creative writing programs in japan

13 Best universities for Creative Writing in Japan

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Japan ranked based on their research performance in Creative Writing. A graph of 13.9K citations received by 3.53K academic papers made by 13 universities in Japan was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

Please note that our approach to subject rankings is based on scientific outputs and heavily biased on art-related topics towards institutions with computer science research profiles.

1. University of Tokyo

For Creative Writing

2. Kyoto University

3. Iwate Prefectural University

4. University of Tsukuba

5. Osaka University

6. Waseda University

7. Ritsumeikan University

8. Kyushu University

9. Nagoya University

10. Keio University

11. Sophia University

12. Tohoku University

13. Doshisha University

The best cities to study Creative Writing in Japan based on the number of universities and their ranks are Tokyo , Kyoto , Iwate , and Tsukuba .

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Creative Writing Course - Japan

• Improve your skills with Creative Writing Course
• Learn how to handle creative writing challenges
• Understand the concepts of literary fiction and storymaking

Creative Writing Course Overview

• Course syllabus
• Who it’s for
• What’s included
• Why choose this course

Creative Writing Training Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Creative Writing

What is Creative Writing?

• Main Elements of Creative Writing
• Types of Creative Writing
• Techniques Used in Creative Writing

Module 2: Challenges for Translation

• Challenges to Writers
• Challenges for Translation
• Experiment Challenges
• Design and Quality Challenges

Module 3: Composition and Creative Writing

• Introduction to Composition Writing
• Types of Composition Writing

Module 4: Seven Processes of Creative Writing

• Planning or Prewriting
• Drafting (or Writing the First Draft)
• Sharing Your First Draft
• Evaluating Your Draft
• Revising Your Content
• Publishing Your Final Product

Module 5: Writing Fiction

• Literary Fiction
• Form and Structure
• Finding Characters
• Basics of Story Making

Module 6: Creative Nonfiction

• Meaning of Creative Nonfiction
• Characteristics of Creative Nonfiction
• Tips for Creative Nonfiction Writing
• Common Literary Nonfiction Subgenres

Module 7: Basics of Writing Poetry

• Listening to Language
• Finding Language
• Awakening and Shaping Language
• Playing with Language

Module 8: Performing Writing

• Introduction to Performing Writing

Module 9: Writing in the Academy and Community

• Introduction

Module 10: Tips to Improve Creative Writing

• Do Not Underestimate the Reader
• Give Your Characters Life
• Utilise Strong Words
• Check Your Commas
• Grab Attention from the Start
• Give the Reader a Satisfactory Ending

Who should attend this Creative Writing Training Course?

The Creative Writing Training Course is designed for individuals eager to refine their creative writing skills. This course is ideal for aspiring writers, professionals in content creation, and anyone seeking to enhance their storytelling abilities. The following individuals can greatly benefit from attending this course:

• Journalists
• Content Creators
• Copywriters
• Teachers and Educators
• Public Relations Professionals
• Content Marketers

Prerequisites of the Creative Writing Training Course

There are no formal prerequisites for this Creative Writing Course.

Creative Writing Training Course Overview

Creative Writing is an art form that enables expression, storytelling, and communication in unique and imaginative ways. Among the Personal Development Courses, this course offers an introduction to the diverse world of creative writing, highlighting its importance in personal expression and professional communication. Understanding and developing creative writing skills can enhance one’s ability to engage and captivate audiences.

Professionals in fields such as marketing, advertising, journalism, and education will find this course particularly beneficial. It’s also ideal for aspiring writers and those in any role requiring narrative skills. Creative writing enhances one’s ability to convey messages compellingly and creatively, making it a valuable skill in many professions.

The Knowledge Academy’s 1-day Creative Writing Training Course is designed to unlock creativity and improve writing skills. The training covers various aspects of creative writing, from character development to plot structuring, providing delegates with the tools to express themselves more effectively through writing.

Course Objectives:

• To explore the fundamentals of Creative Writing
• To develop skills in character creation and development
• To learn the art of crafting engaging narratives and plots
• To enhance descriptive and expressive writing abilities
• To understand various genres and styles in creative writing
• To practice writing with feedback and guidance

Upon completion, delegates will have honed their creative writing skills, enabling them to craft more engaging and imaginative works. They will leave with a deeper understanding of storytelling techniques and the confidence to apply these skills in both personal and professional contexts.

What’s included in this Creative Writing Training Course?

• World-Class Training Sessions from Experienced Instructors
• Creative Writing Certificate
• Digital Delegate Pack

Why choose us

Ways to take this course.

Online Self-paced

Online Instructor-led

Experience live, interactive learning from home with The Knowledge Academy's Online Instructor-led Creative Writing Course. Engage directly with expert instructors, mirroring the classroom schedule for a comprehensive learning journey. Enjoy the convenience of virtual learning without compromising on the quality of interaction.

• See trainer’s screen
• Recording & transcripts
• Virtual whiteboard
• Share documents
• Works on all devices

Unlock your potential with The Knowledge Academy's Creative Writing Course, accessible anytime, anywhere on any device. Enjoy 90 days of online course access, extendable upon request, and benefit from the support of our expert trainers. Elevate your skills at your own pace with our Online Self-paced sessions.

• Certificates provided online
• Get immediate access on purchase

Experience the most sought-after learning style with The Knowledge Academy's Creative Writing Course. Available in 490+ locations across 190+ countries, our hand-picked Classroom venues offer an invaluable human touch. Immerse yourself in a comprehensive, interactive experience with our expert-led Creative Writing Course sessions.

Highly experienced trainers

Boost your skills with our expert trainers, boasting 10+ years of real-world experience, ensuring an engaging and informative training experience

State of the art training venues

We only use the highest standard of learning facilities to make sure your experience is as comfortable and distraction-free as possible

Small class sizes

Our Classroom courses with limited class sizes foster discussions and provide a personalised, interactive learning environment

Great value for money

Achieve certification without breaking the bank. Find a lower price elsewhere? We'll match it to guarantee you the best value

Streamline large-scale training requirements with The Knowledge Academy’s In-house/Onsite Creative Writing Course at your business premises. Experience expert-led classroom learning from the comfort of your workplace and engage professional development.

Tailored learning experience

Leverage benefits offered from a certification that fits your unique business or project needs

Maximise your training budget

Cut unnecessary costs and focus your entire budget on what really matters, the training.

Team building opportunity

Our Creative Writing Course offers a unique chance for your team to bond and engage in discussions, enriching the learning experience beyond traditional classroom settings

Monitor employees progress

The course know-how will help you track and evaluate your employees' progression and performance with relative ease

Some of our worldclass trainers

Title, job roles, etc

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Flexible delivery methods are available depending on your learning style.

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Resources are included for a comprehensive learning experience.

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Seminars focusing on writing and publishing: Developing wordsmiths from journalists to novelists.

The department of literary arts is different from other literature departments: we not only study literature, we develop our students' literary creativity and expressive power. The department is not only a place of literary research, it also produces a wide range of work including poems, novels, plays, criticism and journalism. In our department, students independently develop their literary sensibilities through actively engaging in the production of expressive work. Students participate in creative writing seminars from their first year. For example, students work to produce "zemi-zashi," the seminar's in-house magazine, a process which mirrors real publishing practice. In addition, there are many other opportunities for students to publish their work, for example, in the Newspaper and Magazine Study class and the Theory of Journalism class. Because the department believes that to write is to publish, we focus on small seminars and classes which educate students to develop their expressive powers, whether as writers of fiction or non-fiction.

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Degree Programs Offered in English

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Keio conducts 970 classes in English and offers an increasing number of English-based degree programs. This not only makes the university more accessible to students from abroad, it also fosters an atmosphere of global awareness and sensitivity among Japanese students.

• ↓ Undergraduate Degree Programs Offered in English
• ↓ Graduate Degree Programs Offered in English
• ↓ Other Courses Offered in English

*Number of Degree Programs offered in English: 21 (As of June, 2023)

Undergraduate Degree Programs Offered in English

Faculty of economics.

A four-year, all-English economics program launched in September 2016.

Faculty of Policy Management Faculty of Environment and Information Studies

Launched in 2011 through Keio's Global 30 activities, this is an international undergraduate course, taught in English, that integrates information and communication technology, and governance skills.

Graduate Degree Programs Offered in English

Graduate school of economics.

Students can complete all requirements only in English.

Graduate School of Business and Commerce

The Master's Program in Taxation Policy and Management is designed to help build capacity of promising personnel engaged in tax policy-making and tax administration, particularly in developing countries.

Graduate School of Medicine

Courses and research activities are conducted in English, and the Ph.D. dissertation can be written in English.

Graduate School of Science and Technology

Master's and doctoral programs, 6 areas of study, established in 2003.

No longer accepting applicants.

Master's program on Robotics, established in 2019.

Graduate School of Media and Governance

Graduate school of health management, graduate school of system design and management.

Master's and doctoral programs delivered in English, launched through Keio's Global 30 activities in Fall 2010.

Graduate School of Media Design

Master's and doctoral programs, established in 2008.

Keio University Law School

A one-year all-English professional graduate master's degree course, established in 2017.

Other Courses Offered in English at Keio University

The Global Interdisciplinary Courses, conducted entirely in English and other foreign languages, were launched in April 2016 to provide students with an international outlook and a firm grounding in subjects across the disciplines. The program has courses on offer, which are comprised of Core Courses (fundamental subjects) and Research Courses (specialized subjects). The GIC are open to all undergraduate students, who are awarded a certificate of completion after obtaining more than 40 credits in total from the Core and Research Courses.

The Professional Career Program (PCP) offers an opportunity for third- and fourth-year students, principally in the Faculty of Economics, to receive a practical economics education in English. It offers small-group classes with an emphasis on practical, career-oriented education as well as specialist courses offered in law, economics, finance, public policy, international economics, and environmental economics.

The GPP (Global Passport Program), established by the Faculty of Business and Commerce and the Graduate School of Business and Commerce, is an educational program held in English whose aim is to enable students to discover problems companies or organizations might face in a global society, and to cultivate the ability to solve these problems.

Classes taught in English to provide students with opportunities to learn international relations as well as the society and culture of Japan and other countries.

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Creative Writing Study Abroad Undergraduate Programs in Japan

Sponsored Study Creative Writing in Japan Program Listings

BA in Creative Writing and Literature

Creative Writing Degree

Program overview, transformative writing.

Among colleges for Creative Writing, the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics is unique in its approach to writing as a means of social and personal transformation.

Contemplative Approach

Engage in critical and creative thinking to deepen your awareness of self, others, and the world around you. Develop insights regarding your academic and creative work as well as your own well-being.

Professional Experience

Acquire the hands-on experience, skills, and professional guidance necessary to succeed as an artist or thinker in the writing profession. 

