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Creative Writing (M.F.A.)
The Master in Creative Writing, (MFA) is a 42 credit program, which prepares students to be professionals in dissecting contemporary, modern, and classic literature as well construct literature pieces of their own.
Our students are published in literary journals and by publishers. Students often explore jobs in teaching from middle school to graduate level.
The MFA in Creative Writing offers students a chance to improve their stories, poems, scripts and non-fiction writing. The ideal students are those passionate about improving their creative writing skills and would like to explore becoming a writer.
Additional Requirements:
Program Director: Michelle Valladares [email protected]
Last Updated: 02/14/2023 14:13
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Creative Writing Program
The New School invites you to join a community of diverse writers, become part of New York City’s publishing world, and build a network of support on campus and beyond. Our prestigious MFA Creative Writing program is designed to help you develop your writing in workshops and literature seminars led by an internationally recognized faculty and renowned authors.
books published annually by alumni and faculty
annual writing events, including the National Book Awards Finalist Reading
MFA admitted students awarded merit-based university scholarships (2020-2021)
MFA in Creative Writing
As an MFA student at The New School, you can choose your concentration in Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, or Writing for Children and Young Adults and receive personalized faculty mentorship and faculty and peer critiques. Innovative courses in publishing and multimedia storytelling engage you in the development of literature. Popular graduate minors include Impact Entrepreneurship and Transmedia and Digital Storytelling . Or you can apply to WriteOn NYC! , a New School–funded fellowship program providing MFA students with high-quality teaching experience in area middle schools and high schools. All students benefit from evening classes and events, which enable them to work or attend responsibilities during the day while enrolled in a full-time program.
Related Programs
In addition to the renowned MFA in Creative Writing, The New School offers other programs and opportunities for writing students. These include noncredit courses and summer intensives, as well as an undergraduate major in the Bachelor’s Program for Adults and Transfer Students, the Writing and Democracy Honors Program, and undergraduate minors in related fields. Summer Writing Intensive Continuing Education Courses Writing & Democracy Honors Program BA in Creative Writing Undergraduate Creative Writing Courses
New & Noteworthy
100 Best YA Books
TYRELL is a young adult novel by Coe Booth, part-time faculty at the Creative Writing Program. The novel was named one of the 100 Best YA Books of All Times by TIME Magazine.
Zakiya Dalila Harris '16 To Adapt Debut Novel for Hulu
Zakiya Dalila Harris, a 2016 graduate of the MFA Creative Writing Program, has signed a deal to co-write and executive-produce an adaptation of her debut novel, The Other Black Girl , for Hulu. The novel will be published by Atria Books in 2021.
Mira Jacob’s ‘Good Talk’ Selected for #NewSchoolBookClub
Mira Jacob, an assistant professor of writing and 2010 graduate of the MFA Creative Writing Program, has been chosen as the featured author for the inaugural #NewSchoolBookClub. The New School community will read Jacob’s book Good Talk: A Memoir in Conversations and join a Q&A with Jacob via @TheNewSchool's Instagram account.
2019 Alumni and Faculty Book List
Netflix Announces Adaptation of Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton’s 'Tiny Pretty Things'
Safia Elhillo '15 Awarded 2019-2021 Stegner Fellowship in Poetry
Helen Schulman Awarded 2019 Guggenheim Fellowship
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The Writer’s Life in NYC
Creative Writing students come to The New School from across the United States and around the world to live the writer's life in New York City. Evenings with agents and editors, exclusively for MFA students, provide informal opportunities to meet publishing professionals. Get hands-on experience in the publishing industry through internships and opportunities with pioneering literary publications.
The New School Bookshelf
We are proud to feature books recently published by The New School's Creative Writing community.
Sigrid Nunez, Faculty
Hurricane Child
Kacen callender, mfa '14.
The Impeachers
Brenda wineapple, faculty.
The January Children
Safia elhillo, mfa '15.
Mira Jacob, Faculty and MFA '01
Outcomes & success stories.
Along with becoming published writers and authors, our graduates also go on to become celebrated teachers, editors, publishers, and media professionals.
