Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Discover the best online MFA in creative writing and take your writing career to the next level.

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Masters of Fine Arts Creative Writing

Calling all poets and wordsmiths! Write your way towards the degree of your dreams with the best online MFA in creative writing.

Writing is in a world of its own. What other profession whisks you away to faraway lands, traverses undiscovered planets, or takes you back in time? In what other career can you plumb the depths of your emotions or perfectly capture a moment? An online MFA in creative writing gives you the skills to hone your craft and create your own world through words.

What can you do with an online MFA in creative writing?

Many people pursue an MFA in creative writing to get one step closer to their dream of becoming a published author. If this is your goal, you’re on the right track! An MFA program gets you smack dab in the middle of the writing world. You’ll interact with famous authors (some might even be faculty members in your program), you’ll attend writers’ conferences, and most importantly, you’ll write!

Another career choice that many people choose (some even simultaneously to publishing their own work) is teaching. An MFA technically gives you the credentials to work as an adjunct professor or visiting professor at a college or university.

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What kind of online MFA in creative writing should you get?

Writing is a highly individualized profession. It’s just you, and the blank page in front of you. It just makes sense, then, that it would be possible to earn this degree online.

Most of these programs operate either 100 percent online, or through what is called a “low-residency” program. This means you’ll conduct most of your coursework online but also meet up with your cohort 2-4 times throughout the degree for intensive residencies.

One perk of choosing an online or low residency program rather than a “traditional” MFA program is that it is typically more affordable. You also won’t have the responsibility of fulfilling a teaching fellowship. Overall, you can look forward to a flexible program that offers the same quality!

If you’re not set on an MFA, check out College Choice’s list of the Best Online Colleges and Universities regardless of major.

How much can you make with an online MFA in creative writing?

Writers somehow get pinned with being “struggling artists” when, in fact, that’s usually not the case! Writing is all about the hustle. You have to put yourself - and your writing - out into the world. According to Payscale.com, the average annual income for an author or writer is around $51k. Not bad, right? This figure, of course, has the potential to increase dramatically if you write the next best seller. Just keep in mind . . . J.K. Rowling has a net worth of $1 billion.

If you choose to take your career in the direction of teaching, your annual salary increases, as does your overall job stability. Most assistant professors in the United States make around $65k per year.

What are the requirements for an online MFA in creative writing?

If you’re serious about becoming a writer, earning an MFA is the perfect next step. But the admissions process for an MFA in creative writing is no small task. You’ll have to show to the admissions board that you’re already a serious writer.

Most admissions requirements include a 10-20 page writing sample in your specific genre. Put your best work forward! This could be fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, or screenwriting. Make sure you know the list of genres at the school of your choice.

Once you are accepted to a program, most curricula involve 36-70 credit hours total. This will include craft workshops, literature classes, genre seminars, and more. Some schools also require 7- to 10-day residencies on-campus.

What are the best online MFA in creative writing degrees?

Are you ready to write? Here at College Choice, we’ve narrowed down the best online MFA in creative writing degrees. We took a number of steps to find our list. First, we gathered the academic quality of each online program. Then we looked at affordability and the return on investment - a big factor in how you decide on a school. Last but not least, we factored in student happiness using retention rates and graduation rates of each program.

Our methodology draws from our data team at College Choice, the quality resources at U.S. News & World Report, and the number smarts at Payscale.com.

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Rankings

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#1 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Lindenwood University

  • Saint Charles, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Lindenwood University enrolls students in one of the nation’s best master of fine arts in writing programs for online creative writing degree-seekers. A bachelor’s degree provides foundational education compared to the advanced training in this program. The master of fine arts in writing prepares students for doctoral degrees and other terminal programs.

The school’s online format is a big draw for students who have a lot to accomplish and need adaptability. Students report being able to continue their careers and engage in family life without sacrificing a master’s degree. Enrollees enjoy a student-focused environment whether they study remotely or on campus.

The application requirements for this program include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts, but the department can provide more information. Though some programs post different averages, the school accepts about 88% of all who apply. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs Missouri residents about $18,000 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,000
Out-of-state
$18,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,000
Out-of-state
$18,000
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
8,392
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Fairfield University

  • Fairfield, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Fairfield University. The master of fine arts in creative writing is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in creative writing who want to advance their careers in this field. The program blends academic rigor and online course delivery that is flexible and affordable.

More individualized attention and opportunities to collaborate with peers are key benefits of the 12-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy. Faculty teach a rigorous curriculum that both educates and engages learners. The rigorous academic preparation that a master’s degree provides makes potential employees stand out.

Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges both Connecticut and out-of-state residents $18,795 per year. Many degree-seekers reduce this bill with grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. Another popular way to finance their education is to take out student loans, the type of funding used by about 50% of learners at the school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$49,080
Out-of-state
$49,080
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,795
Out-of-state
$18,795
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
5,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Northwestern University

  • Evanston, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Northwestern University. The master of arts in writing is one of those degrees, designed for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in creative writing or a related field. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.

