Everything you need to know about an MFA in creative writing!

Creative writing is a tool that can help you unleash your creativity, thoughts, and opinions on different topics. At the university level, creative writing is encouraging to allow you room to expand your vocabulary and create new pieces of writing. Pursuing a creative writing course at the MFA level is one of the best ways to receive formal training in this art style. MFA students pursue highly intensive studies with distinguished professors and peers. 

As a result, your creative and intellectual writing skills are honed as professionally and objectively as possible. 

Keep reading to learn more about creative writing and the opportunities an MFA in this niche can present to you. 

What does a creative writer do professionally? 

Professionally, a creative writer’s job description includes constructing various copies for a wide range of audiences. Creative writers are often required to express ideas with clarity in the form of essays, scripts, books, and any other type of content copy. 

Some of your primary responsibilities as a creative writer will include- 

• Conducting relevant research before and during the writing process. 
• Preparing different kinds of material for assignments. This includes planning the outline of the content and the synopsis. 
• Conducting careful fact-checks before submitting any assignment 
• Ensuring that there is a logical flow in the content written. 
• Attending hosted feedback sessions and making the relevant revisions based on the editors, publishers, and clients. 
• Finally, creative writers require to regularly sharpen their skills by attending workshops and training sessions. 

What skills will I learn with an MFA in creative writing? 

Typical graduate creative writing degrees focus on three core specializations: poetry, fiction & creative nonfiction. As a result, an MFA course from a reputed university will allow you to take a holistic approach to write as a profession. 

Therefore, if you have a flair for poetry, you will also be required to take fiction & non-fiction classes, in addition to literature seminars and intensive writing workshops.  

The core skills you will learn in the realm of fiction creative writing include- 

• Developing relevant insights into a narrative arc. 
• Contributing to character development, plot, and overall story tension. 
• Developing a knowledgeable foundation in graphic narratives, novels, and flash fiction. 

Some of the crucial skills you will develop through non-fiction creative writing include- 

• Generating memoirs, essays, personal narratives, and other certain forms of journalism. 
• Developing excellent listening skills. 
• Developing the ability to apply productive critiques through regular revision. 

As a part of poetry, some of the core skills you will be trained in include- 

• Developing a firm foundation in poetic terms & forms (such as pyrrhic, villanelle, and blank verse). 
• Being able to create concrete structures and creative dialogues in the form of poetry. 

Which are the top universities in the world offering MFA in creative writing courses? 

Some of the top universities that you can consider include- 

• Portland State University (United States) 
• Auckland University of Technology (New Zealand) 
• Long Island University Brooklyn (United States) 
• University of Cumbria (United Kingdom) 
• University of Lincoln (United Kingdom)
• University of Hull (United Kingdom) 
• Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Spain) 

Each of the above universities has course curricula that are designed to reflect current industry trends and behaviors. Some of the key modules covered in MFA creative writing courses include- 

• New media 
• Personal essay writing 
• Short story writing 
• Novels
• Poetry 
• Radio drama 
• Playwriting 

What are the minimum eligibility criteria for admission to an MFA in creative writing? 

To be eligible for an MFA degree in creative writing, you need to meet the following prerequisites- 

• Bachelor’s degree 

As an MFA creative writing applicant, you need to hold an undergraduate degree. The degree does not necessarily have to be creative writing. However, your prior coursework is a factor that is taken into consideration during the admission process. As a result, experience with writing workshops can significantly boost your application. 

• Minimum GPA 

The minimum GPA requirements for an MFA creative writing degree can vary depending on the university. Some MFA courses do not uphold a minimum GPA. Other universities do, with a GPA of 2.5 often being the benchmark. 

Your GPA will also significantly influence your chances of receiving an institutional award such as a scholarship. 

• Professional experience 

A typical MFA in creative writing admission requirement is your CV or resume as supplemental material. Professional experience in the industry can bolster your chances of obtaining a fellowship. This professional experience can range from writing for clients to teaching. 

What are the job opportunities I can consider with an MFA degree in creative writing? 

With an MFA qualification in creative writing, some of the best job opportunities that you can consider in the industry include- 

• Author/Content writer 
• Journalist 
• Copywriter
• Social media specialist 
• Travel blogger
• Editor
• Email marketing specialist 
• Ghostwriter 
• Columnist
• Screenwriter 
• Playwriter 

Working on continually keeping yourself updated on the latest skills in the industry can help you receive significant career opportunities. You can also consider working as a freelance content writer. 

Key takeaways 

• Creative writing is an important skill that plays a crucial role in communicating information, concepts, and ideas clearly to a defined audience. 
• Pursuing an MFA in creative writing can equip you with a vast range of skills that are currently in demand in the industry. 
• Several reputed universities across the globe offer MFA and equivalent degrees in creative writing. 
• MFA courses are often designed to give you an all-rounded perspective on approaching different kinds of assignments. 

Was this blog informative? If so, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Click here to reach out to us for pursuing an MFA in creative writing. We would be happy to assist you with your queries! 

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FAQs

Q1. What does a grant writer do? 

Answer – You can consider a career as a grant writer with an MFA in creative writing. Grant writers help research facilities and non-profit organizations secure funding by writing engaging grants. These grants convey the organization’s story in a convincing, tailored, and engaging manner. 

Q2. Do I have to submit samples of my work during the application process for an MFA in creative writing? 

Answer – Yes, all MFA degrees will require you to submit relevant samples of your work in a pre-specified format. 

Q3. Do I need computer skills for a career as a creative writer? 

Answer – Yes, basic computer skills are a core requirement for your career as a creative writer.