If you’re looking for a creative outlet, the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing may be the perfect fit. This degree program will give you the skills you need to be a successful writer. You will learn various techniques and gain real-world experience by participating in workshops, studying abroad, and internships. You will learn to organize your ideas into a functional and beautiful story that will keep readers engaged.
What will you learn?
The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Western University is a 45-credit program that will teach you the fundamentals of creative writing. You will learn about structure, plotting, character development, and the craft of writing. You will also learn about different genres and styles, such as:
- Fiction
- Non-Fiction
- Poetry
- Drama
- Screenwriting
- Reportage
- Memoir
Depending on your interests, you can choose to specialize in one genre or the other. For example, if you want to write about history, you can specialize in the History of Art; if you want to write about literature, you can specialize in Creative Literature. When you complete the program, you will have the opportunity to apply for a job in publishing or academia and gain real-world experience.
Become A Better Writer.
The most important thing you can do for yourself as a writer is to learn how to write well. Whether you are an experienced author or just getting started, you can improve your writing craft by taking a class or going through a writing program. The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Western University is a perfect option for those looking to beef up their toolsets and become better writers. The program aims to improve your prose, teach you how to plan out a story, and challenge you to become the best writer you can be.
Why should you specialize in creative writing?
There are many reasons why you should specialize in the arts. First off, it’s a great option if you want to be able to apply for a job in the field. Second, it teaches you how to think and plan creatively, and how to structure an argument or story. Finally, and most importantly, it gives you the opportunity to write what you want, when you want, and how you want. There are no restrictions on what you can write about, so long as you can back it up with well-researched facts.
What will you learn?
As mentioned above, this degree will give you a full toolkit for writing whatever you want. Some of the things you will learn include:
- The history of art
- The philosophy of art
- Principles of composition
- How to draw on visual art history for source material
- How to structure a story
- How to use the elements of narrative non-fiction
- How to research historical figures and events
- How to plan a novel
The importance of having a full toolkit cannot be overstated. If you want to be a successful writer, you cannot specialize in one particular genre or style; you will have to be able to adapt your style to fit different situations and stories. The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Western University will give you the base tools you need to become a better writer and adapt to any situation you might encounter.
Real-World Experience.
An important part of any degree is the opportunity to gain real-world experience. Many students, particularly those who have completed a Creative Writing program, are able to find jobs in publishing or academe. However, the most common and relevant experience for a writer is internship or residency. For those who can’t find work in publishing or academe, the option of teaching is always out there.
Internships and residencies provide you with the opportunity to learn from professionals in your chosen field. You will get the chance to observe real-world journalism, publishing, and academic writing, and determine whether or not this is a path you want to pursue. If you do decide to pursue this route, make sure to apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible.
An Opportunity To Travel.
If you have an interest in geography, history, or travel, you can add those topics to your creative writing. By taking a class or earning a graduate credit (3-5 hours per week) you will have the opportunity to travel to different countries and dive into their culture. The more you know about a subject, the better you will be able to write about it. A Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing can open up a world of exploration and learning for you.
If you’ve ever thought that a certain place holds a special place in your heart, you can take that love and translate it into a story. By journeying to those fascinating places that hold such important historical or geographical significance, you can learn more about the human condition and show it through your writing.
A few examples include:
- Dublin – Experience the energy and creativity of Ireland’s capital city.
- London – Visit the birthplace of English literature and take a walking tour around the city that Jack London called “the largest small town in the world”
- Edinburgh – Visit Scotland’s beautiful capital and take a stroll down the Royal Mile, where you will find the famous Edinburgh Castle
- Sicily – Experience the beauty of a Mediterranean island and its fascinating culture
- Athens – Walk the streets of the Greek capital and get a glimpse into this intriguing culture
- Morocco – Travel to this beautiful country and experience its magic
- Tulum – Behold the Mayan ruins and how they were built 5000 years ago
A Way To Further Your Education.
If you want to pursue a further education, a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing can potentially lead you to a PhD. Some of the universities that offer this degree and their website can be found here. While some of the above-mentioned locations are far from being a possibility, many more are. By continuing your education with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, you will be able to further explore different topics and expand your knowledge. A PhD is a strenuous endeavor, and it deserves every ounce of your attention and effort.
As you can see, there are many benefits to earning a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. Not only will you be able to write your heart out, but you will also be able to do so while having the freedom to explore different topics. A few of the things this degree gives you are: