Master of Arts in Creative Writing

About

The University of Akron, Cleveland State University, Kent State University, and Youngstown State University offer jointly the MFA in Creative Writing. This degree provides students with opportunities to develop their skills in writing fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction. It is the terminal degree. Through extensive practice in workshops and craft and theory courses, students will develop their creative writing abilities while also studying literature and completing a relevant internship. The program provides students with the inspiration and guidance of a faculty of professional writers in developing the student's own potential as a professional writer. The curriculum emphasizes the primary importance of the study and practice of imaginative writing in the genres of creative nonfiction, fiction, literary translation, playwriting and poetry. The 30 unit degree combines an intense workshop requirement and a variety of special topic creative process classes as well as courses that expose students to a wide range of writers and community service learning opportunities. The creative writing courses reflect our commitment to a variety of styles, subjects, and approaches, recognizing the complexity and breadth of contemporary writing. Graduates of the M.A. Program are instructed in literary analysis and develop their craft to constructively critique their own work and that of others. As a culminating experience, the student submits a thesis of creative work in their chosen genre. A master’s program in creative writing is perfect for those who love storytelling and wish to develop their skills in fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction. Graduates often pursue careers as authors, editors, or writing instructors, or apply their expertise in publishing and content creation. 

Career Path 

Graduate career path includes Screenwriter/Playwright (Film, Television, Theatre), Script Doctor/Story Consultant (Film & TV Industry), Editor (Publishing Houses, Magazines, Digital Media) , Literary Agent/ Publishing Consultant, Author/Novelist (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Drama), Public Relations Writer (Press Releases, Campaign Messaging), Content Writer (Websites, Blogs, Digital Platforms), Grant Writer (Nonprofits, Research Institutions, Cultural Organizations),Copywriter (Advertising, Marketing, Corporate Communications) Creative Writing Instructor (Schools, Universities, Workshops), Cultural Program Coordinator (Arts Organizations, Literary Festivals), Technical Writer (Manuals, Guides, Instructional Content), Journalist (Print, Broadcast, Online Media), Communications Specialist (Corporate, Government, NGOs), Digital Storyteller (Podcasts, Interactive Media, Gaming).