MFA Writing Program

The MFA Writing Program is rooted in principles of critical thought, experimentation and innovation. It is designed for graduate students who wish to hone their writing skills while extending both their confidence and range in the uniquely eclectic and vibrant creative environment of CalArts. This flexible program gives writers the opportunity to work in the areas of cultural commentary, fiction, criticism, writing for performance, poetry, playwriting and writing for interactive media.

Although the MFA Writing Program covers traditional forms of literary and scholarly writing in depth, its curriculum also focuses on emerging technologies, new media, revised approaches to genre, and recent shifts in the forms and styles of writing and reading. Specifically, the program aims to address newer hybrid and experimental forms that cut across oppositional categories like "creative" and "critical," "fiction" and "non-fiction."

Students work closely with their mentors to draw on a full range of course offerings. These include classes on fundamental writing techniques and textual strategies; specialized workshops in essay writing, criticism, new fiction, poetry, screenwriting and interactive media; advanced seminars on topics in literature, criticism and cultural studies; and independent studies.

The program's weekly Wednesday night presentations feature readings and performances by visiting writers and artists and final thesis presentations by MFA candidates. Moreover, the program hosts a monthly First Tuesday Speaker Series and an annual spring showcase, where students read and/or perform their work.

To graduate, MFA writing students must meet all program and course requirements, successfully complete a thesis project and pass two faculty reviews of their overall artistic progress-once at mid-residence and again prior to graduation.

For detailed program requirements and course descriptions, see the Writing Program Website.