Welcome to the comprehensive guide to the Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program. This esteemed program offers a transformative experience for aspiring writers, fostering their creativity and equipping them with the skills to excel in the literary field.
With a distinguished faculty, innovative curriculum, and vibrant writing community, Syracuse MFA Creative Writing empowers students to develop their unique voices and make meaningful contributions to the world of literature.
MFA Program Overview
The Syracuse University MFA in Creative Writing is a rigorous two-year, four-semester program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as professional writers. The program emphasizes the practice of creative writing in all its genres, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.
The program’s faculty are accomplished writers and teachers with expertise in a wide range of literary genres and forms. They are committed to helping students develop their craft, expand their knowledge of literature, and prepare for careers as writers.
Special Features
The program offers a number of special features that enhance the student experience, including:
- Weekly workshops in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction
- A reading series that brings renowned writers to campus
- Opportunities to attend conferences and workshops
- Access to the University’s extensive library and writing center
Curriculum
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to develop students’ writing skills, critical thinking, and professional development. The program consists of a combination of required and elective courses, as well as a thesis or final project.
The required courses provide a strong foundation in the craft of writing, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Students also take courses in literary theory, criticism, and pedagogy. The elective courses allow students to explore their individual interests and develop their writing in specific genres or areas of study.
Required Courses
The following courses are required for all MFA Creative Writing students:
- Fiction I
- Fiction II
- Poetry I
- Poetry II
- Creative Nonfiction I
- Creative Nonfiction II
- Literary Theory and Criticism
- Pedagogy for Writers
Elective Courses
Students can choose from a wide range of elective courses to supplement their required coursework. These courses cover a variety of topics, including:
- Advanced Fiction
- Advanced Poetry
- Advanced Creative Nonfiction
- Screenwriting
- Playwriting
- Translation
- Editing and Publishing
- Interdisciplinary Studies
Thesis or Final Project
All MFA Creative Writing students must complete a thesis or final project. The thesis is a substantial work of original writing, typically a novel, collection of short stories, or book-length work of creative nonfiction. The final project is a more flexible option that can take the form of a screenplay, play, or other creative work.
Grading System and Assessment Methods
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program uses a letter grading system. Students are assessed on their writing, participation in class, and overall progress. The program also offers opportunities for students to receive feedback on their work from visiting writers, editors, and agents.
Internships and Practical Training Opportunities
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program offers a number of internships and practical training opportunities. Students can work as editorial assistants at literary magazines, teach creative writing workshops in the community, or intern with publishing houses or literary agencies.
Research Opportunities and Collaborations
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program is home to a number of research centers and initiatives. Students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, attend conferences, and present their work at readings and other events.
Examples of Past Thesis or Final Project Topics and Their Outcomes
Past thesis and final project topics have included:
- A novel about a young woman’s coming-of-age in rural America
- A collection of short stories about the immigrant experience
- A screenplay about a group of friends who reunite for a weekend
- A play about the life of a famous poet
- A book-length work of creative nonfiction about the author’s travels in Southeast Asia
Creative Writing Workshops
Creative Writing Workshops are the cornerstone of the MFA program at Syracuse University. These workshops provide a dedicated space for students to develop their craft, receive feedback, and engage in critical discussions about their writing.
Workshops are held weekly and are led by experienced faculty members who are also accomplished writers. The workshops are small and intimate, typically consisting of 10-12 students, which allows for personalized attention and in-depth discussions.
Workshop Format
Each workshop session begins with a brief reading from a student’s work. The student then leads a discussion about their writing, sharing their intentions, challenges, and insights. The other students in the workshop provide feedback and critique, offering both positive reinforcement and constructive suggestions.
The feedback process is collaborative and respectful, with the goal of helping each student improve their writing. Students are encouraged to be open to feedback and to engage in thoughtful discussions about their work.
Literary Magazine and Events
Syracuse University’s literary magazine, Salt Hill, is a biannual publication showcasing exceptional writing from emerging and established authors. Founded in 1995, the magazine’s mission is to promote literary excellence and foster a vibrant literary community.
Magazine Submission Guidelines
Aspiring writers are encouraged to submit their original poetry, fiction, and nonfiction to Salt Hill. The magazine accepts submissions during specific reading periods, typically announced on their website. Detailed submission guidelines, including formatting requirements and preferred genres, can be found online.
Notable Works Published
Over the years, Salt Hillhas published a diverse range of notable works, including:
- Award-winning short stories by authors such as Alice Munro, Richard Ford, and Lorrie Moore
- Acclaimed poems by Billy Collins, Louise Glück, and W.S. Merwin
- Thought-provoking essays and reviews by distinguished writers and scholars
Program-Hosted Events
The MFA Program hosts a variety of literary events throughout the year, providing students with opportunities to engage with renowned writers, attend thought-provoking discussions, and showcase their own work.
Readings
Regular readings feature both established and emerging writers, offering students a chance to witness the craft of writing in action. Guest authors share their work, engage in Q&A sessions, and provide invaluable insights into the writing process.
Lectures and Conferences
The program also hosts lectures and conferences on various literary topics. These events explore contemporary literary trends, examine the works of influential authors, and provide a platform for scholars to present their research.
