Most Popular Online MFAs in Creative Writing 2025
Our list of popular online MFA in creative writing programs highlights institutionally accredited schools graduating the most students with this degree.
Key Takeaways:
- Southern New Hampshire University Online ranks #1 overall with 96 graduates from its online MFA in Creative Writing.
- Johns Hopkins University delivers elite outcomes with a 95% graduation rate among its students.
- Liberty University enrolls over 48,000 online students.
See our methodology for details. After our ranking analysis, we spoke with writer and mentor, Deepak Shukla, who discusses turning an online creative writing degree into a sustainable career.
Most Popular Online MFAs in Creative Writing 2025
Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University Online | 155 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $15,288 | N/A | 69% | |
Lindenwood University | 96 | $13,464 | $56,012 | 93% | |
Johns Hopkins University | 74 | $65,956 | $68,039 | 93% | |
Emerson College | 67 | $25,992 | $54,374 | 84% | |
University of Denver | 64 | $27,488 | N/A | 91% | |
Wilkes University | 38 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $11,250 | N/A | 79% | |
Liberty University | 34 | $10,848 | N/A | 75% | |
University of Southern Maine | 30 | $18,048 | N/A | 91% | |
The University of Texas at El Paso | 29 | $9,200 | $56,065 | 91% | |
Regis University | 27 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $19,467 | N/A | 82% | |
Spalding University | 23 | $22,750 | $53,149 | 100% | |
Drexel University | 21 | $10,680 | N/A | 89% | |
University of Nebraska at Omaha | 17 | $15,930 | $33,082 | 96% | |
Mount Saint Mary's University - CA | 17 | $21,150 | N/A | 94% | |
Ashland University | 14 | $16,425 | N/A | 91% |
The Most Popular Online MFAs in Creative Writing — And Why That Matters to Your Writing Life
If you’re shopping for a master’s-level writing program, you’re really shopping for a community, a rhythm, and a runway for your work. Our list above is built on popularity — measured by the number of recent graduates in each writing master's program — because scale can definitely alter your day-to-day experience.
Across these 15 online programs, the largest cohort size in a writing master's program is at SNHU, with 155 graduating last year, and the smallest is at Ashland with just 14 writing graduates.
A quick pulse on some more data you should care about:
-
Recommendation rates: On our list, 9 out of 15 schools have a 90%+ recommendation rate, based on 90,000+ student surveys we’ve collected.
-
Student–faculty access: Several schools have notable more personalized attention, with several at a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio or better (e.g., Regis, Drexel) and one at 6:1 (JHU).
Recommendation Rates: This List Is Remarkably Positive
Let’s talk satisfaction, straight up. Nine of the 15 programs are at 90%+ recommendation, and the median is 91% — that's exceptionally high for any list of online schools.
Standouts on student endorsement:
Spalding: 100% — a near-unanimous “I’d do this again" based on 43 collected reviews
UNO: 96% — a fully online and asynchronous option based on 142 reviews
MSMU: 94% — intimate access (11:1) may account for this high rating
JHU: 93% — based on 143 student reviews, and #3 on our list for popularity
Lindenwood: 93% — based on 117 reviews and still strongly recommended
On the other end, SNHU’s 69% recommendation rate is the outlier (based on over 700 reviews). That doesn’t negate its #1 popularity or its very real strengths, but it does tell you to dig into why some students were less satisfied: What it their advising fit? Writing workshop expectations? Pacing? When a school is huge, experiences vary more.
We suggest treating a 90%+ as a green flag for alignment between promise and delivery. When a program sits below that, probe your program specifics before you commit, looking into feedback cadence, advisor contact, thesis expectations, and how workshops are run online.
Satisfaction and Outcomes: Reading the Numbers Like a Writer
Retention and graduation measure momentum. Schools like JHU post 98% retention and 95% graduation, which is rare air and suggests tight scaffolding, fast advisor response, and well-designed online courses. Drexel sits high, too (90% retention; 77% graduation) while still keeping a 9:1 ratio — good evidence you’ll get line-level attention and make steady progress.
