Most students who pursue a master's degree, or M.F.A., in creative writing eventually become writing professors themselves or work in literary organizations like Poets and Writers or the PEN American Center. After completing undergraduate English and writing courses, masters students further explore specific writing genres, such as poetry, or research the work of a favorite author, such as Ernest Hemingway or Virginia Woolf.
Instructions
1. Survive the rigorous application process to enter an M.F.A. (Master of Fine Arts) degree. Most universities require an essay, statement of purpose, a writing sample and a high grade point average in undergraduate studies.
2. Complete the required courses. M.F.A. programs offer courses such as "The Art of Short Fiction," "Voice in Poetry" and "Writing the Producible Play." In addition to these general classes, master's programs require students to write research papers on specific writers and works of literature.
3. Write a thesis. This is an academic proposition or argument pertaining to a particular subject. In many M.F.A. programs, a thesis can also be an original book of fiction or poetry, a stage play or a screenplay.
4. Teach a class in creative writing. Many students working on their master's will teach a few classes while still in school, usually under the close supervision of a professor or mentor.
5. Pass a comprehensive examination in literature and writing to graduate. The exams vary according to the university. An examination may be particular to the student's interest and based on a favorite author and topics of study from his or her M.F.A. tenure.
