English with a MFA in Creative Writing

Discover your niche as a professional writer.

This is is a unique, accelerated pathway for aspiring writers to earn both a bachelor’s and a Master of Fine Arts. Designed for students passionate about storytelling, this program provides an immersive experience in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and genre writing, combining rigorous coursework with hands-on mentorship from professional writers.

Students gain advanced literary skills, industry knowledge, and publication experience, preparing them for careers in writing, publishing, and beyond. With a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, this program offers a cost-effective, high-impact way to refine your craft and launch your writing career.

 

English with a MFA in Creative Writing Requirements

Accelerated Degree

Accelerated Degree programs let students earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. After an accelerated undergraduate study, students begin graduate courses, saving time and money. This fast-track option builds skills and experience, helping students start their careers sooner.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

Next Steps Toward Your Master Degree

Once students in the accelerated program complete their undergraduate requirements, including the prescribed coursework, General Education, and electives, they become eligible for their Bachelor’s degree conferral. At this point, typically in the fall of junior year, students must apply to continue to the graduate portion of the accelerated program.

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado University Foundation offers scholarships for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

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General Western Scholarships

The Western Colorado University Foundation offers scholarships for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

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Top Skills

Communication
Copywriting
Editing
Fiction Writing
Proofreading
Research

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Career Pathways

Higher Education Faculty
Fiction Writer
Literary Agent
Novelist
Playwright
Screenwriter

Faculty & Staff

Steve Coughlin, MFA, PhD

Professor of English, Nature Writing & Poetry Faculty

Mike King, JD

Lecturer in Philosophy

Brenda Lanphear, MFA

Lecturer in English

Nakeesha Seneb

Genre Fiction Concentration Faculty

Communication Arts, Language & Literature Department

• Tamara Toomey

• Chair – Communication Arts, Languages and Literature and Lecturer in English

Contact Information

970.943.2025

call@western.edu

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Taylor Hall 216
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231