emerson college mfa creative writing ranking

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The Creative Writers Workshop at Emerson College: A Deep Dive

By Eric Eng

Are you passionate about creative writing and considering your college options? Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop may just be the perfect fit for you.

In this article, we’ll explore why Emerson College is a standout choice for creative writing enthusiasts. We’ll also delve into its reputation and writing programs and provide insightful application tips and workshop reminders. Boost your chances of getting into the program by reading this comprehensive guide.

Is Creative Writing at Emerson College Good?

Emerson College, located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, is a renowned private college specializing in communication and the arts. With a legacy dating back to 1880, Emerson has consistently been at the forefront of education in fields like journalism, film, and, of course, creative writing.

Emerson College has earned a notable reputation in the realm of creative writing education. Its commitment to fostering creative talent is evident in its robust creative writing programs and famous alumni.

Creative Writing Programs

The institution’s Creative Writing BFA and Creative Writing MFA programs, offered through the Department of Writing, Literature & Publishing, have garnered recognition for their excellence. These programs provide students with a comprehensive foundation in writing, literature, and publishing, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in the field.

The MFA program holds a nationally ranked position in creative writing education, further attesting to its quality. This recognition reflects the program’s dedication to nurturing emerging writers and helping them achieve their literary goals.

The college also offers the Creative Writers Workshop, which is a pre-college summer program designed for high school students who are interested in developing their writing skills . It offers an intensive seminar where young writers can work on the fundamentals of creative writing through workshops and individual instruction.

Emerson College’s creative writing programs prioritize student development. This hands-on approach, coupled with a faculty of experienced writers, underscores the institution’s dedication to nurturing creative talent.

Notable Alumni

The institution boasts an impressive roster of alumni who have made their mark in the creative writing and entertainment industries.

This includes individuals like Sam Simahk, known for his work in musical theater, and Iliza Shlesinger, a prominent figure in the world of comedy and film. These success stories serve as a testament to the quality of education and mentorship provided at Emerson.

Emerson College has carved a niche for itself in the creative writing education landscape, boasting a strong academic foundation, accolades, accomplished alumni, and a genuine commitment to cultivating the next generation of creative writers. It’s a place where aspiring writers can thrive and develop their craft with confidence.

Creative Writing Workshops: What to Expect

Creative writing workshops are the creative crucibles where writers are forged, stories are sculpted, and words come alive. Here’s what you can typically expect in a creative writing workshop:

• Writing Exercises: Workshops often begin with writing exercises designed to spark creativity and generate new ideas. These exercises can vary from prompts to free-writing sessions.
• Reading and Analysis: Participants read and discuss assigned texts, which may include published works, classmates’ writing, or literary excerpts. Analyzing these texts helps writers understand various styles and techniques.
• Sharing and Discussion: Writers share their own work with the group. This sharing allows for constructive feedback and critique, a fundamental aspect of the workshop experience.
• Peer Feedback: Peer feedback is crucial in creative writing workshops. Writers provide constructive criticism to their peers, offering insights on strengths and areas for improvement. It helps writers refine their work and gain different perspectives.
• Craft Lectures: Instructors often provide lectures or discussions on various aspects of writing, such as character development, plot structure, and voice. These insights enhance writers’ understanding of the craft.
• Revision and Editing: Workshop participants revise their work based on feedback received. This iterative process helps writers polish their pieces for publication or further development.
• Genre Exploration: Workshops may focus on specific genres like fiction, poetry, nonfiction, or screenwriting. This allows writers to delve deeply into their chosen genre.
• Building Writing Community: Creative writing workshops foster a sense of community among writers. Participants support and inspire each other, creating a nurturing environment for artistic growth.

In essence, a creative writing workshop is where you hone your craft, explore your imagination, and become part of a vibrant literary community. It’s a place where words find their wings and writers find their voices.

So, whether you’re a budding wordsmith or a seasoned scribe, these workshops offer a creative haven where your stories can take flight.

The Writing Program at Emerson College

Emerson College’s Writing Program is known for its commitment to fostering strong writing skills across various disciplines. It offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for effective communication in both academic and professional settings.

This program’s foundation is built on these core pillars:

• Creative Writing Excellence: At the heart of Emerson’s Writing Program lies a deep commitment to creative writing. Students are encouraged to explore their creative voices, develop storytelling skills, and craft compelling narratives . The program offers courses in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting, providing a well-rounded creative writing experience.
• Academic Rigor: Emerson’s Writing Program upholds academic rigor. Students are challenged to refine their writing techniques, analyze literary works, and engage in critical thinking. This academic foundation enhances their ability to craft impactful narratives.
• Professional Development: Beyond creativity and academics, the program emphasizes professional development. Students learn how to navigate the publishing industry, build a writing portfolio, and prepare for careers in various writing-related fields, including journalism, editing, and publishing.

Emerson College’s Writing Program offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to writing education, preparing students to excel in various writing genres and professional contexts. Whether your passion is fiction, poetry, journalism, or any form of written expression, Emerson’s Writing Program provides a nurturing environment for your growth as a writer.

The Structure of Emerson College’s Creative Writing Workshop

Creative writing courses at Emerson College often follow a workshop structure. Let’s dive into the structure and format of this workshop.

Typical Class Size

The class size in the Creative Writers Workshop is deliberately kept small to ensure personalized attention and meaningful interactions. This smaller class size fosters a sense of community and allows instructors to engage with each student effectively. While specific numbers may vary, it’s common for workshops like this to have around 10 to 15 participants.

The workshop spans a defined period, typically lasting for several weeks or even months. High school students participating in the Pre-College Creative Writers Workshop, for example, engage in an intensive, on-campus program over four weeks, while college-level creative writing courses may follow a semester-based schedule.

Frequency of Sessions

The frequency of sessions can vary. In some cases, workshops meet several times a week, providing students with ample opportunities for in-depth exploration and feedback. Others may opt for a once-a-week format to accommodate students’ schedules. These sessions involve both in-class learning and out-of-class writing assignments.

Group Activities

Workshops often emphasize group activities such as peer critiques and group discussions. These activities enable students to receive diverse feedback, learn from each other’s perspectives, and develop their critiquing skills. Group activities are a cornerstone of the workshop, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

One-on-One Guidance

Instructors in the Creative Writers Workshop provide invaluable one-on-one guidance. This personalized attention helps students refine their writing, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and set individualized goals. Instructors act as mentors, offering constructive feedback tailored to each student’s needs.

Independent Work

Independent work is crucial in a writing workshop. Students are assigned writing exercises, projects, and readings to complete independently. This independent work allows them to practice and experiment with their craft. It also serves as the foundation for in-class discussions and critiques.

In short, Emerson’s Creative Writers Workshop strikes a harmonious balance between class size, duration, and session frequency. Its structure revolves around a combination of group activities, personalized guidance, and independent work.