Events & News
Avoiding Plagiarism to Promote Success in the Classroom
University Learning Center Resources
Registration Guide: How to Use the University Course Catalog and Register Successfully!
- Richard Barone, School of Jazz and Contemporary Music Faculty Member, Debuts New Book about Music Scene in 1960’s Greenwich Village
- New Faculty Achievements from Across The New School Include Fellowships, Grants, and More
- Alexandra Kleeman, SPE Assistant Professor of Writing, Awarded Guggenheim Fellowship in Fiction
- Isaac Butler, School of Drama Faculty Member, Publishes New Book Exploring Method Acting
- Peter Matthiessen Wheelwright, Professor Emeritus at Parsons, Debuts New Novel, The Door-Man
- Stephen Karam, School of Drama Faculty Member, Creates Stories Rooted in Human Experience
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Masters in Creative Writing Programs in the New York City Area
1-20 of 20 results
Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - New York University
New York, NY •
New York University •
- • Rating 4.71 out of 5 7 reviews
Master's Student: Professors are engaging and always available for help when needed, especially in the Art History department. ... Read 7 reviews
New York University ,
Graduate School ,
NEW YORK, NY ,
7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.
Featured Review: Master's Student says Professors are engaging and always available for help when needed, especially in the Art History department. .
Read 7 reviews.
Fairfield University College of Arts and Sciences
Fairfield, CT •
Fairfield University •
Fairfield University ,
FAIRFIELD, CT ,
Rutgers University Graduate School - Newark
Newark, NJ •
Rutgers University - Newark •
- • Rating 4.29 out of 5 7 reviews
Master's Student: This is a tough program but a great recommended step if you want to go to Med/Dental school and are looking to make your application stronger. Much better than a post bacc because you actually come out with a masters degree which is worth something. Looks very good when your trying to match for residency as well. They help you with volunteer hours and community service as well. The pre dental society and pre med society are a great resource too. School has a non toxic and healthy environment not everyone is out for your neck so I love it so far. As a student who had her under grad covered with scholarships I feel the program is a little on the pricier end. ... Read 7 reviews
Blue checkmark.
Rutgers University - Newark ,
NEWARK, NJ ,
7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Master's Student says This is a tough program but a great recommended step if you want to go to Med/Dental school and are looking to make your application stronger. Much better than a post bacc because you actually come... .
College of Health and Community Well - Being - University of La Verne
La Verne, CA •
University of La Verne •
Sponsored Result, College of Health and Community Well - Being - University of La Verne
University of La Verne ,
LA VERNE, CA ,
The Schools of Public Engagement at The New School
The New School •
- • Rating 4.33 out of 5 3 reviews
Master's Student: SPE is a wonderfully engaging community that is committed to doing fantastic work here and abroad. Whether you're going for creative writing or international affairs, there is a great sense of purpose and a level of connectivity that enables you to succeed. Not only will you feel welcome and supported, but you'll feel valued yourself. The school is really dedicated to promoting marginalized, radical voices. If you feel like you want to do great work out in the world that really takes the complex mechanisms of our reality into consideration, this is the school for you. In terms of what I'd like to see change, the cost of attendance can be quite steep, but the university definitely offers assistance with needed funds. ... Read 3 reviews
The New School ,
3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Master's Student says SPE is a wonderfully engaging community that is committed to doing fantastic work here and abroad. Whether you're going for creative writing or international affairs, there is a great sense of... In terms of what I'd like to see change, the cost of attendance can be quite steep, but the university definitely offers assistance with needed funds. .
Read 3 reviews.
College of Arts and Sciences - Stony Brook University, SUNY
Stony Brook, NY •
Stony Brook University, SUNY •
- • Rating 3 out of 5 3 reviews
Graduate Student: (Music Department): Wonderful faculty and administrators who work hard for you and who are understanding. It’s easy to be able to work with many of the faculty members in the department, of you desire. Overall, the atmosphere is collegial and non-competitive, and students are helped to become their own artist rather then conform to an expected mold. The program has lots of freedom built in, which works best for students with high motivation/personal goals. ... Read 3 reviews
Stony Brook University, SUNY ,
STONY BROOK, NY ,
3 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says (Music Department): Wonderful faculty and administrators who work hard for you and who are understanding. It’s easy to be able to work with many of the faculty members in the department, of you... .
