Is an MFA in Writing Right for You? Assessing Your Goals and Expectations
Deciding whether to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing is a significant step for any writer. This advanced degree can propel your writing career, but weighing your goals and expectations before committing to a graduate program is essential.
What is an MFA in Writing?
A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a graduate-level degree focused on nurturing the skills of aspiring writers. An MFA program centers around cultivating a writer’s creative and technical ability to produce creative work at a professional level. This degree is not only about honing one’s writing; it’s an immersive experience combining mentorship, workshops, literature courses and often teaching opportunities. The end goal of these programs is for graduates to emerge as well-rounded, skilled writers.
Typical MFA programs offer specializations in genres like fiction, nonfiction, poetry, playwriting or screenwriting. Throughout the program, students develop their voice and style through intense writing practice and critical feedback. In addition to workshops, MFA candidates engage in literary and theory classes that enhance their understanding of the craft and tradition of writing.
Is an MFA a Terminal Degree?
An MFA is considered a “terminal degree,” as it’s the highest degree in its field of study. In the arts, an MFA is similar to a Ph.D. in academia. As such, holding this degree qualifies an individual to teach at the college level, and many MFA programs offer teaching assistantships that provide pedagogical training and experience.
MFA vs. MA: Understanding the Differences
While both a Master of Fine Arts and a Master of Arts prepare graduates for creative careers in their respective fields, critical differences exist in their approaches and the career outcomes from each degree.
Practice vs. Study: The Practical Nature of the MFA vs. the Theoretical Focus of the MA
MFA: A Practice-Oriented Approach
The MFA in writing centers around the practice of writing itself. The curriculum immerses students in the act of writing through workshops, peer critiques, and mentorship programs. It prioritizes the development of a student’s creative work, aiming to refine both the art and craft of writing. An MFA culminates in a creative thesis, which is typically a publishable body of creative work, signifying a readiness to enter the professional literary field.
MA: A Theoretical Exploration
An MA in English or Creative Writing places a stronger emphasis on the study of literature and theory. This program encourages a broader academic exploration of literary history criticism and pedagogy. Classes include literary analysis, theory, and the study of various genres and periods in literature. The MA is more research-oriented, often requiring a critical thesis that contributes to scholarly discussions in the field of literary studies.
Career Trajectories: How MFA and MA Degrees Differ in Post-graduation Paths
MFA Career Paths
Graduates of MFA programs qualify for careers as published authors, poets, screenwriters, or playwrights. However, the terminal nature of the MFA also equips graduates to pursue academic careers, such as teaching creative writing at the university level. Opportunities in editing, publishing and other literary endeavors also align well with the skill set developed in an MFA program.
MA Career Paths
Master of Arts graduates frequently move into teaching, especially at the secondary or community college level, although additional certification may be required depending on the institution or state. Their deep understanding of literature, criticism, and writing makes them well-suited for careers in publishing, editorial roles, content development and more analytical or research-intensive positions in various industries. An MA also serves as a stepping stone for those considering a Ph.D. in Literature or related fields, leading to careers in academia, research or scholarly publishing.
Who Should Consider an MFA in Writing?
Understanding who thrives in MFA programs can help prospective candidates evaluate whether this path aligns with their aspirations and career objectives.
Profiling Prospective MFA Candidates: Aspiring Writers and Artists
Aspiring writers and artists thrive in MFA programs since the programs are built around intentional time to hone their craft and receive feedback from professors and peers. Their time in the program increases their technical and soft skills, preparing them for successful careers whether they go into publishing or teaching.
What Can You Do With an MFA in Creative Writing?
Creative Writing MFA for Academic Careers
Thanks to the degree's terminal status, graduates with an MFA in Writing are qualified to teach creative writing at the college or university level. Beyond teaching, MFA holders often engage in the broader academic community through conferences, literary journals and scholarly publications—an appealing path for those passionate about education and mentorship in the craft of writing.
MFA as a Career Catalyst for Working Professionals
For working professionals in unrelated fields, an MFA can be a pivot or enhancement to their careers. Whether transitioning to roles requiring strong writing skills, like publishing, content creation and communications, or embarking on an entirely new career as a professional writer or editor, the MFA equips them with the expertise and credentials to broaden their career prospects.
MFA as a Guide to Launching Creative Projects
An MFA in writing provides the skills, time and mentorship needed to start significant creative projects like a novel, play, screenplay or poetry collection. This program aids in creating these works and helps in navigating the publishing industry, connecting with agents and understanding the business side of being a professional writer.
The Benefits of Pursuing a Creative Writing MFA
Choosing to earn an MFA in Creative Writing comes with many benefits, not the least of which is enhancing your skills in your creative field. Another advantage of earning an MFA comes from the networking opportunities you’ll have in your program and the professional development you’ll gain from the teaching opportunities.
