I have an MFA in Creative Writing with Multiple Acceptances from Syracuse University’s School of Arts & Sciences. The fact that I have several publications to my name, all of which have been professionally awarded and some of which have even been published, speaks to the quality of work that is supported by this program. Although I have always loved writing, it was not until I started my Masters program that I truly discovered my passion for creativity and the power of words. This blog post will dive into some of the most essential information you need to know before making a decision about where to apply.
Why Should You Pursue An MFA In Creative Writing?
If you’re reading this, I assume that you’re either a creative writing enthusiast or perhaps even consider yourself to be a creative writer. Maybe you write fiction or non-fiction, or perform occasional journalism pieces. Regardless of your style, you almost certainly possess a unique voice that is valued by a readership. If you want to continue publishing online or in print, you will need to learn how to harness your voice and develop your creative writing skills.
An MFA in Creative Writing provides you with a flexible degree that allows you to study under some of the best in the country. It also opens up a world of opportunity for those who are willing to take the plunge. Despite the hype surrounding the prestige of an MFA, the actual coursework and learning involved is actually quite extensive. You will be tested regularly and expected to challenge yourself with critical analysis and reading across multiple genres. Above all, you will need to be a committed practitioner to ensure that you make the most of your studies. An MFA in Creative Writing should not be taken lightly; it requires a significant investment of both time and money. The degrees available from top-tier universities like Syracuse are highly sought-after, so make sure that you apply early and get everything in writing before making a decision.
How Do I Master The Craft Of Creative Writing?
Syracuse’s MFA in Creative Writing is not a light course. It is, in fact, quite the opposite. Students are expected to complete a substantial number of scholarly pieces in addition to their creative activities, reports, and presentations. Before you begin your studies, you will need to determine how you intend to use your degree and what specific tasks you intend to complete. It is highly recommended that you take a look at the requirements for your chosen program and develop a game plan before the first lecture starts. Doing this now will make certain that you do not waste any valuable class time getting your affairs in order later.
The first year of an MFA in Creative Writing is an introduction to the topic. In addition to the usual lectures, students attend workshops and engage in a variety of exercises aimed at developing their skills. The second year of your program is spent in thesis research and the defense of your chosen topic. During this year, you will need to establish yourself as an independent researcher by publishing several works in respected journals or by presenting your findings at top-tier conferences. The third year of your program is dedicated to the production of your Master’s thesis and subsequent publications. During this year, you will build on the research you began in the previous two years and begin to craft your thesis into a work of literary art. Last but not least, the fourth year is a capstone year in which you will complete your graduate studies, prepare a defense of your thesis, and establish yourself as a professional in your field.
What Do I Study In The Master Of Arts In Creative Writing?
Depending on the type of teaching staff that a particular university or college can boast, you might be interested in pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing with the following degrees available:
- Masters of Fine Arts (MFA)
- Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Professional Studies (MPS)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Doctor of Creative Arts (DCA)
- Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (PT)
- Doctor of Music (DM)
- Doctor of Fine Arts (DA).
You are not restricted to these options, but these are the most common routes that creative writing candidates take. If you want to become a published author and gain some degree of fame, you should consider an MFA in Creative Writing from a top-tier university. The fact that you are able to pick and choose your courses should also appeal to any prospective student.
How Many Years Of Post-Graduate Study Does It Take To Be A Professional In This Field?
If you have an MFA in Creative Writing with Multiple Acceptances from Syracuse, you will be able to take the GRE subject test in preparation for your job search. Depending on how quickly you were able to complete your Master’s degree, you will be able to find work in your chosen field with only a few months of post-graduate study. For those who have not yet graduated or are in the process of doing so, this is a great opportunity to begin your life as a professional in your chosen field. The trick is to get started early and make sure that you continue to build your network of contacts throughout your studies. Many of my peers and I continue to build our careers, having secured high-profile positions with some of the biggest firms in the world within a few months of completing our studies. If you are passionate about becoming a literary or creative writing superstar, applying for an MFA with multiple acceptances is a must.
How Is My Research Supported By The School?
Syracuse University is one of the top-tier institutions that offer an MFA in Creative Writing with Multiple Acceptances. As part of your studies, you will be required to undertake research into your chosen topic. How is your research supported by the school? The answer to this question will depend on the type of funding that your school receives and the structure of your program. Some of the prestigious awards that your school might boast include:
- Guggenheim Fellowship
- National Endowment for the Arts Grant
- PEN/American Poetry Prize
- Bertrand Russell Award For Philosophy
- Ford Foundation Grant
- E.M. Forster Award
- Creative Writing PhD Scholarship Fund
- Dean’s List
- Senior Thesis Fellowship
These are all respected awards that indicate the quality of your research and writing. If you would like to conduct cutting-edge research into a broad range of topics, you should consider an MFA in Creative Writing from a top-tier university. Doing so will allow you to become a highly-paid, established professional in your chosen field.
Where Do I Apply For My Master’s Degree?
Depending on your chosen degree, you might be able to apply for admission to up to three different universities or graduate schools. In my case, I was able to apply to Syracuse, which meant that I also had the opportunity to study abroad for a semester. With only a few applications and a lot of luck, you might even be able to secure a spot at the university of your dreams. Your choice of institution will depend on a number of factors, but one of the main considerations is the location of the university itself. If you have the chance to study abroad, you should take it. Even if you do not get to travel abroad, you will be able to immerse yourself in the study of literature and the arts. With only a handful of applications and high admissions rates, you are sure to get in to your chosen institution.
Thesis: Can You Sum It Up In Three Words?
The Master’s thesis is the culmination of all of your previous studies. It is a capstone project that you have been working toward for the past four or five years. In some instances, you will be required to complete a comprehensive analysis of a particular topic. In other cases, you will be asked to produce a critical work that examines an aspect of literary theory. Regardless of the requirements of your final project, make sure that it is a faithful representation of your research and studies. This thesis will form the basis of your subsequent publications and, ultimately, allow you to establish yourself as an expert in your chosen field.