Writing
The Writing Master of Arts program at Columbia University offers an intensive, two-year experience for aspiring writers seeking to develop their voice across multiple genres. This full-time, on-campus program invites students into a community of peers, mentors, and renowned authors, fostering a space where creative experimentation meets rigorous craft. Whether focusing on fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, students receive close guidance in workshops while engaging with literary theory, history, and the contemporary publishing landscape. The curriculum is designed to sharpen expression, encourage risk-taking, and support the development of original work that resonates with both artistic integrity and cultural relevance.
At the heart of the program is a commitment to individual voice, disciplined writing practice, and critical engagement. Students participate in seminars, readings, and public discussions that deepen their understanding of form, narrative, and the writer’s role in society. The program provides access to editorial opportunities, internships, and readings with visiting authors, all of which enrich the writer’s experience beyond the classroom. Columbia’s location in New York City adds dynamic energy, offering proximity to publishers, literary agents, and a thriving arts scene that inspires creative growth. With a strong foundation in both writing and critical reflection, graduates leave prepared to shape the literary world in meaningful ways.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Writing
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Creative Writing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Craft and Voice
- Graduate Writing Workshop I
- Readings in Contemporary Literature
- Forms of Narrative or Poetic Structures
- Literary Analysis and Theory
Semester 2 – Exploration and Technique
- Graduate Writing Workshop II
- Nonfiction, Fiction, or Poetry Elective
- Publishing and Editorial Practice
- Seminar in Literary Culture
Semester 3 – Refinement and Project Development
- Graduate Writing Workshop III
- Thesis Proposal and Outline
- Professional Writing and Career Tools
- Elective in Cross-Genre Writing
Semester 4 – Thesis Completion and Public Presentation
- Graduate Writing Workshop IV
- Master’s Thesis Writing
- Public Reading and Critique
- Literary Portfolio and Exit Seminar
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program enter a broad range of creative and professional fields, including publishing, editing, journalism, and teaching. Many pursue careers as novelists, poets, essayists, or screenwriters, while others become literary agents, content strategists, or arts administrators. The program also supports pathways into academia, with alumni going on to teach writing at universities or lead workshops in community programs. Columbia’s network within the literary world offers strong connections to publishing houses, literary magazines, and cultural institutions, helping writers transition from study to sustained creative practice. The skills acquired—critical thinking, narrative structure, precise communication—are equally valuable in industries that require strong written expression and creativity.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for writers who want to immerse themselves in a rigorous, supportive, and creatively charged environment while developing their unique literary voice. Columbia University’s longstanding tradition in the literary arts offers mentorship from award-winning faculty and access to a vibrant community of thinkers and creators. The curriculum balances disciplined writing practice with intellectual exploration, encouraging students to challenge themselves artistically and engage critically with the world. With a location in one of the world’s literary capitals, students benefit from both academic excellence and cultural immersion. For those committed to pursuing writing not just as a craft, but as a life, this program provides the resources, inspiration, and guidance to make that vision real.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
