Creative Writing (Graphic Writing), MFA
Program overview
The MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry) is an intensive graduate program designed to support the artistic and professional development of poets through a combination of immersive residencies, workshop-based learning, and independent creative work. The program provides students with the opportunity to refine their poetic voice, deepen their understanding of poetic craft, and engage critically with both contemporary and historical poetry.
Through a sequence of residencies and poetry workshops, students participate in close readings, peer critiques, and guided discussions that strengthen their ability to write, revise, and analyze poetry. The curriculum encourages experimentation with poetic forms, language, and style while fostering a collaborative creative community. As students progress through the program, they develop a substantial body of original work that culminates in a thesis manuscript of poetry.
Graduates of the program emerge with advanced writing skills, a deeper appreciation of literary traditions, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to literary culture, publishing, education, and the broader creative arts.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
The MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry) requires the successful completion of a structured sequence of residencies and workshop-based courses designed to support the development of advanced poetic craft and creative practice. The curriculum combines intensive poetry workshops, guided critique, and sustained independent writing. Students participate in multiple residencies that provide opportunities for mentorship, collaborative learning, and engagement with faculty and peers.
Throughout the program, students progressively refine their writing through introductory, intermediate, and advanced poetry workshops, developing a strong understanding of poetic forms, language, and revision strategies. The program culminates in the preparation and presentation of a master’s thesis, consisting of an original manuscript of poetry that demonstrates the student’s artistic development and mastery of poetic craft.
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PLO 1: Revise and edit creative writing
PLO 2: Demonstrate their personal aesthetic
PLO 3: Generate a body of work worth performance or publication
PLO 4: Students will diagram the formatting standards of writing graphic novels via direct instructions and selected textbooks.
PLO 5: Students will prepare for the rigorous practices of entering professional creative fields.
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
The MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry) curriculum is designed to guide students through a progressive sequence of residencies and intensive poetry workshops that foster the development of a distinctive poetic voice. Beginning with the Introductory Residency and Intro MFA Poetry Workshop & Practicum, students explore foundational elements of poetic craft, including imagery, form, voice, and revision techniques. As students advance through Intermediate Residencies and Intermediate MFA Poetry Workshops, they deepen their engagement with poetic traditions while experimenting with diverse styles and forms of expression.
The Advanced MFA Poetry Workshop & Practicum provides opportunities for sustained creative practice, critical feedback, and refinement of a developing manuscript. During the Master Residency, students focus on shaping their work into a cohesive body of poetry while preparing for the thesis stage of the program. The curriculum culminates in the Thesis: MFA Poetry Workshop & Practicum and MFA Thesis Residency, where students develop, revise, and present an original poetry manuscript that demonstrates their mastery of poetic craft and creative expression.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
✍️ Poet and Author – Writing and publishing original poetry in books, literary journals, and digital platforms.
📚 Publishing and Editorial Work – Editing manuscripts, reviewing submissions, and working with literary magazines and publishing houses.
🎓 Teaching and Education – Teaching creative writing, literature, or composition in colleges, universities, and community writing programs.
📖 Literary Arts and Cultural Organizations – Working with literary nonprofits, arts organizations, and writing centers that promote literature and creative expression.
💻 Content Creation and Media Writing – Developing written content for digital media, cultural publications, and online platforms.
🎤 Public Programs and Literary Events – Organizing poetry readings, workshops, festivals, and community literary programs.