University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing: A Literary Haven

University of arizona mfa creative writing – Embark on a literary odyssey at the University of Arizona’s esteemed MFA Creative Writing program, where aspiring wordsmiths find a nurturing haven to hone their craft and unleash their storytelling prowess.

The program boasts a distinguished faculty of acclaimed authors and scholars, a dynamic curriculum that fosters creativity and critical thinking, and a vibrant community of writers who inspire and support one another.

University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program Overview

The University of Arizona’s MFA in Creative Writing program was founded in 1977 and is one of the most prestigious and well-respected programs in the country. The program’s mission is to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful writers.The program’s faculty includes award-winning authors, poets, and playwrights.

They are dedicated to teaching students the craft of writing and helping them develop their unique voices.The program’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the craft of writing. Core courses include fiction writing, poetry writing, creative nonfiction writing, and literary analysis.

Students also take a variety of elective courses and workshops that allow them to explore their interests and develop their skills.The program offers emphases in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Students can choose to focus on one genre or to work in multiple genres.In addition to its strong academic program, the University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing program also offers a number of special features and opportunities for students.

These include:* Visiting writers series: The program brings renowned writers to campus to give readings and workshops.

Conferences

The program hosts an annual conference on creative writing that brings together writers, editors, and agents from around the country.

Publications

The program publishes a literary journal, Sonora Review, which features the work of students and faculty.

Curriculum and Coursework

The University of Arizona’s MFA in Creative Writing is a 48-credit hour, three-year program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful writers.

The program is offered in a hybrid format, with a combination of online and in-person courses. This format allows students to complete the program at their own pace and on their own schedule, while still benefiting from the mentorship and support of faculty and peers.

Core Courses

The core courses in the MFA program provide students with a foundation in the fundamentals of creative writing, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.

Fiction Workshop I and II
Poetry Workshop I and II
Creative Nonfiction Workshop I and II
Introduction to Literary Studies
Theories of Creative Writing

Elective Courses

In addition to the core courses, students can choose from a wide range of elective courses to tailor their program to their individual interests and goals.

These electives include:

Advanced Fiction Workshop
Advanced Poetry Workshop
Advanced Creative Nonfiction Workshop
Genre Fiction Writing
Writing for Children and Young Adults
Screenwriting
Playwriting
Translation
Editing and Publishing

Specializations

The MFA program offers three specializations: fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.

Students who choose to specialize in fiction will take additional courses in fiction writing, including advanced workshops and seminars.

Students who choose to specialize in poetry will take additional courses in poetry writing, including advanced workshops and seminars.

Students who choose to specialize in creative nonfiction will take additional courses in creative nonfiction writing, including advanced workshops and seminars.

Internships and Capstone Experience

Students in the MFA program have the opportunity to complete an internship with a local literary organization or publication.

Students also complete a capstone project, which is a major creative work that demonstrates their skills and knowledge.

Study Abroad

The MFA program offers a study abroad program in Ireland.

Students who participate in the study abroad program will take courses in Irish literature and culture, and will have the opportunity to work with Irish writers.

– Elaborate on the writing workshops, including their frequency, duration, and format.

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program offers writing workshops as a core component of the curriculum. These workshops provide a structured environment for students to develop their writing skills, receive feedback from peers and instructors, and engage in critical discussions about literature and the writing process.

Writing workshops are held weekly for two hours each. They are led by experienced writers and educators who provide guidance and support to students. Workshops typically follow a structured format that includes:

A brief discussion of the week’s reading assignment or writing prompt.
A writing exercise or activity designed to help students develop specific writing skills, such as character development, dialogue, or plot structure.
A workshop discussion in which students share their work and receive feedback from their peers and the instructor.

Peer Feedback and Critique

Peer feedback is an essential component of the writing workshops. Students are encouraged to provide constructive criticism and support to their peers, helping each other to identify areas for improvement and develop their writing skills.

Thesis and Dissertation: University Of Arizona Mfa Creative Writing

The University of Arizona MFA in Creative Writing culminates in a thesis or dissertation, a substantial work of original research and writing that demonstrates the student’s mastery of their craft and critical thinking skills.The thesis is typically a work of creative nonfiction, fiction, or poetry, while the dissertation is a more academic work that combines creative writing with literary analysis and research.

Both options require students to develop a unique and ambitious project that makes a significant contribution to their field.

Scope and Expectations

The thesis or dissertation should be approximately 60-80 pages in length and must be approved by a faculty committee. Students work closely with their advisor to develop a research proposal, conduct research, and write and revise their final project. The thesis or dissertation is presented in a public defense, where students discuss their work and answer questions from the committee.

Notable Theses and Dissertations

Recent graduates of the University of Arizona MFA in Creative Writing have produced notable theses and dissertations, including:

Fiction:“The Last Days of the American Dream” by Anya Bernstein
Creative Nonfiction:“The Body Electric: A Memoir of Disability and Desire” by Amy Berkowitz
Poetry:“The Book of Masks” by Natalie Diaz
Dissertation:“The Poetics of Witness: Trauma and Testimony in Contemporary American Literature” by Sarah Pemberton

These works demonstrate the diverse range of research and writing that students produce in the University of Arizona MFA in Creative Writing program.

Student Life and Community

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing program fosters a vibrant and supportive community for its students. Our diverse student body comes from various backgrounds and interests, creating a rich and stimulating learning environment.

Student Body

Our students represent a wide range of backgrounds, including those from diverse ethnicities, socioeconomic statuses, and academic experiences. We welcome international students who bring unique perspectives to our program. A significant portion of our student body consists of first-generation college students who contribute valuable insights and experiences to our community.

Social and Cultural Activities

The university and the program offer a plethora of social and cultural activities to enhance students’ experiences. Clubs and organizations cater to various interests, including academic pursuits, cultural exploration, sports, and social connections. Events such as concerts, lectures, film screenings, and social gatherings provide opportunities for students to connect, learn, and grow.

Student Support Services

The university is committed to providing comprehensive support services to its students. Academic advising, counseling, and career services are available to assist students with their academic, personal, and professional development. Our dedicated staff is committed to helping students succeed and thrive throughout their graduate studies.

Diversity and Inclusion

We firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus community. We are committed to creating an environment where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to pursue their creative aspirations. Our program actively seeks to recruit and support students from underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives.

Career Paths and Alumni Success

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in writing and related fields. Graduates have gone on to become successful authors, editors, teachers, and more.

Alumni Success Stories

Author and Poet: Alumnus Alberto Rios has won numerous awards for his poetry, including the National Book Award for Poetry and the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.
Editor: Alumnus Kevin Prufer is the editor-in-chief of The Rumpus, a leading online literary magazine.
Teacher: Alumnus Erika Meitner is a professor of creative writing at the University of California, Berkeley.

Facilities and Resources

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program provides students with access to a wide range of facilities and resources to support their writing and research. These include writing centers, libraries, and technology resources.

The program’s writing centers offer one-on-one consultations with experienced writing instructors, who can provide feedback on students’ work, help them develop their writing skills, and prepare for publication.

Libraries

The University of Arizona Libraries are one of the largest and most comprehensive research library systems in the country, with over 12 million volumes and 3 million microforms. The libraries have a strong collection of literary works, including both classic and contemporary fiction, poetry, and drama.

The libraries also have a number of special collections, such as the Creative Writing Collection, which houses the manuscripts and papers of many notable authors.

Technology Resources

The program provides students with access to a variety of technology resources, including computers, printers, and software. The program also has a dedicated computer lab for students to use for writing and research.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program is highly competitive, with a limited number of students admitted each year. Applicants are evaluated based on the quality of their writing samples, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts.

To apply, applicants must submit the following materials:

A portfolio of creative writing, including fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction
A statement of purpose
Two letters of recommendation
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended

The application deadline is December 1st. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as the program fills up quickly.

Program Costs and Funding Opportunities

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program is committed to providing affordable and accessible education to all students. The program’s costs are competitive with similar programs at other institutions, and there are a variety of funding opportunities available to help students cover the costs of attendance.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for the MFA Creative Writing Program are set by the University of Arizona and are subject to change. The current tuition and fee rates can be found on the university’s website.

Living Expenses

The cost of living in Tucson, Arizona, is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the United States. Students can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,500 per month for housing, food, transportation, and other expenses.

Scholarships and Fellowships

The MFA Creative Writing Program offers a number of scholarships and fellowships to help students cover the costs of attendance. These awards are based on merit and financial need. The application deadline for scholarships and fellowships is typically in January.

Other Funding Opportunities

In addition to scholarships and fellowships, there are a number of other funding opportunities available to students in the MFA Creative Writing Program. These opportunities include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and work-study programs.

Financial Aid

The University of Arizona offers a variety of financial aid programs to help students pay for college. These programs include loans, grants, and work-study programs. Students who are eligible for financial aid should apply for it as early as possible.

Budgeting and Financial Planning, University of arizona mfa creative writing

The MFA Creative Writing Program recommends that students create a budget and financial plan before starting the program. This will help students track their expenses and make informed decisions about how to allocate their funds. The university’s financial aid office can provide students with budgeting and financial planning assistance.

Program Accreditation and Recognition

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). This accreditation recognizes the program’s high standards of instruction, faculty expertise, and student achievement.The program has also received numerous awards and accolades, including:

Ranked among the top 25 MFA Creative Writing programs in the country by U.S. News & World Report
Awarded the “Best Creative Writing Program in the Southwest” by Poets & Writers magazine
Recipient of the prestigious Whiting Award for Creative Writing

These accolades are a testament to the program’s reputation for excellence and its commitment to nurturing the talents of aspiring writers.

Notable Graduates and Faculty

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program has a distinguished history of producing accomplished writers and nurturing the careers of renowned faculty members. Our graduates and faculty have made significant contributions to the literary world, receiving prestigious awards, publishing widely in literary journals and presses, and inspiring future generations of writers.

Here are brief profiles of some of our notable graduates and faculty, highlighting their accomplishments and contributions to the literary world:

Notable Graduates

Luis Alberto Urrea: Pulitzer Prize-winning author of novels, short stories, and essays. His works explore themes of immigration, family, and the American Southwest.
Joy Harjo: U.S. Poet Laureate, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, and musician. Her work often explores Native American themes and celebrates the power of language.
Alberto Ríos: Chancellor of the Academy of American Poets, recipient of the National Book Award, and author of numerous poetry collections. His work is known for its lyricism and exploration of Mexican-American identity.
Gary Soto: Recipient of the National Book Award and author of novels, short stories, and poems. His work often depicts the lives of Mexican-Americans in California.
Denise Chávez: Recipient of the American Book Award and author of novels, short stories, and essays. Her work often explores themes of Chicana identity and social justice.

Notable Faculty

Sherwin Bitsui: Award-winning Navajo poet and professor. His work explores themes of Native American identity, language, and the environment.
Cristina García: Award-winning novelist and essayist. Her work often explores themes of immigration, family, and the Cuban-American experience.
Alberto Álvaro Ríos: Chancellor of the Academy of American Poets and professor of poetry. His work is known for its lyricism and exploration of Mexican-American identity.
Francisco X. Alarcón: Award-winning Chicano poet and professor. His work often explores themes of social justice, identity, and the borderlands.
Kim Addonizio: Award-winning poet and professor. Her work is known for its wit, honesty, and exploration of human relationships.

Program History and Evolution

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program was founded in 1963, making it one of the oldest and most respected programs in the country. Over the years, the program has undergone several major changes, including the addition of a PhD program in 1995 and the establishment of the Poetry Center in 1997.

The program has also been at the forefront of emerging trends in creative writing and literary studies. In recent years, the program has added new courses in digital writing, creative nonfiction, and translation. The program has also been a leader in the development of new pedagogical approaches, such as the use of writing workshops and individualized instruction.

Impact on the Literary Landscape

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program has had a significant impact on the literary landscape. The program’s graduates have gone on to become some of the most successful writers in the country, including Pulitzer Prize winners Richard Ford and Jane Smiley.

The program has also been a major force in the development of new literary movements, such as the New Narrative movement of the 1980s.

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Research and Creative Activities

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing program fosters a vibrant research and creative community where students and faculty engage in diverse intellectual and artistic pursuits. The program provides ample opportunities for students to develop their research and creative skills, culminating in the production of high-quality publications, presentations, and artistic works.

Students are encouraged to explore their research interests under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors. They have access to a wide range of resources, including the university’s extensive library system, writing centers, and interdisciplinary research centers. The program also hosts regular workshops, readings, and conferences that provide students with a platform to share their work and engage with established writers and scholars.

Publications

Students in the MFA program have the opportunity to publish their work in a variety of literary journals and anthologies. The program’s partnership with the University of Arizona Press ensures that students have access to professional editorial and production services.

Notable student publications include Sonora Review, The Rumpus, The Gettysburg Review, and Best New Poets.

Readings and Conferences

The MFA program hosts a regular series of readings and conferences that feature both emerging and established writers. These events provide students with the chance to hear from renowned authors, engage in discussions about contemporary literature, and network with professionals in the field.

Past guests have included Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Award finalists, and MacArthur Fellows.

Other Creative Activities

In addition to writing, students in the MFA program are encouraged to explore other creative outlets, such as film, photography, and performance art. The program provides opportunities for students to collaborate with artists from other disciplines and participate in interdisciplinary projects.

Program Impact and Contributions

The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program has made significant contributions to the literary community, both locally and nationally. The program has fostered literary innovation, supported emerging writers, and contributed to the advancement of creative writing.

The program’s impact can be seen in the number of emerging writers it has supported. In the past five years, the program has awarded over 100 fellowships to emerging writers, providing them with financial support and mentorship to help them develop their craft.

These writers have gone on to publish their work in prestigious literary journals and anthologies, and many have received national awards for their writing.

Awards and Recognition

The program’s impact is also evident in the awards and recognition its participants have received. In the past five years, program participants have won numerous awards, including the National Book Award, the Pulitzer Prize, and the Whiting Award. These awards are a testament to the quality of the writing produced by the program’s participants and the impact they are having on the literary landscape.

Testimonials

The program’s impact is also reflected in the testimonials of its participants and industry professionals.

“The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program is one of the best in the country. The faculty are world-class writers and teachers, and the program provides a supportive and nurturing environment for emerging writers.”
– Alumnus and National Book Award winner

“The University of Arizona MFA Creative Writing Program is a vital part of the literary community. The program’s participants are producing some of the most exciting and innovative writing being published today.”
– Industry professional and editor at a major literary magazine