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Home » How to Apply for an MFA in Creative Writing – The MFA Application Process Explained

How to Apply for an MFA in Creative Writing – The MFA Application Process Explained

With the right application, coursework, and lucky breaks, an MFA in creative writing is within reach of anyone who wants it. This blog post will explain the application and interview process for an MA in creative writing at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England.

The Creative Writing MA Program at UEA

The University of East Anglia or UEA offers one of the most innovative and established creative writing programs in the country, with strengths in novel writing, short story writing, and poetry. Students can choose to focus on specific genres or aim for a balanced approach to explore all areas of writing. The program provides a wealth of opportunities for postgraduate study with a variety of courses available, including single-semester MFA-style programs, joint MPhD programs, and part-time MA courses. In 2020, UEA was recently ranked 14th in the world for writing and publishing by the Guardian newspaper, and 8th in the UK for creative writing courses based on the QS World University Rankings.

The MA Application Process

Applying for an MA in creative writing at UEA is a multi-step process that you must follow in order to have your application considered by the Admissions Board. The first step is to visit the UEA website and register your interest in applying for the program. You can then access the UEA application form and begin to fill it in. This is a critical step as the application form can only be accessed by registered users. Step two is to make sure that all your requirements are met, and that you have everything you need to follow the application process. Once you have submitted the application, you will receive an acknowledgement email containing your full application reference number. This is the third and final step in the application process.

The Structure of The MFA in Creative Writing at UEA

The MFA in creative writing at UEA is a one-year program designed to provide postgraduate study in the field. Students can select modules that they believe will help them enhance their creativity and problem-solving skills, as well as enabling them to develop and build a solid foundation in the field. In order to do this, the program includes a combination of both theory and practice, with an emphasis on the latter.

The first part of the program is made up of a series of theory courses designed to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen career. These courses consist of the English Literature (Modern & Medieval) course, a required module for all MA degree candidates; a Theory of Authorship course, which looks at the fundamentals of writing and the role of the writer as an artist; and a course in Creative Writing Theory, which encourages students to develop their own theory of poetry and prose, and introduce them to the work of leading contemporary writers.

The following year is made up of a series of smaller groups of either three or four named seminars, designed to enable students to explore a broad range of topics in-depth. These courses are often taught by high-profile guest speakers and feature a large amount of practical (ie, ‘hands-on’) learning that extends beyond the course syllabus. The courses that make up the final year of the program are:

  • The Novel: Practice and Theory (YRSB);
  • Creative Writing for Children and Young Adults (YRSB);
  • A Genre Book: Essays on Writing for Children (YRSB);
  • Poetry Theory (YRSB);
  • Short-story Writing (YRSB);
  • Advanced Poetry (YRSB); and
  • The Journal: Practical Approaches and Theories (YRSB).

UKC Publication Scheme

Alongside the MA program, UEA offers a fantastic publication scheme for students willing to commit to a minimum of two years of full-time study. These are:

  • The Yellow Wallpaper (YA Novel);
  • The Invisible Door (Adult Fantasy); and
  • The Vanished Manuscript: An Essay on the Mystery of Fiction (Critical Theory of Fiction).

This is a great option for those interested in pursuing a career in creative writing who want to gain valuable experience whilst furthering their education. Successful completion of any of these three courses will earn you a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia, along with the opportunity to write and publish a novel or collection of short stories; or write and publish a critical study of literary theory or contemporary fiction. In return for your studies, you will receive a highly competitive package of publication support, allowing you to publish a book with a creative writing emphasis and gain valuable work experience.

Whichever path you choose, a life in creative writing is full of opportunity. You will be joining a community of writers, students, and professors who share your interests and are looking to make new connections. Whether you’re an experienced writer looking to further your career, or a complete beginner who wants to take advantage of this unique opportunity, the UEA MA in Creative Writing program is designed for you.