Graduate Degrees in Creative Writing & English

Creative Writing & English

Among the most diverse and challenging programs in the country, CU Boulder鈥檚 English department teaches graduate students to read and write with precision, to think critically, to be creative and to practice an attentive life. The department offers an MFA in creative writing and an MA and PhD in english.

Students work closely with faculty as they develop their knowledge of literatures from throughout the English-speaking world. Creative writing students can work in poetry, fiction or across genres in a program known for its commitment to innovation. Master鈥檚 english students study a broad range of English-language literatures. PhD students pursue concentrated study and original scholarship in their chosen area of specialization.

Degree Types

MFA 釔 MA 釔 PhD

The Department of English is home to the Laboratory for Ritual Arts & Pedagogy (The RAP LAB) and the , both venues that support new teaching and research in the humanities.

The department is home to faculty working in every major field of English and American literature, and, in many cases, developing fields of inquiry. 

PhD students receive 5 years of funding to complete the curriculum.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Creative Writing English
Creative Writing

Creative Writing

Master of Fine Arts

  • 3-year program
  • 45 credit hours
  • Thesis required
  • Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Arts, preferably with an English major, have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 and submit a completed application for admission.
Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

   For program details, review the .

English

Master of Arts

  • 2-year program
  • 30 credit hours
  • Thesis and nonthesis options
Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

   For program details, review the .

Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD program is a five-year curriculum, including five years of funding, that comprises a language requirement and three basic components:

  • Coursework
  • Qualifying examination
  • Dissertation
Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

   For program details, review the .

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding  Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it鈥檚 academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.  

Graduate Student Organizations

Explore ways to connect with other graduate students on campus, online and off campus, locally and internationally.

Diversity, Equity, Access & Inclusion

Learn about our commitment to ensuring our graduate education is accessible and welcoming for all students.

Health & Wellness

Find resources with contact and location information for a broad range of services.

Leadership Development

Attend regular, graduate-specific workshops and seminars to hone practical and professional skills before entering the job market.

Peer Mentoring Program

Connect with an established graduate peer mentor who serves as your guide through the graduate student experience.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Go to Admissions