Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Our Mission
Here in Las Vegas, a world center of the hyperreal surrounded by the real of the Southwestern desert, we nurture writers committed to literary excellence. Writing for a sustainable planet requires a sustainable writing life; our fully-funded program empowers students with one-on-one mentorship, global engagement through travel and translation, and the skills to navigate the publishing landscape. Cognizant that all language engages the circuits of power, our writers make a living art through the rhythms of language and resistance.
Overview
Named one of the “Five Innovative/Unique Programs” creative writing programs by The Atlantic, the master of fine arts in creative writing is one of two programs offered by UNLV’s Creative Writing International Program with genre concentrations in fiction, literary nonfiction, and poetry. By providing an innovative curriculum and fostering an educational environment where students can perfect their art, our graduates become globally-engaged writers that demonstrate socially-engaged and active writing practices.
Outcomes
Students receive a strong theoretical foundation in their selected genre concentration in fiction, literary nonfiction, and poetry, as well as an appreciation for the art and theory across various genres, thereby expanding their creative abilities. Moreover, they develop a nuanced understanding of canonical contexts and the historical evolution of literature, which provides valuable insights into new writing. Through exposure to international writing and literary translation, students cultivate a practical appreciation for diverse linguistic traditions beyond English, enriching their creative perspectives.
A high percentage of our graduates have widely published fiction, literary nonfiction, journalism, and poetry with mainstream presses, indie presses, and nationally esteemed venues such as:
- W. W. Norton & Company
- Grove Press
- Viking
- Sarabande
- Ecco
- Soho
- The Best American Poetry
- McSweeney’s
- The New York Times
- The Los Angeles Times
Structure
Our students follow a three-year course of study that includes writing workshops, genre forms courses, literature classes, a residency abroad, completion of a literary translation, and completion of a book-length manuscript that meets the standard of publishable works. Students also have the opportunity for teacher training and practical experience in literary publishing.
In the past, our students have completed projects abroad in: Chile, Scotland, Navajo Nation, Greece, and others.
Funding
All MFA students are fully funded by UNLV and the Black Mountain Institute (BMI) for three years of study towards their degrees.
- Graduate Assistantships of $21,000/year
- Opportunities for additional funding from BMI
- In-state tuition
- Student health insurance.
Duties for the Graduate Assistantship are 20 hours per week, usually fulfilled through a combination of teaching, tutoring in the Writing Center, and working for English Department or Black Mountain Institute publications.
Our Faculty
Maile Chapman, Ph.D.
Wendy Chen, Ph.D.
Claudia Keelan
Jarret Keene, Ph.D.
Roberto Lovato
David Morris, MFA
Douglas A. Unger
The MFA Student Experience
The UNLV creative writing program offers a supportive and immersive experience to its students. From day one, students become part of a vibrant community of writers where creativity thrives and collaboration flourishes. Whether students aspire to publish their writing, pursue further study, or embark on diverse career paths within the literary world, UNLV provides the resources, support, and community they need to thrive and succeed.
Admission Requirements
- A manuscript showcasing a candidate’s talent and potential in a genre
- Fiction: 20-30 pages
- Literary nonfiction: 20-30 pages
- Poetry: 10-15 pages
- A letter of application to the Graduate Committee detailing a statement of purpose and reasons for choosing UNLV
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Two letters of recommendation
Applicants must choose the International Focus subplan, unless they have already been accepted to the Peace Corps Master's International Partnership program.
International Applicants
Each year, our program admits several international writers with high competency in writing in English that immensely contribute to our literary community. Our diverse student body fosters a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, creating a dynamic learning environment that prepares graduates for success in the global literary landscape. Furthermore, UNLV's creative writing program values inclusivity and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and life experiences to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of voices within our community.