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How Important Is an MFA in Creative Writing?

The world of literature is changing, and so is the world of writing. These days, anyone can put words to paper – even if they’re not especially talented. The rise of the ‘writer’ as a brand and profession is inspiring writers, whether experienced or aspiring, to venture into the often-thankless world of creative writing. But is an MFA in creative writing really worth it? Let’s take a quick look.

Why An MFA?

While many assume that a graduate degree from an MFA program will make them a superior writer, that isn’t necessarily true. In a 2017 report by the American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s) that assessed the talent of new college graduates, only 15% of respondents felt that their MFA prepared them well for a career in writing. And the fact that so few respondents felt well-equipped for the job should concern anyone who cares about the future of American literature.

An MFA isn’t for everyone. But for those seeking to carve out a niche in an already competitive field, it’s worth asking: is this degree truly necessary? What is the main purpose of an MFA in creative writing?

Here are a few reasons why an MFA in creative writing might be worth it.

It Gives You The Opportunity To Focus On The Craft

An MFA provides you with the opportunity to focus on your craft. While it’s important to be aware of the ever-changing world of literature, you won’t necessarily be tasked with making your mark in a very crowded field. Thanks to the proliferation of online publishers, it’s easier than ever to get your work into publication. So if you’re looking to make your name as a writer, you might want to consider skipping the MFA and going straight to a traditional publisher. Still, if you’ve got something to say and you want to say it now, an MFA could be a great option.

It Can Help Place You In A Writing Circle

If you’re looking to connect with other writers, one of the best things you can do is join a group. There are so many ways that groups of writers can help each other, and one of the best ways is through a writing circle. If you’ve been placed in the same group as other students, you’ll have the opportunity to bounce ideas off of one another and grow as a writer. The most effective writing circles I’ve been a part of have all had a strong creative writing focus, so if this is something that interests you, consider applying to an MFA in creative writing program that’s partnered with a university or a creative writing MFA that’s incorporated into a broader graduate program in literature or media studies.

The Financial Reasons Are Also Valuable

For those with the financial wherewithal, there are many lucrative opportunities in the world of letters. You don’t necessarily have to become a professional writer to be able to sustain yourselves on your work. Although, if you’ve got the talent, maybe you’ll be able to pick up some side-hustles along the way and put some money in your pocket.

With the right strategy, you could potentially make a career out of writing. If you’re planning on taking a more traditional route and seeking a well-paying job, an MFA in creative writing might be a wise investment. Not to mention, the cost of an MFA is quite low in comparison to the cost of a college education. So if you’re looking for an affordable option and you have the talent, why not try your hand at writing? You might just end up writing your way to the corner office.

Other Options That Might Be Suitable

While many assume that an MFA is the only option for those seeking to establish themselves in the world of writing, there are other degrees that might be suitable. If you’re looking for a more traditional route and aren’t interested in an MFA, you might want to consider a Bachelors in English or Creative Writing. Depending on which route you pursue, the cost of tuition could vary from low to high. But, you’ll be well-equipped for the world of literature and publishing after earning your degree.

Deciding To Or Not To Pursue A PhD

If you’re not entirely sure whether or not you want to pursue a PhD in English Literature, you might want to consider what would make you happiest. If you’ve got a specific field in mind that you would like to research, such as Children’s Literature, you might want to consider applying for a PhD in English Literature program that focuses on children’s literature. In this way, you will be able to specialize in a field that you are passionate about while also pursuing your passion for writing.

An MFA Isn’t For Everyone

While many assume that an MFA is the only option for those seeking to establish themselves in the world of writing, this isn’t necessarily true. If you’re not interested in an MFA, you might consider a BA in English or Creative Writing. Depending on which route you pursue, the cost of tuition could vary from low to high. But, you’ll be well-equipped for the world of literature and publishing after earning your degree.

An MFA isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a traditional route and seek a well-paying job, perhaps an MFA isn’t for you. Still, if you’ve got the talent, maybe you’ll be able to pick up some side-hustles along the way and put some money in your pocket.

An MFA doesn’t guarantee you’ll be a superior writer. But it does provide you with the opportunity to focus on your craft and potentially make your mark in a world full of exciting possibilities. Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether or not this is the path you want to take, but if you’re interested, there are many exciting destinations to which you can pursue your studies.