College of Arts and Sciences - Adelphi University
Garden City, NY •
Adelphi University •
Adelphi University ,
GARDEN CITY, NY ,
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Drew University
Madison, NJ •
- • Rating 4 out of 5 18 reviews
Master's Student: Being a graduate student at Drew is different from undergraduate. But you are still in great company with the graduate students and professors. The campus is beautiful, and offers everything you need to conduct classes. You don't need hugely advanced technology to conduct classes. We learned about the evolution of healthcare in the United States with just a chalk board. You have great professors who lend their spare time to helping you. The atmosphere is not cut throat, and everyone has the chance to add to the conversation. ... Read 18 reviews
MADISON, NJ ,
18 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Master's Student says Being a graduate student at Drew is different from undergraduate. But you are still in great company with the graduate students and professors. The campus is beautiful, and offers everything you need... .
Read 18 reviews.
Hofstra University's School of Humanities, Fine and Performing Arts
Hempstead, NY •
Hofstra University •
Hofstra University ,
HEMPSTEAD, NY ,
Sarah Lawrence College
Bronxville, NY •
- • Rating 4.18 out of 5 17 reviews
Alum: Sarah Lawrence taught me how to think. I took logic classes and explored my own viewpoints with scholastic aptitude. Learned how to master my own thought process to find the truth on that matter…to think objectively but also ethically. It’s a program that offers a lot of individualized, intellectual freedoms very few elite schools offer. ... Read 17 reviews
BRONXVILLE, NY ,
17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Sarah Lawrence taught me how to think. I took logic classes and explored my own viewpoints with scholastic aptitude. Learned how to master my own thought process to find the truth on that matter…to... .
Read 17 reviews.
CUNY Brooklyn College School of Visual, Media and Performing Arts
Brooklyn, NY •
CUNY Brooklyn College •
CUNY Brooklyn College ,
BROOKLYN, NY ,
CUNY Queens College School of Arts and Humanities
Queens, NY •
CUNY Queens College •
CUNY Queens College ,
QUEENS, NY ,
St. Joseph's University - New York
- • Rating 4.75 out of 5 12 reviews
Administrator: College can be a very exciting and transformative time in a student's life. It's a place where you'll have the opportunity to learn new things, meet new people, and gain experiences that can shape your future. One of the most significant changes when transitioning from high school to college is the level of independence that you'll have. You'll be responsible for managing your time, balancing academic and personal responsibilities, and making decisions that can impact your future. Of course, college can also be challenging at times. You'll likely encounter academic and personal challenges, and you may feel overwhelmed or stressed at various points. However, with the right resources and support, you can overcome these challenges and grow as a person. Overall, college can be a wonderful and fulfilling experience, and it's up to you to make the most of your time there. ... Read 12 reviews
12 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.
Featured Review: Administrator says College can be a very exciting and transformative time in a student's life. It's a place where you'll have the opportunity to learn new things, meet new people, and gain experiences that can shape... One of the most significant changes when transitioning from high school to college is the level of independence that you'll have. You'll be responsible for managing your time, balancing academic and... Of course, college can also be challenging at times. You'll likely encounter academic and personal challenges, and you may feel overwhelmed or stressed at various points. However, with the right... Overall, college can be a wonderful and fulfilling experience, and it's up to you to make the most of your time there. .
Read 12 reviews.
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Division of Humanities & the Arts - CUNY City College of New York
CUNY City College of New York •
CUNY City College of New York ,
School of Arts and Sciences - CUNY Hunter College
CUNY Hunter College •
- • Rating 5 out of 5 4 reviews
Master's Student: Even though I am a new graduate student, the school experience so far has been extremely positive. The staff and professors are really nice. The coordinator and adviser is easy to access. Step-by-step instructions and help is provided and questions are welcomed. ... Read 4 reviews
CUNY Hunter College ,
4 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.