Naropa’s creative writing program values experimentation, critical study, and authenticity.

Earn your bachelor’s degree in creative writing and literature at a university where writing workshops, literary studies, and publication opportunities create a deeply integrated experience of creative expression. Engage in contemplative poetics, experimental writing, and explorations of narrative forms while studying eco-poetics, book arts & letterpress, queer literature, and the literature of psychedelics.

You already love to write. Here, you’ll grow as a writer and as a person while discovering fulfilling writing jobs. Our creative writing and literature majors go on to earn graduate degrees in the arts, publish literary works, and become teachers, editors, and communications professionals. 

Quick Facts

• On-campus degree
• 36 credit hours (of the 120 credits required for a bachelor's degree)
• Unique open-genre curriculum
• Flexible application requirements
• Transfer up to 75 semester credits
• In-house publishing experience
• Intensive Summer Writing Program
• 70% of our students receive financial aid and/or scholarships
• Admissions open for 2024

Program Format

Naropa’s four-year undergraduate program in creative writing and literature redefines traditional creative writing as a journey into oneself and toward connection with others. We offer an on-campus education that allows students to develop themselves and their craft as part of a writing community.

At Naropa, we believe that the best creative writing, whether it’s short story writing, poetry, or a blend of genres, comes from deep personal introspection. We also know that engagement with like-minded communities is an essential sounding board for this kind of introspection. A college for creative writing and literature is only as strong as the writing community it creates.

Course Spotlight

Experimental and activist literatures.

This course introduces Black Mountain Poets, the Beats, New York School, Black Arts Movement, Language Poets, New Narrative, and Jack Kerouac School faculty work—poetic movements and writers that continue to influence Naropa’s writing landscape, innovation, aesthetics, and activism. By exploring experimental lineages, Naropa archives, as well as contemporary trends influencing the Kerouac School milieu, we participate as readers/writers/activists and invoke critical/creative awareness that informs the writing process. This creative reading and writing workshop invokes a vital space of active experimentation and culminates in a creative portfolio. 

Degree Requirements

A Bachelor of Arts degree (120 credits) consists of a Core Curriculum (24 credits) and at least one major, as well as minors and/or elective courses of the student’s choosing.

The Creative Writing & Literature Major has a total of 36 credit hours.

Creative Writing & Literature Major Requirements

• WRI210 Experimental and Activist Literatures (3)
• WRI312 Poetry and Poetics (3)
• WRI318 Writing Workshop: Long Poem (3)
• WRI329 Writing Workshop: Contemplative Poetics (3)
• WRI331 Writing Workshop: Creative Nonfiction (3)
• WRI339 Writing Workshop: Flash Fiction (3)
• WRI351–3 Summer Writing Program (2–6)
• WRI362 Writing Workshop: Fiction (3)
• WRI369 Writing Workshop: Narrative Forms (3)
• WRI380 Writing Workshop: Eco-Poetics (3)
• WRI394W Writing Workshop: Writers Practicum with Anne Waldman (1)
• WRI395W Writing Workshop: Writers Practicum with Allen Ginsberg Visiting Fellow (1)
• WRI415 Writing Workshop: Innovative Poetry (3)
• WRI428 Writing Workshop: Innovative Fiction (3)
• WRI440 Writing Workshop: Extended Narratives (3)
• WRI449 Writing Workshop: Embodied Poetics (3)
• WRI451–3 Summer Writing Program (2–6)
• WRI456 Writing Workshop: Poetry in Theory (3)
• WRI460 Writing Workshop: Ekphrastic Writing (3)
• WRI490 Special Topics: Writing Workshop (3)
• WRI349 Literature Seminar: Modernism and Postmodernism (3)
• WRI355 Literature Seminar: World Traditions and Letters (3)
• WRI441 Literature Seminar: Women Writers (3)
• WRI448 Literature Seminar: Diaspora, Migration, and Borderlands (3)
• WRI455 Literature Seminar: Literary Theory (3)
• WRI457 Literature Seminar: Major Authors (3)
• WRI491 Special Topics: Literature Seminar (3)
• Writers in Community WRI417 Writing Workshop: Writers in Community (3)
• Electives: Choose 6 Credits Electives can be any 300-level or 400-level course; professional development, literature seminars, or workshops/Summer Writing Program.
• COR440 Capstone II (3)

Why Choose Naropa?

Open-genre curriculum.

Engage in creative cross-genre experimentation and experimental approaches to writing and literature. Push beyond your comfort zone to develop your creative voice with Naropa’s open-genre curriculum.

Award-Winning Faculty

At Naropa, award-winning faculty follow in the footsteps of literary greats such as Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics co-founders Anne Waldman, Allen Ginsberg, and Diane di Prima, and Ken Kesey and Amiri Baraka, who taught at the Kerouac School.

Career Readiness

Naropa equips you with the skills and self-awareness for a rewarding career in writing. Students can engage in editorial work with the student-led literary magazine, Bombay Gin, delve into letterpress printing at the Harry Smith Print Shop.

How this Program Prepares You

Creative experimentation & writing skillset development.

The goals of the program include guiding students throughout the process of crafting creative work —from generation to revision—and presenting students with opportunities to interpret and respond to a variety of poetic situations. 

Contemplative practice for critical reflection

The program promotes contemplative practice to develop students’ insight regarding their academic and creative work as well as their overall well-being and encourages students to evaluate their own assumptions and the assumptions of the discourse community through critical and creative engagement with a diversity of values. 

Putting Theory into Action

The program prepares students for potential careers as artists and thinkers by exposing them to professionals in the field and offering them guidance toward envisioning and meeting their goals. 

What You'll Learn

Self-knowledge.

Study mindfulness and use your writing as a tool for looking within.

Innovation in writing

Think beyond the canon and experiment with language in your own work.

Collaborative communication

Learn to give and receive feedback in a supportive community environment.

Publishing experience

Prepare for future writing jobs as a student editor or letterpress printer.

Graduate school and career readiness

Create a polished professional dossier and a powerful writing portfolio.

Career Opportunities with a Creative Writing Degree

Realize your potential in the Naropa Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and Literature degree program. Whatever paths you choose, Naropa’s undergraduate degree in creative writing and literature will give you the skills and self-knowledge to take the next steps toward a fulfilling career in writing.

• Author: write and publish stories and books.
• Editor: refine and improve written content for publication.
• Journalist: gather and report news and current events
• Publisher: produce, distribute, and market written materials.
• Teacher: educate students in literature and creative writing.
• Screenwriter: create compelling stories for film and TV.
• Copywriter: craft persuasive content for advertising and marketing.

Hear from a Graduate

Marissa perel, faqs about the creative writing degree, what jobs can i get with a ba in creative writing and literature, what do you learn in a ba in creative writing and literature.

A BA in creative writing and literature will provide you with the skills and knowledge to pursue your career of choice in the field. At the end of your bachelor’s, you’ll have generated a professional dossier and acquired critical analytical skills. At Naropa, you will also develop a deeper awareness of yourself and your bond with the community, grounded in the principles of diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. Learn more about the Naropa Values.

What sets Naropa apart from other universities?

What kind of writing degrees are there, is creative writing a ba or bs, learn more about the program.

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Rachel thompson.

Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions 

Prospective students with last names A-G

• 303-970-9831
• [email protected]
• Schedule Appointment

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Prospective students last names H-Z

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Ready to Apply?

Admission requirements.

Naropa University’s unique approach values both academic excellence and the willingness to carry out introspective work.

Learn more about admission requirements and application process for undergraduate students.

Undergraduate Students

• Students with a 3.0 GPA or Higher

Applicants with a strong history of academic performance are welcome with minimal requirements.

• Students with Less than 3.0 GPA

If your academic record hasn’t been as strong, but you wish to benefit from a Naropa education and will contribute to our growing community, we strongly encourage you to submit your application.

• Transfer your College Credit

Present an official college transcript with 60 or more transferrable credits together with your application to apply as a transfer student.

To learn more about requirements for first-time and transfer students, read our undergraduate students requirements page. 

International Students

No matter where you’re from or how far you’ve traveled, you can feel at home at Naropa. Our university is built on a foundation of inclusion, diversity, and welcoming other cultures with open arms. The more diverse our student body, the stronger we are. We value your future contributions to our dynamic community.

Learn more about applying to Naropa from abroad.

Costs and Financial Aid

At Naropa, we strive to make education accessible to as many students as we can. Take a look at our undergraduate costs & aids page to learn about tuition and other costs, as well as financial aid opportunities, or use our cost calculator to get an idea of what you will pay at Naropa. 

Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities

Interested in Creative Writing Degree?

Read our blog or listen our podcast, heartfire festival returns to naropa university, episode 92. andrew schelling: writing as a spiritual practice, anne waldman reads poem at historic jared polis inauguration, episode 44. ca conrad: poetry, ritual, & creativity, student support and resources, academic support, online student support, career services, financial aid, accessibility, related programs, mfa in creative writing and poetics, ba in interdisciplinary studies, summer writing program, request information, plan a visit, about naropa, events & community, user information, support naropa.

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Naropa campuses closed on friday, march 15, 2024.

Due to adverse weather conditions, all Naropa campuses will be closed Friday, March 15, 2024.  All classes that require a physical presence on campus will be canceled. All online and low-residency programs are to meet as scheduled.

Based on the current weather forecast, the Healing with the Ancestors Talk & Breeze of Simplicity program scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday will be held as planned.

Staff that do not work remotely or are scheduled to work on campus, can work remotely. Staff that routinely work remotely are expected to continue to do so.

As a reminder, notifications will be sent by e-mail and the LiveSafe app.  

Regardless of Naropa University’s decision, if you ever believe the weather conditions are unsafe, please contact your supervisor and professors.  Naropa University trusts you to make thoughtful and wise decisions based on the conditions and situation in which you find yourself in.

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HOME > Senior Division (Years 3&4) > News > Classes

Last modified on November 30, 2016

Classes November 30, 2016

《GSP》 Intensive Course on Creative Writing Opens

Want to Experience Creative Writing? Graduate Program on Global Society (GSP) will offer an intensive course on creative writing as follows: Instructor: Richard Beard (British novelist), “Narrative: Learning to Tell a Story”

Dec 15 (Thu) 4, 5 periods, Dec 17 (Sat) 3, 4, 5 periods, Dec 19 (Mon), 4, 5 periods, Dec 22 (Thu) 4, 5 periods Jan 12 (Thu) 4,5 periods

Location: Room 532, Bldg. 5, Komaba Campus This course is open to undergraduate students as well (available for both Senior Division  students Year 3&4 and April-entry Year 2 students) under the following course titles: - Seminar: Text Analysis II (11)  (Studies on Language, Text and Culture, Dept. of Humanities and Social Sciences) - Seminar: Japan in East Asia XVII (International Program on Japan in East Asia, Dept. of Humanities and Social Sciences)

If you are interested in registering for this intensive course, please contact Professor Oishi. Contact: Dr. Kaz Oishi ( oishi[@]boz.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp ) (Please replace [@] with @.)