Emerson College’s Creative Writing Success Stories

Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop has a rich history of nurturing emerging talent, and the success stories of past participants are both inspiring and indicative of the program’s impact. Here are a few anecdotes showcasing the achievements of alumni in creative writing.

Publication and Awards

Many alumni of the Creative Writers Workshop have gone on to publish novels, collections of poetry, and short stories. Some have received prestigious literary awards, including Pushcart Prizes and recognition from organizations like the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP).

Literary Journals

Emerson’s Creative Writing MFA program is home to two award-winning literary journals. Alumni often contribute to and edit these journals, gaining valuable editorial experience while continuing to refine their craft.

Literary Magazines

Students in Emerson’s pre-college programs, including the Creative Writers Workshop, have contributed to literary magazines like “The Paramount Palette.” These magazines provide a platform for young writers to showcase their work and connect with a wider audience.

Novel Incubator

Some workshop participants have extended their writing journey by joining programs like Grub Street’s Novel Incubator. R.J. Taylor, who received her MFA from Emerson College, has found success through such initiatives, demonstrating how the program can be a stepping stone to further opportunities.

Career in Writing and Media

Alumni have pursued careers in various writing-related fields, including journalism, screenwriting, and content creation. The workshop equips them with essential writing skills and storytelling techniques that are valuable in today’s media landscape.

Therefore, Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop has played a pivotal role in the journeys of many successful writers. The program’s combination of expert guidance, a supportive community, and opportunities for publication and recognition has propelled numerous alumni into fulfilling careers in the world of creative writing. These stories not only celebrate the achievements of past participants but also serve as a testament to the program’s effectiveness in nurturing literary talent.

Benefits of Attending Emerson College’s Creative Writing Workshop

Participating in Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop offers numerous tangible benefits:

• Skill Development: Attendees have the opportunity to enhance their writing skills, whether in fiction, creative nonfiction, or other forms of creative writing. Through workshops and individual instruction, they can refine their craft and storytelling abilities.
• Creative Exploration: The workshop encourages creative exploration and experimentation. Students can push their boundaries, explore new genres, and develop their unique voice as writers.
• Professional Guidance: Experienced instructors provide valuable guidance and feedback. They can help attendees identify their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering growth as writers.
• Portfolio Building: By creating new pieces during the workshop, participants can build a portfolio of their work. This can be beneficial for future college applications or writing pursuits.
• Networking: Interacting with fellow aspiring writers provides networking opportunities. Building connections within the writing community can be valuable for future collaborations or support.
• Confidence Boost: Successfully completing a writing workshop can boost confidence in one’s abilities. It demonstrates a commitment to the craft and the ability to accept constructive criticism.

The benefits of attending a writing workshop, such as Emerson’s, extend beyond skill development. They include personal growth, networking, and the confidence to pursue a passion for writing. Workshops offer a supportive environment for writers to thrive and evolve in their craft.

How to Apply for the Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop

Emerson College offers degree programs in creative writing, each with its own application process. But if you’re eager to join its Pre-College Creative Writers Workshop, here’s a step-by-step guide to the application process, along with essential prerequisites and tips for a successful application.

Application Procedure

• Online Application: Start by filling out the online application provided by Emerson College for the Pre-College Creative Writers Workshop. This application serves as your initial submission.
• Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable application fee of $60. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing your application.
• Application Deadline: Pay close attention to the application deadline, which may vary from year to year. Applying early is advisable, as space in the program may be limited.
• Program Selection: Select the Pre-College Creative Writers Workshop program when completing your application. This ensures that you are considered for this specific workshop.
• Rolling Admission: Emerson College typically follows rolling admission for its pre-college programs. This means that applications are reviewed as they are received, and decisions may be made on an ongoing basis. Applying early increases your chances of securing a spot.

Specific Requirements and Prerequisites

• Academic Qualifications: While specific academic prerequisites may vary, having a strong academic background and a demonstrated interest in creative writing is generally advantageous.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, you will need to submit at least two letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or individuals who can attest to your writing abilities and potential.
• Admission Essay: Craft a compelling admission essay that highlights your passion for writing and your reasons for wanting to participate in the Creative Writers Workshop.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Prepare a Strong Personal Statement : Use your personal statement to convey your passion for creative writing and why you want to participate in this workshop. Highlight any relevant experiences or achievements.
• Submit Writing Samples: If you have any previous creative writing pieces, consider submitting them as writing samples. This can showcase your talent and dedication.
• Proofread Your Application: Ensure that your application is free of errors. Carefully proofread your personal statement and any other written components.
• Apply Early: Given the rolling admission process, applying early can give you an advantage in securing a spot in the workshop.
• Follow Instructions: Pay close attention to the application instructions provided by Emerson College. Submit all required documents and information promptly.

By following these steps and tips, you can enhance your chances of a successful application to Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop.

Tips for Maximizing Your Workshop Experience

Participating in a workshop is an excellent opportunity to enhance your skills and build valuable relationships. Here are some practical tips to excel in the program and make the most of networking opportunities with your peers and instructors:

• Prepare and Be Proactive: Before the workshop, familiarize yourself with the program’s goals and curriculum. This will help you engage more effectively. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to fellow participants and instructors. Networking often starts with a friendly conversation.
• Active Listening and Participation: During workshops, actively listen to others’ ideas and provide constructive feedback. Engaging discussions can lead to meaningful connections. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your thoughts. Active participation showcases your dedication to learning.
• Seek Feedback and Advice: Approach instructors and peers for feedback on your work. Constructive criticism can help you refine your writing skills. Don’t be afraid to seek advice or guidance from experienced participants. Learning from others’ experiences can be invaluable.
• Build Genuine Relationships: Focus on building authentic connections rather than simply collecting contacts. Genuine relationships often lead to long-lasting collaborations. Attend social events or gatherings related to the workshop. These informal settings can foster deeper connections.
• Follow Up: After the workshop, follow up with your new contacts through email or social media. Express your interest in staying in touch and collaborating. Share your work and achievements with your network, keeping them updated on your writing journey.
• Stay Engaged with the Community: Join online writing communities, forums, or alumni groups associated with the workshop. These platforms offer ongoing networking opportunities. Offer support and assistance to others in your network when possible. Reciprocity strengthens relationships.
• Reflect and Adapt: Periodically reflect on your workshop experiences and assess your progress. Adapt your approach based on what works best for you. Be open to feedback and continuously refine your writing skills and networking strategies.

By following these tips, you can not only excel in the workshop but also build lasting relationships with peers and instructors, enhancing your overall learning experience. Networking and building connections are essential aspects of any educational program, and they can significantly contribute to your personal and professional growth.

Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop is a remarkable opportunity for high school students to develop their writing skills intensively. This four-week program offers a curriculum that covers the fundamentals of fiction, creative nonfiction, and personal essays, providing young writers with a solid foundation in various writing forms.

Emerson College’s commitment to fostering creativity and individual growth makes this workshop an excellent choice for young writers looking to hone their craft. It’s a unique chance to nurture your writing talents, build lasting connections with peers who share your passion, and prepare for a future in the world of literature and storytelling.

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Emerson College MA in Creative Writing

Featured programs, how much does a master’s in creative writing from emerson cost, emerson graduate tuition and fees.

Does Emerson Offer an Online MA in Creative Writing?

Emerson master’s student diversity for creative writing, male-to-female ratio.

Of the students who received their master’s degree in creative writing in 2019-2020, 70.6% of them were women. This is higher than the nationwide number of 66.6%.

Racial-Ethnic Diversity

Racial-ethnic minority graduates* made up 32.4% of the creative writing master’s degrees at Emerson in 2019-2020. This is higher than the nationwide number of 24%.

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The 10 Best Creative Writing MFA Programs in the US

The talent is there. 

But the next generation of great American writers needs a collegial place to hone their craft. 

They need a place to explore the writer’s role in a wider community. 

They really need guidance about how and when to publish. 

All these things can be found in a solid Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing degree program. This degree offers access to mentors, to colleagues, and to a future in the writing world. 

A good MFA program gives new writers a precious few years to focus completely on their work, an ideal space away from the noise and pressure of the fast-paced modern world. 

We’ve found ten of the best ones, all of which provide the support, the creative stimulation, and the tranquility necessary to foster a mature writer.

We looked at graduate departments from all regions, public and private, all sizes, searching for the ten most inspiring Creative Writing MFA programs. 

Each of these ten institutions has assembled stellar faculties, developed student-focused paths of study, and provide robust support for writers accepted into their degree programs. 

To be considered for inclusion in this list, these MFA programs all must be fully-funded degrees, as recognized by Read The Workshop .

Creative Writing education has broadened and expanded over recent years, and no single method or plan fits for all students. 

Today, MFA programs across the country give budding short story writers and poets a variety of options for study. For future novelists, screenwriters – even viral bloggers – the search for the perfect setting for their next phase of development starts with these outstanding institutions, all of which have developed thoughtful and particular approaches to study.

So where will the next Salinger scribble his stories on the steps of the student center, or the next Angelou reading her poems in the local bookstore’s student-run poetry night? At one of these ten programs.

Here are 10 of the best creative writing MFA programs in the US.

University of Oregon (Eugene, OR)

Starting off the list is one of the oldest and most venerated Creative Writing programs in the country, the MFA at the University of Oregon. 

Longtime mentor, teacher, and award-winning poet Garrett Hongo directs the program, modeling its studio-based approach to one-on-one instruction in the English college system. 

Oregon’s MFA embraces its reputation for rigor. Besides attending workshops and tutorials, students take classes in more formal poetics and literature.  

A classic college town, Eugene provides an ideal backdrop for the writers’ community within Oregon’s MFA students and faculty.  

Tsunami Books , a local bookseller with national caché, hosts student-run readings featuring writers from the program. 

Graduates garner an impressive range of critical acclaim; Yale Younger Poet winner Brigit Pegeen Kelly, Cave Canem Prize winner and Guggenheim fellow Major Jackson, and PEN-Hemingway Award winner Chang-Rae Lee are noteworthy alumni. 

With its appealing setting and impressive reputation, Oregon’s MFA program attracts top writers as visiting faculty, including recent guests Elizabeth McCracken, David Mura, and Li-young Lee.

The individual approach defines the Oregon MFA experience; a key feature of the program’s first year is the customized reading list each MFA student creates with their faculty guide. 

Weekly meetings focus not only on the student’s writing, but also on the extended discovery of voice through directed reading. 

Accepting only ten new students a year—five in poetry and five in fiction— the University of Oregon’s MFA ensures a close-knit community with plenty of individual coaching and guidance.

Cornell University (Ithaca, NY)

Cornell University’s MFA program takes the long view on life as a writer, incorporating practical editorial training and teaching experience into its two-year program.

Incoming MFA students choose their own faculty committee of at least two faculty members, providing consistent advice as they move through a mixture of workshop and literature classes. 

Students in the program’s first year benefit from editorial training as readers and editors for Epoch , the program’s prestigious literary journal.

Teaching experience grounds the Cornell program. MFA students design and teach writing-centered undergraduate seminars on a variety of topics, and they remain in Ithaca during the summer to teach in programs for undergraduates. 

Cornell even allows MFA graduates to stay on as lecturers at Cornell for a period of time while they are on the job search. Cornell also offers a joint MFA/Ph.D. program through the Creative Writing and English departments.

Endowments fund several acclaimed reading series, drawing internationally known authors to campus for workshops and work sessions with MFA students. 

Recent visiting readers include Salman Rushdie, Sandra Cisneros, Billy Collins, Margaret Atwood, Ada Limón, and others. 

Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ)

Arizona State’s MFA in Creative Writing spans three years, giving students ample time to practice their craft, develop a voice, and begin to find a place in the post-graduation literary world. 

Coursework balances writing and literature classes equally, with courses in craft and one-on-one mentoring alongside courses in literature, theory, or even electives in topics like fine press printing, bookmaking, or publishing. 

While students follow a path in either poetry or fiction, they are encouraged to take courses across the genres.

Teaching is also a focus in Arizona State’s MFA program, with funding coming from teaching assistantships in the school’s English department. Other exciting teaching opportunities include teaching abroad in locations around the world, funded through grants and internships.

The Virginia C. Piper Center for Creative Writing, affiliated with the program, offers Arizona State MFA students professional development in formal and informal ways. 

The Distinguished Writers Series and Desert Nights, Rising Stars Conference bring world-class writers to campus, allowing students to interact with some of the greatest in the profession. Acclaimed writer and poet Alberto Ríos directs the Piper Center.

Arizona State transitions students to the world after graduation through internships with publishers like Four Way Books. 

Its commitment to the student experience and its history of producing acclaimed writers—recent examples include Tayari Jones (Oprah’s Book Club, 2018; Women’s Prize for Fiction, 2019), Venita Blackburn ( Prairie Schooner Book Prize, 2018), and Hugh Martin ( Iowa Review Jeff Sharlet Award for Veterans)—make Arizona State University’s MFA a consistent leader among degree programs.

University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX)

The University of Texas at Austin’s MFA program, the Michener Center for Writers, maintains one of the most vibrant, exciting, active literary faculties of any MFA program.

Denis Johnson D.A. Powell, Geoff Dyer, Natasha Trethewey, Margot Livesey, Ben Fountain: the list of recent guest faculty boasts some of the biggest names in current literature.