Featured Review: Master's Student says Even though I am a new graduate student, the school experience so far has been extremely positive. The staff and professors are really nice. The coordinator and adviser is easy to access.... .
Read 4 reviews.
College of Arts and Communication - William Paterson University of New Jersey
Wayne, NJ •
William Paterson University of New Jersey •
William Paterson University of New Jersey ,
WAYNE, NJ ,
School of Arts - Fairleigh Dickinson University - Florham Campus
Fairleigh Dickinson University - Florham Campus •
Fairleigh Dickinson University - Florham Campus ,
Manhattanville College Creative Writing Program
Purchase, NY •
Manhattanville College •
Manhattanville College ,
PURCHASE, NY ,
Columbia University School of Professional Studies
Columbia University •
- • Rating 4.81 out of 5 16 reviews
Master's Student: I love it! It is online due to COVID, however, I wish it were in person. I feel like it is a privilege to attend such a high esteemed school. I am constantly surrounded by highly successful and intellectual professors as well as classmates. Columbia wants to see you succeed, they have so many resources available at every point and every step to make sure you don't lag behind and you reach your full potential. Overall, so far, I am loving my experience. ... Read 16 reviews
Columbia University ,
16 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.
Featured Review: Master's Student says I love it! It is online due to COVID, however, I wish it were in person. I feel like it is a privilege to attend such a high esteemed school. I am constantly surrounded by highly successful and... .
Read 16 reviews.
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Long Island University
Brookville, NY •
Long Island University •
- • Rating 4 out of 5 2 reviews
Long Island University ,
BROOKVILLE, NY ,
2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Read 2 reviews.
St. Francis College
Brooklyn Heights, NY •
- • Rating 4 out of 5 4 reviews
Alum: What I like about St. Francis College- it is the small college of big dreams. It is located in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn. There are alot of places to eat, vegan markets, pharmacies, starbucks and other businesses. The classes were small which allowed the professors to get to know the students by names and get to see each students' capabilities and contribution to the course. The schools events are very inclusive, fun and vibrant. There are games, food, fun activities, bake sales, caribbean festivities, different clubs, fraternities and sorroties. Other events are fashion shows, career fairs, graduate fairs, etc. The college is small so you might bump into people you might recognize and be in the same classroom with some students. The school host different events for music classes, bring back alumi to talk to the students. The professors were very helpful and made sure that we were learning instead of regurgitatig information. ... Read 4 reviews
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS, NY ,
4 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says What I like about St. Francis College- it is the small college of big dreams. It is located in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn. There are alot of places to eat, vegan markets, pharmacies, starbucks... .
College of Communication and Fine Arts - Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles, CA •
Loyola Marymount University •
Sponsored Result, College of Communication and Fine Arts - Loyola Marymount University
Loyola Marymount University ,
LOS ANGELES, CA ,
Wilkes University
Wilkes-barre, PA •
- • Rating 4.54 out of 5 13 reviews
Current Master's student: The post graduate certificate program for Nurse Practitioners is well worth it! This is the only option I found that didn’t require a repeat of classes I’ve already completed for my Master’s degree. This program also has the least amount of clinical hours required. ... Read 13 reviews
Sponsored Result, Wilkes University
WILKES-BARRE, PA ,
13 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.
Featured Review: Current Master's student says The post graduate certificate program for Nurse Practitioners is well worth it! This is the only option I found that didn’t require a repeat of classes I’ve already completed for my Master’s degree.... .
Read 13 reviews.
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2023 Best Creative Writing Master's Degree Schools in New York
College Factual looked at 14 colleges and universities when compiling its 2023 Best Creative Writing Master's Degree Schools in New York ranking. Combined, these schools handed out 397 master's degrees in creative writing to qualified students.
What's on this page: * Our Methodology
- Best Master’s Degree Schools List
Choosing a Great Creative Writing School for Your Master's Degree
A Great Overall School
The overall quality of a master's degree school is important to ensure a good education, not just how well they do in a particular major. To account for this we consider a college's overall Best Colleges for a Master's Degree ranking which itself looks at a combination of different factors like degree completion, educational resources, student body caliber and post-graduation earnings for the school as a whole.