* For details, refer to the poster from here . 

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IJP: Course Offerings

In the Intensive Japanese Program (IJP), students can enjoy a range of courses to match their Japanese language level and academic major and interests and really make the most of their study abroad experience at Nanzan!

2024 Spring Academic Policies, Registration Procedures, & Course Descriptions

2023 Fall Academic Policies, Registration Procedures, & Course Descriptions

Japanese Language Courses

Students can fast pace their Japanese language skills with our intensive Japanese Language Courses. We offer five levels in the Fall and six in the Spring to match every student’s level of proficiency. Our small class sizes (maximum of 15 students), allow students to interact easily with other CJS and Japanese students. Students will learn to communicate confidently and effectively in Japanese as they develop all four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

See the list of courses

Japanese Seminar Courses

In our content- and skills-based Seminar Courses, students broaden their Japanese language learning. To develop future work skills, courses in translation, business Japanese, Japanese for tourism, and teaching Japanese are offered. A variety of reading, academic writing, and university preparatory seminars deepen students’ academic Japanese skills. And in the creative writing classes, students can explore their imaginative side.

Japan Studies Courses

Explore Japan’s eventful history and rich culture in the Japan Studies Courses. Divided into six fields – business and economics, politics and international relations, society and history, language and linguistics, literature, and arts and culture – all Japan Studies Courses are taught in English. Students can choose the courses that best match their interests to deepen their knowledge of Japan and its place in the world.

Open Courses

Open Courses give students the opportunity to sit next to local students in regular undergraduate Japanese university classes – sharing ideas in discussion groups, working together on assignments and research projects, and preparing and giving presentations together. There’s no better way to experience Japanese university life, mix with local students and make life-long friends.

Japanese Arts Courses

In our popular Japanese Arts Courses, students can make their learning journey memorable by exploring Japan’s rich aesthetic culture: manga cartoon drawing, woodblock printing, calligraphy, tea ceremony, traditional dance, flower arrangement, and traditional martial arts. Steeping themselves in centuries’ old traditions, students can discover the history and beauty of Japanese art forms, and relax and discover their creative side!

Living, Working, and Studying in Japan – Your Ultimate Resource!

Short-Term Study Programs in Japan: A Guide

Have you ever thought of studying in Japan, but you’re still hesitant to make the big move? There are around 300,000 international students in Japanese universities and other educational institutions. You could be one of them! If you’re only looking to pursue your Japanese language and culture studies for a short time, you still have lots of options. Various short-term study programs are waiting for your application!

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Summer Classes

Academic year.

It’s important to know when you’re available to study in Japan. Identify what you want to learn about and set your personal goals. With that, you can find the short-term study program that best suits you! In this article, we will introduce highly recommended programs that you could look into.

The JaLS GROUP offers a summer course that you could take for the best time in Japan. Awarded the “Language School of the Year” since 2015, the JaLS GROUP is the first and only language school accredited by Eaquals in Japan! You may opt to study in their schools in Hokkaido or Kyoto, and maximize your Japanese experience through their summer courses. You can take a course even just for a week. Japanese pop culture or festivals? You can have the best immersions and high-quality language classes!

The Athena Study Abroad program can give you your “Summer in Kyoto” experience. This short-term study program boasts its “Athena touch,” which means you get to have “true immersion into the Japanese culture.” This program only accepts small groups, so you’ll experience hands-on learning! Athena’s summer program offers Creative Writing Workshop, Japanese Society and Culture, and other courses under Humanities and Arts.

Tokyo being Japan’s capital also makes it the best location for international students. Imagine living in a megacity of Japanese culture and tradition for 6 weeks! With the number of foreigners in Tokyo, studying there could be more convenient. If you’re looking to have your Tokyo experience, apply for CIEE! This short-term study program believes that the world is our classroom, so let it take you to Tokyo, Japan. This program has cultural, social, and historical courses taught in English. They also offer scholarships and grants every year!

The Youth For Understanding has intercultural exchange programs where you’ll be in for eye-opening experiences. This short-term study program prefers placing students away from urban centers. Youth For Understanding aims to show you the contrasts of Japan. They will bring you to the East and West, and expose you to both tradition and innovation. You might be glad to know that they also offer a short-term summer anime program!

When you apply at USAC, you can study for a semester or finish a full year. Their “Nagasaki, Japan Program” will bring you to Kyushu island’s northwestern side. There, you will find Nagasaki, which boasts a unique history as it was the part of Japan that first had contact with the West in the late 16th century. The program has a distinct way of exposing the students to the language and culture of Japan. Focusing on society, you can gain a better understanding of life in Japan, as well as history through Nagasaki’s important destinations.

The Meiji Academy is one of the top study programs in Japan. Awarded the Community Choice Awards and Top International Internship in 2018, students who are eager to learn and master the Japanese language are trained to thrive in the Japanese business setting. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in Japan someday, having proper exposure to the industry is perfect! Of course, you will start with your basic Japanese language skills. Teachers creatively teach conversational Japanese through role-playing with the class. Eventually, you will find yourself in real-life situations where your skills will be put to the test!

Lastly, you can apply for seasonal Japanese courses at Hokkaido Japanese Language School. This language school holds 6 values that all foreign students can uphold even after the program: Quality, Family, Flexibility, Activity, Facility, and Community. Your experience with the program will revolve around these values, giving you a noteworthy study experience in Japan. Classes are small and intimate, which means you’ll have families, lessons, and memories you can cherish for a lifetime!

Studying abroad, particularly in Japan, is always an exciting experience. While some foreign students live in Japan for a long time to pursue their studies in Japanese, short-term study programs can help you improve your current Japanese language proficiency. These programs can introduce Japan to you in just a couple of weeks!

Reach popular Japanese destinations and learn their history. Level up your Japanese language skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese culture. Many short-term study programs in Japan could cater to your goals. Choose the best one and apply now!

Motto Japan, the community platform to support foreigners with the foundation for life in Japan, including Japanese study, job opportunities, and housing service. Motto Japan Media will provide a wide variety of information for Japanese fans all over the world, to create a cross-cultural environment and enrich the life of foreign residents in Japan!

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8 Best Writer Retreats in Japan (Write In Zen Mode!)

From the ancient cherry blossom trees in Kyoto to the rich entertainment of Tokyo, Japan is a travel destination with much to offer.

But if you’re looking to relax while keeping writing job deadlines, you’ll need accommodation that’s fit for more than just sightseeing. There are many writer’s retreats, perfect places to get some work done while enjoying the spirit of Japan. The places I picked can serve as excellent inspirational spots with all the facilities to get down to writing. These scenic ryokans and inns can also help you recharge after a long period of intense work or travel. So before jetting off on your next big trip, consider adding one (or all!) of these eight best writer retreats in Japan to your itinerary.

What kind of accommodation to pick if you want to work during your stay in Japan?

So, you planned a trip to Japan – that’s amazing! The land of the rising sun offers many unique experiences you won’t get elsewhere. But if you, like many other freelancers , need a place to write during your stay in Japan – don’t fret. In this article, I will cover three types of accommodation in various cities across Japan: ryokans, hotels, and internet cafes (yes, you read that right). Let’s look at each one and what are the differences between them.

Ryokans – The Traditional Japanese Inns

They’re quite common across the country, and many of them were established over 100 years ago. Thus, in most cases, ryokans keep the traditional spirit and keep all-natural building materials like wood and stone. A ryokan is a great choice available both for a day’s worth of relaxation or as an accommodation for several days. Many ryokans sit around hot springs (onsen in Japanese), so they offer a uniquely relaxing experience. A visit to an onsen is a common form of leisure for Japanese people, and it’s a great way to de-stress. However, you must be mindful of a few rules when dipping in a Japanese hot spring. Along with a hot spring, most Japanese ryokans include beautiful, peaceful gardens, Japanese food restaurants, and traditional-looking lodgings. Unlike Ryokan, hotels in Japan are much more similar to Western accommodation types. If you already have accommodation sorted out (or you’re feeling adventurous), but you’re after a place to work, an internet café might be a great pick. Also known as Netto café and Manga Kissa, these establishments rent out internet-connected PCs in separate, well-equipped rooms that offer plenty of privacy. Since you may pay by the hour or get a discounted overnight deal, internet cafes are a popular hideout for people who need a place to spend the night.

Here are the Best Dreamy Writer Retreats in Japan:

1. a writer’s escape – ryokan tokyo yugawara in kanagawa prefecture.

The Ryokan Tokyo Yugawara in Kanagawa is a perfect place to experience all that Japan has to offer. You’ll find great accommodation with a lovely hot spring, perfect for relaxing between chapters. Writers will love the fact that they offer all-you-can-drink coffee and tea every single day. Write in your nicely equipped room or their restaurant with comfortable bean bags for lounging around or taking care of business. The entire ryokan is bathed in sunlight as it has large windows all around – perfect to keep your eyes rested and mood great even during work. The Tokyo Yugawara Ryokan has writers as their target audience . Besides comfortable furnishing, they also offer black and white printing and lend table lamps for night owls. They also offer a unique service where the staff members check up on your progress with work (you just need to specify the time or place you want this service at the check-in). This ryokan not only offers guests access to an onsen, but it also provides dinner cooked fresh every night using locally sourced ingredients. For writers looking to relax while getting work done , I recommend one of this ryokan’s two service packages: you may get a one-night plan with three meals for about $50, or a two-night with five meals included.

2. Get Inspired – BnA Wall – Artistic Hotels in Tokyo

If you’re looking for artistic inspiration, a place to fill you with awe and somewhere to experience the strange… BnA Wall is an amazing place for you! The concept behind BnA Wall is unique. It’s a hotel where each room is a work of art. Each of its 26 rooms features a unique design and furnishing, made by one of 14 selected Japan-based artists. Best of all – the hotel gives an affiliate commission to the artist whose room you booked. That way, BnA Wall truly helps you become a patron of the arts while enjoying their extravagant facility. Other BnA hotel facilities exist in Tokyo and Kyoto , but the BnA Wall near Nihombashi district in Tokyo is the most exciting of their locations.

