HCU’s cross-disciplinary writing MFAs bring together novelists, poets, non-fiction writers, and screenwriters at multiple retreats throughout the year, providing unique opportunities for experienced writers to inspire and challenge a new generation of storytellers.
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Accelerated, Low-Residency Model
Our unique model is tailored to fit the active schedules of today’s writers, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world through online workshops, while not sacrificing invaluable face-to-face instruction with faculty, guest authors, and peers facilitated through three annual Texas-based writers retreats.
With our accelerated, low-residency model, students earn a 45-credit-hour terminal degree in Creative Writing in about two years. Across four residencies, students will gain 18 credit hours of intensive residential classes, providing essential foundations for the online courses that supplement the in-person instruction (learn more about the courses offered).
MFA in Creative Writing — Sample Schedule
Summer Retreat (6 credit hrs)
week-long destination retreat in August
WRIT 6310 Faith, Culture, & the Arts I
WRIT 6331 or 6341: Writing Workshop I
Fall Semester (6 credit hrs)
online, Aug–Dec
WRIT 6332 or 6342: Writing Workshop II
WRIT 6320: Topics & Genres: Writers on Writing I
Winter Residency (3 credit hrs)
three-day on-campus residency and conference in February
WRIT 6330 or 6340: Poetic Techniques or Fiction Techniques
Spring Semester (6 credit hrs)
online, Jan–May
WRIT 6333 or 6343: Writing Workshop III
WRIT 6320: Topics & Genres: Writers on Writing II
Summer Semester (3 credit hrs)
online, May–Aug
Cross-Disciplinary Writing Workshop
Summer Retreat (6 credit hrs)
week-long destination retreat in August
WRIT 6310 Faith, Culture, & the Arts II
WRIT 6334 or 6344: Writing Workshop IV
Fall Semester (6 credit hrs)
online, Aug–Dec
WRIT 6390: Master Class
WRIT 6320: Topics & Genres: Writers on Writing III
Winter Residency (3 credit hrs)
three-day on-campus residency and conference in February
WRIT 6320: Topics & Genres: Writers on Writing IV
Spring Semester (3 credit hrs)
online, Jan–May
WRIT 6391: Thesis I
Summer Semester (3 credit hrs)
online, May–Aug
WRIT 6392: Thesis II
What to expect at the residencies…
Each writing residency is carefully planned to provide an ideal, concentrated creative environment for learning and lasting growth. Bond with peers in small, focused workshops and learn directly from seasoned professional writers through extended conversations in-class and over meals.
The residencies also provide an opportunity to be inspired and challenged by a wide variety of writers, as we bring together poets, fiction authors, creative non-fiction writers, screenwriters, and playwrights in cross-disciplinary discussions.
Summer Destination Retreat
For seven days in August, students travel to a Texas-based retreat location. Be inspired by a fresh locale and the beauty of God’s natural world, as we take a break from our busy lives and gather together to focus on artistry and creativity. This retreat explores how the work of great poets and authors have inspired and shaped today’s successful writers, offering students a chance to build upon a great tradition, while developing unique voices of their own.
Winter On-Campus Residency
For three days in early February, students gather on HCU’s campus for classes and workshops. With special visiting instructors, the winter residency focuses on the craft of writing and explores how artists of faith can create in ways that reflect the goodness, truth, and beauty of our Creator.
Annual Narrative Arts Conference
As part of the on-campus residency in February, students also have the option to gather on our campus for the annual HCU Narrative Arts Conference, featuring a wide array of guest speakers and an opportunity to connect with writers, editors, and publishers.
Meals and lodging for the residencies are included in tuition. Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements.
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