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Master of Fine Art in Creative Writing, University of Nevada, Reno
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About this course
The MFA in creative writing at the University of Nevada, Reno, is a fully-funded, three-year residential program that culminates in the submission of a thesis, either a novel, a collection of stories, or poems. Students benefit from a close-knit community and work with award-winning faculty and nationally-acclaimed visiting writers. The program typically admits up to ten students annually, with an equal focus on fiction and poetry. The curriculum includes workshops, classes in editing, publishing, literary history, critical theory, and craft, along with mentorship on thesis work. Students also engage in public outreach and gain experience in editing and publishing through partnerships with local presses and university outlets. The program's environment emphasizes artistic development, literature, and professional growth.
Why this course is highly recommended
The program offers a fully-funded, immersive environment with personalized mentorship from award-winning faculty. It provides valuable opportunities for public outreach, editorial experience, and networking through visits from prominent writers. The close community and small cohort size facilitate individualized attention and growth. Moreover, the program's integration of workshops, publishing partnerships, and exposure to nationally recognized writers make it an excellent choice for aspiring writers seeking both craft mastery and professional development.
Specialisation
Students choose between fiction and poetry as their primary genre of study. For fiction, the program values quality, originality, and skill, welcoming works within traditional genres like young adult, science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and horror. For poetry, emphasis is placed on developing unique voices and artistic visions, with students working in various styles, including narrative, lyric, and experimental modes. The focus is on fostering diverse poetic voices and comprehensive literary development.
Course fees
Application fees
17.95L
1st year tuition fees
17.95L
Living cost
-
Living cost
-
Degree requirements
Candidates must complete 48 credits, primarily at the graduate level, within six years. They are required to choose an advisory committee, complete coursework at the 700 level or above, and pass a comprehensive exam consisting of a written and oral component. The thesis is a book-length work of fiction or poetry, developed under close mentorship and defended at the end of the program. Students need to maintain continuous registration and meet all graduation deadlines, usually six semesters, with the degree awarded upon successful thesis defense and committee approval.
English language test
DUOLINGO
105
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
79
PTE
59
Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Nevada, Reno admission page for complete details.
Career prospects
While the document does not explicitly detail career pathways, the program's emphasis on publishing, public outreach, and mentorship suggests graduates are well-prepared for careers in writing, editing, publishing, and academia. The experience gained through workshops, partnerships with presses, and interactions with prominent writers also provide a solid foundation for students aiming to publish personal work or pursue further academic opportunities.
FAQs
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for fall enrollment consideration is December 15.
What are the prerequisites for applying?
Applicants must have a bachelor's or BFA from an accredited university with at least a 3.0 GPA and submit a creative writing sample, scholarly writing sample, statement of intent, transcripts, and three recommendation letters.
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