Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFACW)

Chatham’s MFA in Creative Writing program grows from the legacy of Rachel Carson '29, a creative writer known for her social conscience. Our students understand that writing is ultimately a public act with the power to effect meaningful change. Their ideas, their convictions, their writing matters. We teach students to think deeply about their places, spaces and identities, to look within and around, and then connect to the world with care and intention.

We offer concentrations in travel writing, nature writing, food writing, publishing, social engagement, and teaching/pedagogy to complement the traditional MFA degree with genres in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and children’s writing/young adult (low-residency only). Students interested in two genres may also choose a dual focus. Additionally, we offer an on-the-ground full-residency program and a low-residency (online + in-person) program, with the ability to move seamlessly between the two.