Program Overview

Introduction to the English Program

The English program at Temple University offers a wide range of academic opportunities for students to explore their interests in literature, creative writing, and language. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in English, preparing them for careers in writing, teaching, and other fields.

Creative Writing Program

The Creative Writing program at Temple University is a two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree that allows students to immerse themselves in the art of writing. The program includes special topics classes in creative writing, courses in the craft of fiction and poetry, interdisciplinary classes in art, scriptwriting, and the humanities, and a creative thesis in the second year.

Faculty

The Creative Writing program is taught by award-winning faculty who represent a wide range of aesthetics. Some of the notable faculty members include:

• Cara Blue Adams: Author of You Never Get It Back , New York Times Editors' Choice and John Simmons Short Fiction Award winner.
• Pattie McCarthy: Author of and Pew Fellow in the Arts.
• Liz Moore: Author of New York Times and international best-seller Long Bright River, The God of the Woods, Heft and winner of Rome Prize in Literature.
• Jena Osman: Author of A Very Large Array: Selected Poems and Pew Fellow in the Arts.

Poets & Writers Series

The Poets & Writers Series is a supplement to the rich and challenging curriculum of the Creative Writing program. Each year, a number of poets and fiction writers are invited to read from their work, providing students with the opportunity to learn from and engage with established writers.

Distinguished Alumni

College of Liberal Arts Creative Writing alumni continue to make important contributions to the contemporary literary scene. MFA graduates' books and poems have been published by trade, small and large presses and cover all genres; their works have won grants, prizes and residencies.

Program Details

The Creative Writing program is a 2-year MFA degree that includes:

• Special topics classes in creative writing
• Courses in the craft of fiction and poetry
• Interdisciplinary classes in art, scriptwriting, and the humanities
• A creative thesis in the second year
• A series of readings from prominent poets and authors and consultations with visiting writers
• A limited number of fellowships and teaching assistantships are available

Student Life

The Creative Writing program at Temple University provides students with the opportunity to be part of a close-knit cohort within a thriving urban setting. Students can engage with the literary community in Philadelphia, attend readings and workshops, and participate in writing groups and other activities.