Master's in Creative Writing

Western Kentucky University (WKU) has evolved into a vibrant institution that blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach to education. The university is renowned for its commitment to student success, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. WKU's faculty, comprised of dedicated scholars, fosters an engaging learning environment, encouraging students to explore, question, and innovate. One of WKU's notable features is its strong emphasis on hands-on learning experiences. The university provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and community service, preparing them for the challenges of the professional world. With a campus known for its welcoming atmosphere and a student body that reflects diversity, WKU is more than an academic institution; it's a community that nurtures intellectual growth, fosters leadership skills, and instills a lifelong love for learning.

The MFA program provides students pursuing vocations in creative writing the opportunity to acquire the background and knowledge required to be leading citizens of what Vachel Lindsay calls the “Republic of Letters.” The program prepares students for lives as writers of novels, short fiction, creative nonfiction, scripts, and poetry and related pursuits such as teaching, literary editing and publishing. In addition to intensive creative writing, students will complete four classes in a secondary concentration as part of the MFA. Students can select a concentration in literature, composition/rhetoric, or teaching English as a second language in order to give them additional options for employment after graduation. In total, the three year residential program consists of 48 credit hours of graduate course work, culminating in the completion of a publishable creative thesis in fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, or creative nonfiction. All applicants who meet the application deadline are automatically considered for available graduate assistantships teaching introductory writing classes for the English Department.

Western Kentucky University (WKU) is a dynamic educational hub renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Boasting a rich history since its establishment, WKU stands out for its diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, providing students with a transformative educational experience. The university is particularly distinguished by its hands-on learning initiatives, encouraging students to actively engage in research, internships, and community service. With a welcoming campus and a vibrant student community, WKU not only imparts knowledge but also cultivates an environment that nurtures critical thinking, leadership skills, and a passion for lifelong learning.