MFA in Creative Writing Grads, Students Are Publishing Their Theses
In this digital age, there is an increased demand for talented writers. Whether it is fiction, nonfiction, poetry, screenwriting, or just the ability to draft a better report, there are more opportunities for good writers than ever before.
A master's degree can bring additional respect and credibility to a writer. In fact, the Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing offered by National University is a terminal degree, enabling graduates to teach at the college and university level. And, because it is offered online, the program is attracting numerous writers around the world who are already working full-time within a variety of professions and industries.
Dave Seymer (MFA, 2005) has a book, One Wicked Summer, out in the market right now and is currently working on a new concept children's book. Since graduating , Seymer has also been promoted from Director of Operations to Chief Operating Officer for Mobile Interim Solutions, a division of GE Healthcare.
National University's MFA in Creative Writing curricula has helped already-established writers to expand their creativity, advance their portfolio and publish their work in broader circles.
Penny Wilkes (MFA, 2005) presented her MFA pedagogy paper at the Association of Writers and Writing Programs' Pedagogy Forum in 2006. HA! magazine published two of her humorous articles, which were written during the program. Many poems from Wilkes' MFA thesis appear in Whispers from the Land: Travels in Spain, (Finishing Line Press, 2005). In January, 2007, her poetry collection will be on display at the San Diego Public Library's 41st Annual Local Authors Exhibit.
Others, such as National University student Michael Lott, are also getting their thesis manuscripts published. Lott, who will be graduating this year, wrote a thesis titled Quicksand Jesus, which will be published by Creative Guy Publishing this year. He also wrote a book during his final year of the MFA in Creative Writing program, titled Police on Screen, that was published by McFarland last May.
No other institution offers a complete, accredited MFA program online , according to Associate Professor Karen Offitzer, lead faculty for the Creative Writing program.
"Many people can't attend the low-residency programs, because it requires them to leave home for up to 10 days twice a year. An advantage we enjoy at National University," says Professor Offitzer, " is that individuals all over the nation have access to our program. For many, it is a viable way to pursue a longstanding dream to write."
For more information regarding the MFA in Creative Writing program, e-mail Karen Offitzer at koffitze@nu.edu, or call her at (310) 258-6721.