Creative Writing and Literature

Creative Writing and Literature at Stony Brook University offers students an immersive and comprehensive education in the art of storytelling and the study of literary works. This program is designed to develop students’ writing skills, critical thinking, and analytical abilities, preparing them for careers in publishing, editing, education, and related fields or for further graduate studies. Students engage in rigorous coursework that covers various genres of creative writing, including fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and creative non-fiction, while also exploring the historical and contemporary contexts of literature across diverse periods and cultures. The program encourages students to refine their voice and style through workshops, peer critiques, and individual mentorship from experienced faculty members who are accomplished writers and scholars. In addition to honing their craft, students examine literary theories and engage with texts to deepen their understanding of narrative structures, themes, and literary devices. The curriculum balances creative practice with literary analysis, fostering a holistic approach that enhances students' ability to produce original work and critically evaluate others' writing. Through participation in readings, writing seminars, and literary events, students become active members of a vibrant literary community. Opportunities for internships, publication, and conference presentations further enrich the academic experience, providing real-world exposure and professional development. Graduates of this program are equipped with the skills needed to pursue careers in writing, editing, journalism, academia, or to continue their education at the graduate level. The program emphasizes creativity, critical insight, and a deep appreciation for the power of language, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to the literary arts and beyond.

The MFA in Writing and Literature degree requires 40 credits of course work and a six credit thesis for a total of 46 credits. Following are the specific requirements.

A. Required Introduction to the M.F.A. Program (4 credits)

• CWL 500 Introduction to Graduate Writing

B. Six of the following writing workshops (24 credits)

Students select six writing workshops from the following. Individual courses under each category will be labeled according to the content of the course. Although courses may be repeated for credit, students are strongly encouraged to experiment among the disciplines.

• CWL 510 Forms of Fiction. Individual courses within the fiction category will be labeled according to the form covered. For example, Short Story Collections, Beginning the Novel, Advancing the Novel, etc.
• CWL 520 Forms of Poetry. Individual courses within the poetry category will be labeled according to the form covered. For example, Prose Poems.
• CWL 530 Forms of Scriptwriting. Individual courses within the scriptwriting category will be labeled according to the form covered. For example, Screenplay, Playwriting, etc.
• CWL 535 Writing in Multiple Genres. Individual courses within the scriptwriting category will be labeled according to the genres covered.
• CWL 540 Forms of Creative Nonfiction. Individual courses within the nonfiction category will be labeled according to the form covered. For example, Creative Nonfiction, Memoir, etc.
• CWL 550 Forms of Professional and Scientific Writing. Individual courses within the professional and scientific writing category will be labeled according to the form covered. For example, Speech Writing, Writing in the Digital World, Writing about Science, etc.
• CWL 570 Advanced Writing Workshop. This course is for manuscripts in progress across writing disciplines and is strongly recommended for students preparing to take the thesis.
• CWL 575 Writers Conference

C. Two or more of the following special topic writing and literature seminars (8 Credits)*

• CWL 560 Topics in Literature for Writers
• CWL 565 Special Topics in Writing
• CWL 588 Independent Study

*With the approval of the Writing Program director, this requirement may be filled through taking the following graduate English Literature courses offered at Stony Brook University: EGL 501 Studies in Chaucer, EGL 502 Studies in Shakespeare, EGL 503 Studies in Milton, EGL 503 Studies in Genre, EGL 520 Studies in Renaissance, EGL 525 17th-Century Literature, EGL 530 Studies in Restoration Literature, EGL 535 Studies in Neoclassicism, EGL 540 Studies in Romanticism, EGL 545 Studies in Victorian Literature, EGL 547 Late 19th-Century British Literature, EGL 550 20th-Century British Literature, EGL 555 Studies in Irish Literature, EGL 560 Studies in Early American Literature, EGL 565 19th-Century American Literature, EGL 570 20th-Century American Literature, EGL 575 British and American Literature, EGL 584 Topics in Genre Studies

D. One or more of the following practicums (4 credits)*

*With the permission of the director, a course in writing or literature may be substituted in place of the practicum requirement.

• CWL 580 Practicum in Arts Administration
• CWL 581 Practicum in Teaching Writing
• CWL 582 Practicum in Publishing and Editing

E. MFA Thesis (6 credits)

• CWL 599 Thesis

• Letters of recommendation from three instructors or writing professionals familiar with your written work.
• A statement discussing your reasons for graduate study (1-2 pp, submitted with the online application)
• A writing sample consisting of up to 10 pages of poetry, single-spaced, or 30 pages of prose, double-spaced (submitted with the online application). Your name should appear on the writing sample.
• A single sheet listing your address, phone number, email address, and title(s) of submission(s).
• A copy of your résumé or c.v. (submitted with the online application)

The Creative Writing and Literature program at Stony Brook University offers a range of financing options to support enrolled students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students have access to various financial aid opportunities, including federal grants such as the Pell Grant and federal work-study programs, which enable students to offset tuition costs and gain work experience. The university also provides institutional scholarships based on academic merit, artistic talent, and financial need, which are awarded annually and renewable for subsequent years, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress. Additionally, students can apply for departmental scholarships specific to the Creative Writing and Literature program, designed to support students with demonstrated excellence and passion in literary arts.

Stony Brook University participates in federal loan programs, allowing students to borrow funds to cover educational expenses, with flexible repayment options available post-graduation. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive counseling and assistance to guide students through the application process for these loans and grants. For graduate students enrolled in advanced degrees in Creative Writing and Literature, there are also fellowships and assistantship opportunities that provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities.

Moreover, external scholarships and grants from private organizations, literary foundations, and arts councils are accessible to students demonstrating commitment to their craft and academic achievement. The university’s financial services team offers workshops and resources to help students identify suitable funding sources and manage their finances effectively. Payment plans are available to distribute tuition costs over manageable installments, and some students may qualify for employer tuition reimbursement programs if they are employed in relevant fields.

Overall, Stony Brook University is committed to making education in Creative Writing and Literature accessible by providing diverse and comprehensive financing options tailored to meet the needs of both undergraduate and graduate students. Students are encouraged to consult the university’s financial aid office early and often to optimize their funding opportunities and ensure a smooth academic experience.

The Creative Writing and Literature program at Stony Brook University offers students an extensive and comprehensive curriculum designed to cultivate their skills in writing, literary analysis, and critical thinking. This program emphasizes both the artistic and scholarly aspects of creative writing and literature, encouraging students to develop their unique voice and deepening their understanding of diverse literary traditions. Students have the opportunity to explore various genres, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, through hands-on writing workshops, seminars, and individual mentorship from experienced faculty members.

The program combines the study of classic and contemporary works from a wide array of authors and cultures, fostering a global perspective on literature. Course offerings include literature surveys, thematic courses, and specialized workshops that focus on craft, revision, and publishing. Students are encouraged to participate in literary festivals, reading series, and internships to gain practical experience in the field of writing and publishing.

Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in publishing, journalism, education, and other related fields. The program also prepares students for graduate study in creative writing, literature, and related disciplines. State-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated writing studios and access to extensive literary archives, support students’ creative and scholarly pursuits. Collaboration with the university's vibrant arts community offers additional opportunities for networking and engagement with professional writers, editors, and literary organizations. The program emphasizes fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, nurturing new voices, and encouraging innovative approaches to storytelling and literary critique. Overall, the Creative Writing and Literature program at Stony Brook University provides a rigorous, supportive, and inspiring environment for aspiring writers and literary scholars to develop their craft and deepen their appreciation of literature.