Online MFA Creative Writing programs are here to help you get started on your career in writing or publishing. These programs will help you develop the skills and the knowledge you need to get paid as a writer. With the best online MFA Creative Writing programs, you can stay home while you build the skills to become a professional writer.
What is an MFA in Creative Writing?
In short, a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing is a terminal degree in creative writing, whereas a Master of Arts is not. An MFA is the highest possible degree in that creative writing. An MFA degree can help develop skills a writer can apply to many fields. These fields include writing books or essays, working in the publishing industry, writing for business and marketing, or teaching writing.
15 Best Online MFA Creative Writing Under $40,000
Concordia University, St. Paul
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $18,900Concordia University, St. Paul offers the 100% online MFA in Creative Writing as a 2-year, 36-credit program. This is one of the cheapest online MFA Creative Writing programs in the country. Students have the opportunity to work with a number of published writers throughout the program. Additionally, students will complete the program with a book-length manuscript of their own work. The classes are in a short, seven-week format, and meet once a week online. Applicants should have a 3.0 GPA from their undergraduate work. The program starts in the fall. It is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers who want to improve their craft. With small classes and synchronous class meetings, this program is great for students from around the world who want to have “real” contact with faculty and peers without traveling to a campus.
University of Arkansas at Monticello
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $20,270.40The online non-residency MFA in creative writing from University of Arkansas at Monticello offers aspiring writers both a robust and comprehensive program. It offers three different tracks of study – fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. The 48-semester credit program allows motivated and talented students to study with dedicated and successful writers in many styles and genres throughout the program. Students can move at their own pace through the program, taking as little as three credits a term or as many as 12.
Applicants should have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, but some exceptions to this rule may be made. Up to nine semester hours of transfer credit are allowed. And there are student assistantships available to teach online freshman-level writing courses under the supervision of the Director of Composition. Students can take electives within or outside the department with permission from the program director. For students who want a flexible curriculum and an affordable degree, UAM provides one of the best online MFA creative writing programs. It is also one of the cheapest online MFA creative writing programs.
University of New Orleans
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $23,070The 45-credit online MFA in Creative Writing from University of New Orleans can be completed in as little as five semesters, including the optional one-month summer residency programs in Cork, Ireland or Brunnenburg, Italy. Other overseas destinations have included Japan, France, Austria, and Scotland. Students must choose a concentration—poetry, fiction, or nonfiction—and take workshops with different professors within their genre, as well as a couple outside of their genre. Literature classes, or background classes, are also required.
Students can start in the fall or spring term, and study 100% online or choose to attend the summer residency as part of their program. With a strong emphasis on the quality of writing and small class sizes, the UNO program is designed to develop the skill of talented writers, not to change their style of writing. The UNO online MFA is a terrific program for serious writers who seek an esteemed community to support their development through the MFA, and also for those who want to spend concentrated time in person and want to travel.
The University of Texas at El Paso
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing / Bilingual
Total Cost (In-State): $23,520One of the only programs on our list with a bilingual option, the University of Texas at El Paso online MFA in Creative Writing is for writers intent on publishing. The faculty consists of award-winning authors who speak both Spanish and English. This is a unique opportunity for aspiring writers who wish to gain a more global perspective. This bilingual program is inclusive for students whose first language is Spanish.
Designed for those who wish to further their writing, but also want the MFA to allow them to teach, this program can be completed online. Classes are held in English, though students can opt to do their writing in Spanish. Students can begin in the fall or spring, and can opt to take classes in the summer if they wish.
Most students complete the degree within three years, but some take up to five years. Online students may opt to come to campus for one semester to take classes in person, but must take the rest of their program online. Students from around the world are welcome, and students do not need to speak Spanish to be part of the program. This is a smart choice for students who seek a high-quality program at an affordable price that they can complete entirely from home. And for students who do their creative writing in Spanish, this is the best online MFA creative writing program.
The pedigree of this program’s professors makes this program a highly selective program. For this reason, qualified applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited university. A writing sample, statement of purpose, transcripts and three letters of recommendation are required. The writing sample may be either 8-10 poems or 20 pages of fiction (in English or Spanish). The statement of purpose must include writing influences and career goals.
