Creative Writing (M.F.A.)
What sets apart the Rutgers University–Camden Creative Writing M.F.A. program? Our distinguished, award-winning faculty excels in teaching a multi-genre approach spanning poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Located on historic Cooper Street, the Writers House serves as the heart of our vibrant literary community, hosting workshops and seminars. Here, you’ll not only find writing models but also immerse yourself in the writer’s life within an engaged community.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
With our distinguished and award-winning faculty, you will receive guidance from experienced writers who are experts in their respective fields. They will help you hone your craft, providing invaluable feedback and mentorship throughout your studies. By engaging with a range of genres and learning from these accomplished writers, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of various writing styles, expanding your creative horizons.
As a full-time student, you can enjoy the benefit of full funding, which covers your tuition fees and may also include stipends or assistantships. Even if you choose to pursue the program part-time, substantial financial support is available to assist you in achieving your goals.
Throughout the program, you will engage in a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance your skills and open doors to various opportunities:
Developing literary expertise
Our program cultivates well-rounded writers who excel in reading, writing, and editing fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Students immerse themselves in the works of major writers in American and international literature, gaining a deep understanding of literary traditions and techniques. By honing their analytical and critical abilities, students become adept at crafting their own compelling narratives.
Nurturing a publishable voice
We encourage students to strive for the publication of their creative works. Under the guidance of our esteemed faculty, students refine their fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction pieces to achieve a high standard of quality. Through rigorous workshops and mentorship, students gain the skills and confidence necessary to submit their work to literary journals and publishers, sharing their unique perspectives with the world.
Preparing for diverse career paths
Our program equips students for a professional life in various writing-related fields, such as teaching, publishing, editing, and more. Students actively engage in workshops, internships with literary journals, and teaching opportunities, gaining hands-on experience and building a strong foundation for their future careers. By immersing themselves in the writing community and participating in pre-professional activities, students develop the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to thrive in the literary world.
Central to our program is the Writers House, a dynamic space situated on Camden’s historic Cooper Street. This vibrant hub serves as the heart of our literary community, offering a platform for literary programming and community outreach. Inside the Writers House, students engage in writing workshops and seminars, collaborating with fellow writers, sharing ideas, and fostering a sense of camaraderie. The Writers House serves as a catalyst for creative growth, encouraging students to not only excel on the page but also actively participate in the wider writing community.
Program Overview
DETAIL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| DEGREE | Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) |
| CREDITS | 39 credits |
| FORMAT | Full-time or part-time, on-campus |
| DURATION | 4-6 semesters |
| FUNDING | University, Graduate School, and Departmental Funding Available (Full Funding Only) |
Creative Writing Community in Action
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Where Words Take Flight: The Creative Writing M.F.A.
Every year, hundreds of writers from around the world submit their applications to the Creative Writing MFA. program at Rutgers-Camden. This episode gives us a peek into the program, discussing admission criteria, teaching methods, and the encouragement of interdisciplinary exploration. We hear success stories and learn about the program’s unique educational journey. Sienna Zeilinger, an… continue reading
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How Community Shapes the Creative Writing MFA Experience
In this Voices of Rutgers-Camden spotlight, the Creative Writing MFA… continue reading
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The Judgment of Yoyo Gold Earns Best Teen & YA Award
We are proud to celebrate Creative Writing MFA alum Isaac… continue reading
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The Art of Story & Advocacy
Award-winning author and Creative Writing MFA graduate Susan Muaddi Darraj… continue reading
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Transforming Family Stories Into Poetry
An accomplished poet and entrepreneur, Shawn R. Jones is a… continue reading
Featured Courses
View the list of Course Descriptions.
FICTION WORKSHOP (56:200:354)
In this workshop, we’ll analyze your work for improvement in a positive, encouraging environment. Emphasis on peer review for character, structure, and plot.
CRAFT: PLOT
(56:200:532)
This course dissects plot mechanics in fiction and nonfiction, featuring readings by authors like Karen Russell, Rivka Galchen, and Yiyun Li.
POETRY WORKSHOP (56:200:519)
Join an enlightening poetry workshop on “disobedient poetry,” inspired by Alice Notley’s poetics. Embrace diversity and enhance your unique poetic expression.
CRAFT: POINT OF VIEW (56:200:568)
This craft class explores narrative point of view in fiction, covering omniscient, third-person limited, first-person, reliability, and child/animal voices. Short passages illustrate these concepts.
FRACTALS: A CLASS IN CLOSE READING (56:200:573)
Precision in reading is vital. We analyze literary components, uncovering structural insights. Explore recent works and craft creative pieces through group discussions.
CREATIVE NON-FICTION ON URGENCY (56:200:529)
Reflect on writing creative nonfiction and memoirs in the present, addressing personal and global themes. Examine craft elements and workshop your work.
Admissions Requirements
DETAIL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| TRANSCRIPTS | A transcript showing the completion of a B.A. degree, with a grade-point average of 3.0 or better |
| LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION | Two letters of reference |
| PERSONAL STATEMENT | Personal statement (maximum two pages) about academic interests and career goals |
| WRITING SAMPLE | A writing sample—20 to 30 pages of fiction or non-fiction, or ten pages of poetry, or a combination thereof—10 to 15 pages of prose and five pages of poetry. You may include one or more complete short stories, excerpts from short stories, or excerpts from a novel or novella. |
Application Deadlines
Preference is given to those submitted before the deadline for both decisions and funding opportunities. Applications received after the deadlines will be considered based on available space and budgetary constraints.
Fall
JAN 24
Spring
Not Offered
Summer
Not Offered
Reach Out to Us
Let’s begin a conversation about your academic and professional goals. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, faculty, admission criteria, or committee, please feel free to contact the Graduate Program Director. For administrative inquiries concerning the application process, campus tuition, and fees, reach out to the Graduate School. We are dedicated to assisting you from application to graduation day.
PROGRAM CONTACTS
Lisa Zeidner
Graduate Director
zeidner@camden.rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6490
Sienna Zeilinger
Program Coordinator
mfa@camden.rutgers.edu
(856) 668-4980
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt-udogu@rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6149
Take the Next Step.
We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you here, where a world-class faculty, diverse community, and innovative curriculum converge to nurture your intellect and foster your professional growth. Your future starts with a simple yet significant act – learning more about the exceptional programs we offer. So, why wait? Start your application journey with us, and together, we’ll unlock a future filled with possibilities and endless success.