This three-year program fully funds candidates without teaching fellowships or assistantships; the goal is for students to focus entirely on their writing. 

More genre tracks at the Michener Center mean students can choose two focus areas, a primary and secondary, from Fiction, Poetry, Screenwriting, and Playwriting.

The Michener Center for Writers plays a prominent role in contemporary writing of all kinds. 

The hip, student-edited Bat City Review accepts work of all genres, visual art, cross genres, collaborative, and experimental pieces.  

Recent events for illustrious alumni include New Yorker publications, an Oprah Book Club selection, a screenwriting prize, and a 2021 Pulitzer (for visiting faculty member Mitchell Jackson). 

In this program, students are right in the middle of all the action of contemporary American literature.

Washington University in St. Louis (St. Louis, MO)

The MFA in Creative Writing at Washington University in St. Louis is a program on the move: applicants have almost doubled here in the last five years. 

Maybe this sudden growth of interest comes from recent rising star alumni on the literary scene, like Paul Tran, Miranda Popkey, and National Book Award winner Justin Phillip Reed.

Or maybe it’s the high profile Washington University’s MFA program commands, with its rotating faculty post through the Hurst Visiting Professor program and its active distinguished reader series. 

Superstar figures like Alison Bechdel and George Saunders have recently held visiting professorships, maintaining an energetic atmosphere program-wide.

Washington University’s MFA program sustains a reputation for the quality of the mentorship experience. 

With only five new students in each genre annually, MFA candidates form close cohorts among their peers and enjoy attentive support and mentorship from an engaged and vigorous faculty. 

Three genre tracks are available to students: fiction, poetry, and the increasingly relevant and popular creative nonfiction.

Another attractive feature of this program: first-year students are fully funded, but not expected to take on a teaching role until their second year. 

A generous stipend, coupled with St. Louis’s low cost of living, gives MFA candidates at Washington University the space to develop in a low-stress but stimulating creative environment.

Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)

It’s one of the first and biggest choices students face when choosing an MFA program: two-year or three-year? 

Indiana University makes a compelling case for its three-year program, in which the third year of support allows students an extended period of time to focus on the thesis, usually a novel or book-length collection.

One of the older programs on the list, Indiana’s MFA dates back to 1948. 

Its past instructors and alumni read like the index to an American Literature textbook. 

How many places can you take classes in the same place Robert Frost once taught, not to mention the program that granted its first creative writing Master’s degree to David Wagoner? Even today, the program’s integrity and reputation draw faculty like Ross Gay and Kevin Young.

Indiana’s Creative Writing program houses two more literary institutions, the Indiana Review, and the Indiana University Writers’ Conference. 

Students make up the editorial staff of this lauded literary magazine, in some cases for course credit or a stipend. An MFA candidate serves each year as assistant director of the much-celebrated and highly attended conference . 

These two facets of Indiana’s program give graduate students access to visiting writers, professional experience, and a taste of the writing life beyond academia.

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI)

The University of Michigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program cultivates its students with a combination of workshop-driven course work and vigorous programming on and off-campus. Inventive new voices in fiction and poetry consistently emerge from this two-year program.

The campus hosts multiple readings, events, and contests, anchored by the Zell Visiting Writers Series. The Hopgood Awards offer annual prize money to Michigan creative writing students . 

The department cultivates relationships with organizations and events around Detroit, so whether it’s introducing writers at Literati bookstore or organizing writing retreats in conjunction with local arts organizations, MFA candidates find opportunities to cultivate a community role and public persona as a writer.

What happens after graduation tells the big story of this program. Michigan produces heavy hitters in the literary world, like Celeste Ng, Jesmyn Ward, Elizabeth Kostova, Nate Marshall, Paisley Rekdal, and Laura Kasischke. 

Their alumni place their works with venerable houses like Penguin and Harper Collins, longtime literary favorites Graywolf and Copper Canyon, and the new vanguard like McSweeney’s, Fence, and Ugly Duckling Presse.

University of Minnesota (Minneapolis, MN)

Structure combined with personal attention and mentorship characterizes the University of Minnesota’s Creative Writing MFA, starting with its unique program requirements. 

In addition to course work and a final thesis, Minnesota’s MFA candidates assemble a book list of personally significant works on literary craft, compose a long-form essay on their writing process, and defend their thesis works with reading in front of an audience.

Literary journal Great River Review and events like the First Book reading series and Mill City Reading series do their part to expand the student experience beyond the focus on the internal. 

The Edelstein-Keller Visiting Writer Series draws exceptional, culturally relevant writers like Chuck Klosterman and Claudia Rankine for readings and student conversations. 

Writer and retired University of Minnesota instructor Charles Baxter established the program’s Hunger Relief benefit , aiding Minnesota’s Second Harvest Heartland organization. 

Emblematic of the program’s vision of the writer in service to humanity, this annual contest and reading bring together distinguished writers, students, faculty, and community members in favor of a greater goal.

Brown University (Providence, RI)

One of the top institutions on any list, Brown University features an elegantly-constructed Literary Arts Program, with students choosing one workshop and one elective per semester. 

The electives can be taken from any department at Brown; especially popular choices include Studio Art and other coursework through the affiliated Rhode Island School of Design. The final semester consists of thesis construction under the supervision of the candidate’s faculty advisor.

Brown is the only MFA program to feature, in addition to poetry and fiction tracks, the Digital/Cross Disciplinary track . 

This track attracts multidisciplinary writers who need the support offered by Brown’s collaboration among music, visual art, computer science, theater and performance studies, and other departments. 

The interaction with the Rhode Island School of Design also allows those artists interested in new forms of media to explore and develop their practice, inventing new forms of art and communication.

Brown’s Literary Arts Program focuses on creating an atmosphere where students can refine their artistic visions, supported by like-minded faculty who provide the time and materials necessary to innovate. 

Not only has the program produced trailblazing writers like Percival Everett and Otessa Moshfegh, but works composed by alumni incorporating dance, music, media, and theater have been performed around the world, from the stage at Kennedy Center to National Public Radio.

University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA)

When most people hear “MFA in Creative Writing,” it’s the Iowa Writers’ Workshop they imagine. 

The informal name of the University of Iowa’s Program in Creative Writing, the Iowa Writers’ Workshop was the first to offer an MFA, back in 1936. 

One of the first diplomas went to renowned writer Wallace Stegner, who later founded the MFA program at Stanford.

 It’s hard to argue with seventeen Pulitzer Prize winners and six U.S. Poets Laureate. The Iowa Writers’ Workshop is the root system of the MFA tree.

The two-year program balances writing courses with coursework in other graduate departments at the university. In addition to the book-length thesis, a written exam is part of the student’s last semester.