Lindenwood University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Writing / Creative Nonfiction
Total Cost (In-State): $23,880For the flexibility to write in multiple genres, Lindenwood University’s online MFA in Writing is a perfect choice. Students can opt to pick a genre concentration, or they can customize their program to suit their needs. The 48-credit program can be completed in 24 months. Additionally, the course work can be done fully online or students can opt to take a mixture of online and on-campus courses to complete the degree.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Up to nine credits can be transferred from another school. Financial aid or military benefits can also be transferred to this program. Candidates must submit an online application, official undergraduate transcripts with 3.0 GPA, resume, as well as a creative writing sample. GMAT/GRE scores are not required. Applicants must provide a letter of intent which states career goals. The diversity of styles and ability to design your own program make Lindenwood University’s Writing MFA an attractive choice for writers who want to work in multiple genres.
Albertus Magnus College
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In State): $27,466At Albertus Magnus College, the online MFA in Creative Writing has synchronous online or in-person classes three times each semester, allowing students and faculty to meet together in “real time.” Students can choose to attend full or part-time, and the whole program can be completed in two years. During the program, students develop a portfolio of publishable work and learn about the publishing industry. They also learn about other writing career possibilities like teaching.
Applicants should have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate work, and may start in the fall or spring terms. With up to seven years allowed to finish the program part-time, the Albertus Magnus College program is great for distance learners from anywhere. It is especially perfect for those who wish to complete the program slowly to fit with a busy life. For those who want to go through it quickly, there is a full time two-year option.
Bay Path University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Nonfiction Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $28,860For those whose passion is creative nonfiction, the online MFA in Nonfiction Creative Writing from Bay Path University is certainly an excellent choice. The program offers three tracks: publishing, narrative medicine, as well as teaching.
The narrative medicine track focuses on topics like trauma narratives, psychology of the sick, and social justice. An internship placement in a healthcare setting where students will lead creative writing groups occurs during this track. These student-lead groups focus on using creative writing as a tool in one’s medical journey.
The publishing track offers two courses. The first will teach students about how to get published and the industry. Whereas, the second course involves real-world experience. Additionally, it includes an internship at a literary agency like a publishing house.
The teaching track helps graduates develop their own manuscript. It prepares students to write publishable nonfiction work. This track is two-semesters long. The second semester also allows students the chance to teach creative writing either on campus or in a facility closer to where they live.
Students can enroll full or part-time, with no residency requirement. They have access to tutoring, library, and career services. Seminars with award-winning published writers, as well as literary study of the nonfiction genre are part of the program. Classes start every August, January, and May. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree or master’s transfer credits with a 3.0 GPA. Additionally, they must submit a one-page personal statement, a writing sample, as well as two letters of recommendation. After that, candidates interview with the program director upon completion of the previous requirements. The Bay Path University program is a perfect online MFA for creative nonfiction. It’s for those who write nonfiction, want intimate online classes, and are committed to nonfiction writing.
Drexel University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $29,340With Drexel’s tagline “ambition can’t wait,” the online MFA in Creative Writing offers a jump-start for aspiring writers. This low-residency program is primarily online. Students must complete three 5-day in-person residencies. The first and last residencies are on the Drexel campus, while the middle residency takes fiction writers to NYC and screenwriters to LA. There are also optional residencies in Equatorial Guinea or Haiti to further an interest in either nature writing or grassroots change. Another optional special residency happens at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia to deliver original scripts, live performance, and animation to hospitalized children.
The program only admits students in the fall. It consists of 45 quarter credits, and is divided into four 10-week quarters per year. Not to mention, up to 15 credits may be transferred into the program. Candidates must submit an online application, official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended, a resume, as well as a creative writing sample. The writing sample can be a part of a personal novel, a short story, or a collection of flash fiction. Additionally, applicants must provide a personal statement which highlights previous writing experience and reasons for seeking an MFA.
Students may apply for in-person teaching assistantships to both reduce tuition costs and gain teaching experience. Drexel University’s online MFA creative writing is a wonderful choice for fiction or screenwriting students who seek an affordable high-quality program with exciting options for specialization.
