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What are good criteria to consider when looking to enroll in an MFA program?

Asked by: Dave Miles

What should I look for in an MFA program?

Here’s what they said:

  • Consider whether you want a full or low-residency M.F.A. program. …
  • Think about access to M.F.A. faculty. …
  • Consider the location of the M.F.A. program. …
  • Think about what size M.F.A. …
  • Consider the professional development opportunities. …
  • Think about subject matter taught in the program.

How do you get accepted into MFA?

UTEP’s Director for the Online MFA, Professor Aguilar-Zéleny, offers these top suggestions for MFA in Creative Writing candidates:

  1. Start your application early.
  2. Ask questions.
  3. Read the curriculum.
  4. Read the faculty bios and look for a mentor.
  5. If your application is not accepted, reach out and ask for feedback.

What are the benefits of getting an MFA?

A master’s in creative writing provides a foundation of theory and form along with workshops to develop your skills and hone your craft. Whether you are looking to get published or to advance your career, an MFA in Creative Writing will help you develop your voice and become a more proficient writer.

How difficult is it to get into an MFA?

Compared to medical school or law school, the application process for an MFA can sometimes feel like a crapshoot, with the odds of getting into a fully-funded program hovering somewhere below four or five percent (and some programs like Iowa, Michigan, Michener—gulp—even less!).

What is a low-residency MFA?

Graduate Programs

The Low-Residency Master of Fine Arts (Low-Res MFA) program is designed for students who desire the community, support, and rigor of a traditional MFA, but with a more flexible structure to fit their lives and schedules.

How do you write a statement of purpose for an MFA?

What to say in your Statement of Purpose? (for an MFA Creative Writing)

  1. Tell about your past. …
  2. Tell about your present. …
  3. Tell about your writing. …
  4. Tell about our program. …
  5. Other things you might mention. …
  6. How to write the statement/letter. …
  7. How to make your statement/letter better.

What questions should I ask my MFA?

MFA in Mind: Twenty Questions to Ask Before Applying



  • Why do you want an MFA?
  • Does the program offer funding—and if so, how much?
  • Are there on-campus jobs, work-study opportunities, or travel and research stipends available that could offset tuition and living costs?
  • Are you willing to carry some debt after you graduate?

How long does it take to complete an MFA?

2-3 years

MFA programs can take anywhere from a year to as long as four years to finish, although most take 2-3 years to complete. If you need to juggle work and family with your MFA program, you might consider programs that allow you to study part-time or online.

Can you get two Mfas?

No matter how much you enjoy multiple forms of art, you will probably struggle to find a program where you can pursue two different MFA concentrations concurrently. MFA programs are intense. They are terminal degrees, meaning that they are generally the highest level of degree awarded in their particular subject area.

Do you need to take the GRE for MFA?

Unlike other graduate programs, MFA programs don’t always require that student take the GRE. Some may require that applicants already have an Master of Arts (MA) degree in their field, while others require only a bachelor’s degree.

Can you get an MFA without a bachelor’s degree?

A MFA degree allows students to study fine arts in more depth. Most programs require 2-3 years of postgraduate work in specialized areas such as visual arts, creative writing, filmmaking, dance, or theatre/performing arts. You do not need a BFA to apply for an MFA degree, as long as you have a bachelor’s degree.



What is the difference between MFA and MA?

The MA is an academic degree, normally delivered as a taught programme across Arts and Humanities and some Social Science subjects. The MFA is a practice-based degree and is only offered in Arts subjects based on performance or creative work.