Many aspiring writers or literature lovers reach a point where their passion is clear, but their future is not. Choosing between an MA and an MFA is like standing at a creative crossroads. If you’re unsure which path leads toward the future you imagine for yourself, we’ll help you get there.
To start with, both degrees offer rigorous training, space to grow as a thinker or creator, and guided time with faculty who care deeply about language. Yet an MA and an MFA are designed with different outcomes in mind. One sharpens your critical lens and deepens your mastery of literary study; the other helps you refine your artistic voice and commit to the craft of writing.
In this blog, we’ll break down what sets each program apart, what you can expect from both pathways, and how to decide which option aligns with your goals. Whether you’re preparing for doctoral study, dreaming of publishing a book, planning to teach, or simply drawn toward deeper intellectual work, this guide will help you take the next step forward.
Before choosing a graduate writing degree, it helps to understand how an MA and an MFA differ in purpose, structure, and long-term outcomes. Both can shape you into a stronger thinker and communicator, but they prepare you for different forms of creative and scholarly work (think: analyzing a time-honored novel versus crafting your own classic).
An MA in Literary Studies (whether it's in English, Spanish, French or another language) explores literature as both an artistic tradition and a cultural force. It serves as a bridge between close reading and creative practice, giving you the space to analyze, interpret, and engage with texts across genres and historical moments. Many programs are interdisciplinary, inviting students to connect literature to fields like cultural studies, history, education, or philosophy.
An MA typically emphasizes:
This pathway is a great fit for:
An MFA in Creative Writing is a terminal degree that develops writers as both scholars and artists. It centers on the craft of producing original work while offering one-on-one mentorship from faculty who are active, published authors. The MFA in writing encourages writers to experiment, refine their voice, and complete a substantial creative project.
An MFA typically emphasizes:
This degree is perfect for:
Read more: 7 Creative Writing Careers You Can Get With an MFA Degree
|
MA in Literary Studies |
MFA in Creative Writing |
|
|
Primary Focus |
Literary scholarship, analysis, and research |
Original creative work and artistic development |
|
Approach |
Theory-driven, interdisciplinary, academically focused |
Workshop-driven, mentorship-based, craft-focused |
|
Typical Length |
1–2 years |
2–3 years |
|
Final Project |
Research thesis or scholarly paper |
Manuscript, portfolio, or creative thesis |
|
Outcome |
Strengthens critical reading and academic writing skills |
Prepares writers to publish and teach creative writing |
Choosing between an MA and an MFA comes down to understanding the kind of work that energizes you. As you consider your next step, it can help to pause and reflect on the questions that shape your academic identity and creative ambitions.
Ask yourself:
If you love diving into literary history, exploring theoretical frameworks, or building arguments that reveal deeper meaning, an MA in Literary Studies may be the better fit. It’s a strong choice for students envisioning doctoral work, teaching roles, or careers where critical analysis and scholarly writing are central.
If you hope to craft original stories, develop your artistic voice, or build a life around writing and creative expression, an MFA in Creative Writing offers a more immersive path. It’s designed for writers who want to publish, join vibrant creative communities, or teach creative writing at the college level.
Read more: Is an MFA in Writing Right for You? Assessing Your Goals and Expectations
The MFA in Creative Writing at MSMU is built for writers who want a creative home as much as a degree. It’s a two-year, 36-unit program designed for working adults, with weekend classes that let you pursue graduate study without disrupting your life.
The curriculum is generous in genre and deep in craft, so you’re never boxed into a single form. You can explore your tastes, experiment with form, and develop a manuscript with guidance from faculty who care about both your craft and your growth. Courses blend creative work with the study of literature, culture, and the arts, so your writing gains depth and context.
You’ll also find a community that values mentorship and long-term support. Faculty serve as accessible guides who stay connected with you in and out of class as you refine your voice. Our values-driven culture emphasizes inclusion and literary citizenship, so your development as a writer is matched by your growth as a creative contributor.
If you’re looking for a master’s in creative writing that supports working writers, values creative risk, and nurtures the whole person behind the page, the Mount offers a place where your work can truly grow.
Both the MA and the MFA can shape you into a stronger, more confident writer, but the right path depends on the future you’re building. If you’re ready to deepen your craft, commit to your creative practice, and step toward a professional writing life, MSMU’s MFA in Creative Writing offers a community and curriculum designed to support that journey.
When you’re ready, we’re here to help you move forward. Connect with our graduate admissions team, request more information, or start your application today. And if you want a clearer picture of where an MFA can take you, explore our free resource, The Art of Storytelling: A Guide to Creative Writing Careers With an MFA Degree.