Is a Creative Writing MFA Worth It?
Deciding whether a Creative Writing MFA is worth depends on your career goals, cost vs. benefit and specific situational factors.
Professional Development and Access to Opportunities
For many aspiring writers, an MFA provides unparalleled access to mentorship, rigorous critique and immersive writing opportunities that can significantly improve their craft. The professional network and community connections formed during an MFA program often prove invaluable, opening doors to publishing, academic positions, and collaborations that might not be accessible otherwise.
Alignment with Career Trajectories
The value of an MFA also depends on one’s career trajectory. If your goal is to teach creative writing at the collegiate level, an MFA is practically indispensable, given it's typically a required qualification. An MFA is not a strict necessity for those aiming to be published authors or playwrights, but the skills and exposure gained can dramatically improve the journey.
Cost Consideration
MFA programs can be a significant financial undertaking with varying costs depending on the institution. Prospective students should consider tuition, living expenses and the potential loss of income if they choose to study full-time. Scholarships, assistantships and fellowships can alleviate these costs for some, making an MFA more viable.
Situational Considerations: When an MFA Makes Sense (and When It Doesn't)
When an MFA in Creative Writing Makes Sense:
- You’re seeking to improve your craft in a structured, intensive environment.
- Academic careers or teaching creative writing is your goal, requiring the qualifications an MFA provides.
- You value the mentorship, community, and networking opportunities exclusive to MFA settings.
When an MFA in Creative Writing Might Not Make Sense:
- If the financial burden outweighs the potential career benefits or aligns poorly with your personal financial situation.
- Your primary objective is publication, and you have access to a strong writers' community or other mentorship forms outside the traditional MFA framework.
- You thrive in more self-directed learning environments and might benefit more from non-traditional paths like workshops, retreats, and self-study.
Exploring the Different Types of MFA Writing Programs
On-Campus MFA Programs: Benefits
- An immersive learning environment: On-campus MFA programs more closely mirror the classic college experience with in-person classes, workshops, and readings, allowing you to engage with faculty and fellow students deeply.
- Facilities and resources: When you enroll in an on-campus MFA program, you have access to university resources like libraries, writing centers, and guest lecturers. You’ll also benefit from hands-on guidance from faculty members and join extracurricular writing groups like literary journals.
- Schedule and commitment: Generally, on-campus MFA programs require a full-time commitment, with structured schedules that may be less accommodating to students with extensive professional or personal obligations. These programs best suit individuals who can dedicate substantial time to their studies.
Hybrid MFA Programs: Balancing On-Campus and Online Work
Hybrid MFA programs can help students balance their on-campus and online work by combining remote learning with in-person workshops. This way, students can sometimes meet with their peers and faculty in person but also experience the flexibility of completing coursework online on their own schedule.
Fully Online MFA Programs: Maximizing Flexibility and Convenience
The benefits of a fully online MFA come from its accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility for non-traditional students. An online program allows you to access and complete coursework when it works best for you, and it gives you the chance to get the most out of balancing your work and school. Non-traditional students benefit significantly from fully online programs since they can pursue a graduate degree without pausing their careers or current life commitments.
Choosing the Right MFA in Creative Writing
There are a few criteria students should consider as they evaluate the top MFA programs:
- Faculty: Ensuring the program you join has respected and accomplished faculty will help ensure your quality of education. Plus, they can help you make connections in the industry since they’ll most likely know others in the field.
- Alumni: See where the alums from the program end up working. If there are places where you can see yourself working, too, then it’s a good sign that this MFA program can get you where you want to go.
- Funding: Research what types of scholarships your program provides so you have a good idea of how much you’ll need to invest in your education.
- Curriculum: Explore the courses offered in your program of interest and see if any jump out at you or align closely with your writing goals.
- Location: Choosing an MFA in a location that works for you is crucial, as you'll interact with the area a lot throughout your program and the industry connections you make will most likely be local.
Write in the Heart of Los Angeles: Mount Saint Mary's University's MFA Program
Through the MFA in Creative Writing from Mount Saint Mary’s University, you’ll develop your writing skills across genres in a dynamic, multifaceted program. This MFA is located in the heart of Los Angeles and has a flexible and tailored schedule for working adults, so you don’t have to quit your job to invest in your writing goals.
In the program, you’ll gain insights into the business of writing and publishing as a diverse group of distinguished faculty members mentors you. You’ll join a community of students, faculty and alumni celebrating inclusivity and literary citizenship.
To learn more about the MFA at MSMU, download our guide. Or, you can request more information. Want to start your MFA journey today? Apply now!