Eastern Oregon University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $29,680The MFA in Creative Writing program at Eastern Oregon University (EOU) above all strives to give students a meaningful educational experience. For this reason, EOU offers a unique program called Wilderness, Ecology, and Community (WEC). This school is at the cusp of many nature areas like the Grande Ronde Valley and Eagle Cap Wilderness. Its location serves as inspiration for its program. Its creative writing program seeks to produce graduates with skills in environmental writing. Topics like climate change, environmental justice, as well as animal studies are a focal point.
EOU offers a two-year 60 credit MFA. This is a low residency program. The program has a two-week residency program each summer. An online mentorship for different projects follows. Students will have access to the Summer Fishtrap Gathering. This consists of lectures, workshops, panels, readings, and creative talks with different literary minds. Some of the west’s best authors collaborate with students during this event.
Writers who are passionate about our connected world are encouraged to apply. Moreover, EOU strives to build a community of talented creative writers.
Southern New Hampshire University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $30,246The online MFA in Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) program offers students four different options for concentration. Students can focus their studies in fiction, screenwriting, or poetry. This is also an excellent online MFA for creative nonfiction. The program also offers seminars in teaching writing.
SNHU’s online MFA creative writing program is 100% online. It’s a MFA online that can be completed in as little as 15 months or taken at one’s own pace. You can apply at any time to start in one of five terms and no GRE is required for admission. Students can transfer up to 90 credits of previous work. SNHU is also home to the New Hampshire Writer’s Project and a destination for nationally recognized writers.
SNHU also offers a two-year low-residency MFA, which has January and June one-week in-person intensives. Course work is completed online between residencies. Fiction and non-fiction writers are welcome, as are writers of Young Adult fiction, essays, short-stories, and memoirs. Because of the variety of options available, SNHU offers some of the best online MFA creative writing programs for writers in all genres.
Arcadia University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $30,585Firstly, the MFA in Creative Writing program at Arcadia University prepares graduates for many careers. This MFA offers skills to help students pursue careers in editing, publishing, teaching, and writing for different publications. Therefore, graduates will have the tools to write for newspapers, magazines, and other groups. This includes businesses as well as different kinds of technical writing.
Secondly, this low-residency MFA program takes two years to complete. Students will meet in person three times during their studies. The first meeting will be on campus in August and another will be held on campus in January. Albeit, the most engaging residency for students will be a week-long study abroad in Edinburg, Scotland. This experience serves multiple purposes: it gives students a deeper understanding of both a different culture and perspective. Additionally, traveling inspires creativity which can lead to improved writing.
The rest of the program will be online. Students decide between either a poetry or fiction track. Virtual workshops for both tracks are available each semester. Students will meet a mentor 4-7 times per semester as part of their Practicum.
Thirdly, the faculty consists of accomplished authors. Each year a rotating list of visiting authors will host workshops to help students develop their craft. At the end of the second year, students will defend a thesis.
Fourthly, students will be able to showcase their works in the Marathon Literary Review. This is a literary journal created by former Arcadia University students. Each issue showcases modern poetry, fiction, and non-fiction pieces from current pupils.
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree with a recommended GPA of 3.0. They must provide a writing sample, official transcripts of all post secondary schools attended, two letters of recommendation, as well as an interview.
Western New England University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing / Fiction
Total Cost (In-State): $31,344The WNE MFA in Creative Writing / Fiction is a low residency-program. Two years are generally needed to complete the required coursework. This dynamic program consists of four sections. Each section has a week-long residency. They include workshops, lectures, and in-depth mentoring sessions for students.
During each section, students will learn about multiple literary techniques. These include voice development, middles and endings, as well as honing dialogue. Over the course of their studies, students will develop their own fiction manuscript and a critical essay. WNE emphasizes support and student development.
Additionally, students will have access to premier internships. They offer real-world experience to grow a student’s craft. Non-profits, news, publishing, as well as social media internships are available. The United Way, ESPN, and the Daily Hampshire Gazette are some of the partners. Hence, WNE ranks as one of the best schools to prepare students for the job market.