3. Cheap Makeshift Workspace – Takarajima 24 – Internet Café in Tokyo

If you find yourself near a major train station in Tokyo, chances are there’s an internet café around you. You’re lucky if it’s Takarajima 24. Their café rooms come with everything you might need for a productive day at work . A TV, a computer, a DVD player (and, per request, a free-of-charge endless supply of comics and DVDs for entertainment), a large desk, and even a sink. It has it all except for a window. The windowless rooms may feel stuffy and dark, but let’s be real – they help stave off procrastination ! Once you request a room in Takarajima , you’ll be asked what kind of seating you prefer – a reclining chair, a massage chair, a sofa, or a Japanese lie-flat floor chair. It becomes apparent they care about their customer experience from that very first moment! Unlike other internet cafes, Takarajima gives you the option to lock your room and go out. This keeps all your stuff safely stored if you need to take a walk and have a break. They offer showers and snack options for when you need some brain food. The prices are quite affordable too – you may get 5 hours of undisturbed work time for about $20, or a full day in your internet café office for $30 (From 2 PM until 10 AM the next day).

4. A Hidden Gem – Tamahan Ryokan in the Middle of Kyoto

Tamahan is a rare find: an authentic, traditional ryokan located on what may be the most peaceful lane in urban Kyoto. Found on Ishibei-koji, one of the loveliest pedestrian-only lanes in Japan, Tamahan Ryokan is a hidden oasis in the middle of a bustling city. Forget traffic noise and the busy city life, without having to travel anywhere at all. This traditional ryokan is hidden in the corner of the Southern Higashiyama district in Kyoto. This traditional inn doesn’t have a hot spring for your afternoon baths (you can find plenty of onsens nearby in Kyoto !), but it does have beautiful, spacious rooms with traditional Japanese furnishing and a lovely garden to write in.

5. Famous Writer’s Spirit – Hiiragiya Ryokan in Kyoto

Do you want to experience a place that inspired Nobel Prize-winning writer Yasunori Kawabata to create his masterpieces? Hiiragaya in Kyoto can give you that opportunity – and you may even use the very writing desk Kawabata-san wrote on! This ryokan has been around for over 200 years, and it’s a place that glows with historical significance. It’s composed of a traditional wing and a new wing with sleek, modern rooms. With 28 rooms, each quarter is unique and features a special selection of natural building materials. Best of all, Hiiragiya has a beautiful Japanese garden that’s just too inspiring to pass the opportunity to whip out a notebook or a laptop and write!

This over 200 years old Ryokan has been a host to members of the Imperial family, as well as other world-renowned Japanese men and women, including a Nobel-winning author.

6. Rest in Tradition – Tazawa Onsen Masuya Ryokan in Aoki

Relax, bathe, and write in a lovely traditional Japanese inn in the heart of Aoki and only 30 minutes away from JR Ueda Station. With its very own indoor and outdoor onsen facilities, Masuya Ryokan is a beautiful 20-room inn, with breath-taking, authentic Japanese furnishing, and great service. This traditional ryokan gives you comfortable lodging, a chance to wear a yukata (found in every guest room), a relaxing hot bath, and a game of table tennis to play in between your writing sessions!

This ryokan is located near two popular hot springs in Aoki, the Tazawa Onsen, and Kutsukake Onsen.

7. Rustic Wonderland – Villa Rusutsu near Lake Toya in Hokkaido

If you find yourself on the northern island of Hokkaido, and especially if you’re staying in Villa Rusutsu , you know you’re in a full-blown winter wonderland. This beautiful rustic hotel and ski resort has everything you need to forget about your daily troubles and explore your creativity in writing . With a booking, you get your wooden cottage equipped with amenities like a fireplace, very comfy furniture (along with beds, rooms are equipped with living room furniture such as coffee tables, sofas, armchairs, and even recliners), free Wi-Fi, and access to a beautiful restaurant that’s just perfect for an afternoon writing session.

This property is composed of 9 cabin lodges and is located a mere kilometer away from the famous Rusutsu ski resort.

8. Dream Drive Camper Vans

Adventurers who can’t sit still and stay in one place, you don’t have to settle for anything less than perfect on your trip to Japan! If you can’t seem to enjoy one place for a long time, rent yourself a camper van and travel all around the land of the rising sun. Dream Drive offers just that – two well-equipped camper options to take you on a road trip. With safe roads and plenty of high-quality roadside stops (way better than the truck stops you’re imagining!), Japan is the perfect place to explore on the road. If you rent from a company like Dream Drive, your camper will come equipped with a semi-double mattress, a propane stove, a small folding table, and chairs (good enough to write on!), and a sub-battery system to charge your phone and laptop.

Off you go (to Japan)

I hope that this post has given you enough information and inspiration to find the perfect spot for your writerly pursuits in Japan. I gave my best to feature places in all the most popular tourist spots in the land of the rising sun. Next up, you may want to explore a list of the top manga publishers in the US .

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School of Humanities and Sciences

Be exposed to a variety of perspectives in Japanese language, culture, and history through training in writing and communication, literature, and civilization.

What You'll Study

The mission of the undergraduate program in Japanese is to expose students to a variety of perspectives in Japanese language, culture, and history by providing students with training in writing and communication, literature, and civilization. Emphasis in classes is on developing powers of critical thinking and expression that will serve students well no matter what their ultimate career goals are. The program prepares students for diverse professions and enterprises, including business, government service, and academia.

To major in Japanese, students may declare under East Asian Studies with a subplan in Japanese. Students may also get a minor in East Asian Studies with a subplan in Japanese.

To learn more, visit East Asian Languages and Cultures

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The 10 Best Creative Writing MFA Programs in the US

The talent is there. 

But the next generation of great American writers needs a collegial place to hone their craft. 

They need a place to explore the writer’s role in a wider community. 

They really need guidance about how and when to publish. 

All these things can be found in a solid Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing degree program. This degree offers access to mentors, to colleagues, and to a future in the writing world. 

A good MFA program gives new writers a precious few years to focus completely on their work, an ideal space away from the noise and pressure of the fast-paced modern world. 

We’ve found ten of the best ones, all of which provide the support, the creative stimulation, and the tranquility necessary to foster a mature writer.

We looked at graduate departments from all regions, public and private, all sizes, searching for the ten most inspiring Creative Writing MFA programs. 

Each of these ten institutions has assembled stellar faculties, developed student-focused paths of study, and provide robust support for writers accepted into their degree programs. 

To be considered for inclusion in this list, these MFA programs all must be fully-funded degrees, as recognized by Read The Workshop .

Creative Writing education has broadened and expanded over recent years, and no single method or plan fits for all students. 

Today, MFA programs across the country give budding short story writers and poets a variety of options for study. For future novelists, screenwriters – even viral bloggers – the search for the perfect setting for their next phase of development starts with these outstanding institutions, all of which have developed thoughtful and particular approaches to study.

So where will the next Salinger scribble his stories on the steps of the student center, or the next Angelou reading her poems in the local bookstore’s student-run poetry night? At one of these ten programs.

Here are 10 of the best creative writing MFA programs in the US.

University of Oregon (Eugene, OR)

Starting off the list is one of the oldest and most venerated Creative Writing programs in the country, the MFA at the University of Oregon. 

Longtime mentor, teacher, and award-winning poet Garrett Hongo directs the program, modeling its studio-based approach to one-on-one instruction in the English college system. 

Oregon’s MFA embraces its reputation for rigor. Besides attending workshops and tutorials, students take classes in more formal poetics and literature.  

A classic college town, Eugene provides an ideal backdrop for the writers’ community within Oregon’s MFA students and faculty.  

Tsunami Books , a local bookseller with national caché, hosts student-run readings featuring writers from the program. 

Graduates garner an impressive range of critical acclaim; Yale Younger Poet winner Brigit Pegeen Kelly, Cave Canem Prize winner and Guggenheim fellow Major Jackson, and PEN-Hemingway Award winner Chang-Rae Lee are noteworthy alumni. 

With its appealing setting and impressive reputation, Oregon’s MFA program attracts top writers as visiting faculty, including recent guests Elizabeth McCracken, David Mura, and Li-young Lee.

The individual approach defines the Oregon MFA experience; a key feature of the program’s first year is the customized reading list each MFA student creates with their faculty guide. 

Weekly meetings focus not only on the student’s writing, but also on the extended discovery of voice through directed reading. 

Accepting only ten new students a year—five in poetry and five in fiction— the University of Oregon’s MFA ensures a close-knit community with plenty of individual coaching and guidance.

Cornell University (Ithaca, NY)

Cornell University’s MFA program takes the long view on life as a writer, incorporating practical editorial training and teaching experience into its two-year program.

Incoming MFA students choose their own faculty committee of at least two faculty members, providing consistent advice as they move through a mixture of workshop and literature classes. 

Students in the program’s first year benefit from editorial training as readers and editors for Epoch , the program’s prestigious literary journal.

Teaching experience grounds the Cornell program. MFA students design and teach writing-centered undergraduate seminars on a variety of topics, and they remain in Ithaca during the summer to teach in programs for undergraduates. 

Cornell even allows MFA graduates to stay on as lecturers at Cornell for a period of time while they are on the job search. Cornell also offers a joint MFA/Ph.D. program through the Creative Writing and English departments.

Endowments fund several acclaimed reading series, drawing internationally known authors to campus for workshops and work sessions with MFA students. 

Recent visiting readers include Salman Rushdie, Sandra Cisneros, Billy Collins, Margaret Atwood, Ada Limón, and others. 

Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ)

Arizona State’s MFA in Creative Writing spans three years, giving students ample time to practice their craft, develop a voice, and begin to find a place in the post-graduation literary world. 

Coursework balances writing and literature classes equally, with courses in craft and one-on-one mentoring alongside courses in literature, theory, or even electives in topics like fine press printing, bookmaking, or publishing. 

While students follow a path in either poetry or fiction, they are encouraged to take courses across the genres.

Teaching is also a focus in Arizona State’s MFA program, with funding coming from teaching assistantships in the school’s English department. Other exciting teaching opportunities include teaching abroad in locations around the world, funded through grants and internships.

The Virginia C. Piper Center for Creative Writing, affiliated with the program, offers Arizona State MFA students professional development in formal and informal ways. 

The Distinguished Writers Series and Desert Nights, Rising Stars Conference bring world-class writers to campus, allowing students to interact with some of the greatest in the profession. Acclaimed writer and poet Alberto Ríos directs the Piper Center.

Arizona State transitions students to the world after graduation through internships with publishers like Four Way Books. 

Its commitment to the student experience and its history of producing acclaimed writers—recent examples include Tayari Jones (Oprah’s Book Club, 2018; Women’s Prize for Fiction, 2019), Venita Blackburn ( Prairie Schooner Book Prize, 2018), and Hugh Martin ( Iowa Review Jeff Sharlet Award for Veterans)—make Arizona State University’s MFA a consistent leader among degree programs.

University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX)

The University of Texas at Austin’s MFA program, the Michener Center for Writers, maintains one of the most vibrant, exciting, active literary faculties of any MFA program.

Denis Johnson D.A. Powell, Geoff Dyer, Natasha Trethewey, Margot Livesey, Ben Fountain: the list of recent guest faculty boasts some of the biggest names in current literature.

