M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
B.F.A. in Creative Writing
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Creative Writing program at George Mason University (GMU) offers students a dynamic and immersive education in the art and craft of writing. Located in Fairfax, Virginia, GMU is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The B.F.A. in Creative Writing program combines workshops, seminars, and literary study to foster students' creativity, critical thinking, and craft as writers.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.F.A. in Creative Writing program at GMU is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of literary genres, writing techniques, and the writing process. Core courses cover topics such as fiction writing, poetry writing, creative nonfiction, screenwriting, and playwriting. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized areas of interest through elective courses and concentration options, such as writing for young adults, graphic storytelling, or experimental literature. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on writing workshops, peer critique, and individualized mentorship, allowing students to develop their writing skills, experiment with different forms and styles, and create a portfolio of original work.
Research Focus: While the B.F.A. in Creative Writing program at GMU does not have a specific research focus in the traditional sense, students are encouraged to engage in literary analysis, critical reading, and research to deepen their understanding of literary traditions, cultural contexts, and artistic influences. Faculty members are actively engaged in research and creative endeavors in various areas of literature and writing, providing students with opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and guidance in their creative and scholarly pursuits. Through research-based coursework, independent projects, and literary analysis, students gain insights into the creative process, explore diverse literary traditions, and develop a deeper appreciation for the craft of writing.
Industry Engagement: GMU's B.F.A. in Creative Writing program fosters strong connections with the literary community, publishing industry, and professional networks to provide students with valuable opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. Through partnerships with literary journals, publishing houses, and writing organizations, students have access to internships, publishing opportunities, and networking events that bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. Industry professionals, including authors, editors, and literary agents, often serve as guest speakers, mentors, and workshop leaders, offering insights into the writing profession, publishing industry, and career pathways for aspiring writers.
Global Perspective: In an increasingly globalized world, GMU's B.F.A. in Creative Writing program emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding and appreciating diverse literary traditions, voices, and cultures. Courses incorporate discussions on international literature, world folklore, translation studies, and cross-cultural storytelling. Students have the opportunity to explore global themes, engage with diverse perspectives, and participate in study abroad programs, international writing residencies, or cross-cultural literary exchanges. Additionally, GMU welcomes students from diverse cultural backgrounds and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the learning experience and fostering a sense of global citizenship among graduates.
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 38750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: Waiver
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 59 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 110 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.
Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.
College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong their chosen area of study.
Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.
International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.
Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Creative Writing from George Mason University (GMU) opens doors to a variety of rewarding career paths in the fields of writing, publishing, education, and more. With a strong foundation in literary craft, critical thinking, and creative expression, graduates of GMU's B.F.A. in Creative Writing program are well-equipped to pursue their passion for storytelling and embark on fulfilling careers.
Author/Novelist: Many graduates aspire to become authors or novelists, writing fiction, nonfiction, or poetry for publication. With their honed writing skills and understanding of narrative structure, B.F.A. in Creative Writing graduates are prepared to craft compelling stories, develop memorable characters, and create engaging worlds that captivate readers. Authors may publish their work independently or through traditional publishing houses, establishing themselves as literary voices in their respective genres.
Freelance Writer: For those seeking flexibility and variety in their writing careers, freelance writing offers opportunities to write for diverse clients and publications across different industries. B.F.A. in Creative Writing graduates may work as freelance journalists, content creators, copywriters, or ghostwriters, contributing articles, blog posts, marketing materials, or web content for businesses, media outlets, or online platforms. Freelance writers enjoy the freedom to choose their projects, set their schedules, and explore various topics and writing styles.
Editor/Proofreader: Graduates with strong editing and proofreading skills may pursue careers as editors or proofreaders, helping writers refine their manuscripts and polish their prose. Editors work for publishing houses, literary magazines, or freelance editing firms, providing developmental editing, line editing, or copy editing services to authors and clients. They collaborate closely with writers to improve clarity, coherence, and quality of written content, ensuring that manuscripts meet publishing standards and reader expectations.
Literary Agent: For those interested in the business side of publishing, careers as literary agents offer opportunities to represent writers and negotiate publishing deals on their behalf. Literary agents work for literary agencies or operate independently, scouting for talented writers, reviewing manuscripts, and pitching projects to publishers. They advocate for their clients' interests, negotiate book contracts, and provide strategic guidance throughout the publishing process, helping writers navigate the competitive world of publishing and maximize their potential for success.
Educator/Teacher: Many B.F.A. in Creative Writing graduates choose to pursue careers in education, teaching writing workshops, literature courses, or creative writing classes at schools, colleges, or community organizations. Educators inspire and mentor aspiring writers, fostering their creativity, honing their craft, and instilling a love for literature and storytelling. They may also organize writing conferences, author readings, or literary events, creating opportunities for writers to connect, learn, and grow in their writing journey.