Other Factors We Consider
The metrics below are just some of the other metrics that we use to determine our rankings.
- Major Focus - How many resources a school devotes to creative writing students as compared to other majors.
- Major Demand - The number of creative writing students who choose to seek a master's degree at the school.
- Educational Resources - How many resources are allocated to students. These resources may include educational expenditures per student, number of students per instructor, and graduation rate among other things.
- Accreditation - Whether a school is regionally accredited and/or accredited by a recognized creative writing related body.
Our full ranking methodology documents in more detail how we consider these factors to identify the best colleges for creative writing students working on their master's degree.
More Ways to Rank Creative Writing Schools
Since the program you select can have a significant impact on your future, we've developed a number of rankings , including this Best Creative Writing Master's Degree Schools in New York list, to help you choose the best school for you.
Featured Creative Writing Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
MFA in Creative Writing - Online
Embrace your passion for storytelling and learn the professional writing skills you'll need to succeed with our online MFA in Creative Writing. Write your novel or short story collection while earning a certificate in the Online Teaching of Writing or Professional Writing, with no residency requirement.
MA in English & Creative Writing
Refine your writing skills and take a step toward furthering your career with this online master's from Southern New Hampshire University.
Low-Residency MFA in Fiction and Nonfiction
Harness your passion for storytelling with SNHU's Mountainview Low-Residency MFA in Fiction and Nonfiction. In this small, two-year creative writing program, students work one-on-one with our distinguished faculty remotely for most of the semester but convene for weeklong intensive residencies in June and January. At residencies, students critique each other's work face-to-face, meet with major authors, agents and editors and learn how to teach at the college level.
Best Schools for Master’s Students to Study Creative Writing in New York
The following list ranks the best colleges and universities for pursuing a master's degree in creative writing.
10 Top New York Schools for a Master's in Creative Writing
Columbia University in the City of New York is a wonderful decision for students pursuing a master's degree in creative writing. Columbia is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Columbia University in the City of New York
Every student who is interested in a master's degree in creative writing has to look into Syracuse University. Located in the midsize city of Syracuse, Syracuse is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Syracuse University
It is difficult to beat New York University if you want to pursue a master's degree in creative writing. NYU is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. More information about a master’s in creative writing from New York University
Cornell University is a good decision for individuals pursuing a master's degree in creative writing. Located in the small city of Ithaca, Cornell is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Cornell University
Located in the city of New York, New School University is a private not-for-profit school with a large student population. More information about a master’s in creative writing from The New School
SUNY Stony Brook is a very large public university located in the large suburb of Stony Brook. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Stony Brook University
CCNY is a large public college located in the large city of New York. More information about a master’s in creative writing from The City College of New York
Located in the large suburb of Purchase, Manhattanville is a private not-for-profit college with a small student population. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Manhattanville College
Located in the large suburb of Bronxville, Sarah Lawrence is a private not-for-profit college with a small student population. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College
Hofstra is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large suburb of Hempstead. More information about a master’s in creative writing from Hofstra University
Best Creative Writing Colleges in the Middle Atlantic Region
Explore all the Best Creative Writing Schools in the Middle Atlantic Area or other specific states within that region.
Other Rankings
Best associate degrees in creative writing, best doctorate degrees in creative writing, best bachelor's degrees in creative writing, best overall in creative writing.
View All Rankings >
Rankings in Majors Related to Creative Writing
Creative Writing is one of 4 different types of Writing Studies programs to choose from.
Notes and References
- The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
- The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
- Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
- Credit for the banner image above goes to KOKUYO . More about our data sources and methodologies .
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Best Creative Writing Graduate Programs & Schools in New York
What are creative writing graduate programs in new york.
Creative Writing Graduate Programs teach the art of language. You could develop your writing through study and practice. Classes might cover both general English topics, craft classes, and even courses about the publishing industry. Workshops offer the chance to hone your work. And of course, gain peer feedback to help improve that short story or poem. Most MFA Creative Writing programs take the format of a two-year program. (In the second year, MFA students may work on crafting a thesis.) That said, you may be able to find a three-year program. And some students study part-time. So, they could earn their MFA on a different timeline.