The school has a 6-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students in the master of arts in writing program. They acquire the advanced training employers want in potential hires knowledgeable about best practices. Graduates leave the program equipped for more advanced career opportunities and the option to pursue a doctoral program.

The institution charges Illinois students and those living elsewhere $56,067 in tuition per year. Financial aid, such as grants and scholarships, helps many degree-seekers afford their education. Student loans are another option, and about 22% of enrollees use this popular funding stream to afford their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,232
Out-of-state
$56,232
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$56,067
Out-of-state
$56,067
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
22,448
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Wilkes University

  • Wilkes-Barre, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Creative writing students can pursue an online degree that ranks highly among master of fine arts in creative writing programs. The master’s degree equips enrollees with advanced training valued by employers in their profession. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of a master of fine arts in creative writing.

The school designs the program to be delivered using an established online format, a big draw for many learners. Students can juggle their various responsibilities thanks to this program's flexibility. Here it is not enough to emphasize academic rigor and flexibility; support from faculty and the community plays an integral role in enrollees' academic development.

For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. Those who apply can expect an acceptance rate of about 79%. In-state students can expect to pay around $25,104 per year, which they can help fund through grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,814
Out-of-state
$35,814
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,104
Out-of-state
$25,104
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
4,680
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

National University

  • La Jolla, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private college situated in La Jolla, California, National University administers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. The institution’s 41 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to attend graduate school online. Learners interested in creative writing can pursue the master of fine arts in creative writing from among the many options.

Online education's flexibility and adaptability make it an attractive choice for many graduate students. They can fit their school around other obligations by using video recordings available often and completing coursework in the evenings, weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. A key feature of online learning here is a blend of academic rigor and flexibility that strongly prepares students for advanced positions in their field.

The admittance rate is 89% per year overall, but applicants may be accepted at varying rates for different programs. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. The best way to find out more is to contact the program to explore entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
16,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#6 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Emerson College

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Emerson College offers a number of graduate programs through its online platform. Learners who hold a bachelor's degree in creative writing will be especially interested in the excellent master of fine arts (MFA) in popular fiction writing and publishing. The program blends academic rigor and online course delivery that is flexible and affordable.

The benefits of a 15-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that MFA students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in creative writing. The rigorous academic preparation that a master’s degree provides makes potential employees stand out.

Making tuition competitive is a school priority, and all learners pay an average of $30,624 per year, no matter their residency. The financial assistance options available to qualifying students include grants and scholarships to help fund their master’s degree. They may also be directed to financial aid, used by about 51% of the school’s enrollees, as a means to fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$48,280
Out-of-state
$48,280
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,624
Out-of-state
$30,624
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Students Enrolled
4,930
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Bennington College

  • Bennington, VT
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Bennington College provides students with an online master of fine arts (MFA) in writing program that ranks highly among similar degree offerings. Learners acquire advanced skills that employers want in middle- to high-level professionals. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of a creative writing MFA.

The effective management of time is a key consideration for many learners, and the master of fine arts in writing accommodates that need. The flexible program grants students more control over their schedules and makes education easier to fit with other priorities. Enrollees tend to do better in educational environments such as this, where personalized learning is emphasized and faculty support is available to all.

The application requirements for the program include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts, but the department can provide more information. The acceptance rate is 61% at the school, but expect some differences across programs. Financial aid options, such as loans and scholarships, can help students pay for tuition, which is $23,975 per year for Vermont residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,200
Out-of-state
$55,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,975
Out-of-state
$23,975
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
826
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Queens University of Charlotte

  • Charlotte, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private college located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Queens University of Charlotte has a lot to offer. People can choose from five master's degrees available online. The master of fine arts in creative writing is ideal for learners interested in the creative writing field.

Graduate students can use online education's flexibility and adaptability to accomplish long-standing goals. Professionals, caretakers, and other workers can schedule their studies in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times. Candidates gain invaluable creative writing knowledge that employers value or that they may use to enter a doctoral program.

Based on their latest statistics, the school accepts about 65% of applicants each year. It’s typical for degree-seekers to need a bachelor's in the major or a related one to apply to a master’s program. They may also need to submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation, which the department outlines in its admissions policy.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,438
Out-of-state
$34,438
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,824
Out-of-state
$13,824
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
2,463
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

University of Nebraska at Omaha

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public college with a strong catalog of academic programs and a academic experience tailored to meet learners’ needs. A leader in online graduate education, the institution offers six online master's degrees. Among these is its master of fine arts (MFA) in writing for graduate learners interested in creative writing.

Logistics is no barrier to earning the MFA, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. A key feature of online learning here is a blend of academic rigor and flexibility that strongly prepares students for advanced positions in their field.

