8 Professional Writing Master's Degree Programs

The Master of Fine Arts in Writing program offers graduate students an intimate, personalized learning experience while taking advantage of San Francisco’s vibrant, eclectic literary scene. Founded in 1986, the program is designed to instruct writers in creative techniques, nurture their individual development and vision, and help them thrive in the larger community of writers.

Write books for young readers in a two-year, low-residency program. Study any form and genre, from picture books to young adult novels, nonfiction, graphic novels, and poetry. Work one-on-one with award-winning authors.

The Master of Professional Writing (M.P.W.) program is designed for students who want to sharpen their writing skills for real-world applications. It prepares students to work across various industrie...

The Master of Writing, Editing, and Publishing program offers a comprehensive pathway for anyone interested in developing their skills across these key areas of the creative and professional industrie...

The Masters Qualifying Program (Accelerated) is designed for students who want to prepare for a master's degree but need to strengthen their academic skills first. It offers a fast-track pathway that helps students develop the necessary knowledge and confidence to succeed in postgraduate study. The program combines foundational coursework with practical learning, allowing students to build a solid base in their chosen field while gaining experience in academic writing, research, and critical thinking.

MFA program creates space for creative writers to thrive. Over four semesters plus a graduation residency, students write prolifically in their own area of concentration, explore across genres, examine the interrelatedness of the arts, gain editorial experience on a literary journal, learn about the writing business, and complete a creative thesis — all while becoming part of a lasting community.

The Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) is designed to help students prepare for entry into a master’s degree. It offers a pathway for those who may not meet the direct entry requirements but want to build their academic skills and confidence. The program includes coursework that covers essential concepts and knowledge across a range of disciplines, giving students a strong foundation for further studies. It’s flexible enough to suit a variety of backgrounds, and the focus is on supporting learners to develop their understanding and prepare for the demands of postgraduate study.