Overview

The Creative Writing programme at the University of Minnesota offers a comprehensive three-year journey for students dedicated to the literary arts. This Master of Fine Arts degree combines intensive graduate-level coursework in writing with deep explorations into language and literature. Participants are encouraged to expand their intellectual horizons by engaging in study within a related academic field.

The curriculum is structured to support the development of a professional writing life through rigorous practice and critical analysis. By fostering a community of artists, the department ensures that every student receives the mentorship necessary to refine their unique voice. The programme's reputation for excellence is reflected in its consistent national ranking as one of the premier destinations for creative study.

Why Creative Writing at University of Minnesota?

Choosing this institution means joining a community with a proven track record of literary success and national prestige. The programme is regularly recognised as one of the top ten creative writing environments in the United States. Students work within the historic Pillsbury Hall, benefiting from a department that prioritises equity, diversity, and the role of literature in public life.

The university provides extensive resources through the College of Liberal Arts, including dedicated career services and funding support for graduate researchers. This environment allows writers to focus entirely on their craft while gaining access to a network of accomplished faculty and peers. The long-standing history of the English department provides a stable and inspiring foundation for artistic growth.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 41512 per year
National fee: USD 41512 per year
Local fee: USD 18626 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum provides a balanced approach to creative production and academic scholarship. Modules may include:

Creative Writing
Language
Literature
Related Field Study
Advanced Writing
Graduate Research

Careers with Creative Writing

Graduates of this programme have achieved significant distinction in the literary world, securing prestigious honours such as the Whiting Award and Stegner Fellowships. The diverse skill set developed during the course prepares students for a variety of professional paths within the creative industries. Many alumni successfully transition into roles that require high-level communication and editorial expertise.

Common career destinations for former students include professional writing and editing, as well as positions in secondary and higher education. Others find rewarding opportunities in academic and arts administration, or within the evolving media landscape. The programme's strong reputation helps graduates secure competitive placements and fellowships shortly after completion.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Studies in Narrative

Theories of Film

Medieval Literatures and Cultures

Readings in Early Modern Literature and Culture

Readings in 18th Century Literature and Culture

Readings in 19th-Century Literature and Culture

Readings in 20th-Century Literature and Culture

Readings in American Minority Literature

Origins of Cultural Studies

Readings in Criticism and Theory

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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4.9/5 student rating

Credits

45 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Minneapolis, United States

Disciplines

Creative Writing View 381 other Masters in Creative Writing in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Statement of purpose: A statement no longer than 1000 words that focuses on giving the admissions committee a clear sense of your readiness for graduate work in English language and literature.

Diversity statement: The English Department at the University of Minnesota is committed to diversity and inclusion in graduate education, and in the profession of literary studies broadly.

Transcripts: Your unofficial transcript from each college or university that you have attended is required.

Writing sample.

Three letters of recommendation: Paper copies are not accepted.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

41512 USD / year

≈ 41512 USD / year
Out-of-State

41512 USD / year

≈ 41512 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18626 USD / year

≈ 18626 USD / year

Living costs

Minneapolis

United States

1130 - 2045 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Creative Writing.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Minneapolis

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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