Because the program represents the quintessential idea of a writing program, it attracts its faculty positions, reading series, events, and workshops the brightest lights of the literary world. 

The program’s flagship literary magazine, the Iowa Review , is a lofty goal for writers at all stages of their career. 

At the Writers’ Workshop, tracks include not only fiction, poetry, playwriting, and nonfiction, but also Spanish creative writing and literary translation. Their reading series in association with Prairie Lights bookstore streams online and is heard around the world.

Iowa’s program came into being in answer to the central question posed to each one of these schools: can writing be taught? 

The answer for a group of intrepid, creative souls in 1936 was, actually, “maybe not.” 

But they believed it could be cultivated; each one of these institutions proves it can be, in many ways, for those willing to commit the time and imagination.

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Day in the Life of a Creative Writing MFA Student

If you’re considering grad school, you’ve likely asked yourself a dozen questions before even deciding whether or not to apply. And yet, even after narrowing down where you want to go and study, applying, and being accepted (congrats!), you probably still have questions about what to expect once you get there.

While I can’t answer every question, I can share my experience as a student in Emerson’s Creative Writing MFA program.

Daily Routine

As a full-time student with a part-time job, my schedule mostly depends upon whether I have class. Luckily, the majority of classes for grad students are in the evening to accommodate those who work 9 to 5. Those evening classes allow you to keep your daytime routine pretty consistent.

I usually start my mornings around 7 a.m. with a (few) cup(s) of coffee. While I drink my coffee, I complete my morning pages – at least three pages of stream-of-consciousness freewriting. This practice is a great way to warm up your brain from The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. After my morning pages, I usually read an easy article to help me transition into my work.

Daily Routine: Days Without Class

On my days without class I structure my day around any major writing I need to do. Sometimes that’s working on my latest fiction piece for workshop, and sometimes it’s a paper for another course. I like to schedule my work shifts for the days that I have class. That way, I have more uninterrupted time to write fiction.

Once I feel like I’ve made some decent writing progress, I’ll usually try to take a break. Depending on the day, I’ll squeeze in a workout, do some meal prep, or run errands. Then I’ll try to tackle any assignments or required readings, which can range from academic papers to a whole novel. Personally, as much as I love my classes at Emerson, the days I spend reading and writing are the ones that really make me feel like I’m living my dream!

Daily Routine: Days With Class

After my usual morning routine, I’m out of the apartment around 8 a.m.. To get to Emerson from the North End, I’ll either take the Green Line or walk about a mile. My first stop is usually the Writing, Literature, and Publishing graduate student lounge in the Ansin Building. Here I can set up shop to work for a few hours with one of my favorite views (and the free coffee doesn’t hurt either).

From there, my day pretty much revolves around classes. My first semester at Emerson, I took a course called Teaching College Composition. Emerson’s   MFA in Crea tive Writing and MA in Publishing & Writing programs both offer grad students the opportunity to gain training and experience in teaching writing as instructors for the Writing Studies Program – from noon to 1:45. While this is a fairly uncommon class time for most graduate courses (you might find a section or two available), I did enjoy having extra evenings free!

After finishing up my work hours or afternoon class, I’ll head to the Common for some outdoor time and to eat lunch (weather permitting) or scope out a reservable private study room on Spacebook so that I can hang out on/near campus until my evening class from 6-9:45 p.m. Usually I’ll use this time to finish up any last preparations for class, like a final read-through or comments on a classmate’s workshop piece or reviewing an assigned reading for the upcoming session. On the rare days I don’t have homework left to do, I might risk a trip back home, especially if I haven’t made dinner to eat during a break in my evening class. Spending more than twelve hours on campus can be a lot!

Into the Evening

Perhaps the most important element of the MFA in Creative Writing is the workshop, which typically meets from 6-9:45 p.m. once a week. The main focus of any workshop is reading and critiquing your and your classmates’ original work, be it poetry, fiction, or nonfiction, and most professors will include some kind of lessons or readings on craft as they see fit. While it can certainly be daunting to submit your creative work to a room full of strangers, I’ve found the comments and questions from my classmates and professors at Emerson to be incredibly insightful and beneficial to my work – even if/when I didn’t like hearing them.

Though the class itself can feel long as it progresses into the evening hours, I almost always leave with a renewed sense of energy about my work.

Making Time for Fun

As often as possible, I try to get together with a few of my friends in my cohort to catch up on what we’re working on, how classes are going, or anything else that we can particularly relate to as a group of writers.

Between graduate classes meeting once a week, or even online-only, and the solitary nature of writing, I found that this really helped me feel excited about my progress and connected to a community of creatives, even if it costs a few dollars or hours of sleep. (Check out this helpful list of free or discounted activities for students for some ideas!)

Otherwise, the most I can manage after class ends is summarizing important notes, jotting down a fleeting story idea, or catching a mindless TV episode before bed! Inevitably though, deadlines stack up, and I’ll find myself burning the midnight oil on an assignment at the last minute during the tougher parts of the semester – it can be really easy to de-prioritize your other activities when that happens, but don’t be like me! Taking care of yourself is hugely important to working sustainably on your writing. I try to make sure I take at least one day 100% “off” per week – meaning no academic assignments, reading, or writing – to give myself a break.

Hopefully this glimpse into a day in my life as a Creative Writing grad student at Emerson has inspired you to look into our many grad programs , or at least given you an idea of what to expect if you’re already headed to Boston ! If it sounds like Emerson is the grad school for you, feel free to reach out to our graduate admission team for more information.

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Ashling Chupak

Ashling Chupak is the Graduate Admissions Writing Assistant and a fiction writer in her second year as a Creative Writing MFA candidate at Emerson College.

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Hello, Thank for this interesting information about Day in life of a creative Writing.at Emerson School. I confirm here I really learn a lot. It’s give me to take time and think seriously before started my application. See you soon

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This is an attempt at creating an objective ranking of graduate creative writing programs.

For further and more detailed information on how the scores are generated see the methodology page.

Lists of authors without graduate creative writing degrees or whose degree status is unknown are available. Send questions, comments and corrections to [email protected] .

Disclaimer: No endorsement of these ratings should be implied by the writers and writing programs listed on this site, or by the editors and publishers of Best American Short Stories , Best American Essays , Best American Poetry , The O. Henry Prize Stories and The Pushcart Prize Anthology .

Emerson Names Two Distinguished Professors

Two Emerson professors – one familiar face and one newcomer to the College – have been named Distinguished Professors of Creative Writing.

Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Paul Harding will begin teaching in the Writing, Literature and Publishing (WLP) Department in September, and National Book Award finalist Jerald Walker , a WLP professor since 2010, has been named a Distinguished Professor.

“The title of Distinguished Professor is a way that the College can recognize the most extraordinary achievements of our faculty,” Interim Provost Jan Roberts-Breslin said.