This three-year program fully funds candidates without teaching fellowships or assistantships; the goal is for students to focus entirely on their writing. 

More genre tracks at the Michener Center mean students can choose two focus areas, a primary and secondary, from Fiction, Poetry, Screenwriting, and Playwriting.

The Michener Center for Writers plays a prominent role in contemporary writing of all kinds. 

The hip, student-edited Bat City Review accepts work of all genres, visual art, cross genres, collaborative, and experimental pieces.  

Recent events for illustrious alumni include New Yorker publications, an Oprah Book Club selection, a screenwriting prize, and a 2021 Pulitzer (for visiting faculty member Mitchell Jackson). 

In this program, students are right in the middle of all the action of contemporary American literature.

Washington University in St. Louis (St. Louis, MO)

The MFA in Creative Writing at Washington University in St. Louis is a program on the move: applicants have almost doubled here in the last five years. 

Maybe this sudden growth of interest comes from recent rising star alumni on the literary scene, like Paul Tran, Miranda Popkey, and National Book Award winner Justin Phillip Reed.

Or maybe it’s the high profile Washington University’s MFA program commands, with its rotating faculty post through the Hurst Visiting Professor program and its active distinguished reader series. 

Superstar figures like Alison Bechdel and George Saunders have recently held visiting professorships, maintaining an energetic atmosphere program-wide.

Washington University’s MFA program sustains a reputation for the quality of the mentorship experience. 

With only five new students in each genre annually, MFA candidates form close cohorts among their peers and enjoy attentive support and mentorship from an engaged and vigorous faculty. 

Three genre tracks are available to students: fiction, poetry, and the increasingly relevant and popular creative nonfiction.

Another attractive feature of this program: first-year students are fully funded, but not expected to take on a teaching role until their second year. 

A generous stipend, coupled with St. Louis’s low cost of living, gives MFA candidates at Washington University the space to develop in a low-stress but stimulating creative environment.

Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)

It’s one of the first and biggest choices students face when choosing an MFA program: two-year or three-year? 

Indiana University makes a compelling case for its three-year program, in which the third year of support allows students an extended period of time to focus on the thesis, usually a novel or book-length collection.

One of the older programs on the list, Indiana’s MFA dates back to 1948. 

Its past instructors and alumni read like the index to an American Literature textbook. 

How many places can you take classes in the same place Robert Frost once taught, not to mention the program that granted its first creative writing Master’s degree to David Wagoner? Even today, the program’s integrity and reputation draw faculty like Ross Gay and Kevin Young.

Indiana’s Creative Writing program houses two more literary institutions, the Indiana Review, and the Indiana University Writers’ Conference. 

Students make up the editorial staff of this lauded literary magazine, in some cases for course credit or a stipend. An MFA candidate serves each year as assistant director of the much-celebrated and highly attended conference . 

These two facets of Indiana’s program give graduate students access to visiting writers, professional experience, and a taste of the writing life beyond academia.

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI)

The University of Michigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program cultivates its students with a combination of workshop-driven course work and vigorous programming on and off-campus. Inventive new voices in fiction and poetry consistently emerge from this two-year program.

The campus hosts multiple readings, events, and contests, anchored by the Zell Visiting Writers Series. The Hopgood Awards offer annual prize money to Michigan creative writing students . 

The department cultivates relationships with organizations and events around Detroit, so whether it’s introducing writers at Literati bookstore or organizing writing retreats in conjunction with local arts organizations, MFA candidates find opportunities to cultivate a community role and public persona as a writer.

What happens after graduation tells the big story of this program. Michigan produces heavy hitters in the literary world, like Celeste Ng, Jesmyn Ward, Elizabeth Kostova, Nate Marshall, Paisley Rekdal, and Laura Kasischke. 

Their alumni place their works with venerable houses like Penguin and Harper Collins, longtime literary favorites Graywolf and Copper Canyon, and the new vanguard like McSweeney’s, Fence, and Ugly Duckling Presse.

University of Minnesota (Minneapolis, MN)

Structure combined with personal attention and mentorship characterizes the University of Minnesota’s Creative Writing MFA, starting with its unique program requirements. 

In addition to course work and a final thesis, Minnesota’s MFA candidates assemble a book list of personally significant works on literary craft, compose a long-form essay on their writing process, and defend their thesis works with reading in front of an audience.

Literary journal Great River Review and events like the First Book reading series and Mill City Reading series do their part to expand the student experience beyond the focus on the internal. 

The Edelstein-Keller Visiting Writer Series draws exceptional, culturally relevant writers like Chuck Klosterman and Claudia Rankine for readings and student conversations. 

Writer and retired University of Minnesota instructor Charles Baxter established the program’s Hunger Relief benefit , aiding Minnesota’s Second Harvest Heartland organization. 

Emblematic of the program’s vision of the writer in service to humanity, this annual contest and reading bring together distinguished writers, students, faculty, and community members in favor of a greater goal.

Brown University (Providence, RI)

One of the top institutions on any list, Brown University features an elegantly-constructed Literary Arts Program, with students choosing one workshop and one elective per semester. 

The electives can be taken from any department at Brown; especially popular choices include Studio Art and other coursework through the affiliated Rhode Island School of Design. The final semester consists of thesis construction under the supervision of the candidate’s faculty advisor.

Brown is the only MFA program to feature, in addition to poetry and fiction tracks, the Digital/Cross Disciplinary track . 

This track attracts multidisciplinary writers who need the support offered by Brown’s collaboration among music, visual art, computer science, theater and performance studies, and other departments. 

The interaction with the Rhode Island School of Design also allows those artists interested in new forms of media to explore and develop their practice, inventing new forms of art and communication.

Brown’s Literary Arts Program focuses on creating an atmosphere where students can refine their artistic visions, supported by like-minded faculty who provide the time and materials necessary to innovate. 

Not only has the program produced trailblazing writers like Percival Everett and Otessa Moshfegh, but works composed by alumni incorporating dance, music, media, and theater have been performed around the world, from the stage at Kennedy Center to National Public Radio.

University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA)

When most people hear “MFA in Creative Writing,” it’s the Iowa Writers’ Workshop they imagine. 

The informal name of the University of Iowa’s Program in Creative Writing, the Iowa Writers’ Workshop was the first to offer an MFA, back in 1936. 

One of the first diplomas went to renowned writer Wallace Stegner, who later founded the MFA program at Stanford.

 It’s hard to argue with seventeen Pulitzer Prize winners and six U.S. Poets Laureate. The Iowa Writers’ Workshop is the root system of the MFA tree.

The two-year program balances writing courses with coursework in other graduate departments at the university. In addition to the book-length thesis, a written exam is part of the student’s last semester.

Because the program represents the quintessential idea of a writing program, it attracts its faculty positions, reading series, events, and workshops the brightest lights of the literary world. 

The program’s flagship literary magazine, the Iowa Review , is a lofty goal for writers at all stages of their career. 

At the Writers’ Workshop, tracks include not only fiction, poetry, playwriting, and nonfiction, but also Spanish creative writing and literary translation. Their reading series in association with Prairie Lights bookstore streams online and is heard around the world.

Iowa’s program came into being in answer to the central question posed to each one of these schools: can writing be taught? 

The answer for a group of intrepid, creative souls in 1936 was, actually, “maybe not.” 

But they believed it could be cultivated; each one of these institutions proves it can be, in many ways, for those willing to commit the time and imagination.

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Earn an MFA in Creative Writing Online

• $637/credit (48 credits total)
• Transfer up to 12 graduate credits
• 100% online – no residency required
• Four fiction genres to choose from
• Career-focused certificate included
• No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required

Online MFA in Creative Writing Program Overview

Share your story with the world and let the power of storytelling take your career to new heights with an online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing . As one of the only programs available that encourages a focus on genre fiction, our online MFA lets you hone your craft in an area specific to your strengths and interests. You'll also learn about the business side of creative writing, preparing you to market your work in the real world.

While most MFA programs require a residency, Southern New Hampshire University's online MFA in Creative Writing can be completed entirely online, with no travel necessary.

“Traditional MFA programs, whether full-time or low residency, are out of reach for many writers,” said Paul Witcover , associate dean of creative writing. “The SNHU online MFA was designed to make the MFA experience accessible to all fiction writers, opening the door to diverse voices excluded for too long from the literary conversation. Our program is dedicated to giving writers the tools to succeed on the page and beyond it.”

Graduates leave the program with a completed and revised novel in one of our four offered genres: Contemporary, Young Adult, Romance and Speculative. With the included certificates in either online teaching of writing or professional writing , you'll have the skills to support your writing career, no matter where it takes you.

.st0{fill:#21386D;} What You'll Learn

• The business and technical sides of professional writing
• How to navigate the publishing ecosystem, identify agents and editors, and market your work to appeal to decision-makers
• Using social media to gain a following and build your brand
• How to teach writing in a classroom setting

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } How You'll Learn

At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.

The Value of an Online MFA

Emily Jones ’20 embraced a transformational experience through the online MFA in Creative Writing program, which supported her in taking her writing career to the next level. “I can now say, without even a hint of imposter syndrome, that I am a writer,” said Jones. “And that is because of Southern New Hampshire University.”

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors made a median annual salary of $69,510 in 2021, while editors made $63,350. 1

“Our mission is to give students a degree and associated practical skills they can use to forge successful pathways in academia, business, or by blazing their own career trail,” said Paul Witcover , associate dean of creative writing.

Earning one of the included certificates in online teaching of writing or professional writing will also be an invaluable addition to your resume for part-time, full-time and freelance jobs in a variety of fields, including:

• Higher education. Instruct writing courses in higher education settings. In 2021, postsecondary teachers made a median annual wage of $79,640, and you can expect to see a 12% growth in available positions through 2031, according to the BLS. 1
• Advertising. Use your storytelling skills in a way that influences consumer action. As a copywriter, you could find yourself doing any number of writing projects from crafting emails and ads to writing entire commercials.
• Marketing. If you're more comfortable with long-form prose, many businesses have invested in content writers who create quality content such as blog posts, ebooks and podcasts to attract and retain customers.
• Entertainment. Good at building suspense or setting up punchlines? From movies and plays to comedy and podcasts, being a good storyteller and writer is important to finding success in the entertainment industry.
• History. Every person's life has a plot, but it takes writers like you to tell their stories in a compelling way. Help readers relive the experiences of historic figures and pop culture icons as a biographer.

Higher Education

Instruct writing courses in higher education at a college or university, either in-person or online.

Advertising

Influence consumer action through copywriting, from print ads to digital advertising and broadcast commercials.

Create written content such as blog posts, ebooks and podcasts to attract and retain customers.

