College of Arts and Sciences
Creative Writing (M.F.A.)
College of Arts and Sciences
Creative Writing (M.F.A.)
Earn Your M.F.A. in Creative Writing at NMSU
Turn your passion for storytelling into a profession with the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at New Mexico State University. Our nationally recognized, three-year program offers intensive training in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, blending rigorous workshops with literature courses and professional development opportunities. Here, you’ll work closely with award-winning faculty in a supportive, diverse community dedicated to helping writers thrive.
Admission Deadlines
Admit fall semesters only with a February 1 deadline.
- Total credits: 54
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing can pursue a variety of roles in the fine arts field. Common job titles include:
- Author / novelist
- Creative nonfiction writer
- Freelance writer
- Copywriter
- Creative writing instructor
- Journalist / feature writer
- Grant writer
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.F.A. in Creative Writing at NMSU?
As an MFA student in Creative Writing, you’ll spend three transformative years honing your craft through intensive writing workshops, literature seminars, and one-on-one mentorship with award-winning faculty. Your experience includes developing a book-length thesis, participating in public readings, and engaging with a vibrant literary community through events and publications.
You can also gain professional teaching experience as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, preparing you for careers in academia and beyond. With a supportive environment and opportunities to publish and network, NMSU’s MFA program offers the perfect balance of creative freedom and career preparation set against the inspiring backdrop of the Southwest.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
Students pursuing the MFA in Creative Writing devote themselves to concentrated study and development of a chosen genre: poetry or fiction.
Take classes like:
- FDMA 570 MFA Workshop
- FDMA 550 MFA Form and Technique
- FDMA 592 MFA Theory, Practice and Professionalism
- FDMA 599 MFA Thesis
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.