Genre Fiction – Creative Writing

In the Genre Fiction concentration, we treat popular storytelling as a serious craft. You will dive into the structural mastery required for Romance, Mystery, Fantasy, and Sci-Fi, learning to build worlds that captivate audiences. Directed by Candace Nadon, our track invites you to look beyond your first book to a lifelong career in the ever-growing world of genre fiction.

You will work one-on-one with award-winning, currently publishing faculty who provide the industry insight needed to craft and pitch your work. Our mentors include Concentration Director Johanna Parkhurst (writing as J.E. Birk and faculty Laura Resau, Rick Wilbur, Lindsay King-Miller, Nakeesha Seneb, Cindy Skaggs, Joe Fassler, and Tenea D. Johnson. Whether you pursue the one-year MA or the two-year MFA, you will join a supportive community dedicated to helping your unique voice find its place in the spotlight.

For over a decade, Western’s Genre Fiction concentration has stood as one of the few programs in the U.S. dedicated specifically to the craft and business of narrative fiction. We provide a supportive literary home where you can master the art of storytelling through the lenses of mystery, thriller, romance, sci-fi, and fantasy.

• A Professional Network: Beyond craft, you will connect with the heartbeat of the industry. Our students engage with editors, agents, and professionals who understand the modern market, ensuring your work is prepared for both the page and the shelf.
• Legacy Mentorship: Under the leadership of internationally published professionals, you will study with masters of their craft. Our community is enriched by faculty and guest speakers such as Sarina Bowen, Erika T. Wurth, Megan Freeman, and Sheila Williams, the award-winning editor of Asimov’s Science Fiction.
• Built for Your Life: Our low-residency model combines the flexibility of online learning during the academic year with three intensive summer residencies in Gunnison. This allows you to dive deep into your manuscript while maintaining your professional and personal commitments.
• Creative Versatility: While you focus on mastering your specific genre, you have the unique opportunity to explore other concentrations through elective courses, allowing your narrative voice to benefit from a truly interdisciplinary approach.

What Should I Expect? Your Path to a Finished Novel

In Genre Fiction, your goal is clear: to move from a spark of an idea to a polished, professional manuscript. Whether you choose the one-year MA or the two-year MFA terminal degree, you will be treated as a colleague in the writing community.

The Student Journey

• MFA Residency Track: MFA students attend three summer residencies, each designed to prepare you for the next stage of your writing journey—from foundational world-building to final revisions.
• Personalized Feedback: You will receive one-on-one mentorship from award-winning, internationally published faculty who teach you how to write for your audience and engage professionally with the publishing industry.
• Dynamic Coursework: Throughout the year, you will participate in online classes that emphasize high levels of engagement and peer support.
• The Industry Edge: By participating in workshops with nationally recognized authors and industry experts, you will gain the insights needed to navigate the ever-changing landscape of modern fiction.