Creative Writing

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing at the University of Miami offers an intensive, immersive experience designed to cultivate the next generation of accomplished writers. This program provides a rigorous curriculum that combines craft development, literary analysis, and professional preparation, all within a supportive and dynamic environment. Students have the opportunity to work closely with renowned faculty members who are active writers and editors in their respective fields, gaining personalized feedback and mentorship throughout their artistic journeys. The program emphasizes narrative craft across multiple genres, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, encouraging students to explore and refine their unique voices and storytelling techniques.

Throughout the MFA in Creative Writing, students engage in regular workshops, which serve as collaborative spaces for peer review and constructive critique, fostering a vibrant community of emerging writers. The curriculum also incorporates courses in literary history, contemporary literature, and publishing industry practices to prepare graduates for careers as writers, editors, teachers, or literary community leaders. Additionally, students have access to various readings, lectures, and residencies by distinguished writers and industry professionals, providing exposure to diverse perspectives and networking opportunities.

The University of Miami supports the creative and professional growth of its students through dedicated facilities, including well-equipped writing studios and a comprehensive library collection featuring extensive literary resources. Candidates are encouraged to produce a substantial body of work that culminates in a thesis project, showcasing their development and mastery of craft. Successful graduates of this program are equipped to publish their work, teach at the university level, or pursue careers in literary editing, publishing, and other related fields. With its strong emphasis on both artistic excellence and professional readiness, the MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Miami stands as a distinguished program committed to fostering innovative and impactful writers.

• Semester 1:  workshop (3 credits), forms course (3 credits), and literature or other elective course (3 credits) (for TAs: ENG 691, plus Writing Center hours)
• Semester 2:  workshop (3 credits), forms course (3 credits), and literature or other elective course (3 credits) (for all students: Creative Writing Teaching Practicum, ENG 209, plus Writing Center hours for TAs)
• Semester 3:  workshop (3 credits), thesis (3 credits), forms course (3 credits) (for TAs: teach the composition class ENG 105)
• Semester 4:  workshop (3 credits), thesis (3 credits), forms course (3 credits) (for TAs: teach ENG 209, Introduction to Creative Writing)

Writing Sample

Upload a writing sample of fiction or poetry.  Up to thirty pages in fiction or twelve pages in poetry.  The committee reads the sample writing with great interest so submit work that reflects your best work. No manuscripts can be returned, and applicants should retain copies of all work submitted.

Statement

The statement of purpose gives the committee a sense of the writer or poet’s intentions and how they hope to meet them within our program. This statement isn’t just about why you want to be a writer, but how being in a community of writers and working with faculty and your peers will help you develop your life as a writer or poet. Next to the writing sample, this statement is of greatest interest to the committee.

Three Letters of Recommendation

Submit three letters of recommendation from persons who can speak to the applicant’s potential as a writer and a student. 

Official Transcripts

Please request official transcripts of all academic work to be sent to:

M. Evelina Galang
Director of Creative Writing
Department of English
University of Miami
P.O. Box 248145
Coral Gables FL 33124

All graduate applicants who have attended a college or university outside of the United States must submit official transcripts and diplomas for evaluation. International Transcripts and Diplomas

GPA

While it is recommended that applicants have an undergraduate major in English, the program does not discourage applicants from other undergraduate disciplines. Regardless of their undergraduate major, applicants should have a 3.2 grade-point average on a 4.00 scale.

GRE

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores of 300 and above from the general aptitude section.

Scholarships

The James Michener Fellowships and Teaching Assistantships support all our graduate students. Awards include a full tuition waiver and annual stipend of $15,965. MFA candidates teach one section of Introduction to Creative Writing per semester during their second year in the program or one section each of Creative Writing and Composition.

The University of Miami offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Creative Writing through its College of Arts and Sciences. This program is designed to cultivate students' skills in various genres including fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and playwriting. Students engage in rigorous workshops, individual mentoring, and a diverse array of courses aimed at developing their craft, critical thinking, and understanding of literary traditions. The curriculum combines practical writing exercises with theoretical studies, encouraging students to craft original works and participate in literary communities. Students have opportunities to submit their works for publication, participate in readings and literary events, and collaborate with peers and faculty to refine their writing. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the publishing industry, offering seminars on editing, branding, and marketing literary work. Faculty members are accomplished writers and scholars with diverse backgrounds in literature, publishing, and creative writing. Graduates of the program often pursue careers in writing, editing, publishing, teaching, or continue their studies at the graduate level. The university’s location in Miami provides a vibrant cultural setting that enriches students’ creative experiences and exposes them to a variety of voices and perspectives in contemporary literature. The program aims to inspire originality and innovation while grounding students in the technical and aesthetic aspects of storytelling. It prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the literary arts, whether through composing original works, participating in literary communities, or advancing the field of creative writing through scholarly research.