The Yale MFA Creative Writing program is one of the most prestigious and highly selective writing programs in the United States. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, the program is part of Yale University's School of Drama and offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the craft of writing, as well as the opportunity to work with some of the most accomplished writers and editors in the industry.
Program Overview
The Yale MFA Creative Writing program is a highly competitive program that accepts only a small number of students each year. The program is divided into two main areas of concentration: fiction and poetry. Students in the program take a variety of courses, including workshops, seminars, and lectures, and work closely with faculty members to develop their writing skills. The program also offers a range of electives, including courses in playwriting, screenwriting, and literary translation.
Faculty and Alumni
The Yale MFA Creative Writing program has a long history of attracting talented writers and educators to its faculty. Some of the program’s most notable faculty members include Richard Ford, Amy Hempel, and Mark Strand. The program’s alumni are also highly accomplished, with many going on to publish books and win major literary awards. Some notable alumni of the program include Jonathan Safran Foer, Nicole Krauss, and Elizabeth Alexander.
| Notable Faculty | Area of Expertise |
|---|---|
| Richard Ford | Fiction |
| Amy Hempel | Fiction |
| Mark Strand | Poetry |
Admissions and Funding
Admission to the Yale MFA Creative Writing program is highly competitive, with only a small number of students accepted each year. The program requires applicants to submit a writing sample, as well as transcripts and letters of recommendation. The program also offers a range of funding opportunities, including teaching assistantships and scholarships. Students in the program are also eligible to apply for external funding, such as the National Endowment for the Arts fellowship.
Application Process
The application process for the Yale MFA Creative Writing program typically begins in the fall, with a deadline in December or January. Applicants must submit a writing sample, as well as transcripts and letters of recommendation, through the program’s online application portal. The program also requires applicants to submit a personal statement, outlining their writing goals and motivations.
- Writing sample (20-30 pages of fiction or poetry)
- Transcripts from all previous academic institutions
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
- Personal statement (1-2 pages)
What is the average age of students in the Yale MFA Creative Writing program?
+The average age of students in the Yale MFA Creative Writing program is around 28-30 years old. However, the program accepts students of all ages, and some students may be older or younger than this average.
How long does it take to complete the Yale MFA Creative Writing program?
+The Yale MFA Creative Writing program is a two-year program, with students typically completing the program in four semesters. However, some students may take longer to complete the program, depending on their individual circumstances.
The Yale MFA Creative Writing program is a highly respected and competitive program that offers students the opportunity to develop their writing skills and work with some of the most accomplished writers and editors in the industry. With its highly selective admissions process and comprehensive curriculum, the program is designed to provide students with a rigorous and supportive environment in which to develop their writing talents.