Paul Harding is the author of three novels: the Pulitzer Prize-winning Tinkers, Enon, and This Other Eden , which was a finalist for the National Book Award, shortlisted for the Booker Prize, and one of President Obama’s favorite books of 2023.

He has received fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and PEN America. Before coming to Emerson, he taught at Harvard College, the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, the Michener Center for Writers, and Stony Brook University.

“I am simply thrilled to be joining the Emerson community, which I’ve admired and had the highest regard for for decades,” Harding said. “I cannot wait to get back to Boston and begin teaching and getting to know all my new colleagues and the students.”

Jerald Walker is the author of The World in Flames: A Black Boyhood in a White Supremacist Doomsday Cult ; Street Shadows: A Memoir of Race, Rebellion, and Redemption , winner of the PEN/New England Award for Nonfiction; and, How to Make a Slave and Other Essays , a finalist for the National Book Award and winner of the Massachusetts Book Award .

Read: Walker on Writing Essays, Receiving Rejection, and Looking for Humor Everywhere

His work has appeared in publications such as The Harvard Review, Creative Nonfiction, The Iowa Review, The New York Times , the Washington Post , and Mother Jones , and has been widely anthologized, including five times in The Best American Essays series. In addition to being awarded a Pushcart Prize, Walker has received fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the James A. Michener Foundation. His next book, Magically Black and Other Essays , will be published by HarperCollins in September.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition from President Bernhardt,” Walker said. “It’s gratifying to work at an institution whose administration celebrates faculty accomplishments. Interim Provost Jan Roberts-Breslin, for instance, has been a long-time champion of creative, scholarly, and teaching successes, so I’d like to take this opportunity to thank her along with the president.”

News & Stories

Faculty , Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing , School of the Arts , Writing Literature and Publishing

Erin Clossey View All

2024’s Top Film Schools in North America

Each year, Variety curates a list of the top film school programs across North America. From universities that are as old (or older) than the moving picture itself, to budding programs, the schools on this list collectively offer an impressive array of educators, facilities and lessons to be learned. Countless alumni from these programs have become legendary names in the industry. They have created award-winning films and television series, enacted change both on-screen and behind-the-scenes, and often give back to the institutions that fostered their talent.

Belmont University

Nashville, TN

Collaboration between departments is key to the success of Belmont’s students in the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business. “Our faculty are career industry professionals, who’ve worked in all forms, from indie features to the biggest studio productions,” Jay New, the school’s co-chair of motion pictures, production and screenwriting, tells Variety. He adds that students can pick up a camera on day one. “Our freshman students are required to start off with a course called cinematic storytelling, where they have a camera in hand,” he says. “They make four productions that semester. And then it just keeps going from there.” Besides state-of-the-art equipment and advantageous curriculum, students benefit from networking opportunities provided by dedicated staff. “We have students who have very seamlessly moved into the industry for internships and other opportunities in L.A. and New York, Atlanta — and obviously, Nashville as well,” says New.

Biola University

La Mirada, CA

Tucked in a suburb of Los Angeles, Biola’s Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts offers students not only the technical skills to forge a successful career but also qualities such as teamwork, reliability and follow-through, says Dean Tom Halleen. “It’s an understanding that preparing students for the world of media in general isn’t just about having excellent technical skills.” The school features all the high-end equipment and instruction that students need to create films, and in 2026, it will open an expanded studio, growing Biola’s existing production facilities. “The building has been envisioned to accommodate the incredible rate of growth that we have,” says Halleen. “The idea behind the building is to house the full production workflow, from ideation to pre-production, production and post-production all the way through final presentation in our theater.” The school is also working in partnership with a “recently announced AI lab within our Crowell School of Business,” says Halleen.

Boston University

Boston University will renovate a second 2,500-square-foot production space this summer, which will operate in addition to the school’s current production studio. BU is also moving toward the use of LED to replace traditional lighting, which is more environmentally conscious and safer for students. “We are immensely proud of all aspects of our program, both in the classroom and beyond — the renaissance we are experiencing in curriculum growth and faculty expansion and the ongoing success of our students in the field,” says Paul Schneider, chair of the department of film and television. Current faculty members include cinematographer Tim Palmer (“Killing Eve,” “Bad Sisters”) and director and producer Amy Geller (“The Guys Next Door,” “The Rabbi Goes West”) among many other industry professionals.

California State University, Northridge

Northridge, CA

With a campus near studio lots, Cal State Northridge students are in the heart of the industry. The school has a strong documentary department and under new documentary head Judy Korin (“Adrift,” “The Great Hack”), student documentaries have garnered national attention with finalists for the Student Academy Awards and PBS Fine Cut Festival of Films. Dave Caplan (“The Connors”) is heading up a new CSUN Cinema and Television Arts mentorship program for six underserved screenwriting students that places them with working showrunners to develop their own TV scripts. Talicia Raggs (writer/producer on “NCIS: New Orleans”) and music producer/engineer/scoring mixer Michael Stern (“Iron Man 2”) are new faculty members.

Chapman University

The Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman is not only one of the most technically advanced institutions in the country — sporting multiple soundstages, editing and mixing suites plus an LED wall — it is also one of the most productive with 50 undergrad thesis films being produced this year. Yet, according to dean Stephen Galloway, what makes it truly unique is the community built between students during their four years. “We bake that in from day one. Students are working together, forming teams, not being dictatorial,” Galloway says. “We think of this as a village of filmmakers, where everybody knows each other and works together and builds those relationships that you take out into the industry.” 

Community College of Aurora

Formerly known as Colorado Film School, the Cinematic Arts department at the Community College of Aurora is expanding into virtual production, immersive entertainment and storytelling for video games. The average class size is around 13, and the curriculum is based on experiential learning, so students and the school have established educational partnerships with interactive game companies, national advertising agencies, production companies, and film festivals. The school offers six certificates and six three-year associate’s degrees so students can finish their program and enter the industry earlier than traditional programs. The price of the degree is also much less than most bachelor’s degree programs, allowing aspiring filmmakers to graduate without heavy debt.

Columbia College Chicago

Chicago, IL

Undergraduate students can take advantage of the school’s Semester in L.A. program, which introduces students to people working in the entertainment industry and L.A. internship opportunities. “At Columbia College Chicago, we focus on bringing your vision to the screen, but also on developing close working relationships with people you trust. Our classes provide the skills needed to work in any aspect of the industry you are interested in, and our vibrant community helps you build creative partnerships that start at school but continue and grow as you enter the industry,” says Eric Scholl, interim co-chair of the cinema and television arts department.