Interested candidates in this Creative Writing MFA online must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a one-page personal statement, as well as a resume are required.
Full Sail University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $34,695This online MFA in Creative Writing has an emphasis both in storytelling and classical writing. Aspiring writers will learn about character development, narrative structures, as well as visual elements to give vibrancy to their works. However, students who wish to work in the entertainment media industry would benefit from this program as well. This is because Full Sail University prepares graduates for roles in the entertainment industry such as screenwriter, script editor, or producer. Students will leave with an extensive creative writing portfolio. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
Firstly, this Creative Writing MFA online is 48 credits in length. Secondly, it is an accelerated program that can take just one year to complete. Additionally, there is rolling admission and classes have a monthly start date. For the application, this program requires a letter of recommendation. However, applicants with a GPA of 2.5 or lower may be asked to submit a letter of intent, a resume, or college transcripts. Those with an undergrad degree from an unrelated background must submit a letter of intent as well as a resume. Lastly, students must be a permanent resident or citizen.
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $36,697MSMU offers an MFA in Creative Writing for all kinds of students. The mode of study can be in person, online, or hybrid. It also offers a weekend study format where students meet six times per semester. The rest is online.
This MFA provides students with global experience through a summer study program in Cusco, Peru. This consists of two elective courses. One is Travel Writing and Latin American Chronicle. The other is Latin American Short Story and Poetry. Two weeks of the program will be an all-inclusive study abroad in Peru. Four additional weeks will be taught online. Students will learn about history, culture, and visit captivating sites. They will journal, have group discussions, write travel pieces, as well as learn about Latin America’s most influential storytellers. This is an opportunity to find your narrative voice, find inspiration, and open your mind to a new experience.
Creative writing samples, high school GPA, a letter of intent, as well as two letters of recommendation are admission requirements. The MFA in Creative Writing Program is 36 units in length. During the program, students take creative writing workshops, literary theory, poetics, literature and thought, plus electives. Workshops offered are Novella, Memoir, Latin American Chronicle, Fiction Writing, Poetry Writing, and much more.
Wilkes University
Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Total Cost (In-State): $38,298Wilkes University is one of the best online Creative Writing degree programs in the country. It is 100% online. Further, the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Middle States Association of Schools and Universities accredited this program.
Neither do applicants need to submit GRE scores, nor do they need a bachelor’s degree. Acceptance relies on a candidate’s creative writing sample and application essay. However, candidates for the MFA program must first hold a MA in Creative Writing. They must have a 3.5 GPA from all MA courses taken. Students accepted into the MFA program must maintain at minimum a 3.5 GPA throughout the remainder of their studies. The low residency MFA program is 49 credit hours, which includes 30 credits from MA courses. Residences each year are the first week of January and third week of June. Each semester is project-based. These include courses such as Writing Poetry, Writing Plays, as well as Writing Fiction. Weekend study is also available.
This master’s in Creative Writing online is diverse with 600 students from around the world. This program has many successful alumni, with hundreds of published works. Alumnus Marlon James MA ’06 won the Man Booker Prize for his novel A Brief History of Seven Killings.
Additionally, the MFA in Creative Writing at Wilkes offers five graduate assistantship positions. MFA students can apply for any position that is available. If chosen, then they will work for the hiring organization in exchange for financial aid. This consists of a tuition remission for three to nine credits each term. Organizations offering assistantships are Etruscan Press, the Creative Writing blog, the Creative Writing Office, Blue Moon Plays/HaveScripts, and Kayle Jones Books. In short, it’s a chance to gain real-world experience and lower tuition costs.
Students can expect support during and after their studies. A professional agent, editor, director, or producer reviews each thesis. Wilkes takes pride in its mentor program. The faculty are successful authors and help students during the program.
What to Expect in an Online MFA Creative Writing Program?
The curriculum in online MFA programs in creative writing will feature seminars and workshops. In these, you can expect to actively write, give and receive feedback, and dig into the process of writing. There are also courses in craft, publishing, teaching, literature, and other topics that support your writing. You expect an emphasis on creating throughout the entire program. Some programs will allow you to work in multiple genres. However, most programs will ask you to pick fiction or creative nonfiction. Sometimes, there is the option to choose poetry or screenwriting as your focus.