- Literary Fiction
- Young Adult Fiction
- Children’s Fiction
- Creative Nonfiction
- Literary Translation
Creative Writing Masters Programs in New York
MFA stands for Master of Fine Arts. An MFA in Creative Writing may be an especially common option. Most programs include courses in the department of English and courses about the craft of writing. In addition, programs strive to create a community of writers. They may do that by:
- Inviting visiting writers to campus
- Holding events, like a reading series
- Publishing student-run literary magazines
But these days, MFA students could pursue other paths. Like an online degree program. Or programs where you take most classes online but do a brief residency on campus. (Often called low residency.)
Wondering about admissions requirements? An MFA in writing often considers more than just your undergrad transcripts. The program may look at your past writing experience. And a big part of your application is the writing sample. Samples should likely be in the genre you’d like to study. It could be a novel chapter. Or a collection of poems. Even a play or movie script!
MFA Writing Workshops
Expect workshopping to be a large portion of your program. Workshops are writing intensive courses. Students develop new work for peer review. They submit drafts for peer feedback. Then it’s time for revisions to make the work as good as it can be.
These classes might be a great way to produce new work. Plus, learn from what your peers are writing. And, workshops could provide a safe place for students to give and get critical feedback.
There’s one other potential plus. Writing workshops often bring together students from different genres. So, you could get constructive feedback from many different perspectives. For example, students writing poetry could offer fresh insights into your creative nonfiction.
Workshop requirements may differ by graduate school. Want the specifics? Contact the program director for the MFA program you’re considering.
MFA Writing Courses
Practicing writing in workshop is just part of an MFA. You’ll also take core academic courses. These focus on the craft of writing. For instance, you might learn about point of view. Or different forms and styles of poetry. You’ll study how other writers achieved certain effects. And you’ll try your hand at new techniques. MFA writing courses could include:
- Writing for Film
- Poetic Form
- Mystery & Horror Writing
- Novel Craft
- Writing for Young Adults
- 19th Century British Literature
- English Rhetoric
- Literary Criticism
- American Literature
- Contemporary Women Writers
PhD Creative Writing Degrees in New York
Creative Writing PhD Programs are writing intense programs like the MFA. But they may have more of a research element along with coursework.
So how does this PhD program differ from other doctorate programs? One big difference may be the dissertation. Most doctoral programs ask students to write and present works of original research. In comparison, creative dissertations are usually long-form works. Like:
- A short story collection
- A poetry collection
- A screenplay
Due to the intensity of the above-mentioned writing requirements, students could potentially complete a PhD program in 3 to 5 years. Program length may vary by school and enrollment.
PhD programs in this field may require previous graduate experience, as well as a 3.5 graduate GPA. Additionally, writing schools may ask students to submit samples of their previous work. Check with intended programs for more admissions details.
Creative Writing Graduate Certificate Programs in New York
Graduate Certificate Creative Writing programs might be a great way to quickly build your writing skills and knowledge. These programs typically do not require a minimum GPA for admissions. This may make them more accessible to a wide array of students, so that they can begin to hone their craft.
Many certificate programs only workshop one specific genre. For example, they might focus solely on children’s literature. This may provide a focused curriculum without unnecessary academic electives. So, graduate certificates are often on the shorter side. Full time students could potentially earn a Graduate Certificate in one year, although program lengths vary.
High vs. Low Residency Writing Programs
Residency requirements are common in many graduate writing programs. Biannually, students may be required to live and work on campus.
This is done to provide a space for students to concentrate on writing, reviewing, and revising their work. During this time, you could be sharing housing with other students from your program. Students are also encouraged to workshop pieces with others in the residency program to further refine the final product.
Typically, graduate writing programs either offer a low or high residency option. Low residency writing programs are shorter and may last around 10 days. High residency writing programs are often lengthier, lasting from 2 to 6 weeks. Residency lengths and details may vary by university.