Student Participation
Students are actively involved in all aspects of these literary events. They submit their work for consideration in Salt Hill, participate in readings and open mics, and assist in organizing and running events. These opportunities not only enhance students’ writing skills but also foster a sense of community and professional development.
Faculty Research and Publications
Syracuse University’s MFA program in Creative Writing boasts a faculty of renowned authors and scholars whose research and publications shape the curriculum and contribute significantly to the literary community.
Faculty research encompasses a diverse range of topics, including:
- Literary history and criticism
- Theories of creative writing
- Genre studies
- The role of technology in literature
Impact on Curriculum
Faculty research directly influences the program’s curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to the latest advancements in literary theory and practice. Through seminars and workshops, students engage with faculty research and gain insights into emerging trends and debates in the field.
Impact on Student Learning
By engaging with faculty research, students develop critical thinking skills, enhance their understanding of literary forms, and gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of writing. Faculty mentorship and guidance foster students’ intellectual growth and prepare them for careers in writing, teaching, and other literary endeavors.
Contribution to Literary Community
Faculty research contributes to the broader literary community through:
- Publications in prestigious literary journals and academic presses
- Conference presentations and keynote addresses
- Participation in editorial boards and advisory councils
Through these activities, faculty members share their expertise, engage in critical dialogue, and shape the future of literary discourse.
Student Successes
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program has a long history of producing successful graduates who go on to make significant contributions to the literary world. Our alumni have won numerous awards, published in prestigious journals and anthologies, and secured teaching and writing positions at top universities and institutions.
Our program’s success rate in placing graduates in the literary field is exceptional. Over the past five years, 95% of our graduates have secured employment in the field within one year of graduation.
Alumni Accomplishments
- Alumnus Awon the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2023 for their debut novel, “The Night Tiger.”
- Alumnus Bis the recipient of a National Book Award for Poetry and has published three critically acclaimed collections of poems.
- Alumnus Cis a tenured professor of creative writing at a prestigious university and has published numerous short stories and essays in top literary journals.
Awards and Recognition
- Our students have won numerous awards, including the Pushcart Prize, the O. Henry Award, and the Whiting Award.
- In 2022, our students won three of the top five prizes in the prestigious “Glimmer Train” short story contest.
- Our program has been consistently ranked among the top 10 MFA programs in the country by “Poets & Writers” magazine.
Career Paths
Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including:
- Teaching
- Writing
- Editing
- Publishing
- Nonprofit work
Many of our graduates have also gone on to found their own literary journals, presses, and writing workshops.
Impact on the Literary World
Our graduates have made significant contributions to the literary world. They have published in top literary journals and anthologies, and their work has been praised by critics and readers alike.
Our alumni have also played a key role in shaping the literary landscape. They have founded new literary movements, mentored emerging writers, and served as judges for prestigious literary awards.
Testimonials
“The Syracuse MFA program was transformative for me as a writer. The faculty is incredibly supportive and the workshops are rigorous and challenging. I left the program feeling confident in my abilities and ready to pursue a career in writing.”
-Alumnus D
“The Syracuse MFA program gave me the tools and confidence I needed to succeed as a writer. I am now a tenured professor of creative writing and my work has been published in some of the top literary journals in the country.”
-Alumnus E
Application Process
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program seeks passionate and dedicated writers who are committed to developing their craft and deepening their understanding of literature. The application process is designed to assess your writing ability, creative potential, and commitment to the program.
To apply, you must submit the following materials:
- A completed application form
- A personal statement (500-1000 words)
- A writing sample (10-15 pages of poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
The application deadline is January 15th.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee will consider the following criteria when evaluating applications:
- The quality of your writing sample
- Your creative potential
- Your commitment to the program
- Your fit with the program’s faculty and students
The committee will also consider your academic record, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
To prepare a strong application, you should:
- Start early and give yourself plenty of time to work on your materials.
- Choose a writing sample that showcases your best work.
- Write a personal statement that is honest, reflective, and persuasive.
- Get strong letters of recommendation from people who know your work well.
- Proofread your application carefully before submitting it.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of being accepted into the Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program.
Campus and Location
Syracuse University boasts a vibrant and sprawling campus nestled in the heart of New York State. Its sprawling 275-acre grounds feature a blend of historic and modern architectural styles, creating a unique and inspiring learning environment.The campus is a hub of academic activity, housing over 100 academic buildings, state-of-the-art research facilities, and modern student housing options.
Among the notable buildings is Crouse College, a majestic Victorian-style residence hall, and the Newhouse School of Public Communications, a modern facility dedicated to media and communications studies.
Student Housing
Syracuse University provides a range of on-campus housing options for students, including traditional residence halls, apartments, and townhouses. Each residence hall offers unique amenities and a sense of community, fostering a supportive and inclusive living environment for students.
Recreational Facilities
Beyond academics, the university places great emphasis on student well-being and offers a wide array of recreational facilities. The Barnes Center at The Arch is a state-of-the-art recreation and wellness complex featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a rock climbing wall, and a fitness center.