Entertainment

From movies and plays to comedy and podcasts, writers often find success in the entertainment industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts favorable job growth in postsecondary education. And while statistics are not available for all job settings mentioned above, the BLS reports the following:

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Job Growth

The BLS predicts an 8% growth in available postsecondary teaching positions through 2032. 1

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Potential Salary

Writers and authors made a median annual salary of $73,150 in 2022, while editors made $73,080 and postsecondary teachers made $80,840. 1

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

Start Your Journey Toward an Online MFA in Creative Writing

If you're looking to earn your Master of Fine Arts online, you've found the right program. Even though there are no residency requirements, you'll still interact frequently with other students and faculty members in asynchronous discussions, critique workshops and within our online writer’s community, where students come together to share industry news, extend writing tips and develop critique partnerships.

"I liked MFA-514 (Advanced Studies in Genre Literature) best," said student Jamilla Geter . "It was a great look into the different genres. It really helped me narrow down what genre I wanted to write in."

"Though it was not writing exactly, its connection to it – especially in our digital world – was made clear almost immediately," she said. "Writing is not just providing content of value to your readers, but also creating avenues of access so those readers can find your content. This course helped me to understand that and to learn how I can create those avenues."

Besides allowing you to focus on your own creative interests, part of our 48-credit online MFA curriculum requires you to choose from 2 certificate offerings designed to round out your education and better prepare you for a multitude of writing-related careers.

The first choice is a Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching of Writing , which is tailored to those who see themselves teaching in an online classroom setting as a supplement to their writing careers. Students practice approaches to editing and coaching, learning how to establish a virtual instructor presence and cultivate methods for supporting and engaging students within online writing communities.

Learn more about the online teaching of writing graduate certificate .

Students can also choose the Graduate Certificate in Professional Writing , which highlights the technical and business opportunities available to writers. Students will develop a range of skills, such as copywriting, social media, marketing principles and/or content generation, learning many of the freelancing skills integral to today’s project-driven economy.

Learn more about the professional writing graduate certificate .

All of our courses are taught by accomplished authors and industry professionals who know both the craft and business of creative writing. They will work closely with you to develop both your creative and professional skill set.

"All instructors within my program were extremely knowledgeable and helpful," Warden said. "I learned a lot about the different career paths my instructors chose. ... The course instruction, along with their anecdotal experiences, helped in offering knowledge in different areas of our field.

MFA Program Thesis

The thesis for the Online MFA in Creative Writing is required to be a novel of at least 50,000 words in one of the four genres the program offers: Contemporary, Young Adult, Romance, and Speculative.

Every Southern New Hampshire University online MFA student who graduates from the program will do so with a revised novel manuscript in their chosen genre, which is completed in a three-course thesis series. Throughout your tenure in the program, you can either work on a singular idea that you will develop during the three thesis courses, or you can begin a new project for your thesis. You can also combine elements of the four genres offered in the program for your thesis. For example, your thesis might be a YA Speculative Fiction novel.

"My three thesis classes for the MFA degree were the most helpful," said Kathleen Harris '21 . "I was actually writing a book as my thesis, so it was both enjoyable and advantageous for the degree. And it was the end of a very long milestone of accomplishments."

Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type   PC (Windows OS)   Apple (Mac OS)   Operating System  Currently supported operating system from Microsoft.   Currently supported operating system from Apple.  Memory (RAM)  8GB or higher  8GB or higher  Hard Drive  100GB or higher  100GB or higher  Antivirus Software  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  SNHU Purchase Programs  Visit Dell   Visit Apple   Internet/ Bandwidth  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  Notes:   Laptop or desktop?   Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.  Note:   Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.  Office 365 Pro Plus  is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for  Microsoft 365 plans  for business, education and government.  Antivirus software:  Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.  if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); University Accreditation

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. We offer a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional Costs: Course Materials ($ varies by course). Foundational courses may be required based on your undergraduate course history, which may result in additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Hone Your Craft in the Capital City

For more than 30 years, writers have come to American University to develop their work and exchange ideas in the District’s only creative writing MFA program. Our graduate workshops provide a rigorous yet supportive environment where students explore a range of approaches to the art and craft of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.

As an MFA student at American, you are free to pursue a single genre or explore several. You will acquire a deeper understanding of your own work and hone your skills in a collaborative setting.

A Program of Study That Gets Results

This two-year, 36-credit-hour MFA program integrates writing, literary journalism, translation, and the study of literature to prepare students for a range of career possibilities. Write, give feedback, and receive guidance from a close-knit community of respectful peers and faculty. In the MFA program, you'll find lawyers, military veterans, musicians, teachers, and business executives who are passionate about the written word.

Connect with accomplished professors and the resources you need to reach your goal. Our faculty members have been featured in a variety of media and publications including the New Yorker , the New York Times , National Public Radio, Bill Moyers & Co., and the Washington Post.

Prominent Authors Dedicated to Your Success

Our faculty of award-winning poets, novelists, translators, and nonfiction writers will help you help you hone your craft and pursue your career as a writer. You will receive instruction and guidance from successful authors published by university presses and major publishers, including Houghton Mifflin, Scribner, Vintage Books, Viking Press, and WW Norton. Our active and engaged faculty members are regularly featured in top media outlets such as The New York Times, New Yorker, Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, and New Republic ; in literary journals like Kenyon Review, Ploughshares, and Shenandoah ; and on television and radio.

A City For Writers

Living and learning in the nation's capital provides numerous benefits for MFA students. We partner with organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts, Library of Congress, 826DC, Writopia Labs, and Folger Shakespeare Library to facilitate opportunities for our students.

Our students have recently published books with WW Norton, Copper Canyon, University of Wisconsin Press, and MIT Press. They have been featured on This American Life , Poets & Writers , in Creative Nonfiction , Psychology Today , and more.

We Know Success

97% of graduates are employed, in grad school, or both 6 months after graduation.

Our alumni have gone on to work for organizations including:

• Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington
• EEO ClassIn
• Fulbright Association
• Goodwin University
• PEN/Faulkner Foundation
• Shout Mouse Press
• Street Sense Media
• The Building People
• W. W. Norton & Company, Inc

Publications

Folio is a nationally recognized literary journal sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences at American University in Washington, DC. Since 1984, we have published original creative work by both new and established authors. Past issues have included work by Michael Reid Busk, Billy Collins, William Stafford, and Bruce Weigl, and interviews with Michael Cunningham, Charles Baxter, Amy Bloom, Ann Beattie, and Walter Kirn. We look for well-crafted poetry and prose that is bold and memorable.

News & Notes

Writers Series Brings Leading Authors and Thinkers to Campus this Fall

Recent award-winning publications by our MFA alumni :

• Valzhyna Mort won the 2021 International Griffin Prize for her third poetry collection, Music for the Dead and Resurrected (FSG, 2020), which was named one of the best poetry books of 2020 by The New York Times.
• Field Study by Chet’la Sebree won the 2020 Academy of American Poets James Laughlin Award; Mistress  won the 2018 New Issues Poetry Prize.
• "The Niece" by Yohanca Delgado was selected for the Distinguished Stories list in Best American Short Stories 2020 .
• Trouble Sleeping  by Abdul Ali won the 2014 New Issues Poetry Prize.
• Daydreamers by  Jonathan Harper was named a Kirkus Indie Books of the Month Selection.

Rachel Louise Snyder recounts how her mother’s death left her unmoored and untoward in her new memoir .

Kyle Dargan served as editor for The Memory Librarian: And Other Stories of Dirty Computer  with Janelle Monáe.

Dolen Perkins-Valdez (Literature) won the 2023 NAACP Image Award for fiction for her most recent novel, Take My Hand . 

Ralvell Rogers MFA, Creative Writing

More about ralvell.

MFA Creative Writing candidate Ralvell Rogers is making his mark on the literary world.

My time at AU has been brilliant in the fact that I've already learned much about what it means to be a Writer with a capital "W" and more importantly, a literary scholar. Though there is an obvious focus on our course work, it's been made clear to me that our work isn't exactly all that matters in the classroom. We are continuously connecting our work in class to the lives that we live on a daily basis and the world that we all live in, and I think that is very important for writers and entrepreneurs in the publishing sector because we are essentially the historians of our respective generations.

He is the author of The Kansas City Boys Choir: Providing Hope for Tomorrow , which has been endorsed by luminaries Kevin Powell, G.S. Griffin, and Congressman Emanual Cleaver II. Ralvell has also established his own publishing company, Ambitious Stories, LLC, out of Kansas City, MO. He founded it earlier this year to focus on "often unheard, yet riveting and inspiring stories from the heart."

Valzhyna Mort MFA Creative Writing

More about valzhyna.

Alumna Valzhyna Mort has gained international acclaim for her third poetry collection, Music for the Dead and Resurrected (FSG, 2020), which won the 2021 International Griffin Prize and was named one of the best poetry books of 2020 by the New York Times . Publishers Weekly called this work in their starred review, "poems of reclamation and resurrection; to live in them is to confront the hard work of witness." The New Yorker wrote in its review, "Memory, metaphor, and myth intermingle to sometimes nightmarish effect in this collection by a Belarus-born poet. Mort excavates the individual and communal traumas wrought by a violent and repressive national history, and calls herself 'a test-child exposed to the burning reactor of my grandmother’s memory.'" Mort teaches poetry, literature, and translation at Cornell University.

Look inside the Creative Writing MFA

For more than 40 years, writers have come to American University to develop their work and exchange ideas in the District’s only creative writing MFA program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for a merit award.

The application deadline is February 1. All applications are automatically considered for merit awards. After February 1, the program continues to consider applications, but cannot guarantee those applicants will be considered for merit awards.

What is the MFA thesis?

The required MFA thesis consists of an original, book-length manuscript. It may be a novel, a novella, a memoir or collection of stories, creative nonfiction, or poems. The thesis is due approximately a month before the end of the student's final semester.

How long does it take to earn the MFA degree at American University?

Most students complete the 36-credit degree in 2 years. Full-time study is 9 credits (3 classes) per semester. Others pursue their degree part-time, taking 1-2 classes per semester as best fits their schedules. All workshops, and many literature courses, are offered at night, so that students with full-time jobs can still complete their coursework.

What does the admissions committee look for in an applicant's writing sample?

The committee regards the writing sample as the most important part of the application. It's therefore important that you pay close attention to the manuscript guidelines (see below). Send what you feel is your strongest work that shows your demonstrated talent. It is not important to the committee whether or not work has been previously published.

Those submitting applications in poetry should send no more than 12 poems or 15 pages (with no more than one new or continuing poem per page). If submitting fiction/nonfiction, please submit 15-25 pages. While the catalog calls for a 25-page writing sample, we value quality over quantity. We are interested in seeing only your very best work, which can consist of one or more stories or works of creative nonfiction or an excerpt from a novel. If you send an excerpt from a novel, please include a brief description of the work as a whole.

Still have questions? Email [email protected] .

