MFA in Creative Writing Program

The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing provides the practicing writer with the skills necessary to meet the professional standards and expectations of their chosen genre and is intended as the terminal degree for those intending to teach creative writing.

Program Overview

Housed at the Biscayne Bay Campus, the program offers small seminars, intense mentoring, and a dedicated faculty who are highly successful and award-winning working writers, including Lynne Barrett, Richard Blanco, Debra Dean, John Dufresne, Denise Duhamel, Campbell McGrath, Les Standiford, and Julie Wade.

Admission Criteria

Students are selected on the basis of demonstrated talent and the desire to join a hard-working, mutually supportive community of writers. The deadline to apply for admission to the next Fall semester is January 10, 5 p.m. EST.

Coursework

Coursework includes workshops, literature offerings, and form and theory classes on Plot, Character, and Poetics. The program places great emphasis upon preparation and completion of a publishable book-length creative thesis.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers as authors, professors, teachers, editors, and arts administrators. Program graduates have published more than 200 books, including several bestsellers, received prestigious literary awards and residencies, and had their work adapted into award-winning films.

Program Publications

The program produces the Gulf Stream Magazine, which features the latest issue of the magazine.

Faculty and Program Structure

The program is directed by Lester Standiford, Professor and Founder of the Creative Writing Program, and supported by Nicholas Garnett, Program Assistant.

Thesis Process

The program places great emphasis on the preparation and completion of a publishable book-length creative thesis.

Florida International University

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Overview:

Florida International University (FIU) is a public research university located in Miami, Florida. It is the only public research university in Miami and is recognized as a Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors. FIU is known for its diverse student body, its commitment to research, and its focus on addressing global challenges.

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Services Offered:

FIU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, tutoring services, writing centers, and career counseling.

Student Life:

Student organizations, clubs, recreational activities, and cultural events.

Campus Resources:

Housing, dining, transportation, and healthcare services.

Technology:

Access to computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

FIU provides a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. With over 58,000 students from 142 countries, the university fosters a global and inclusive environment. Students can engage in a variety of activities, including:

Student Involvement:

Joining clubs, organizations, and honor societies.

Campus Highlights:

Attending concerts, sporting events, and cultural performances.

Arts & Culture:

Visiting museums, art galleries, and theaters.

Recreation & the Outdoors:

Participating in sports, fitness activities, and outdoor adventures.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Ranked Programs:

FIU offers over 190 degree programs, many of which are ranked among the best in the nation.

Research Excellence:

FIU is a Carnegie Very High Research institution, conducting groundbreaking research in various fields.

Global Focus:

FIU's location in Miami provides students with unique opportunities to engage with a diverse and international community.

Diverse Student Body:

FIU's student population represents a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Campus Amenities:

FIU offers a variety of resources and amenities to support student success, including modern facilities, housing options, and recreational opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

FIU offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Design

Business and Economics

Education

Hospitality Management

Humanities and Culture

Medicine and Health

Public Policy

Sciences and Engineering

Technology

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Other:

FIU has multiple campuses across South Florida, including the main Modesto A. Maidique Campus, the Biscayne Bay Campus, and several satellite locations. The university also boasts a strong alumni network of over 200,000 individuals.