A Quick Fit-Finder (Use This With Your Own Pages in Mind)
I want a publishable book + market plan:
- SNHU (genre-length thesis + pro writing/teaching certs)
- Denver (manuscript + agent research)
- Emerson (popular-fiction pathways with trade-publishing integration)
I want deep mentorship with periodic intensives:
- USM Stonecoast (residencies + six-month projects)
- Regis (residencies + symposiums + community action)
- Ashland (mentor caps; residency rhythm)
I want direct industry access:
- Wilkes (every thesis read by a gatekeeper)
- Drexel (NYC professional residency; credit for published novels)
- UTEP (global options; tech-forward platform)
I want teaching credibility:
- SNHU (online teaching cert)
- Regis (pedagogy specialization)
- Ashland (funded GAs + supervised teaching)
- Drexel (paid TAships)
Feedback, Discipline, and Networking: Deepak Shukla on What Really Matters in an Online MFA in Creative Writing

Content Creator and Coach
Creative writing is such a personal and craft-driven field. In your opinion, do online master's programs successfully foster creativity, feedback, and growth?
"Online programs can foster creativity but require initiative. Feedback is everything, so look for programs that not only have strong peer reviews, but mentors too. Without feedback loops, it's difficult to stretch yourself. It's all about the feedback loop that you create for yourself."
What should students look for in an online MFA in writing?
"You want to find a program that has active, real-time workshopping and mentorship. Diverse genres, authors, and writing styles should be a no-brainer. A challenge to push you out of your comfort zone is a necessary step for growth."
How well do online creative writing master's degrees prepare students for writing-related careers?
"A degree won't guarantee a career. These programs can sharpen your writing, but they won't get you a career. Building a career depends on the connections you make and marketing your work and that part is all on you. Get proactive about reconnections as well as use your degree, if offered, to continue to refine your skills and craft."
Are there specific genres that are gaining traction or relevance right now?
"There is a strong interest in dystopian fiction as well as climate fiction, even dystopic-climate fiction! However, it is not about trends; it is about writing whatever inspires you. If you write your passion, it will be relevant."
What’s one key piece of advice you’d give to someone starting an online writing master's degree who wants to turn their passion into a sustainable career?
"You have to start now. Do not think about stars aligning or getting the right degree or who knows what lame reasons people come up with for not writing. Write, submit, brand yourself. It's about using your skills to produce something and making connections, not just waiting for the fates to smile upon you."
EXPERT TIP
"There is... the time element, self-discipline, and then there is the marketing/recognition element. Writers need to network and sell their work. The business side of writing is equally important as the craft side."
FAQs About an Online MFA in Creative Writing
What Is an MFA in Creative Writing?
Pursuing a master's in writing can help you enter any number of creative fields, although it's hard to predict exactly where this path could take you. Maybe you have an interest in crafting elegant poetry, or perhaps you want to write screenplays or become a famous novelist like Colleen Hoover or Stephen King. With the best master's programs for poetry and other creative writing, you can get the training you need for all your creative dreams to come true.
But, what kind of master's degree program should you pursue in creating writing? And, which schools offer the best MFA creative writing programs throughout the United States?
A Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing can help you hone your skills when it comes to drafting compelling written works for private or public audiences. Some programs let you design your own curriculum so you can focus on the types of writing that align with your areas of interest. Other programs may offer a set curriculum that forces you to fine-tune your creative writing skills across multiple genres and writing styles.
While creative writing master's programs can vary in terms of curriculum and scope, many offer concentrations for you to choose from. For example, you can choose to pursue a master's degree in creative writing online with a focus on fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, or poetry. Students can also pursue an online MFA with a concentration in editing and publishing, social justice, or literary health and healing, depending on a school's options.
Whatever type of creative writing you're interested in, you'll find any number of MFA creative writing programs that fit the bill.
Can You Get an Online MFA?
One major benefit of master's in writing programs is the fact you can easily pursue this degree online without making any sacrifices in terms of the quality of your education. This is mainly due to the fact that the best MFA creative writing programs are all offered in a virtual format, and they come from fully accredited schools.
The accreditation component is especially crucial since it shows which programs are credible, and it helps you earn an online degree that will be respected in your chosen field of work.
By selecting an accredited institution of higher education for your creative writing master's degree, you are limiting your search to schools that have met rigorous academic standards. Importantly, all the degrees listed on OnlineU.com are from accredited schools.
Do You Need To Take the GRE for an MFA?
You may have heard about the GRE — or the GRE General Test. Generally speaking, undergraduate students take this college entrance exam before pursuing master's-level education in any number of disciplines, including specialized master's degrees in business to JD or doctoral degrees.
While there may be exceptions, most institutions with creative writing master's programs do not require a GRE score. Instead, common standards for admissions tend to include minimum GPA requirements (usually 3.0 or higher), the submission of writing samples, a personal statement, and official undergraduate transcripts.
