Creative Writing
The Creative Writing Master of Arts program at Cornell University provides an immersive and craft driven academic environment for students who want to deepen their abilities in fiction, poetry, and literary expression. The curriculum blends intensive writing workshops with literary analysis, allowing learners to refine their voice, strengthen narrative structure, and develop advanced creative techniques. With a strong emphasis on creative craft, students study how language, form, and stylistic choices shape compelling storytelling. This combination of practice and critical reflection helps learners build the discipline, imagination, and analytical awareness needed to grow as writers and make meaningful contributions to contemporary literature.
Throughout this two year program, students work closely with faculty who are award winning authors and active members of the literary community. The academic experience incorporates workshop feedback, individualized mentorship, and in depth exploration of literary traditions, enabling students to develop polished bodies of work while expanding their understanding of genre, theme, and artistic identity. Through seminars, editorial practice, and independent study, learners strengthen their ability to produce sustained creative projects and articulate the ideas that shape their writing. With strong support for experimentation, collaboration, and literary inquiry, the program nurtures narrative development, artistic confidence, and professional awareness in a structured yet creative setting.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Creative Writing
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Creative Writing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Graduate Writing Workshop
• Studies in Contemporary Literature
• Craft and Technique Seminar
• Elective in Poetry, Fiction, or Literary Theory
Semester 2
• Advanced Writing Workshop
• Genre Exploration and Form Analysis
• Research Methods for Creative Writers
• Elective in Editing or Literary Culture
Semester 3
• Specialized Writing Studio
• Literary Criticism and Creative Process
• Thesis Planning Seminar
• Elective in Modern or Experimental Writing
Semester 4
• Master’s Thesis in Creative Writing
• Professional Development for Writers
• Public Reading and Manuscript Preparation
• Elective in Advanced Creative Practice
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program build careers across literary, cultural, and communication focused fields, often joining publishing organizations, creative writing programs, content and media companies, and arts and cultural institutions. With strong writing, analytical, and storytelling skills, they contribute to editorial work, creative content development, literary production, arts administration, and communication roles across diverse sectors. Their polished writing portfolios and workshop based preparation also support opportunities in authorship, scriptwriting, freelance writing, and literary consulting. The combination of artistic discipline and critical training enables graduates to adapt to professional environments where creative expression and narrative clarity are central.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent option for students who want to refine their artistic voice while developing a deeper understanding of literary craft, offering opportunities to build advanced writing skills and strong creative insight supported by Cornell’s distinguished literary faculty. Through workshops, mentorship, and research informed study, learners gain the tools needed to shape original work, participate in the literary community, and pursue professional pathways that require polished communication and artistic depth. Its structured, workshop centered design provides a supportive environment for meaningful creative growth, preparing graduates for successful and impactful writing careers.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