Columbia University's School of the Arts

New York, NY

In the 2023-2024 school year, the film MFA program welcomed its first class to the new writing for film and television concentration, while undergrads can work on graduate films and take advantage of the Columbia Undergraduate Film Productions group. New faculty include veteran film and TV editor and producer Elizabeth Kling (“Practical Magic,” “Addicted to Love”). Notable faculty include James Schamus, Trey Ellis and Ira Deutchman. Columbia’s notable alumni includes writer/actress Grace Edwards (“Insecure”) and helmer Kathryn Bigelow (“Zero Dark Thirty,” “The Hurt Locker”), offering plentiful networking opportunities for graduates.

Emerson College

Within the Visual and Media Arts department, Emerson promises a hands-on education in filmmaking. Students can select a production track or media studies track, with courses ranging from writing the feature film to computer animation to media criticism and theory. Students can take advantage of the school’s directing studio located on campus at the Paramount Center, or partake in the school’s Los Angeles internship program. VMA chair Shaun Clarke says, “The Visual and Media Arts department fosters the development and creative passions of our students in ways true to themselves and uniquely Emersonian: in the classroom with highly skilled faculty and inspired peers, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and in the world alongside groundbreaking alumni impacting the future of film.”

Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema

Brooklyn, NY

For a top film school, Feirstein is famously more affordable than many others with tuition at $21,000. The school is also developing new curriculum, which is more focused on the overall multifaceted filmmaker, rather than specific tracks. Students benefit from an impressive faculty including the school of cinema’s executive director Richard N. Gladstein, who frequently leads master classes and lectures about film producing and the entertainment industry, and new instructors such as producer Anne Carey (“The Persian Version,” “Lost Girls”) and helmer/writer Anthony Drazen (“The West Wing”). The school also recently had masterclasses taught by John Turturro, Steven Soderbergh and Janusz Kaminski. Feirstein boasts a powerhouse advisory council that includes Ethan Hawke, Darren Aronofsky, Bruce Cohen, Stephen Daldry, Randall Poster, John Turturro, Talitha Watkins, Vicki Thomas and Doug Steiner.

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL

The College of Motion Picture Arts at Florida State University is all about putting students first with a 5-1 student-to-faculty ratio, 24-7 facility hours, plus funding virtually all student laboratory, workshops and thesis project production expenses at the graduate and undergraduate level. An impressive 96% of graduates find work in the industry after one year. FSU is also home to the Torchlight Center for Motion Picture Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which is an off-campus cinematheque and virtual production studio available to all film students. Just last year, the college was named number four among all public film schools in the nation. 

Hofstra University

Hempstead, NY

This year, Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication added a BS in sports media and continues to offer BFAs in filmmaking and writing for the screen, as well as a BA in film productions and studies and another BS in television and film. Students in these programs can begin making their films their first year with access to three soundstages and a post-production facility that includes an editing classroom, screening room and color correction suite. Faculty include cinematographer Sekiya Dorsett (“In Our Mother’s Gardens”), helmer Kelcey Edwards (“The Art of Making It”) and cinematographer Mark Raker (“Five Questions”).

Ithaca College

In 2023, Ithaca’s Roy H. Park School of Communications established a special opportunities fund for students to access hands-on opportunities related to their career paths. Additionally, the James B. Pendleton Endowment gives more than $800,000 every year to the Park school, funding the Los Angeles program, annual technology upgrades, two endowed professorships, $125,000 in student scholarship awards and close to $75,000 for student, faculty and staff projects. Park also boasts an immersive volume stage known as the Cube, which lets students make use of 3D visual effects via Unreal Engine. Dean Amy Falkner says, “Recruiters often remark at how industry-ready Park students are when they enter the workforce. We owe that to our Tech Ops team who keep the broadcast studios, soundstages, virtual production studios, LED walls and post-production suites on the cutting edge of industry-grade equipment and software. The faculty incorporate all this tech in their teaching, and it takes our students to the highest level.”

Loyola Marymount

Los Angeles, CA

In the fall, LMU will introduce Masters in Entertainment Leadership and Management (MELM), a collaboration between LMU SFTV and LMU College of Business Administration. This program will be taught by industry leaders including Janet Yang, SFTV presidential fellow and president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Unique programs for LMU include its Hollywood Bootcamp, recently led by WME agent Krista Parkinson, which provides career training via access to leading executives and companies. LMU also often brings distinguished speakers to campus such as Damon Lindelof, S.S. Rajamouli, Vince Gilligan, Lauren Neustadter and Terilyn Shropshire. “We have a unique ability to provide not only an exceptional education within the classroom but also the in-person industry access and connections required to launch and sustain a successful entertainment career. Thanks to our award-winning faculty, our two campuses located in the heart of the industry (Los Angeles and Silicon Beach), and programs like Hollywood Bootcamp and our Distinguished Artist in Residence, we give aspiring filmmakers a pragmatic, real-world education to set them up for success,” says Joanne Moore, dean of the School of Film and Television.

New York Film Academy

The New York Film Academy is one of the most expansive film schools in the nation, with eight global locations and three undergraduate degree programs encapsulating over 15 areas of study. With an emphasis on a hands-on approach to filmmaking, students get access to top-of-the-line gear and facilities, personal mentoring from industry veterans, travel courses for up to eight weeks and opportunities to train in formats such as 35mm and 16mm film. NYFA has no shortage of famous alumni including Bill Hader, Issa Rae, Aubrey Plaza, Shivani Rawat, Masali Baduza and Lisa Cortés.

Northwestern

Evanston, IL

This year, Northwestern’s department of radio/television/film took students to Sundance to experience the festival and network with alumni. “Our alumni networks are our biggest asset,” says Kerry Trotter, communications director at the school. “There is a very strong, short tether between L.A. and Evanston, and alumni in the industry are often cultivating opportunities for NU students.” Additionally, each spring break the program takes a group of RTVF and communication studies students to London for site visits and networking opportunities. As part of the school’s mission to elevate entertainment education for its student body, it will offer a new minor next academic year: game design, media arts and animation. 

New Brunswick, NJ

Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts offers a myriad of programs and facilities, including the Documentary Film Lab, which allows students to work on full-length documentaries with faculty. Associate professor and chair of the Rutgers Filmmaking Center, Patrick Stettner, says of the department’s mission, “Our priority is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of different modes of storytelling and filmmaking techniques. We recently launched a new course, AI in New Technology Filmmaking, which helps students navigate the next great tech revolution in cinema.” Mason Gross also boasts a new VR studio lab which offers students the opportunity to gain experience with virtual reality filmmaking.

Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah, GA

With one of the largest university film studio complexes in the nation, SCAD continues to expand. New additions will include a 17,000-square-foot support building for production classrooms, costume labs, costume studio shop and a scenic production wood/machine shop. Students recently worked on a comedy series and two short films on location at SCAD’s Lacoste, France campus. Film and television coursework is supported by events with industry guests throughout the academic year, such as Kevin Bacon, Eva Longoria, Ava DuVernay and George Lopez. The school boasts a well-connected faculty, including Andra Reeve-Rabb, dean of the school of film and acting and director of SCAD’s casting office, who is the former director of casting at CBS Primetime, New York.