Graduate Creative Writing Program Formats
Pinpointing MFA programs that complement your daily routine could be difficult. But, there are several different program types that could make it easier to study and write…even if you have other responsibilities.
On Campus MFA Programs
On campus programs are what you might picture when you imagine the traditional university experience. Graduate creative writing schools provide the opportunity to develop your work alongside your peers and mentors.
Things like workshops and office hours could make it easier to get help polishing your work. Additionally, this might be an opportunity to build professional relationships with classmates. You never know who might be your connection to a literary agent or publishing house.
Online Creative Writing Graduate Programs
Online MFA programs are a great way to stay in your own space while earning your degree. No matter where you live, you could attend classes on your own schedule. And, you could still receive valuable feedback from peers and professors via email or online forums.
An online writing degree may be a perfect option for students who work. This way, you could pursue your professional endeavors while honing your craft.
It’s important to note that online programs may require students to take part in residency programs. Typically, these are offered in the low-residency format but could require you try travel to campus or a nearby location.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid Creative Writing degrees offer a little taste of both the above programs. Depending on your personal schedule, you could choose to pursue one style of learning at any given time. For instance, you could take online courses while working. Or, take on campus courses in between jobs.
This might be great for current freelance writers because of their constantly changing work schedule. Depending on your future responsibilities, you could plan your semesters accordingly.
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Schools with Creative Writing Graduate Programs in New York
Gradschools.com offers 7 creative writing programs in new york.
- Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
- Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
- Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
New York University
Brooklyn college of the city university of new york, sarah lawrence college, city university of new york (cuny) hunter college, bard college, city college of new york, the, long island university.
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The Columbia University MFA Writing Program is highly regarded for its rigorous approach to literary instruction and for its faculty of acclaimed writers and editors who are devoted and dedicated teachers. The faculty, the students, and the curriculum represent and foster a full range of artistic and literary diversity. Students are encouraged to make the most of their own artistic instincts and to realize as fully as possible, beyond any perceived limitations, their potential as writers.
At the core of the curriculum is the writing workshop. All workshops are small (7 to 12 students), ensuring that all students present work at least three times per semester. Students receive substantial written responses to their work from their professors and classmates; they also have regularly scheduled one-on-one conferences with faculty. The second-year thesis workshops (6 to 10 students) are dedicated to shaping each student’s work into book form.
The Columbia MFA is a two-year program requiring 60 credits of coursework to complete the degree and can take up to three years to complete the thesis. Students concentrate in fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction, and also have the option of pursuing a joint course of study in writing and literary translation. Most MFA programs require 48 credits or as few as 36 credits, but the Columbia Writing Program considers the study of literature from the practitioner's point of view—reading as a writer—essential to a writer's education. Every semester, students take a workshop and, on average, three craft-oriented seminars and/or lectures designed to illuminate, inform, clarify, augment and inspire each student’s experience and practice as a writer. New seminars, lectures and master classes are created every year.
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Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Creative writing (non-fiction writing), mfa, new york city's only low-residence mfa program.
If you’re ready to put your dreams to work, we’re ready for you.
Our NYC location means we bring the publishing industry to our students, running daily roundtables and panel discussions with top agents, editors and publishers. Our 6-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio offers an intimate, focused environment for aspiring writers to flourish in our downtown Brooklyn community.
Prepare for an impactful career
Access to the publishing world, flexible format, a polished manuscript, about the program, why low-residency, why brooklyn, tuition & fees, 900}"> .a{fill:none;stroke:currentcolor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} about the program, the mfa program offers separate genre tracks in fiction, poetry, dramatic screenwriting/playwriting, graphic writing, and non-fiction writing..
Ten-day residencies convene twice per year, January 2nd - 12th and July 5th - 15th. Residencies consist of intensive faculty workshops, lectures, and daily publishing panels with top agents, editors, and publishers. During the 6 months in between residencies, students will regularly exchange writing online with their faculty mentors, continuing the work that began in residency. Students will take 4 online workshops and attend 5 residencies to earn the 36 credits for their MFA degree. The 5th and final residency will culminate in a creative thesis—a novel, a chapbook of poetry, or a short story collection.
