Creative Writing
The Master of Arts in Creative Writing offers an immersive, craft-focused curriculum designed for students who want to deepen their abilities as storytellers while developing a sustained, disciplined writing practice. The program integrates coursework in narrative form, literary analysis, genre studies, and workshop-based critique, allowing learners to understand how voice, structure, and language shape compelling fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Through close reading, reflective writing, and guided revision, students explore how writers use craft techniques to create emotional impact and thematic depth. This structure strengthens both creative intuition and critical awareness, helping writers develop work that is intentional, polished, and stylistically confident.
Beyond its theoretical exploration of literature, the program emphasizes intensive writing production and artistic growth through workshops, manuscript development, and mentorship from experienced faculty writers. Students strengthen competencies in revision strategy, creative experimentation, workshop leadership, and editorial practice while engaging with peers in a collaborative, studio-like environment. Exposure to contemporary publishing standards, literary communities, and professional writing opportunities enables learners to understand how creative work moves from idea to completed manuscript. By merging craft instruction with sustained writing practice, the program prepares graduates to pursue artistic careers with clarity, resilience, and an informed sense of literary purpose.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Creative Writing
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Creative Writing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Craft, Narrative Form & Writer Development
• Introduction to Creative Writing Workshops
• Narrative Structures and Voice
• Reading as a Writer: Literary Analysis
• Foundations of Creative Process and Practice
Semester 2 – Genre Exploration, Advanced Techniques & Editorial Work
• Fiction, Poetry or Nonfiction Workshop
• Advanced Craft Techniques
• Editing and Revision Strategies
• Literature, Culture and Contemporary Writing
Semester 3 – Manuscript Building, Writing Immersion & Literary Contexts
• Manuscript Development Workshop
• Experimental Forms and Creative Risk
• Writing for Publication
• Research for Long-Form Creative Projects
Semester 4 – Thesis Completion, Professional Practice & Public Presentation
• Master’s Thesis Workshop
• Professional Writing and Literary Careers
• Final Manuscript Preparation
• Public Reading / Creative Thesis Defense
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles across literary, educational, and creative industries where strong writing, analytical, and storytelling skills are essential. Many professionals work in publishing houses, literary magazines, arts organizations, and educational institutions, contributing to creative development, editorial review, curriculum design, and content creation. Responsibilities may include producing original literary work, editing manuscripts, teaching writing workshops, crafting digital or print content, and participating in literary events or community arts programs. With strong training in craft and writing discipline, graduates are also suited for careers in freelance writing, script development, communications, cultural programming, or pursuing advanced creative research such as an MFA or doctoral-level creative writing path.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to pursue a focused, long-term writing journey supported by expert mentorship and a community of dedicated peers. Its curriculum emphasizes creative mastery, rigorous revision, and professional readiness, offering a clear progression from foundational craft skills to the completion of a substantial thesis manuscript. Over 2.5 years, students benefit from extended workshop experience, individualized guidance, and consistent opportunities to refine their voice, experiment with form, and strengthen their artistic identity. The program’s blend of creative exploration, literary understanding, and career preparation equips writers with the tools needed to engage meaningfully in contemporary literary culture. For individuals dedicated to producing impactful creative work, this program provides a comprehensive and artistically enriching pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
