Should You Get a Creative Writing MFA?
If you're thinking of getting a Creative Writing MFA, then you're on the right track! A Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing can help you become a better writer and give you the skills you need to succeed in the publishing world. I graduated from Western Colorado University's MFA program in 2021, and I can attest to the fact that it is a great program for genre fiction writers. In this blog post, I'll discuss some of the benefits of getting an MFA in Creative Writing and why I think it's a good investment for your writing career.
One thing to note here is that I went through a particular type of Creative Writing MFA program known as a "Genre Fiction MFA." I am a huge advocate of this type of MFA because it teaches you how to be successful on the commercial side of things, instead of only teaching you writing. I can also only speak about my experience at Western Colorado University, but I will say that it's a program I heavily recommend.
The Drawbacks of an MFA in Creative Writing
While there are many benefits to getting an MFA in Creative Writing, there are also some drawbacks that you should be aware of. Let's get these out of the way first.
One of the biggest drawbacks is the cost of tuition. MFA programs can be expensive, and unless you have the funds to pay out of pocket, you'll likely be putting yourself in significant student debt.
Another drawback is that MFA programs can be time-consuming. This means that working while going to school can be very taxing. Trust me, I know. I worked full-time and went to school full-time while getting my MFA.
Finally, MFA programs can be competitive. If you're not prepared to deal with the competition, you could find yourself feeling overwhelmed and stressed out.
The Benefits of an MFA
Now that we've covered the drawbacks, let's move on to the benefits.
You Learn the Business of Writing
One of the most important things you'll learn in a genre fiction MFA program is the business of writing. If you want to be a professional writer, then it's important to understand the publishing industry and how it works. You'll learn about different publishing pathways, such as traditional publishing, independent publishing, and self-publishing. You'll also learn about the different stages of the publishing process, from querying agents to marketing your book. This knowledge is essential if you want to be a successful writer.
You Hone Your Craft
In a Creative Writing MFA program, you'll also have the opportunity to hone your craft. You'll take classes on different aspects of writing, such as plot, character development, and dialogue. You'll also get feedback from your professors and classmates on your work. This feedback is essential for helping you improve as a writer.
You Make Industry Connections
Another benefit of getting an MFA in Creative Writing is that you'll make industry connections. You'll meet other writers, editors, and publishing professionals who can help you further your career. These connections can lead to opportunities, such as writing gigs and publishing contracts.
Your Cohort Will Become Some Of Your Closest Writing Friends
Finally, one of the best things about getting an MFA in Creative Writing is that your cohort will become some of your closest writing friends. You'll share your ups and downs with these people, and you'll have a support system to help you through the tough times. These relationships can last a lifetime, and they're one of the most valuable things you'll take away from your MFA experience.
You Have the Option to Teach
If you decide to get an MFA in Creative Writing, you'll also have the option to teach. Many MFA programs offer teaching assistantships, which allow you to teach lower-level classes while you're working on your degree. Teaching is a great way to earn extra money and gain valuable experience. Then, once you have the MFA, you can teach English and Creative Writing all the way up to the Master's level.
You’re Learning from Working Authors
When you're in an MFA program, you're not just working with professors. You're also working with published authors who understand the industry and can offer valuable insights into the publishing world. These authors can provide guidance on your writing career and help you make important connections.
To recap, there are many benefits to getting an MFA in Creative Writing. While there are some drawbacks, such as the cost and the competition, the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you're serious about writing, then an MFA is a great way to further your career.
So, should you get an MFA in Creative Writing? The answer is up to you. But if you're looking to learn more about the business of writing and make important industry connections, then an MFA could be the right choice for you. And, while I might be a bit biased, I'd say Western Colorado's MFA in Creative Writing program is the best place for you to apply.
Happy Writing!