Graduate Program in Creative Writing

Western Colorado University’s low-residency Graduate Program in Creative Writing is a supportive literary home for writers who seek a dynamic, immersive, and deeply human experience. Unlike traditional “packet” programs, we prioritize live, interactive online classes and meaningful connection, ensuring you are part of a vibrant community from your very first day.

Whether you are called to the landscape through Nature Writing, the precision of Poetry, the immersive worlds of Genre Fiction, the business of Publishing, or the visual rhythm of Screenwriting, our program provides a welcoming space to expand your craft alongside experienced, practicing faculty.

A Flexible Path, A Lifelong Community

• The Low-Residency Advantage: Our model combines structured online coursework during the academic year with intensive, in-person summer residencies in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
• Personalized Mentorship: You will work one-on-one with published authors and industry leaders who respect your unique vision and professional goals.
• Live Engagement: We move beyond the isolation of correspondence-based learning to offer live workshops and collaborative projects that keep you connected to your peers and mentors.
• Real-World Impact: Whether your goal is to publish your first book, break into the film industry, or use writing as an agent of change, we provide the tools and professional network to help you succeed.

Explore our five concentrations below to see where your journey begins.

What is a creative writing master’s degree?

A creative writing master’s degree is a graduate-level program focused on developing craft, voice, and professional practice in writing. At Western Colorado University, students earn a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, with opportunities to specialize through focused concentrations.

Is a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing different from an MA?

Yes. The MFA is a terminal degree in creative writing, emphasizing advanced craft and a substantial creative project, while the MA offers a shorter pathway focused on coursework and creative development. Both degrees provide rigorous graduate study; the right choice depends on your goals and timeline.

Can I earn a creative writing master’s degree online?

Yes. Western’s Graduate Program in Creative Writing uses a low-residency model, combining live online coursework with an in-person summer residency. This allows students to earn a creative writing master’s degree without relocating.

Is this program suitable for working professionals?

Yes. The program is intentionally designed for working professionals, with live online classes, structured schedules, and a low-residency format that supports full-time work alongside graduate study.

Do I need an MFA to be a writer?

No. Many successful writers do not hold MFAs. However, a creative writing master’s degree can provide structured mentorship, dedicated time for craft, professional insight, and a strong creative community that supports long-term growth.

What careers can a creative writing master’s degree support?

Graduates pursue careers in writing, publishing, editing, education, communications, nonprofit work, environmental advocacy, screenwriting, and other creative fields. The degree also supports writers seeking publication or further academic study.

What makes Western’s creative writing master’s degree different?

Western emphasizes live, interactive online classes, individualized mentorship, and a strong creative community—rather than correspondence-based or packet-style learning. Students also benefit from focused concentrations and an immersive summer residency experience.

What concentrations are available within the creative writing master’s degree?

Students may specialize in:

• Nature Writing

• Poetry

• Genre Fiction

• Publishing

• Screenwriting

Each concentration offers focused mentorship while maintaining the core creative writing degree.