M.F.A. in Creative Writing

The M.F.A. in Creative Writing program at SJSU is designed to foster the growth and talent of emerging writers across various genres, including fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and playwriting. The program offers a supportive and collaborative community of writers and faculty mentors, allowing students to explore their unique voices and hone their craft.

Students engage in rigorous workshops, seminars, and writing courses that emphasize creative expression, critical thinking, and literary analysis. The curriculum provides a balance between the exploration of diverse literary traditions and contemporary trends in creative writing. SJSU's M.F.A. program in Creative Writing equips graduates with the necessary tools to be successful authors, poets, essayists, and playwrights in the literary world.

Curriculum:

1. Creative Writing Workshops: Students participate in intensive writing workshops, receiving feedback from peers and faculty.

2. Literary Analysis: The program includes courses that explore various literary genres and movements.

3. Craft of Writing: Students study the elements of storytelling, poetry techniques, and creative non-fiction strategies.

4. Writing for Performance: The curriculum may include courses on playwriting and scriptwriting for various mediums.

5. Editing and Revision: Students learn the art of editing and revising their work to enhance its quality.

6. Publishing and Professional Development: The program may offer insights into the publishing industry and marketing for writers.

7. Writing in Community: Students are encouraged to participate in writing groups and literary events.

8. Literary Events and Guest Speakers: The program hosts literary events and invites guest authors to share their insights.

To be eligible for admission, international students must meet specific entry requirements. 

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at SJSU are typically required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is an undergraduate degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above on a scale of 100.

2. English Language Proficiency: International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting scores from recognized English language proficiency tests. The minimum required scores for English language proficiency are as follows:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band score less than 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based test (iBT).
• PTE: A minimum score of 60 on the Pearson Test of English.
• Other English Language Tests: SJSU may also accept scores from other recognized English language tests, such as the Duolingo English Test (DET), Cambridge English Exams, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) English A1 or A2.

WES Evaluation Required

San Jose State University (SJSU) offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in pursuing their academic and career goals. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. 

1. International Student Scholarship: SJSU offers the International Student Scholarship to outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable each year, provided the recipient maintains the required GPA.

2. SJSU Merit Scholarships: International students are eligible to apply for various merit-based scholarships offered by SJSU. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and may cover partial or full tuition fees.

3. San Jose State University Honors Program Scholarship: The Honors Program at SJSU offers scholarships to academically talented international students who join the program. These scholarships provide financial assistance and may also offer opportunities for research and leadership development.

4. College and Departmental Scholarships: SJSU's colleges and departments may offer scholarships specifically for international students pursuing studies in particular fields or disciplines. These scholarships aim to support students' academic endeavors and may have specific eligibility criteria.

5. External Scholarships: SJSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities from organizations, governments, and foundations in their home countries. Some of these scholarships may be applicable to study at SJSU.

6. Privately Funded Scholarships: International students may also apply for privately funded scholarships and grants that are not administered by the university. These scholarships are often based on various criteria, such as financial need, academic performance, and community involvement.

7. Athletic Scholarships: SJSU's athletic program provides scholarships to student-athletes, including international athletes, who excel in sports. These scholarships cover tuition, fees, and other expenses related to their participation in university sports teams.

Application Process: The application process for scholarships at SJSU varies depending on the scholarship. Some scholarships require a separate application, while others may be awarded automatically based on academic achievements. International students should carefully review the scholarship requirements and deadlines to ensure timely and complete submissions.

Graduates of SJSU's M.F.A. in Creative Writing program have promising career prospects in the literary world and related fields. They emerge as highly skilled writers, ready to contribute to the literary community and make meaningful contributions to creative expression. 

1. Published Author: Graduates can pursue careers as published authors, releasing their works through literary journals or publishing houses.

2. Poet: Graduates can work as poets, sharing their poetic works through readings and performances.

3. Creative Non-fiction Writer: Graduates can write essays, memoirs, and creative non-fiction pieces for publications.

4. Playwright: Graduates can work as playwrights, having their plays performed on stage or other platforms.

5. Screenwriter: Graduates can write scripts for television, film, or digital media.

6. Literary Editor: Graduates can work as editors for literary magazines or publishing companies.

7. Writing Instructor: Graduates can teach creative writing in educational institutions or community workshops.

8. Literary Agent: Graduates can pursue careers as literary agents, representing authors and their works.

San Jose State University's M.F.A. in Creative Writing program offers a nurturing and vibrant environment for aspiring writers to develop their literary talents. The program's comprehensive curriculum and supportive community of writers and mentors enable students to explore their creativity, refine their writing skills, and engage with diverse literary traditions. Graduates emerge as skilled and confident writers, ready to embark on successful careers in the literary world, teaching, and related fields.