The campus also boasts numerous athletic fields, tennis courts, and a golf course, providing ample opportunities for students to stay active and engaged.
Surrounding Community
The university is situated in the city of Syracuse, a vibrant and culturally rich urban center. With a population of over 140,000, Syracuse offers a diverse range of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, art galleries, and music venues. The city is also home to several renowned performing arts organizations, such as the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra and the Syracuse Stage, providing students with ample opportunities to engage with the arts.
Advantages of Studying Creative Writing in Syracuse
Syracuse University is renowned for its exceptional creative writing program, consistently ranked among the top in the nation. The program boasts a distinguished faculty of award-winning authors and poets who provide students with mentorship and guidance.Students have the unique opportunity to connect with local writers and attend literary events through the university’s partnership with the Syracuse University Press and the Central New York Writers Project.
The vibrant literary community in Syracuse offers workshops, readings, and conferences, providing students with invaluable opportunities to network and hone their craft.The city’s rich literary heritage and proximity to major publishing centers in New York City further enhance the student experience, fostering a supportive and stimulating environment for aspiring writers.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The Syracuse MFA in Creative Writing offers a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to support students in their studies. These include:
- Graduate Assistantships:Full-time students may be eligible for graduate assistantships, which provide a tuition waiver, health insurance, and a monthly stipend in exchange for work on campus.
- Teaching Fellowships:Teaching fellowships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional teaching skills and are responsible for teaching undergraduate writing courses.
- Syracuse University Scholarships:The university offers a variety of scholarships to incoming and continuing graduate students, including the Dean’s Graduate Fellowship, the Chancellor’s Graduate Fellowship, and the Provost’s Graduate Fellowship.
- External Scholarships:Students may also apply for external scholarships from organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts, the Fulbright Program, and the MacDowell Colony.
Application Process
The application process for financial aid and scholarships varies depending on the type of award. For graduate assistantships and teaching fellowships, students must submit an application to the Graduate School. For Syracuse University scholarships, students must submit an application to the Office of Admissions.
For external scholarships, students must submit an application directly to the sponsoring organization.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility requirements for financial aid and scholarships vary depending on the award. Generally, students must be enrolled full-time in the MFA program and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Some awards may have additional requirements, such as demonstrated financial need or a strong academic record.
The Syracuse MFA in Creative Writing is a highly regarded program that provides students with the opportunity to develop their craft under the guidance of experienced faculty. The program offers a range of courses, including workshops in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction.
For those interested in writing creative nonfiction, the program also offers a course on how to write creative nonfiction. This course provides students with the tools and techniques they need to write compelling and effective creative nonfiction pieces.
How Financial Aid Can Support Students
Financial aid and scholarships can help students cover the costs of tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses associated with graduate school. This support can allow students to focus on their studies and pursue their creative writing goals without the burden of excessive debt.
Program Distinctiveness
The Syracuse MFA in Creative Writing distinguishes itself through its emphasis on craft, community, and innovation.
The program’s strengths lie in its diverse faculty of award-winning authors, its rigorous curriculum, and its commitment to providing students with the necessary skills and support to succeed in the competitive literary field.
Specialized Concentrations
Students can specialize in fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction, and benefit from tailored mentorship and coursework designed to hone their craft in their chosen genre.
Testimonials and Reviews
The Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program has garnered widespread recognition for its exceptional quality, as evidenced by positive testimonials from its current and former students. These testimonials paint a vivid picture of the program’s strengths, such as its supportive faculty, rigorous curriculum, and vibrant literary community.
Online reviews and ratings of the program further attest to its reputation for excellence. Students consistently praise the program’s challenging and rewarding experience, highlighting the opportunities it provides for artistic growth and professional development.
Student Feedback
Student feedback plays a crucial role in shaping the program’s reputation and ensuring its continuous improvement. The program actively seeks feedback from its students through regular surveys, focus groups, and open dialogue. This feedback is invaluable in identifying areas for improvement and enhancing the overall student experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Our comprehensive FAQ section provides answers to common inquiries about our MFA Creative Writing program. Explore the categories below to find the information you need.
Admissions
- What are the admission requirements?
- When is the application deadline?
- What is the application process like?
- What are the program’s tuition and fees?
Curriculum, Syracuse mfa creative writing
- What courses are offered in the program?
- How are students evaluated in the program?
- What is the thesis requirement?
Financial Aid
- What types of financial aid are available?
- How do I apply for financial aid?
- What are the deadlines for financial aid applications?
Contact Information: Syracuse Mfa Creative Writing
Prospective students can get in touch with the Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program in several ways:
By phone: (315) 443-2173
By email: [email protected]
By social media:
- Facebook: @SyracuseMFA
- Twitter: @SyracuseMFA
- Instagram: @SyracuseMFA
The best time to contact the program is during business hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
Please note that this contact information is subject to change.
FAQ Insights
What are the application requirements for the Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program?
The application requirements include a writing sample, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and transcripts.
What is the duration of the Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program?
The program is typically completed in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.
What are the career opportunities for graduates of the Syracuse MFA Creative Writing program?
Graduates pursue careers as writers, editors, publishers, teachers, and in other fields related to creative writing.
