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UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

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M.F.A. in Creative Writing

Description

An M.F.A. in creative writing prepares students who have decided to develop their particular literary skills to a higher level. By working closely with the well-published poets and writers in the Department of English, as well as with their fellow graduate students, the developing creative writers actively participate in a scholarly community that focuses on successfully learning the craft of writing. Upon completion of the degree, the successful student will have a completed manuscript ready for publication.

Minimum Total Credit Hours: 42

Course Requirements

Students with a B.A. must complete 36 hours of coursework with at least a B average, as well as 6 additional hours of thesis credit. Of the 36 hours, a minimum of 12 must be in creative writing workshops; at least 3 must be either Eng 679 or 683; and at least 9 must be in 700-level literature courses (3 before 1800 and 3 after). Eng 600 is required during the first fall semester of enrollment in full standing. Students may take up to 6 hours in related disciplines and/or directed readings. Writing instructors are required to take Eng 617: Teaching College English. Students with an M.A. or other graduate degree may be released from some coursework.

The M.F.A. thesis is a book-length manuscript of either poetry or prose. Students are to work with a committee of three faculty members, one of whom will be the student's supervisor.

Before submitting the M.F.A. thesis, each student must pass a four-hour written test on topics on literature and related fields. The exam is set by the student's M.F.A. committee.

An oral defense before the committee, lasting approximately one hour, is the final stage before the student is recommended for the degree.

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