Creative Writing (Distance) University of British Columbia

Overview

The Creative Writing (Distance) programme at the University of British Columbia provides a comprehensive graduate education for writers seeking to refine their craft within a digital studio environment. This Master of Fine Arts degree is designed to integrate seamlessly with professional and personal commitments, allowing students to remain in their local communities. By engaging in intensive workshops and multi-genre study, participants work towards achieving high levels of literary achievement.

Why Creative Writing (Distance) at the University of British Columbia?

This programme holds the distinction of being the first optional-residency MFA in Canada and remains the only full Master of Fine Arts in the country that can be completed entirely online. It is uniquely structured around a multi-genre approach, requiring students to gain proficiency in various forms of writing rather than specialising in a single area. As a fine arts programme, the curriculum prioritises the practical application of writing and creative production over traditional literary theory or historical study.

The distance-based MFA maintains the same rigorous standards and confers the exact same degree as the on-campus equivalent. Students benefit from a high graduation rate and a supportive virtual community that has been operating for over fifteen years. The flexibility of the programme is a significant strength, as it allows for part-time enrolment with a generous completion window of up to five years, making it an ideal choice for working professionals and educators.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 1389 per credit
• National fee: CAD 693 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is centred on the writing workshop, where student-created work serves as the primary text for analysis and development. Modules may include:

• Fiction
• Poetry
• Screenwriting
• Nonfiction
• Playwriting
• Writing for Youth
• Graphic Novel
• Writing for Television
• Lyric Poetry

Careers with Creative Writing (Distance)

Graduates of the programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the global cultural and communication industries. Many alumni find success as published authors, winning prestigious literary awards for their novels, poetry collections, and scripts. The MFA is considered a terminal degree, qualifying graduates to teach creative writing at the university and college level both in Canada and internationally.

Beyond traditional authorship and academia, graduates often secure positions in the professional publishing sector as book or magazine editors. The programme is particularly beneficial for established teachers looking to enhance their credentials while continuing their careers. Some students also choose to progress to further doctoral research in the United Kingdom, United States, or Australia after completing their studies.