Applicants receive acceptance letters at a rate of 83% each year, with variations expected across programs. Interested learners will need a bachelor's degree in order to be considered for this program, but other requirements may apply. The best way to find out more is to contact the program to explore entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,224
Out-of-state
$19,488
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,558
Out-of-state
$14,440
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
15,153
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

University of Arkansas at Monticello

  • Monticello, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Arkansas at Monticello offers a number of graduate programs through its online platform. The master of fine arts in creative writing has a lot of the qualities people with a bachelor’s in creative writing need to advance their education in the field. Enrollees complete an accredited curriculum with little need to relocate or give up their full-time jobs.

The benefits of a 13-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. Learners complete a strong curriculum in creative writing delivered by faculty with industry expertise. The training participants receive is an important step for career advancement or for a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

Arkansas students enrolled in the program pay a yearly average of $6,631, while those elsewhere pay $12,511. The scholarships and grants available to many degree-seekers help them reduce the price of tuition. Student loans are also available, with 46% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,779
Out-of-state
$10,629
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,631
Out-of-state
$12,511
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,855
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Bay Path University

  • Longmeadow, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bay Path University provides online learners with highly ranked graduate education they can complete from a distance. Learners with a bachelor's degree in creative writing may find the master of fine arts in creative nonfiction writing of particular interest. Enrollees complete an accredited curriculum with little need to relocate or give up their full-time jobs.

The school’s 12-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities to learners. Students in the program complete specialized coursework and training focusing on advanced ideas and practices in creative writing. The degree positions the holder for career advancement and higher-paying opportunities.

Massachusetts students and those living elsewhere pay a yearly average of $14,670. Many degree-seekers work with the financial aid department to identify financial assistance, such as scholarships and grants. The comprehensive suite of financial aid options also includes students loans, which about 87% of the school’s enrollees use to fund some or all of their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,081
Out-of-state
$35,081
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,670
Out-of-state
$14,670
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
3,324
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#12 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Mississippi University for Women

  • Columbus, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Mississippi University for Women, a public college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the Columbus, Mississippi, campus. People who need flexibility are drawn to the institution because of five master's degrees available online. Creative writing students can pursue the master of fine arts in creative writing from among these options.

The adaptability of the program is a big draw for students with a hectic schedule that demands flexibility. Professionals, caretakers, and other workers can schedule their studies in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times. A key feature of online learning here is a blend of academic rigor and flexibility that strongly prepares students for advanced positions in their field.

Overall, about 97% of applicants get admitted each year, with some variations to be expected depending on the program. Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. Contact the program or the admissions department to determine entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,425
Out-of-state
$7,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,425
Out-of-state
$7,425
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
2,811
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

University of New Orleans

  • New Orleans, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of New Orleans is a public college in Louisiana. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers two remote master's programs. The master of fine arts in creative writing is one such option for students interested in the creative writing field.

Online education's flexibility and adaptability make it an attractive choice for many graduate students. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. A key feature of online learning here is a blend of academic rigor and flexibility that strongly prepares students for advanced positions in their field.

The school accepts an average of 56% of applicants each year, though this number can vary between programs. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background, like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Applicants may also need to submit official transcripts, provide letters of recommendation, and participate in an interview.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,090
Out-of-state
$10,926
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,090
Out-of-state
$10,660
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
8,231
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Arcadia University

  • Glenside, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Arcadia University provides students with an online creative writing program that ranks highly among similar degree offerings. The degree provides learners with advanced knowledge and training required for many higher-level job opportunities in the creative writing field. The master of fine arts in creative writing also gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

The master of fine arts in creative writing program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. The program gives them an opportunity to manage various aspects of their lives without sacrificing the advanced education a master’s degree provides. Another key benefit is the support enrollees receive from faculty and the academic community, whether they study on campus or online.

Degree-seekers interested in pursuing a master’s usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field to apply. The admission rate is 66% on average. Paying for college is a big concern for many, and the school charges Pennsylvania residents about $28,683 per year, partially offset by financial aid options for qualifying students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$43,740
Out-of-state
$43,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$28,683
Out-of-state
$28,683
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
3,463
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online MFA In Creative Writing

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Richmond, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public college located in Richmond, Eastern Kentucky University has a lot to offer. With a total of 16 remote master's degrees available, the institution is a leader in online education for graduate students. Among the options is the master of fine arts in creative writing for students interested in creative writing.

Online education's flexibility and adaptability make it an attractive choice for many graduate students. Recorded video sessions may be available to allow for viewing at any time, and faculty may let enrollees complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 94% per year, but some programs may vary. A bachelor’s degree in the field, or a related one, is the usual threshold for entry into a master’s program. All of the application details are available on the program webpage or from the admissions department.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,266
Out-of-state
$19,338
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
14,980
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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