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15 Best Creative Writing MFA Programs in 2024

May 15, 2024

Whether you studied at a top creative writing university or are a high school dropout who will one day become a bestselling author , you may be considering an MFA in Creative Writing. But is a writing MFA genuinely worth the time and potential costs? How do you know which program will best nurture your writing? If you’re considering an MFA, this article walks you through the best full-time, low residency, and online Creative Writing MFA programs in the United States.

What are the best Creative Writing MFA programs?

Before we get into the meat and potatoes of this article, let’s start with the basics. What is an MFA, anyway?

A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a graduate degree that usually takes from two to three years to complete. Applications typically require a sample portfolio, usually 10-20 pages (and sometimes up to 30-40) of your best writing. Moreover, you can receive an MFA in a particular genre, such as Fiction or Poetry, or more broadly in Creative Writing. However, if you take the latter approach, you often have the opportunity to specialize in a single genre.

Wondering what actually goes on in a creative writing MFA beyond inspiring award-winning books and internet memes ? You enroll in workshops where you get feedback on your creative writing from your peers and a faculty member. You enroll in seminars where you get a foundation of theory and techniques. Then, you finish the degree with a thesis project. Thesis projects are typically a body of polished, publishable-quality creative work in your genre—fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.

Why should I get an MFA in Creative Writing?

You don’t need an MFA to be a writer. Just look at Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison or bestselling novelist Emily St. John Mandel.

Nonetheless, there are plenty of reasons you might still want to get a creative writing MFA. The first is, unfortunately, prestige. An MFA from a top program can help you stand out in a notoriously competitive industry to be published.

The second reason: time. Many MFA programs give you protected writing time, deadlines, and maybe even a (dainty) salary.

Third, an MFA in Creative Writing is a terminal degree. This means that this degree allows you to teach writing at the university level, especially after you publish a book.

Fourth: resources. MFA programs are often staffed by brilliant, award-winning writers; offer lecture series, volunteer opportunities, and teaching positions; and run their own (usually prestigious) literary magazines. Such resources provide you with the knowledge and insight you’ll need to navigate the literary and publishing world on your own post-graduation.

But above all, the biggest reason to pursue an MFA is the community it brings you. You get to meet other writers—and share feedback, advice, and moral support—in relationships that can last for decades.

Types of Creative Writing MFA Programs

Here are the different types of programs to consider, depending on your needs:

Fully-Funded Full-Time Programs

These programs offer full-tuition scholarships and sweeten the deal by actually paying you to attend them.

• Pros: You’re paid to write (and teach).
• Cons: Uprooting your entire life to move somewhere possibly very cold.

Full-Time MFA Programs

These programs include attending in-person classes and paying tuition (though many offer need-based and merit scholarships).

• Pros: Lots of top-notch non-funded programs have more assets to attract world-class faculty and guests.
• Cons: It’s an investment that might not pay itself back.

Low-Residency MFA Programs

Low-residency programs usually meet biannually for short sessions. They also offer one-on-one support throughout the year. These MFAs are more independent, preparing you for what the writing life is actually like.

• Pros: No major life changes required. Cons: Less time dedicated to writing and less time to build relationships.

Online MFA Programs

Held 100% online. These programs have high acceptance rates and no residency requirement. That means zero travel or moving expenses.

• Pros: No major life changes required.
• Cons: These MFAs have less name recognition.

The Top 15 Creative Writing MFA Programs Ranked by Category

The following programs are selected for their balance of high funding, impressive return on investment, stellar faculty, major journal publications , and impressive alums.

FULLY FUNDED MFA PROGRAMS

1) johns hopkins university , mfa in fiction/poetry.

This two-year program offers an incredibly generous funding package: $39,000 teaching fellowships each year. Not to mention, it offers that sweet, sweet health insurance, mind-boggling faculty, and the option to apply for a lecture position after graduation. Many grads publish their first book within three years (nice). No nonfiction MFA (boo).

• Location: Baltimore, MD
• Incoming class size: 8 students (4 per genre)
• Admissions rate: 4-8%
• Alumni: Chimamanda Adichie, Jeffrey Blitz, Wes Craven, Louise Erdrich, Porochista Khakpour, Phillis Levin, ZZ Packer, Tom Sleigh, Elizabeth Spires, Rosanna Warren

2) University of Texas, James Michener Center

The only MFA that offers full and equal funding for every writer. It’s three years long, offers a generous yearly stipend of $30k, and provides full tuition plus a health insurance stipend. Fiction, poetry, playwriting, and screenwriting concentrations are available. The Michener Center is also unique because you study a primary genre and a secondary genre, and also get $4,000 for the summer.

• Location : Austin, TX
• Incoming class size : 12 students
• Acceptance rate: a bone-chilling less-than-1% in fiction; 2-3% in other genres
• Alumni: Fiona McFarlane, Brian McGreevy, Karan Mahajan, Alix Ohlin, Kevin Powers, Lara Prescott, Roger Reeves, Maria Reva, Domenica Ruta, Sam Sax, Joseph Skibell, Dominic Smith

3) University of Iowa

The Iowa Writers’ Workshop is a 2-year program on a residency model for fiction and poetry. This means there are low requirements, and lots of time to write groundbreaking novels or play pool at the local bar. All students receive full funding, including tuition, a living stipend, and subsidized health insurance. The Translation MFA , co-founded by Gayatri Chakravorti Spivak, is also two years long but with more intensive coursework. The Nonfiction Writing Program is a prestigious three-year MFA program and is also intensive.

• Incoming class size: 25 each for poetry and fiction; 10-12 for nonfiction and translation.
• Acceptance rate: 2.7-3.7%
• Fantastic Alumni: Raymond Carver, Flannery O’Connor, Sandra Cisneros, Joy Harjo, Garth Greenwell, Kiley Reid, Brandon Taylor, Eula Biss, Yiyun Li, Jennifer Croft

Best MFA Creative Writing Programs (Continued) 

4) university of michigan.

Anne Carson famously lives in Ann Arbor, as do the MFA students in UMichigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program. This is a big university town, which is less damaging to your social life. Plus, there’s lots to do when you have a $25,000 stipend, summer funding, and health care.

This is a 2-3-year program in either fiction or poetry, with an impressive reputation. They also have a demonstrated commitment to “ push back against the darkness of intolerance and injustice ” and have outreach programs in the community.

• Location: Ann Arbor, MI
• Incoming class size: 18 (9 in each genre)
• Acceptance rate: 2%
• Alumni: Brit Bennett, Vievee Francis, Airea D. Matthews, Celeste Ng, Chigozie Obioma, Jia Tolentino, Jesmyn Ward

5) Brown University

Brown offers an edgy, well-funded program in a place that only occasionally dips into arctic temperatures. All students are fully funded for 2 years, which includes tuition remission and a $32k yearly stipend. Students also get summer funding and—you guessed it—that sweet, sweet health insurance.

In the Brown Literary Arts MFA, students take only one workshop and one elective per semester. It’s also the only program in the country to feature a Digital/Cross Disciplinary Track.  Fiction and Poetry Tracks are offered as well.

• Location: Providence, RI
• Incoming class size: 12-13
• Acceptance rate: “highly selective”
• Alumni: Edwidge Danticat, Jaimy Gordon, Gayl Jones, Ben Lerner, Joanna Scott, Kevin Young, Ottessa Moshfegh

6) University of Arizona

This 3-year program with fiction, poetry, and nonfiction tracks has many attractive qualities. It’s in “ the lushest desert in the world, ” and was recently ranked #4 in creative writing programs, and #2 in Nonfiction. You can take classes in multiple genres, and in fact, are encouraged to do so. Plus, Arizona’s dry heat is good for arthritis.

This notoriously supportive program is fully funded. Moreover, teaching assistantships that provide a salary, health insurance, and tuition waiver are offered to all students. Tucson is home to a hopping literary scene, so it’s also possible to volunteer at multiple literary organizations and even do supported research at the US-Mexico Border.

• Location: Tucson, AZ
• Incoming class size: usually 6
• Acceptance rate: 1.2% (a refreshingly specific number after Brown’s evasiveness)
• Alumni: Francisco Cantú, Jos Charles, Tony Hoagland, Nancy Mairs, Richard Russo, Richard Siken, Aisha Sabatini Sloan, David Foster Wallace

7) Arizona State University 

With concentrations in fiction and poetry, Arizona State is a three-year funded program in arthritis-friendly dry heat. It offers small class sizes, individual mentorships, and one of the most impressive faculty rosters in the game. Moreover, it encourages cross-genre study.

Funding-wise, everyone has the option to take on a teaching assistantship position, which provides a tuition waiver, health insurance, and a yearly stipend of $25k. Other opportunities for financial support exist as well.

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Incoming class size: 8-10
• Acceptance rate: 3% (sigh)
• Alumni: Tayari Jones, Venita Blackburn, Dorothy Chan, Adrienne Celt, Dana Diehl, Matthew Gavin Frank, Caitlin Horrocks, Allegra Hyde, Hugh Martin, Bonnie Nadzam

FULL-RESIDENCY MFAS (UNFUNDED)

8) new york university.

This two-year program is in New York City, meaning it comes with close access to literary opportunities and hot dogs. NYU also has one of the most accomplished faculty lists anywhere. Students have large cohorts (more potential friends!) and have a penchant for winning top literary prizes. Concentrations in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction are available.

• Location: New York, NY
• Incoming class size: ~60; 20-30 students accepted for each genre
• Acceptance rate: 6-9%
• Alumni: Nick Flynn, Nell Freudenberger, Aracelis Girmay, Mitchell S. Jackson, Tyehimba Jess, John Keene, Raven Leilani, Robin Coste Lewis, Ada Limón, Ocean Vuong

9) Columbia University

Another 2-3 year private MFA program with drool-worthy permanent and visiting faculty. Columbia offers courses in fiction, poetry, translation, and nonfiction. Beyond the Ivy League education, Columbia offers close access to agents, and its students have a high record of bestsellers. Finally, teaching positions and fellowships are available to help offset the high tuition.

• Incoming class size: 110
• Acceptance rate: not publicized (boo)
• Alumni: Alexandra Kleeman, Rachel Kushner, Claudia Rankine, Rick Moody, Sigrid Nunez, Tracy K. Smith, Emma Cline, Adam Wilson, Marie Howe, Mary Jo Bang

10) Sarah Lawrence 

Sarah Lawrence offers a concentration in speculative fiction in addition to the average fiction, poetry, and nonfiction choices. Moreover, they encourage cross-genre exploration. With intimate class sizes, this program is unique because it offers biweekly one-on-one conferences with its stunning faculty. It also has a notoriously supportive atmosphere, and many teaching and funding opportunities are available.

