Program Overview
Introduction to the Temple University MFA Program in Creative Writing
The Temple University MFA Program in Creative Writing awards a two-year Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing, with a focus in either fiction or poetry. The program's innovative curriculum immerses students in the study of creative writing and literature, with course offerings that range from special topics and craft classes in creative writing to graduate seminars in literature, the humanities, and the arts.
Program Structure
Through small workshops and one-on-one manuscript tutorials with resident faculty, the curriculum supports students as they gain technique and self-confidence and prepare to hand in their MFA theses in their final semester. The supportive environment also helps students move successfully from the MFA into the highly competitive world of submissions to journals and book publishers.
Workshops and Readings
Workshops are supplemented by individual consultations with visiting writers and a series of readings by prominent writers. Students also have the opportunity to work on the online literary journal, TINGE Magazine, which is graduate student–edited.
Faculty
The program's faculty includes noted writers and scholars such as Rachel Blau DuPlessis, Samuel R. Delany, David Bradley, Toby Olson, Sonia Sanchez, and Susan Stewart. Current faculty members include:
- Camille Acker
- Emma Copley Eisenberg
- Alyssa Songsiridej
- Yolanda Wisher
Part-Time MFA Program
Students have the option of attending part-time over three years (two three-credit classes per semester) or taking some classes as a non-matriculated student.
Visiting Writers Program
The Creative Writing Program invites a distinguished novelist (in the fall) and poet (in the spring) to be in residence for several days to work with MFA students. These guests read student manuscripts in their genre, meet with students individually in conference, give a reading, attend graduate workshops, and spend informal time with the students over the course of their visit.
MFA Resources
Resources for MFA students include:
- A packet of details (PDF) about the MFA in Creative Writing
- Information on how to apply
- Graduate School Policies
Admission Requirements
Although not required, Temple prefers Creative Writing MFA program applicants to hold a bachelor's degree in English or creative writing or to have taken a significant number of workshops or literature classes as an undergraduate. A writing sample in the genre of your choice, a personal statement, a resume, and two letters of reference are required for admission. The GRE is optional.
Tuition and Fees
Temple University is relatively affordable in comparison to other programs. The MFA program requires 33 total credits. Pennsylvania residents receive reduced tuition at Temple.
University Financial Support
The university offers additional financial support to MFA students, including teaching assistantships and fellowships. Applications submitted by December 15 will be prioritized for these awards.