Workshops, Residencies, & Seminars
Some of the best online MFA Creative Writing programs will have short, in-person workshops for more intensive study. There also are virtual workshops at some institutions. Workshops help writers hone their skills. They may be part of the regular curricula or be special events. Participants learn from industry professionals and also build confidence in their literary voice. Group discussions, creative writing practice, peer critiques, and even mentorship from published authors are part of these gatherings.
In-person workshops are often included in a student’s residency. A residency refers to the moments when a student will need to be physically present on campus. A multitude of master of fine arts creative writing programs are “low-residency” while some are 100% online. A handful of programs like Mount Saint Mary’s allow students to decide how they take classes. In many cases the coursework for MFA is fully online while the workshops are part of a residency.
The frequency of these workshops varies with each program. If they are in-person, then students can expect to attend once or twice a year. Some may be offered in the summer, fall, or spring. On average, these in-person residencies are one or two weeks long. Whether residencies are required or optional, depends on the program.
For example, the University of New Orleans is one of the best online Creative Writing programs. It hosts in-person seminars each summer in an optional residency abroad. The focus is to coach students in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, as well as drama writing. Eastern Oregon University partners with the Summer Fishtrap Gathering which brings together authors and other creative minds in workshops. EOU students are required to attend as part of their residency.
How Long is an Online MFA Creative Writing Program?
Most online MFA creative writing programs take two years to complete, with the shortest taking around 15 months. Even so, some of the best online creative writing programs will allow you to complete the program slowly. In these, you can have up to seven years to write your thesis and finish the program.
How Much Does MFA in Creative Writing Cost?
The cost of an online MFA Creative Writing program can vary. The least expensive programs come in around $12k, and the most expensive programs cost upwards of $80k. The schools we have picked for this list all keep the price tag comfortably under $40k for the whole program. However, with different schedules and different genre options, make sure to look for the online master’s in creative writing that will best meet your needs.
How Hard is It to Get Into MFA Creative Writing Programs?
Difficulty of admittance for MFA Creative Writing programs varies with each program. The quality of instruction, prestige of faculty, location of residencies, classroom size, as well as job placement resources can determine a program’s level of competitiveness. Nonetheless, most programs offering an MFA in Creative Writing online, hybrid, or in person will accept applicants who meet their admission requirements.
What are the Admission Requirements of an Online Creative Writing MFA?
Generally, online MFA programs in Creative Writing prefer applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field like English or Creative Writing. Undergrads of other disciplines must showcase their level of literary skills with a writing sample. Applicants can expect to submit a resume and college transcripts. Additionally, a letter(s) of recommendation, as well as a statement of purpose might also be required. On one hand, some master’s in creative writing online programs may ask candidates to interview. On the other hand, others might ask you to submit GRE/GMAT scores, or have a minimum undergrad GPA in order to be considered.
How to Choose an Online MFA in Creative Writing Program?
Choosing the best online creative writing master’s program for you is essential. And, there are many factors to consider from cost to concentration to faculty. Your experience in the program may be more valuable if you find a good mentor from the faculty, whether they are a well known writer or a talented teacher. Finding a master’s of creative writing online program that you can afford, that fits into your schedule, and that resonates with your goals will help you to move toward your writing goals. Let’s look in depth at a number of factors to consider when selecting the best online MFA in Creative Writing program for you!
GetEducated's Picks
- University of Arkansas at Monticello Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Full Sail University Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Drexel University Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Johns Hopkins University Master of Arts in Writing
Concentration or Specialization
Various MFA in Creative Writing programs provide students with different coursework pathways. Some MFA Creative Writing online programs may cover an umbrella of topics. These could include fiction, poetry, or creative non-fiction. Then again, Bay Path University offers more focused pathways like Narrative Medicine. Mount Saint Mary’s University has certificates in Publishing and Editing. It’s better for students to know what each program offers before applying. If they know the strengths of each program, then they can decide on the right specialization that fits their goals. Other Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing degrees may not have specializations. However, they’ll offer a wide range of classes to prepare students for careers in different industries.