Scottsdale Community College

Scottsdale, AZ

Offering efficient two-year degree programs that prepare students to enter the entertainment industry is just one advantage of the Scottsdale School of Film and Theatre at Scottsdale Community College. The school’s curriculum is looking ahead to what film and theater professionals will need in the coming decade, and as such, updating courses to prepare students to work in both filmed productions and live events. Scottsdale’s TV/New Media studio is also in the early stages of a $250,000 update, focused on creating a space that features current equipment and tech students will likely use post-graduation. 

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY

Syracuse’s Visual and Performing Arts film program focuses on hands-on education, the film production process and cross-training across film disciplines for its students. BFA and MFA degrees in film are offered through the VPA program, and BS and MA degrees in television, radio and film are offered through the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. The VPA program also hosts study opportunities in Los Angeles, New York City and Washington, D.C. “The brand of Newhouse graduates is less about making film as we know it, rather their capacity to invent the next generation of film,” says Michael Schoonmaker, professor and chair of the television, radio and film department at the communications school.  

The Los Angeles Film School

Centrally located in Hollywood and just a stone’s throw from nearby studio lots, the Los Angeles Film School offers bachelor’s and associate degrees in entertainment fields, with its film degree allowing students to pursue concentrations in production, directing or cinematography. In addition to adding an animation/VFX program that shares classes with the film program, the school recently redesigned its TechKit — which includes state-of-the-art software and hardware designed to make it possible for the student to start making films immediately — for the animation program. Famous alums include sound designer Phillip Bladh, who won an Oscar for sound for “The Sound of Metal,” video director Hannah Lux Davis, known for collaborating with Ariana Grande, Halsey and Demi Lovato, and helmer/writer/producer Kyle Newacheck, whose work has appeared on “Workaholics,” “Parks and Recreation” and “Community.”

U. of Texas at Austin - Moody College

Within the Moody College of Communication, the department of radio-television-film boasts a motion capture studio, 70×20 foot green screen and podcast suites, as well as noteworthy alums including Matthew McConaughey and Robert Rodriguez. The school has begun a curriculum overhaul to its B.S., MFA and M.A. programs, and is currently refreshing all film equipment, including cameras, lenses, audio equipment and computers. For aspiring young filmmakers, the school even offers a summer camp led by advanced graduate students, professors and media professionals.

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

Winston-Salem, NC

Now celebrating the school’s 30th anniversary, the Fighting Pickles are formally launching the Story Art Studio in 2024 as an incubator that merges the unique voice and history of the region with both classical and cutting-edge storytelling tools across the disciplines of dance, music, drama and more. The program not only encapsulates the breadth of UNCSA’s curriculum but joins with its Dean’s Advisory Council, comprising of prominent industry leaders, to create post-graduate pathways into the industry. “It’s a gift to have the focus that [students] have here without the distractions of wonderful cities like Los Angeles and New York present,” says dean Deborah LaVine. “Here, the only person they’re competing with is themselves.”

Vancouver Film School

Vancouver, B.C.

Through its school of film & television, school of animation and school of games & creative design, VFS offers an immersive curriculum across 15 programs. Students are trained by industry professionals and have access to eight world-class production centers that feature a 64,000 cubic-feet of performance and motion capture volume, a 180-degree greenscreen room, mixing labs and recording studios, film sets and studios. VFS has been ranked as the top game design school in Canada, and the second-top game design school worldwide. In the 2024 awards season, over 12,000 VFS alumni were credited on nominated and winning projects spanning the Game Awards, Golden Globes, Emmys and the Academy Awards.

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT

The College of Film and the Moving Image at Wesleyan University seeks to blend history, analysis and production in a liberal arts context. The school recently piloted a one-week immersive summer externship program in Los Angeles, which introduces students from underrepresented groups to the entertainment industry. Two first-generation college students spent a week meeting with prominent alumni like Jenno Topping, Tony Ducret and David Stone. “While we teach skills such as analytical and creative writing, producing, shooting and editing, our goals are broader,” says Scott Higgins, director of the College of Film and the Moving Image. “We aim to help undergraduates discover their goals and to develop their creative and critical voices in a collaborative community founded on a passionate commitment to the moving image.” 

Film School Titans

USC, UCLA, Cal Arts, Tisch, AFI

Across the film school landscape, there are many notable programs but five in particular stand apart because of their impressive curriculum, notable alumni and overall influence: the American Film Institute, California Institute of the Arts, the Kanbar School of Film and Television at NYU Tisch School of the Arts, the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, and the USC School of Cinematic Arts.

AFI is noted for its remarkable instructors such as cinematography head Stephen Lighthill and producing head Lianne Halfon. Fellows are guaranteed to make films and the school has partnered to help create the Disney/AFI Underrepresented Storytellers Initiative to help create a pathway that removes economic barriers for emerging filmmakers.

Ask many any animation luminary where they went to school, and you’ll likely hear the name CalArts. Notable alumni include Tim Burton, Brad Bird and Pete Docter, whose films have won multiple Academy Awards. Students can choose from 70 comprehensive degree programs.

The Kanbar Institute within Tisch claims Martin Scorsese as a production alum. Several years ago, the school received the largest grant in its history from the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation to establish the Martin Scorsese Institute of Global Cinematic Arts, which includes a virtual production center and cinematic studies.

As a public university, UCLA offers a world-class film school education at a price that won’t saddle a student with heavy costs. Among ambitious offerings at UCLA’s school of theater, film and television is a recently announced extended reality and artificial intelligence research studio at the school’s downtown campus. Faculty includes many noted working pros who cover every aspect of filmmaking such as costume designer Deborah Nadoolman Landis. Screenwriter David Koepp (“Jurassic Park,” “War of the Worlds”) and Dustin Lance Black (“Milk”) are among the school’s many notable alums.

The USC School of Cinematic Arts offers a unique interdisciplinary curriculum, in which students take courses from the full spectrum of the SCA’s offerings — prospective writers take courses in directing, directors take courses in interactive media. Helmer Ryan Coogler and writer-producer Shonda Rhimes are just a few of SCA’s highly successful alums. The school receives tremendous support from the creative community. In 2006, filmmaker and alumnus George Lucas made the largest single donation in USC history by giving the film school $175 million.

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Discussions about the writing craft.

Good MFA programs for Creative Writing?

I think I want to teach creative writing at a college, so I’m wondering what programs are good? I don’t know if Emerson college is very good, but it has piqued my interest the most. Preferably online, but if not, that’s fine. Thank you!