Most online master's in writing programs take approximately two years to complete, although your timeline can vary based on the curriculum offered and the pace at which you complete courses. For example, some online MFA programs offer a set curriculum that must be followed closely, yet others let you learn and complete coursework on your own schedule.
You may also be able to move more quickly through your program if you are able to transfer credits from your previous institution, which some online master's programs in creative writing allow.
What Classes Do You Take In An Online MFA In Creative Writing Program?
With almost no exception, you will not have to complete a residency in order to earn an online master's in writing. However, a graduate thesis course or capstone project may be required to complete your program.
Different types of online MFA programs tend to offer similar core curricula, yet other courses and programming can vary depending on the school and your chosen concentration. The following courses are some of the most common seen within online MFA programs:
- Business of Writing: This course introduces students to the business fundamentals of writing and the industries that support this creative work. Students learn how to market their services and what prospective employers look for in their writing talent. Students who study the business of writing will also learn the basics of freelance work in the creative writing space, including how to sell and price their services.
- Classic Literature: This course introduces students to classic literature and the most famous authors in this space. Students typically dive into the works of Austen, Conrad, Wharton, Orwell, and others, with the goal of examining what made their writing so intriguing and successful. Students not only study writing theory, but they also examine literary criticism and various interpretations of writing throughout modern history.
- Craft of Poetry: This course helps creative writers dive into the world of poetry but in the most hands-on fashion possible. Students learn about famous poetry and the prolific writers in this genre, but they also work on crafting their own poetic style. In addition to writing exercises, students often participate in poetry workshops and public readings of their work.
- Storytelling: This course introduces the art of storytelling to creative writers who are crafting stories of their own. Students learn how to properly utilize a narrative arc, form a cohesive plot, and construct characters with depth. Students also study some of the most compelling stories of all time, as well as the hooks and features used to draw readers in.
How Hard Is It To Get an MFA in Creative Writing?
The difficulty of an online MFA program can vary depending on the school chosen, the demands and expectations of your professors and instructors, and your individual skill level. Generally speaking, you're more likely to excel in a creative writing program if you're entirely comfortable starting each day fresh and new with a blank page and nothing but your thoughts and creative instincts to guide you.
You'll have to craft intriguing writing works across a number of genres on demand and without hesitation, or you won't be in a position to finish your program. In other words, a creative writing MFA will require you to perform on a regular basis.
Will this be difficult or easy for you? Only you know the answer to that question.
What Can You Do With a Creative Writing MFA?
Nearly all the media you consume was created by someone (or multiple people). This includes your favorite television shows, movies you have seen dozens of times, books you read, and even the advertisements you're shown when you surf the web.
MFA creative writing programs could provide the tools and skills you need to find work as a poet, technical writer, screenwriter, or novelist. This graduate degree can also help you find work as a creative writing teacher at the community college level, which can lead to a lifetime of sharing your love of writing with other imaginative and clever individuals.
That said, you'll want to spend some time comparing the best online colleges and degrees available today and all they have to offer prospective students. Ideally, you'll find a program to nurture your creative talents and prepare you for the writing career you have always wanted.
With that in mind, below are some of the most common — and most lucrative — career paths for graduates with a master's in creative writing:
develop various types of content for public consumption, such as books, blogs, essays, advertisements, and television scripts. Some writers come up with all of their projects independently, yet others write assigned work that can vary in scope and creativity. Types of writers can include biographers, bloggers, novelists, and playwrights, to name a few.
are hired to create and maintain a certain public image for companies and individuals who hire them. This often requires them to write press releases and other written notifications that help maintain their integrity and reputation with the general public. However, public relations specialists also help their clients communicate effectively with the public, usually by writing their speeches and drafting communications on their behalf.
While teaching at the college or university level typically requires a PhD or other doctoral degree, individuals with a creative writing MFA may be qualified to teach creative writing at community colleges. A career as a can be incredibly rewarding since it gives writers a chance to introduce others to the craft they love. This career also comes with relatively high pay and considerable job growth.
use their skills and expertise to write instruction manuals, journal articles, and other forms of content for their clients. This often requires them to study product samples that the manufacturer can publish. While some technical writers are self-employed, many work for professional, scientific, and technical services or directly for manufacturers.
Can I Teach With an MFA ?
You may be able to find teaching positions with a Master of Fine Arts degree, yet these positions are typically found at community colleges instead of traditional colleges and universities.
