writing.
Spanning 18 months to three years, these programs combine workshops, literature courses, and seminars to strengthen your understanding of narrative structure, character development, and the nuances of language and style. You’ll hone your unique voice and storytelling abilities through intensive writing practice and feedback from peers and seasoned faculty. Critical analysis of literary work complements your creative endeavors, improving your ability to critique and incorporate literary techniques into your writing.
These programs typically culminate in a thesis — a substantial, original piece of creative work (like a novel, a collection of poems, or short stories) that demonstrates mastery and readiness to contribute to the literary world.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in creative writing program
- Literary Analysis for Writers: Although it may go by a different name, this course is a cornerstone in most programs. Through studying contemporary and classic literature, students learn to dissect and understand the techniques employed by successful authors. This analytical skill enhances critical thinking while informing and improving their creative writing endeavors.
- Fiction Workshop: Specifically designated for students specializing in fiction, this course encourages learners to write their own material and periodically present it for critique. Students are encouraged to experiment and grow as writers through this collaborative environment.
- Poetry Workshop: This course, particularly aimed at poets, encourages participants to explore various poetic forms and techniques, from traditional to experimental poetry. Through writing exercises and peer feedback, students learn to create vivid imagery, control rhythm and sound, and convey emotional truths concisely.
- Creative Nonfiction: This genre-bending course covers memoirs, personal essays, and literary journalism. Students learn to meld factual accuracy with storytelling, developing skills to write engaging narratives that resonate with authenticity.
Master’s in Creative Writing Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in creative writing degree program?
To apply for a master’s in creative writing degree program, you’ll need to start by researching the specific requirements of your chosen institution, as they can vary. However, many programs share common application criteria — like the following:
- Official transcripts from undergraduate studies
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose
- A writing sample in your intended discipline (such as fiction, poetry, or nonfiction)
- GRE scores, although these may be optional for some programs
Before applying, be sure to reach out to an admissions counselor. They can provide insights into the program, help answer any questions, and guide you through the application process.
How much does a master's in creative writing degree cost?
The cost of this degree will vary depending on the institution — however, the average graduate tuition for the 2020-2021 academic year was $19,749. This figure does not account for additional expenses such as housing, commuting, library fees, and textbooks, which can significantly increase the total cost of earning your degree. As a prospective student, you should thoroughly assess these costs to create a comprehensive budget — ensuring that pursuing this degree aligns with your professional and financial goals.
How long does it take to earn a master's in creative writing degree?
Earning your master’s in creative writing usually takes two years of full-time study, though some programs may extend to three years due to additional credit requirements. For this reason, it’s crucial to check each program’s credit prerequisites, as this directly influences completion time.
Part-time students generally have up to five years to fulfill their degree obligations, but some institutions offer more flexibility, allowing for a more extended timeline.