This program, which involves completing a creative thesis, allows you to balance academic course work in English with the serious study of creative writing.
Are you a budding author? Do you have a strong desire to earn a graduate degree that allows you to be creative while educating you in practical job skills? Critical reading skills are crucial in any job, and writing skills are in demand from employers in many fields. Our degree will allow you to balance academic coursework in English with the serious study of creative writing.
You’ll be offered instruction from excellent faculty in a collaborative and diverse atmosphere. Creative writing students have the opportunity to work in various editorial roles with the university’s literary magazine and to read their work at several area venues.
To receive a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master’s degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Minimum Units for Completion | 36 |
Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
Thesis | Thesis is required. |
Oral Defense | Oral Defense is required. |
Research | Individualized research is required. |
Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
Purpose Statement
The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing balances the study and practice of creative writing with academic coursework in English. Students participate in writing workshops in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, undertake coursework in literature, and study critical theory. MFA candidates will present a creative thesis of between 45 to 120 pages, depending on genre.
The MFA Program at Northern Arizona University allows you to:
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Creative Writing M.F.A. students will be able to:
More Information
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Graduate College.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
This Master’s degree requires 36 units distributed as follows:
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.