Creative Writing, MFA

The NEOMFA (Northeast Ohio Master of Fine Arts) program in creative writing is a consortium between the University of Akron, Cleveland State University, Kent State University, and Youngstown State University. This unique MFA program provides students with opportunities to develop their skills in writing fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and playwriting. Students have access to faculty and resources at all four NEOMFA campuses. Through extensive practice in workshops and craft and theory courses, students will develop their creative writing abilities while also studying literature and completing a relevant internship. The MFA is a terminal degree.

Admission Requirements

Students must be accepted by the Graduate School at the University of Akron or one of the other three participating universities. They must also submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of goals, and a writing portfolio to the NEOMFA, following guidelines at http://neomfa.org. The portfolio will be reviewed by an admissions committee of members from all four universities. Application materials must be submitted by January 15.

Degree Requirements

Students must complete the following courses among the participating universities by taking classes restricted to graduate students only, except as noted below:

Writing Workshops
Select 15 credits15
Craft and Theory Courses
Select nine credits (at least three and no more than six in the student's primary genre of concentration)9
Literature Courses
Select six credits6
Internship
Select three credits3
Thesis
Select six credits6
Electives
Select nine credits, up to six of which may be from advisor-approved courses not solely restricted to graduate students9
Total Hours48

Up to nine credits from previously uncompleted graduate degrees may be accepted for transfer credit in the NEOMFA program.