The BLS also reports that, in addition to a master's degree, you may need experience in your field in order to get hired for a teaching position.
Can I Get Published Without an MFA?
You can absolutely get published and find high-paying writing work without a master's degree, which is one of the biggest downsides of pursuing graduate-level education in this field. An online master's degree in creative writing can help you sharpen your skills, but you may be able to achieve the same results by practicing writing on your own. Still, if you are looking to network and broaden your community of peers and mentors, an MFA may be the best path forward.
Is It Worth Getting an MFA in Creative Writing?
As you decide whether to pursue a master's degree in creative writing online, you need to think over the pros and cons of going back to school.
Below are some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of this particular online MFA degree, all of which should be on the top of your mind as you make your decision:
Potential Benefits
- Hone your craft and boost your confidence. Heading back to school to study creative writing can help you improve your skills dramatically while also helping you feel like you're on top of your game. Having an online MFA on your resume may even embolden you to apply for positions you wouldn't consider with only a bachelor's degree in creative writing.
- Qualify for a teaching position in creative writing. A Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing can help you teach writing and poetry at the community college level, although you may also need applicable experience in your field to find a position.
- Learn about the business of writing. While anyone can type out words on a page, an online MFA can help you learn the business of writing — as in, how to structure your business and get paid for doing something you love.
Potential Drawbacks
- You don't need an MFA to work as a creative writer. While a graduate degree may look good on your resume, most creative writing professions require a bachelor's degree at most.
- There are opportunity costs involved in going back to school. Earning a graduate degree takes time and money, and it can hold you back from actually entering your chosen profession.
- Learning online takes discipline and focus. Finally, it's worth noting that pursuing creative writing online takes a tremendous amount of fortitude. While you'll sit through webinars and lectures in between assignments, you'll begin most of your days staring at a blank page.
Obtaining an online MFA in creative writing offers a multitude of benefits for aspiring writers. First and foremost, it provides a flexible learning environment that allows students to pursue their passion for writing without the need to relocate or disrupt their existing commitments. Online programs often have renowned faculty members who are established writers themselves, providing students with valuable insights and mentorship.
Additionally, an MFA equips students with advanced writing skills, a refined creative voice, and the ability to craft compelling narratives. Graduates of these programs not only hone their craft but also gain access to a vibrant writing community, valuable networking opportunities, and the potential to publish their work professionally.
Overall, an online creative writing master's program empowers writers to achieve their artistic goals while maintaining the flexibility to balance other aspects of their lives.
Student Reviews of Online Creative Writing Programs
I have completed 4 online classes for an MFA in Creative Writing. The professors have been accommodating, informative, and encouraging. The material that I am learning does prepare me for a future in writing, as I have been published as a result of the work in one class. I am very pleased with the school and the teachers. Don’t let the negative reviews push you away from this school. It is a wonderful school, even for an online school.
Review Date: 7/13/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I a little more than halfway through the MFA in Creative Writing program and I am really enjoying it. My professors have been great; all have been very nice and their responses and critiques are prompt and thoughtful. I like the video class discussions and feel like I get to know the other people in the class. My wife had a very positive experience with the MA in English and Creative Writing as well. We're both public school teachers and appreciate the excellent organization of the courses and the... Read More
Review Date: 8/27/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This program is more costly than an in person program, by more than twice as much, and does not have the overhead that the in person program does. From my experience, it is a for-profit degree mill, though it states otherwise. Once you put in interest, your phone will start ringing off the hook immediately. If you don't answer, it will constantly ring every day for as long as you allow it. But what get me is, I was in a Master's program and attended in person at University of New Orleans. I found... Read More
Review Date: 10/15/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The program was fun and I learned a good deal. Although, It did not feel like the most rigorous program out there. The career services have been a complete joke, though. Frequent unanswered emails and have had to repeat myself to counselors over and over again.
