Nature Writing – MA or MFA in Creative Writing

A voice with the land, a heart for justice.

For writers seeking a masters-level nature writing program, Western’s Nature Writing concentration offers advanced graduate study through the MA or MFA in Creative Writing.

As one of five concentrations in Western’s Graduate Program in Creative Writing, the Nature Writing concentration provides a supportive literary home for writers committed to environmental justice, social equity, and contemporary place-based writing. Grounded in the belief that stories can protect what we love, the program fosters a welcoming, intellectually engaged environment where writing becomes a force for positive change.

Designed for working professionals, this nature-focused master’s pathway uses a flexible, low-residency model that combines live virtual coursework with intensive summer residencies. Students explore a wide range of forms—including memoir, personal essay, poetry, and experimental writing—guided by mentors who share a deep commitment to the natural world. Whether pursuing the one-year MA or the two-year MFA terminal degree, students graduate with a meaningful body of work and a community dedicated to giving the earth a voice.

What is nature writing?

Nature writing explores the relationship between people, place, environment, and the natural world. It often blends literary craft with ecological awareness and may include memoir, personal essay, journalism, poetry, and experimental forms. At the graduate level, nature writing also engages ethical, cultural, and environmental justice perspectives.

Is there a master’s degree in nature writing?

Students earn a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing while specializing through the Nature Writing concentration. This structure provides masters-level study in nature writing within an accredited creative writing degree.

What is the difference between an MA and an MFA in Nature Writing?

The MA is a one-year degree focused on foundational coursework and summer residencies. The MFA is a two-year, terminal degree that culminates in a substantial creative project and advanced mentorship. Both paths allow students to focus their work on nature writing and environmental literature.

Is this program focused on environmental justice?

Yes. The Nature Writing concentration emphasizes environmental justice, social equity, and ethical engagement with place. Students examine how writing can respond to ecological realities and contribute to cultural and environmental change.

What genres are included in nature writing?

Students work across a range of forms, including memoir, personal essay, nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and experimental writing. While students may focus on a primary genre, the program encourages creative versatility and cross-genre exploration.

Is this a low-residency nature writing program?

Yes. The program uses a low-residency model, combining live online coursework with intensive summer residencies in Gunnison, Colorado. This structure allows students to pursue graduate study in nature writing while maintaining professional and personal commitments.

Do I need a background in environmental studies or creative writing to apply?

No. Applicants come from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. The program values diverse experiences, perspectives, and demonstrated commitment to writing and the natural world.

Who teaches in the Nature Writing concentration?

Students study under award-winning writers and educators, including Nature Writing Concentration Director Laura Pritchett, along with faculty across fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Guest writers further enrich the program through readings, lectures, and workshops.

What kind of mentorship will I receive?

Students receive close mentorship from practicing writers through workshops, individualized feedback, and one-on-one guidance. Faculty support students in developing both their creative work and their professional writing paths.

What will I graduate with?

Graduates leave with a polished body of creative work, a refined writing practice, and the skills to pursue publication, teaching, advocacy, or further graduate study. MFA students complete a substantial creative project as part of their degree requirements.

Is this program right for writers interested in climate, place, and ecology?

Yes. The Nature Writing concentration is ideal for writers exploring themes of place, climate, ecology, land, and human–environment relationships—especially those interested in writing that engages the world ethically and imaginatively.

Both the MA and MFA programs are designed for flexibility. While many students follow the full-time track, you have the option to attend half-time or take a leave of absence if life requires it. You have up to five years from your initial enrollment to complete your degree.