University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa - MFA Creative Writing Program Posted on April 21st
The program leading to the master of fine arts (M.F.A.) degree in creative writing is a studio/academic course of study, designed with an eye to accommodating a variety of student and faculty passions. Imaginative writers enroll in writing workshops, forms courses, and literature classes, gaining exposure to a broad range of writing models and experimenting with a variety of strategies and forms. Guided development of each writer’s talents culminates in a complete, carefully conceived final project (the thesis), typically a book-length manuscript.
Most writers focus their studies on either poetry or prose, with minor studies in one or more additional genres. Coursework is offered in digital media, nonfiction, screenwriting, and autobiography, as well as poetry and fiction. Writers may, however, choose to balance the study and practice of two or more genres throughout the degree program, bearing in mind that at least one complete project must be submitted as a thesis. The program can be completed in three intensive years; a fourth year of study, in which work on the final project is the central activity, is often elected.
The M.F.A. thesis—and its oral defense—are required of all degree candidates. While this final project is conventionally a book-length manuscript, theses that are not print-based may also be submitted. Thesis projects are prepared under direction of a thesis advisor, usually a member of the resident creative writing faculty. Candidates for the M.F.A. are examined on their final projects by a committee of five faculty members
Students in the program in creative writing give a presentation of a significant portion of their own written work produced while in residence. In this 45-minute public reading/performance, the student demonstrates the wide array of his or her work before an audience of peers, faculty, and the general public.
Program Director
Joel Brouwer
(205)348-9524
joel.brouwer@ua.edu
Staff Assistant
Carol Appling
205.348.9493
cappling@ua.edu
to inquire about the status of your application
Graduate Student Contact
Ryan Browne
(June 18, 2007— Aug 15, 2008)
205-348-8498
cwfifi@bama.ua.edu