Accreditation
Before applying for schools, it’s important to research whether a master’s of creative writing online program is accredited. Accreditation is considered a stamp of approval. It shows that the education received met the standards of the educational community. Accreditation instills confidence that you learned the appropriate skills to succeed in the working world. Other MFA programs in Creative Writing may either be regionally or nationally accredited.
Common accrediting organizations for MFA Creative Writing online programs include the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) which is national or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC) which is regional.
Cost
The price of online MFA programs Creative Writing are often based on the cost per credit hour minus fees. Other fees to consider are matriculation fees, graduation fees, textbook fees, supplies fees, as well as subscription fees. Being aware of the total cost of an MFA in Creative Writing will allow you to properly budget for your education.
It’s important to consider the faculty, academic resources, class size, program format, and the number of opportunities to get published when reviewing tuition. Expert instruction and mentorship from successful industry professionals adds value. Location is important to consider if the online Creative Writing master’s degree program has mandatory in-person workshops.
Most workshops are included in tuition unless it’s optional then an extra fee is likely. Travel and lodging expenses can be high if you are visiting from a different state.
That all being said, there are many financial aid options available for online education. These include scholarships, grants, and loans. Be sure to understand all the fine print of each financial aid option, especially loan repayments!
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements online Creative Writing master’s degree programs will depend on your undergrad background. A school generally looks to see if applicants have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, transcripts, letters of recommendation, as well as a creative writing sample. It’s best to submit work that relates to your desired future coursework. For example, if interested in an online Creative Writing master’s with an emphasis in poetry, then it makes sense to submit original poems.
Admission panels look for students who have a solid foundation in their craft. If your undergrad degree is from an unrelated field like business or forestry, then you may be asked to submit a letter of intent to explain your interest.
Location
The location of an online MFA in Creative Writing may influence where you apply. Although certain programs are 100% online, others may require some in-person attendance. Low-residency programs have in-depth one to two-week seminars or workshops for students. Some are optional whereas others are part of the required coursework. If a program does have residencies, then considering the location of a school will help you make a more informed decision.
Program Format
It’s important to know the structure of each online master’s in Creative Writing program. Some online MFA programs in Creative Writing have synchronous classes that meet at fixed times each semester. This style allows students to connect more with professors and other students. Whereas, other online MFA’s allow for students to study at their own pace. Students who work or with families may benefit from an asynchronous format.
A multitude of online MFA’s are low-residency, requiring some in-person participation. These programs may have students attend a conference or seminar. These residencies usually are one to two weeks in duration.
Students can expect small class sizes. This includes online courses. Additionally, programs may use the quarter or semester system.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio & Faculty Prestige
Another key point to consider is the student-to-faculty ratio. The student-to-faculty ratio will influence the learning environment. In short, a lower ratio increases engagement, creates space to ask questions, and gives students greater access to professors. As a result, More attention from professors leads to more student success. This is vital in online classes because online learning has greater potential for distractions. Therefore, virtual classes succeed with more personal attention from teachers.
The track record of faculty in a Creative Writing degree online should play a role in your decision to apply. Would you rather learn from an award-winning author or someone with less success in the industry? Faculty prestige isn’t always about what they’ve published. Who they have developed is just as significant.
Mentorship Opportunities
Mentorship plays a key ingredient in an aspiring writer’s growth. It is key to choose a program with the facility to connect with a mentor. Mentors help students find their strengths, give professional guidance, and offer valuable support. As mentioned prior, the track record of a mentor is important. This can be either through their own literary canon or list of accomplished alumni. Peer-to-peer assistance plays a large role in a student’s success. Classrooms that focus on peer reviews build a writer’s confidence. It creates a community of motivated writers.
Should I Get an MFA in Creative Writing?
