Skip to content
Home ยป What’s the MFA Creative Writing Program Looking for?

What’s the MFA Creative Writing Program Looking for?

The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at the University of Washington Tacoma is a one-of-a-kind program. Offering both MFA and a M.F.A. in Creative Writing, this program gives you the opportunity to delve into the rich literary history of the United States while also benefiting from the insights of modern academia.

Why Creative Writing?

The MFA Creative Writing program at the University of Washington Tacoma is one of the only writing programs in the country devoted specifically to the craft of writing, which sets it apart from most other MFA programs. With roots in traditional academic writing, modern American literature, and the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest, this program equips you with the skills necessary to take your writing career to the next level.

But what exactly is Creative Writing?

The MFA Creative Writing program at the University of Washington Tacoma is a highly competitive program, which accepts around 10 students each year. With a yearly tuition of around $30,000, this may seem like a pretty pricey education for a craft focused on writing. However, the majority of that money goes towards supporting your education, with around $5000 for room and board.

The M.F.A. and MFA in Creative Writing at UW Tacoma

While the MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Washington Tacoma is similar to most other MFA programs in that it offers you a focused curriculum, it also has some extra perks. Above all, this program allows you to take your studies abroad, either on a fellowship or as part of a complete study abroad program. Through close collaboration with UW’s study abroad office, you have the opportunity to put into practice what you’ve learned in the classroom, either by teaching English in France or spending a semester in Dublin, Ireland.

Additionally, this program doesn’t just teach you the craft of writing, it also focuses on making you a better person, both as a writer and as a citizen. To quote the program’s website:

“In a world cluttered with distractions, media overload, and other people’s opinions, the MFA in Creative Writing at UW Tacoma focuses on fostering your personal voice and story. We believe that a good story can come from anywhere, and that the creative writer is the one who is able to see the world through a unique lens and bring it to life through their words.”

The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at the University of Washington

The MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Washington is another branch of the university’s literary arts program, however, it is much more selective. This program, which requires a minimum of three years of full-time study, focuses on developing your writing skills as well as providing you with a more in-depth knowledge of American Literature from an academic standpoint.

Fellowships, Part-time Jobs, and Internships

When you’re applying to the MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Washington, you’ll have the opportunity to ask for a fellowship. A fellowship is money given to you by the university to help with the cost of living while you’re studying. If you apply for a Ruth Lilly Fellowship, for example, you’ll receive a cash grant covering the majority of your tuition costs. This is one of the most generous fellowships at the university, with around $40,000 available each year.

Additionally, if you’re accepted into the program and receive a scholarship, the university will cover the majority of your tuition costs. Plus, they’ll give you a monthly stipend to help you with expenses, such as food, gas, and parking.

Where do I go after the MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Washington?

With your university degree in hand, you’re ready to take on the world. But where should you start? After spending a combined total of three years in a highly focused program on writing, you’ll be able to pick and choose which type of work environment suits you best. Be sure to consider what you’re looking for in a job, as well as the city or town you’d like to live in.

For instance, if you want to write for a living, then the New York City or Los Angeles areas might be a good fit. But if you want to spend your time writing and creating stories, then the suburbs of Chicago might be a better option. Finally, if you want to be closer to nature and spend your time writing, then the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania are where you should be headed.