Program Overview

The Helen Zell Writers' Program

The Helen Zell Writers' Program is a two-year, fully-funded graduate program in creative writing leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree. During their two years of coursework, students concentrate in either fiction or poetry. Students come to the Helen Zell Writers' Program in preparation for a lifetime of writing, professional publication, and artistic growth.

Program Overview

At the heart of the program are the writing workshops, where students assemble as a community of writers to generously read and rigorously discuss their works in progress.

Admission Criteria

Applicants must submit portfolios of their writing in one of these genres, and should have sufficient training in literature to succeed in courses at the graduate level. We select students with demonstrated talent and expose them to a variety of approaches to the craft of writing.

Program Structure

The program is part of the English Department at the University of Michigan.

Public Events

The program's public events are listed on the English Department's calendar.

Application Process

For more information on the application process, please see the step-by-step instructions on how to apply. If you have further questions about the program and/or your application process, please also take a moment to read over the frequently asked questions.

Funding

The program is fully funded, providing students with the necessary support to focus on their writing and academic growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program has a list of frequently asked questions that provide more detailed information about the application process, program requirements, and other relevant details.