We feel this structure reflects the realities of life as a working writer. Aspiring writers learn how to be productive in their everyday lives with editorial feedback and contact, without giving up their day jobs. Unlike traditional MFA programs that demand a full-time commitment, our low-residency model represents the working life of the overwhelming majority of professionals in the field.
Our approach is realistic about the challenges of succeeding as a career writer. We offer access to the publishing world, freedom and flexibility to work and write, and among the most affordable programs in the country. Tuition for our 36-credit Master of Fine Arts is well below the national average, far below that of other New York City institutions, and comparable to public university programs.
.a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} Housing Cost for Residencies
St. Francis College provides housing accommodations within a 23-minute walk to the College. MFA students may stay at the residence in either single or double-occupancy rooms. Student housing is just one option for you, but is not a requirement for the residencies. Visit the Residence Hall webpage for more information.
.a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} Financial Aid
The MFA program now offers MFA Graduate Assistantships.
Three MFA students will get $2,000 in tuition remission each for acting as embedded tutors per semester. Applicants will email a statement of purpose to MFA director Theo Gangi. The statement should be at least 500 words long and discuss why the applicant wishes to teach, the skills that applicants feel they can offer in the classroom, and any relevant experience the applicant brings with them. In the statement, applicants will indicate the course they would like to embed based on the offerings for that semester. More details are available upon request.
Students may qualify for federal student loans by completing a free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) .
.a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} Program Requirements
- **All transcripts not in English must be translated into English by a verified service.
- **If you have 3.0 GPA and above, you will require one letter of recommendation, any GPA below a 3.0 will require two letters of recommendation.
- **This can detail work experience, educational history, professional projects, community service and etc.
- ** A statement of purpose is a one- to two-page explanation of why you want to go to graduate school and attend this specific program. Effective statements of purpose demonstrate the candidate’s professional writing skills, detail their professional educational experience, and present the candidate to the admissions committee as a unique intellectual individual.
- **A work of lecture such as: Non-Fiction Writing, Graphic Writing, Fiction, Poetry, and Screenwriting and Playwriting
Degree Program Credits
900}"> .a{fill:none;stroke:currentcolor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} why low-residency, a low-residency program offers candidates such as working professionals in new york or out-of-state residents to pursue the degree without uprooting or giving up their day jobs, as one would with a traditional program..
The SFC low-residency program format is tailored to the needs of aspiring career writers in New York City and beyond.
This is of prime importance for a career in writing and publishing, where the balance of a day job in one’s writing life is crucial to success. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, New York employs the second-most writers of any state in the US, with 6,710 working writers. 68% of working writers identify as self-employed. According to the Author’s Guild, only 39% of writers in 2015 supported themselves exclusively with writing-related work. 61% of writers work a second or third job.
These figures support the low-residency MFA structure as more suited to the reality of a working life as a writer. Traditional MFA programs that demand a full-time commitment, such as the 14 MFA programs in New York, do not allow aspiring writers a day or night job and do not accurately represent the working life of the majority of professionals in the field.
900}"> .a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} Why Brooklyn?
A global favorite hub of art and character, Brooklyn has been a prime location for working writers from the time of Walt Whitman to the annual Brooklyn Book Festival, hosted, in part, on the SFC campus. In the words of acclaimed author Colson Whitehead, “Google ‘Brooklyn writer’ and you’ll get, Did you mean: the future of literature as we know it?”
900}"> .a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} Tuition & Fees
Cost, scholarships, and financial aid | mfa in creative writing, .mkibljiwog-a{fill:none;stroke:currentcolor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;} master of fine arts in creative writing genre tracks.
Creative Writing (Graphic Writing), MFA .a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;}
Creative Writing (Fiction), MFA .a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;}
Creative Writing (Poetry), MFA .a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;}
Creative Writing (Screenwriting and Playwriting), MFA .a{fill:none;stroke:currentColor;stroke-linecap:round;stroke-linejoin:round;stroke-width:1.5px;}
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Master of fine arts in creative writing news and events.
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