Many famous writers didn’t get their start until later in life. Hence, there is no age limit for people who enroll in online MFA creative writing programs. Top online MFA creative writing programs have a range of ages and types of people who share the common goals of gaining writing skills and supporting each other. You learn a lot by reading and discussing other students’ work, and getting feedback on your own writing. Some people in your MFA creative writing online program are published writers who want to improve. Others might be at the beginning of their writing career. Whether you are just starting out, or you’ve already been paid for some writing, you can enroll in one of these online MFA creative writing programs to take your writing to the next level.
The Return on Investment of an MFA in Creative Writing Online
Some people question whether it is worth the money to get an MFA in creative writing. After all, what can you do with a creative writing degree? It turns out that improving your writing can help you land many paying gigs, even if your creative work isn’t published right away. With a creative writing MFA, you can become an editor for publications or businesses, write marketing copy, become a technical writer, or use your writing skills in many industries. People with solid writing skills are always in demand!
And if you are worried about giving up your current job to follow your writing dream, then an affordable online MFA creative writing program mitigates your risks. You can improve your writing while continuing to work and avoiding heavy debt. No matter what, you will gain marketable skills you can use to further your career in any field.
Jobs You Can Get With a MFA in Creative Writing
There are many jobs you can get with a MFA in creative writing. These include copywriting, editing, technical writing, or becoming a writing instructor. Generally, writers can expect to earn around $69,510 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2021. However, technical writers and those who work in marketing can expect to earn more. According to the BLS, technical writers earn a median salary of $78,060 per year.
The best MFA creative writing programs can allow you to teach at the university level. Creative writing professors at the university level can expect to earn between $50k to $86k per year. However, those jobs are highly competitive. It is more likely that you might take an adjunct or community college teaching job. Salaries for adjunct writing professors vary. This will depend on how many hours they work. Part-time adjunct professors can expect $20k to $25K per year. Whereas, full-time adjunct professors may earn $50-$60k per year. Community college instructors made an average of $56k per year in 2019-2020 according to the American Association of University Professors (AAUP).
Yet good writing is needed in many corners of the economy. Journalism, marketing, education, grants writing, and technical writing all need writers! Suppose you improve your skills and your knowledge. Then there are ways to make a living with your writing, whether or not you plan to pursue creative writing as a career.
FAQs
Is a creative writing MFA worth it?
According to the BLS, the expected growth of the job market for creative writers is 4% over the next 10 years. Aspiring writers have many online MFA degrees at their fingertips. MFA degrees in creative writing don’t break the bank compared to other master’s. Even the best online writing degrees mentioned in this article are affordable. It is the premiere degree for the writing field. This degree offers skills needed to succeed as a creative writer.
Can I teach English with an MFA creative writing degree?
An MFA creative writing degree is an ideal tool for a career in teaching. Many programs offer courses in teaching. Additionally, certain MFA creative writing degrees provide assistantships. These allow students to teach freshman-level writing courses. Many of the top online MFA Creative Writing programs offer assistantship opportunities. They award financial support to select graduate students. Students receive valuable work experience in the field of creative writing. They are compensated with a stipend or tuition remission.
Other universities have MFA’s online which provide pathways made for future teachers. There are MFA’s in Creative Writing online geared for someone interested in teaching creative writing. Normally two semesters in length, this program would involve one semester of teaching practice. Students may teach a creative writing course at their university with the help of a mentor. Other opportunities to gain experience may include teaching a community-based class to an underserved population.
What can you do with a masters in creative writing?
This master’s degree is the highest of its kind in the writing field. Because of this, post graduates with a MFA in Creative Writing online have many different career choices. These options span every industry that seeks written content. They can write books or essays, work in the publishing industry, write for business and marketing, or pursue a career teaching writing.
There are many interesting careers for people with a MFA Creative Writing online. Here a few with their median year salaries:
- Writer and Author ($69,510 per year)
- Technical Writer ($78,060 per year)
- Editor ($63,350 per year)
- Marketing Manager ($133,380 per year)
- Creative Writing Professor ($79,640 per year)
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With all of these great choices, you can complete one of the best online MFA creative writing programs! This list of MFA creative writing programs contains the most affordable and respected programs that you can get online. With the flexibility of a creative writing degree online, you can start on your path to becoming a professional writer today!