Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in creative writing is a special degree that will teach you all there is to know about creative writing. If you are looking for a career in writing, this is a valuable degree to have. However, if you are looking for a way to further your education, research a MFA in creative writing program that suits your needs. Follow this article to find out more about how to select the right MFA creative writing program for you.
The Value Of An MFA In Creative Writing
The value of an MFA in creative writing far exceeds the cost of the degree. Many creative writing teachers will attest to the fact that an MFA provides a great opportunity for students to show their potential and develop their skills. An MFA provides the chance to write a novel – often times while pursuing a PhD – and develop valuable life and career skills.
Even writing short stories for graduate classes or a creative writing journal can prove to be beneficial. In fact, many successful writers claim that their undergraduate degrees were not in literature but in an entirely different field. After earning their bachelor’s degrees, they decided to apply what they learned in school and used their creative writing skills to write their first novel. Many famous writers, including William Shakespeare, Leo Tolstoy, and Herman Melville, achieved their success through creative writing. They all completed at least some of their work while attending university.
The number of MFA creative writing programs across the country is incredible. Therefore, if you can’t decide which school to attend, consider all the options available to you. An MFA in creative writing is a valuable degree that will open many doors for you in your career as a writer.
Roughly What Does An MFA In Creative Writing Cover?
The curriculum for an MFA in creative writing varies by school and depends on the needs of the program. However, you can usually expect to spend about two years learning how to write a novel. The remaining years of the program will consist of giving you enough knowledge and experience to write a complete novel. You will take a class or enroll in a course that will teach you about grammar, style, and much more.
Depending on your background, you may be required to take certain classes before you can enroll in the two-year program. However, once you are in the program, you will have access to a wide range of courses that will help you decide what you want to study and work on once you graduate.
Which Type Of MFA Creative Writing Program Should You Consider?
If you are looking for a traditional MFA in creative writing program, you should consider a school that is part of a larger university. These types of schools usually have very high acceptance rates and provide you with the opportunity to network and meet with professors and teaching assistants who can help you get started on your graduate studies. An MFA from a four-year university will give you the credentials you need to get a good job once you graduate.
If, however, you are looking for a more practical experience, consider a school that is part of a private, for-profit corporation. Many MFA degrees from for-profit institutions are taught by industry professionals who have experience in the field. You will have the opportunity to get a good job as soon as you graduate, and perhaps even to progress to a senior level within a few years.
Where Do I Start?
As we mentioned above, the curriculum and the structure of an MFA program varies by school. However, a good place to start your search is the school’s website. You can find out more information about the program, read application essays, and see if there are any interviews with current students and graduates. This will give you an idea of what to expect.
Deciding where to apply can be a little difficult. Many prestigious universities have very high acceptance rates and provide you with many choices. Don’t forget: the sky is the limit when it comes to what you can learn at an MFA school. You can choose to specialize in fiction, non-fiction, or even screenwriting.