• Location: Bronxville, NY
• Incoming class size: 30-40
• Acceptance rate: not publicized
• Alumni: Cynthia Cruz, Melissa Febos, T Kira Madden, Alex Dimitrov, Moncho Alvarado

LOW RESIDENCY

11) bennington college.

This two-year program boasts truly stellar faculty, and meets twice a year for ten days in January and June. It’s like a biannual vacation in beautiful Vermont, plus mentorship by a famous writer. The rest of the time, you’ll be spending approximately 25 hours per week on reading and writing assignments. Students have the option to concentrate in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Uniquely, they can also opt for a dual-genre focus.

The tuition is $23,468 per year, with scholarships available. Additionally, Bennington offers full-immersion teaching fellowships to MFA students, which are extremely rare in low-residency programs.

• Location: Bennington, VT
• Acceptance rate: 53%
• Incoming class: 25-35
• Alumni: Larissa Pham, Andrew Reiner, Lisa Johnson Mitchell, and others

12)  Institute for American Indian Arts

This two-year program emphasizes Native American and First Nations writing. With truly amazing faculty and visiting writers, they offer a wide range of genres, including screenwriting, poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. In addition, each student is matched with a faculty mentor who works with them one-on-one throughout the semester.

Students attend two eight-day residencies each year, in January and July, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. At $12,000 in tuition a year, it boasts being “ one of the most affordable MFA programs in the country .”

• Location: Santa Fe, NM
• Incoming class size : 21
• Alumni: Tommy Orange, Dara Yen Elerath, Kathryn Wilder

13) Vermont College of Fine Arts

VCFA is the only graduate school on this list that focuses exclusively on the fine arts. Their MFA in Writing offers concentrations in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction; they also offer an MFA in Literary Translation and one of the few MFAs in Writing for Children and Young Adults . Students meet twice a year for nine days, in January and July, either in-person or online. Here, they receive one-on-one mentorship that continues for the rest of the semester. You can also do many travel residencies in exciting (and warm) places like Cozumel.

VCFA boasts amazing faculty and visiting writers, with individualized study options and plenty of one-on-one time. Tuition for the full two-year program is approximately $54k.

• Location : Various; 2024/25 residencies are in Colorado and California
• Incoming class size: 18-25
• Acceptance rate: 63%
• Alumnx: Lauren Markham, Mary-Kim Arnold, Cassie Beasley, Kate Beasley, Julie Berry, Bridget Birdsall, Gwenda Bond, Pablo Cartaya

ONLINE MFAS

14) university of texas at el paso.

UTEP is considered the best online MFA program, and features award-winning faculty from across the globe. Accordingly, this program is geared toward serious writers who want to pursue teaching and/or publishing. Intensive workshops allow submissions in Spanish and/or English, and genres include poetry and fiction.

No residencies are required, but an optional opportunity to connect in person is available every year. This three-year program costs about $25-30k total, depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state resident.

• Location: El Paso, TX
• Acceptance rate: “highly competitive”
• Alumni: Watch alumni testimonies here

15) Bay Path University

This 2-year online, no-residency program is dedicated entirely to nonfiction. Featuring a supportive, diverse community, Bay Path offers small class sizes, close mentorship, and an optional yearly field trip to Ireland.

There are many tracks, including publishing, narrative medicine, and teaching creative writing. Moreover, core courses include memoir, narrative journalism, food/travel writing, and the personal essay. Tuition is approximately $31,000 for the entire program, with scholarships available.

• Location: Longmeadow, MA
• Incoming class size: 20
• Alumni: Read alumni testimonies here

Best MFA Creative Writing Programs — Final Thoughts

Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded, low residency, or completely online MFA program, there are plenty of incredible options available—all of which will sharpen your craft while immersing you in the vibrant literary arts community.

Hoping to prepare for your MFA in advance? You might consider checking out the following:

• Best English Programs
• Best Colleges for Creative Writing
• Writing Summer Programs
• Best Writing Competitions for High School Students

Inspired to start writing? Get your pencil ready:

• 100 Creative Writing Prompts 
• 1 00 Tone Words to Express Mood in Your Writing
• 60 Senior Project Ideas
• Common App Essay Prompts

Best MFA Creative Writing Programs – References:

• https://www.pw.org/mfa
• The Creative Writing MFA Handbook: A Guide for Prospective Graduate Students , by Tom Kealey (A&C Black 2005)
• Graduate School Admissions

Julia Conrad

With a Bachelor of Arts in English and Italian from Wesleyan University as well as MFAs in both Nonfiction Writing and Literary Translation from the University of Iowa, Julia is an experienced writer, editor, educator, and a former Fulbright Fellow. Julia’s work has been featured in  The Millions ,  Asymptote , and  The Massachusetts Review , among other publications. To read more of her work, visit  www.juliaconrad.net

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Kawasaki man arrested over malware made using generative AI

Tokyo police have arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly creating malware using generative artificial intelligence tools available for free online.

According to the police, there have been very few cases in which police took law-enforcement action over the creation of malware using generative AI technology.

Hayashi, who has admitted to the allegations, was quoted as saying that he wanted to "earn easy money" and that he thought he "could do anything" if he used AI.

Hayashi is suspected of creating the malware in March last year by combining designs of illegal malware programs obtained through the use of interactive generative AI tools.

The malware was similar to ransomware, which causes data to be encrypted on computers and held for ransom, according to the police.

As Hayashi is thought to have failed to obtain a program needed to put the malware into practical use, the police believe that the malware did not cause any damage.

Many generative AI service providers take measures so that no replies will be provided to questions that may lead to the creation of malware or other crimes. In order to evade such measures, Hayashi allegedly asked many roundabout questions.

Hayashi, a former factory worker, is not an expert on malware. He allegedly learned online how to ask AI tools questions that would elicit information on how to create malware.

Police came to suspect Hayashi of creating malware after arresting him in March this year for allegedly using fake identification to obtain a SIM card registered under someone else's name.

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Creative Nonfiction: Researching and Crafting Stories of Real Life, Revised Edition

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In this practical guidebook, Philip Gerard, author and founder of the University of North Carolina Wilmington’s MFA program in creative writing, walks through the genre of creative nonfiction—how it came to be defined and what it takes to craft a compelling, true story. Gerard combines journalistic skills with the art of storytelling in the eleven chapters covering subjects such as research, interviewing, mystery and structure, law and ethics, and revision. Writers will learn the challenges and steps to mastering the craft of creative nonfiction with Gerard’s generous instruction and advice. “The hardest part of writing creative nonfiction is that you’re stuck with what really happened—you can’t make it up,” writes Gerard. “You can be as artful as you want in the presentation, draw profound meanings out of your subject matter, but you are stuck with real people and real events. You’re stuck with stories that don’t always turn out the way you wish they had turned out.”  

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International Programs

Find me: from dinosaurs to discovery to diversity – the journey of oliver dimitri.

This story is part of a series that explores the lives and identities of international students at the University of Iowa. All stories are written by Katherine Lyu, who served as the International Student and Scholar (ISSS) peer assistant for the last two years and will graduate with a BA in English and creative writing in summer 2024.   

Oliver Dimitri recalls one of his childhood fantasies was dinosaurs, then he penned a story about a boy who befriends a velociraptor, inspired by his dinosaur fantasy. "People might compare this story to 'The Water Horse,' which is also a book turned into a film, supposedly originating from the Loch Ness monster lore. However, my tale has no historical ties; it's purely a figment of my imagination, but I cherish it that way."  

Dimitri, an undergraduate at the University of Iowa studying English and creative writing, hails from Malaysia. Like high school students worldwide, Dimitri wasn't certain about his desired field of study in college. Initially, he aspired to become a paleontologist, scouring for dinosaur fossils solo. Later, his ambitions shifted towards becoming a singer-songwriter akin to Miley Cyrus. To craft songs, he began writing lyrics, which gradually led him to poetry, and subsequently, to prose and storytelling. Proficient in English, he often conversed in the language at home with his family. Identifying also as South Indian, Tamil was frequently spoken at his household, though he remains uncertain about the exact distance of his ancestry from India, noting both his grandparents and parents were born in Malaysia.  

Perhaps the maternal cultural and environmental background plays an indispensable role in shaping one's self-perception. Dimitri credits his mother for raising him and his sister in an exceptionally nonjudgmental and open environment. For instance, discussions on identity, sexual education, or sexual identity are rare among parents and their children. Fortunately, his mother was open to such discussions. Growing up, his exposure to thought-provoking television shows like Grey's Anatomy and Ally McBeal played a significant role. These adult-themed, PG-13-rated shows often delved into sexuality, trauma, and death, providing his mother with opportunities to teach them about topics not covered in school, despite the presence of sex education classes.  

Dimitri identifies as gay. Before settling on his orientation, he was curious about bisexuality. Even in a relatively relaxed and open family setting, his mother believed in not making decisions without trying things first. She encouraged exploration before settling on any conclusions. It wasn't until last year that he fully came out, finding the experience unexpectedly liberating.  

There's often an assumption that the United States offers greater freedoms, which holds true to some extent. Before moving to the U.S., Dimitri anticipated entering a country with greater freedom of speech and openness. However, when discussing freedom and its impact on identity, Dimitri questions, "What do you consider freedom?" He indeed acknowledges the increased opportunities to discover oneself here, especially within the creative writing program, where one can openly acknowledge their sexual orientation and enjoy greater creative freedom.

"At home, I might not have had the opportunity to write a story with a gay character. I mean, you could publish it, but not necessarily promote it. You might tuck the book away on a shelf, hidden among others, making it seem less alien. That's usually how I found books with Malaysian gay protagonists. I had to search meticulously, you know, to ascertain their identity.

But here in the U.S., working within a creative writing program, collaborating with a local publisher, and having my books published here, I see it as an opportunity for people to understand my stories, not entirely mine, but my perspectives or viewpoints, because that's another reason I write.  

I feel there are certainly life-affirming books and universal stories enough to make me feel represented. Yet, sometimes, I feel underrepresented. I wish for my stories that not only represent me but also those like me. I enjoy such stories, whether they're based on culture, sexuality, or general personality."  

Dimitri’s film review website, "The Oliver Opinion," features his takes on American movies, predominantly Marvel films. He doesn't want to be just another listener; he seeks to share his perspectives with the world.  

His goal is to publish a novel. In fact, he already authored a thin booklet when he was 17, the story mentioned at the beginning about a boy and a velociraptor becoming friends. Echoing the encouragement from the writing instructors to revisit past works, Dimitri believes in revisiting that story with a fresh, more mature perspective. 

International Programs  (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.  

• International Student and Scholar Services
• international students and scholars

International Programs at the University of Iowa supports the right of all individuals to live freely and to live in peace. We condemn all acts of violence based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, and perceived national or cultural origin. In affirming its commitment to human dignity, International Programs strongly upholds the values expressed in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights .