At a Glance
$561
Cost per Credit
48
Credit Hours
100%
Online
2 Years
Program LengthMaster of Fine Arts in Writing, MFA
Program Overview
At a Glance
$561
Cost per Credit
48
Credit Hours
100%
Online
2 Years
Program LengthWhy Study Writing?
Elevate your writing approach and practice through the online Master of Fine Arts in Writing program from Lindenwood University. The Lindenwood MFA degree online allows you to customize your higher education degree to suit your interest by declaring an emphasis or taking courses in multiple genres. We offer a flexible, extensive online MFA curriculum with a remarkable range of courses. Focus on fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry or young adult & middle-grade writing.
What You'll Learn
Your Master of Fine Arts in Writing coursework can prepare you to leverage your passion for written expression as a platform for inspiration, information, persuasion, connectivity, and much more within the broad field of writing communications. The MFA degree online program explores written expression through the three primary literary lenses, covering foundational focuses such as the following:
- Creative Writing for the MFA
- Creative Portfolio Thesis Project
- Fiction Writing Workshop
- Classic Foundational Literature: Creative Nonfiction
Career Outlook
The master’s in writing online program takes the craft and practice of writing to the next level within a number of professional roles, including Author, Journalist, Editor, Writing Professor, Content/Copy Writer, Freelance Writer, and Screenwriter. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors can earn a median annual salary of $73,690, and have the flexibility to pursue freelance or full-time roles within any number of industries that value a solid writing background.
Essential Skills & Insights
Coursework in this online MFA program covers the following:
- Advanced Writing Skills. Develop high-level writing skills in an emphasis area of your choosing.
- Instructor Feedback. Hone your writing approach with individualized mentoring throughout your program.
- Portfolio Development. Build out a writing portfolio as part of your MFA thesis project to showcase your work professionally.
- Writing Opportunities. Benefit from experiential learning experiences, including the opportunity to serve as an editorial assistant for The Lindenwood Review literary journal.
Tuition Details
The cost per credit hour for this program is $561. Besides being ranked No. 17 on Niche.com’s list of Best Value Colleges in Missouri, we build in unique benefits such as our 20 percent discount per credit hour for returning alumni pursuing their master’s degree.
Admissions Requirements
For admission to your MFA writing program, you will need to complete your online application and submit the following documents:
- Online Application
- Résumé
- Letter of intent, including a personal statement regarding your interest in the program and career goals
- For the MFA, this statement should describe why you would like to pursue the MFA degree and the role writing has played in your life
- Official undergraduate transcript(s), as well as official transcript(s) from any graduate school(s) attended with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- If GPA is lower, please discuss options with your enrollment counselor
- Creative writing sample of 7-10 pages
- NOTE: The MFA program admission is selective based on the program director’s approval of this submitted creative writing sample
TRANSFER CREDITS
Lindenwood offers a generous transfer policy of up to nine credits toward your master’s in writing online completion to further offset tuition costs. This means you can complete your degree in as few as 39 credit hours at Lindenwood—saving you time and money on your education!
Learn MoreCurriculum Overview
The MFA in Writing program offers a dynamic curriculum that can build on your bachelor’s education by enhancing your creative and professional writing skills. Online coursework is designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of all genres of writing, hone your storytelling abilities, and develop expertise in editing and publishing. Courses are taught by experienced faculty who want to help you reach the next level in your writing-focused career.
Major Coursework – 27 Credit Hours
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| IMF 50000 | MFA Lindenways | 3 |
| IMF 65000 | MFA Thesis | 6 |
Accreditation and Awards
Best Online Master’s in Creative Writing Degree Programs
Best Online Master’s Degrees in Creative Writing
Alumni Testimonial
“I really enjoyed my time at Lindenwood! The professors made personal connections with me and provided me with great experiences that prepared me for my new career in the tech field.”
– Kirsten Hawkes, 2022 Alumni
Career Opportunities
Writing Professor
Teach writing courses at colleges and universities and inspire the next generation of authors while pursuing your own writing goals.
Editor
Work for publishing houses, magazines, or literary agencies, reviewing and editing manuscripts, and providing constructive feedback to authors.
Copywriter
Write advertising copy for marketing campaigns, websites, social media, and traditional media to engage and grow audiences for all types of businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many transfer credits are accepted to the online Master of Fine Arts in writing?
The online MFA creative writing, nonfiction writing or poetry writing program at Lindenwood allows you to transfer up to 9 credits. Learn more about our transfer policy.
Are there scholarships available for the online master’s in fine arts and writing?
Yes, there are scholarships available for MFA students. Learn more about our scholarship policy by reaching out to an admissions advisor.
What is the difference between MFA and MA in writing?
An MFA in writing emphasizes further cultivation of writing craft, while an MA focuses on literary study and research. The Master of Fine Arts in Writing at Lindenwood allows students to elevate their practice in fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry or young adult & middle-grade writing.
Should writers get an MFA?
It depends. Writers do not need an MFA to write. However, an MFA can help writers hone aspects of their craft, or prepare for a specific professional role or industry in the writing field.
Can you teach writing with an MFA?
An MFA in writing can open doors to teaching college-level English composition or creative writing. However, to reach the level of professor, a PhD, along with published works, is typically required.
Is an MFA a terminal degree?
An MFA is a terminal degree in fine arts. This includes the visual arts, creative writing, graphic design, photography, filmmaking, dance, theatre, other performing arts, and can include theater management or arts administration in certain cases.
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learn moreWe are committed to helping you succeed.
Throughout each step of your online degree program, you will receive support. From enrollment and tuition planning to staying on the right track, your support team is there to ensure your success.
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