MFA in Creative Writing with American College Dublin

The American College Dublin, in association with the Irish Writers Centre, runs a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, focusing in particular on writing prose fiction. The MFA offers aspiring or published writers a one-year course of study which examines the process and practice of producing prose fiction. Within a critical workshop and mentoring format students are provided with tuition and advice in completing either a novel or a short story collection.

Consideration is given to the

• intellectual, psychological, economic and cultural influences that underpin and drive the creative writing process.
• the business and professional environment of writing, with seminars presented by agents and publishers and master-classes by established writers.
• expert guidance producing a substantial written work of publishable standard.
• comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and practical requirements of successful participation in the activity of writing  

A graduate of the programme:

• will be in a position to consider submission of a complete and polished work to a literary agent or publisher.
•  be prepared for participation in a range of complementary fields such as journalism, publishing, editing, online writing, advertising, marketing and teaching.
•  will have advanced and adaptable writing techniques, informed responsiveness to critical and editorial commentary, self-management and organisational competencies.
• will have gained a high level of expertise in understanding and locating creative work within a historical and critical context.

These skills are applicable not only in careers that draw directly on the ability to write creatively, but also in a wide array of related business, cultural and social activities such as keeping a web page, blogging, advocacy and grant writing, criticism and commentary.

Finally, the degree highlights the beauty and, amid such suffering as is necessary, the joy of creative expression. Regardless of the particular path a graduate follows, he or she will leave the programme with an enhanced, life-long appreciation of the manifold intellectual and emotional benefits, and consolations, to be found in the practice of creative writing.