Best Online MFA in Creative Writing Programs of 2023

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $849
Out-of-State | $849

Credits to Graduate: 36

In Albertus Magnus College's MFA in creative writing program, you can choose between a fully online master's program or a blended learning environment. This program can be completed full- or part-time. In addition to completing your coursework, you'll also build a portfolio of publishable work under the guidance of a mentor. 

To apply, you need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and to submit a 10-15 page writing sample. You need a valid ID to apply for an online degree.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $785
Out-of-State | $785

Credits to Graduate: 39

If you're an aspiring writer who hopes to apply your craft in professional settings, Bay Path University offers a no-residency MFA in creative nonfiction. The program occurs fully online, with three track requirements for you to choose from: publishing, teaching creative writing, and narrative medicine. These tracks allow for small classes and a career-focused degree program. 

You must hold a bachelor's degree, but standardized test scores are not required. Bay Path accepts applications year-round.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $223.28
Out-of-State | $533.53

Credits to Graduate: 45

Central Washington University's MA in professional and creative writing can be completed fully online or in person. You can choose a concentration in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, in which you'll also complete a final portfolio. You can also take electives, including career-focused courses on subjects like grant writing and workplace research. You need to get accepted to CWU's graduate school before you're accepted into the program.

In addition to a 7-10 page writing sample and a college transcript showing a 3.0 GPA or higher, you need three letters of recommendation to apply.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $525
Out-of-State | $525

Credits to Graduate: 36

Interested in the theory and practice of writing? The two-year master's of fine arts in creative writing at Concordia University, St. Paul, is divided into five parts: learning literary research and craft, studying literature, workshopping with your peers, and writing a supervised thesis.

Applicants must apply online and submit a writing sample and their official college transcripts.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $561
Out-of-State | $561

Credits to Graduate: 48

If you're not sure what format you want your MFA to take, Lindenwood University has you covered. Lindenwood's MFA in writing is available online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format. You'll learn from published writers in small class settings and have the opportunity to work on the campus literary review, the Lindenwood Review.

You must submit a 7-10 page writing sample and a statement of purpose along with your application. Applications are considered on a rolling basis.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $675
Out-of-State | $675

Credits to Graduate: 36

If you're interested in fiction writing and poetry, the MA in creative writing at Saint Leo University may be for you. This program is low-residence, meaning you'll spend only five days on campus per year. Saint Leo's program design is especially geared towards parents, active-duty military, and others who find relocating to campus challenging.

The most important part of your application is your creative writing sample. Applications are considered on a rolling basis.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $627
Out-of-State | $627

Credits to Graduate: 36

Southern New Hampshire University offers a fully online MA in creative writing with 24/7 access to their virtual classrooms and a schedule you set yourself. You choose one of four specially focused concentrations within your degree: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or screenwriting. 

Classes start year-round, so you may apply whenever is most convenient. To apply, you must complete a free online application and submit your undergraduate transcripts.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $359.44
Out-of-State | $884.67

Credits to Graduate: 33

The online MFA in creative writing from the University of Texas at El Paso offers courses in literature and the opportunity to complete an original thesis. It also has a distinct focus on workshops, so you can share ideas and get feedback from your peers while studying online. 

Applicants with a background in English are preferred, but all undergrad majors are considered. You must submit 8-10 poems or 20 pages of fiction along with your online application. Deadlines are firm.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $276.30
Out-of-State | $276.30

Credits to Graduate: 48

Whether you're most interested in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, the MFA in creative writing at the University of Arkansas at Monticello has course options for you. This self-paced, fully-online program encourages you to work through all three forms of writing with the help of dedicated faculty mentors.

You need to have earned an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher to be considered for admittance. With your application, you must submit a writing sample, a critical analysis essay, and a personal statement.

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $806
Out-of-State | $806

Credits to Graduate: 48

If you're looking to hone your craft as a writer and also learn more about the business side of writing, consider the master's in professional writing program at the University of Denver. You choose between an asynchronous, fully online program or a hybrid option. During your master's, you take core courses on the craft and business of writing, concentration courses, and electives. 

You can apply by submitting your undergraduate transcripts and a personal statement. The application fee is currently waived.