Review Date: 7/22/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I really like this college. I had a rough start due to issues in my personal life. After starting my first class, I got very sick and had to withdraw. Then i decided to change my mind about my major. Many universities would make you apply all over again for a new graduate program, you usually can't just change majors like you can with undergrad. I was delighted that they let me simply change into the new program! Unfortunately a string of unfortunate events occurred in my life which really screwed... Read More
Review Date: 10/7/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Dear Online Students, The creative writing program is very much a make it on your own process. The instructors are masters in their craft. Most of them have established themselves in the entertainment industry, and they have knowledgeable advise to give student of interest. These are not professors in education. The curriculum is eye catching, but most of the classes are not organized to where a student will be able to follow instructions through with ease. You will get an opportunity to correct... Read More
Review Date: 11/5/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at Bay Path University has changed my life in many positive ways. I now have the tools and self discipline to achieve my lifelong dream of becoming a writer who makes a difference in the world. I'm still finishing the program and will graduate next May. I struggled with the online MFA program at first because of lifelong ADHD and poor balancing and time management issues. But my instructors in the program helped me overcome these problems even after my dad passed away suddenly and I... Read More
Review Date: 9/7/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The pros are: excellent faculty, wonderful school
Review Date: 1/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have been at SNHU for 3 semesters now and I can't say enough about how attentive and amazing the teachers and advisers are. This is the second graduate school I have been to online and the difference is astronomical. Many schools will forget about you once you begin classes, but at SNHU I hear from my adviser on a regular basis. The teachers are also very attentive and positive when it comes to giving feedback and answering questions. I would recommend the online Creative Writing and English Program... Read More
Review Date: 2/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As a writer, this program has stretched me in many ways. The instructors are not only experienced writers themselves, but also skilled at teaching craft to others. The student population, especially amongst the online-courses, is vast and diverse providing an extensive set of view-points and skill-sets.
Review Date: 1/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
A lot of these did not pertain to me due to only having internet courses with the school. That being said, the quality of instruction and organization of the classes is top notch!
Review Date: 9/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The MFA program is the best online program you can get. It has a great mix of literature, craft and workshop classes, which is far superior to other online MFA programs that do not have these options. The faculty is great, as is the program director who is very involved throughout. Tuition is very low compared to other online programs.
Review Date: 3/5/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Online coursework is vital for us working students, but it can feel a bit disconnected. Some faculty are better about touching base online regularly, while others occasionally seem like they are not there. The material we are covering is excellent and the projects are teaching me a great deal. I love this program!
Review Date: 4/6/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The newly established and quickly growing Low Residency Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program offers a unique opportunity to aspiring writers who have established livelihoods in other parts of the country and the world. Traveling to Tampa for two ten-day residencies for two years, students work closely with professorial mentors and professional writers to develop their writing habits and techniques. Upon returning to their "normal" lives, MFA students read, write, and participate in online... Read More
Review Date: 1/20/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Full Sail University is an artistic school that have helped many students to achieve their dreams. I am one of them who have struggled in life due to my factors such like discriminations because I am lesbian and woman with hispanic background. For many years I always wanted to become a graduate student who one day will give a hand to those people who are in need of love, financial support, motivation, like I was before. Full Sail University is a school where professors and students maintain a pleasant... Read More
Review Date: 7/27/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I took a class in the Graduate Creative Writing Program that was great. I wanted to take another class before switching to the official degree program. The Coursework Only Representatives were definitely not friendly and totally turned me off from pursuing the degree program unfortunately.
Review Date: 7/1/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
PRO - I've improved 300% has a writer, especially as it pertains to professional competitiveness and preparedness. (i.e. learnong protocol, formatting, industry standards, great books, etc.) PRO - Most of the staff and faculty are very nice, respecful and helpful. CON - There's not enough information on legalities, contracting and how to acutally make money as a writer. CON - Career Services doesn't seem very helpful. (Perhaps they're waiting for graduation to become more enthusiastic.)
Review Date: 10/9/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This program was amazing. I learned the craft of writing, which helped me at work, but also enriched my life. I also just published my Master's Thesis as a novel, with revision, of course, but I loved this program. Almost wish that I could do it again.
Review Date: 3/26/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
All of my online professors for my MFA in Creative Writing were professional. The online educational structure is excellent if you are looking to become a better creative writer of fiction and nonfiction, poetry, or screenwriting. Several award-winning professors mentor their students in improving their craft. Standards are high—this is an extremely challenging terminal degree. I would recommend it to those who want to improve their writing craft and focus on the elements of their chosen genre. You... Read More
Review Date: 3/18/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Located in sunny Boca Raton, Florida, if you're looking to earn a Master's in Fine Arts in Creative Writing, Florida Atlantic University is worth checking out. The three-year program offers MFA candidates tuition remission and a yearly stipend. In exchange, you're given the choice to either teach two sections of a freshmen composition class and/or creative writing class, which offers you the opportunity to learn about teaching a college class in a college environment, or earn tutoring experience... Read More
Review Date: 3/14/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No