Should You Get an MFA in Creative Writing? Questions to Ask Yourself

You may have heard other writers mention earning an MFA in Creative Writing, which may have left you wondering: Do I need one? Will an MFA make a difference in my writing career or help me get published? These are common questions for fiction writers who want to improve their craft and take their work to the next level.

The truth is, an MFA program can offer valuable education, mentorship, and connections—but it isn’t the only path to success. So how do you decide if it’s right for you? Let’s start by breaking down what an MFA is, and then dive into key questions to ask yourself before making this big decision.

What is an MFA in Creative Writing?

An MFA in creative writing program is a graduate-level degree focused on storytelling, literary analysis, and craft development. Programs often combine workshops, literary study, and mentorship, culminating in a final thesis project. Some MFA programs include intensive, in-person residencies where writers connect with mentors and fellow students. Others offer low-residency or online formats that provide flexibility for writers with jobs, families, or other commitments.

The goal of an MFA is to immerse you in the world of writing. You’ll study literary masters, build tools to refine your craft, and receive detailed feedback on your work from peers and professors. However, it’s important to note that many MFA programs focus more on short stories and poetry than on writing novels, and your assignments will reflect that.

Now that we’ve defined what an MFA is, let’s explore the questions that will help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Why do you want to get an MFA in Creative Writing?

Understanding your motivation is key to determining whether an MFA aligns with your goals. Writers pursue MFAs for many reasons:

• To Improve Your Writing: MFA programs provide structured time to write, mentorship, deadlines, and opportunities for constructive feedback.
• To Build a Writing Community: Connecting with like-minded writers in your cohort can be transformative, providing friendships and professional relationships that last long after graduation.
• To Teach Creative Writing: Many universities require a terminal degree (like an MFA) to teach at the college level.
• For Validation or Credentials: An MFA provides formal recognition of your craft and dedication, which can boost your confidence and open doors in the literary world.
• To Publish Your Work: An MFA can help refine your craft and provide valuable industry connections through faculty and visiting writers, potentially improving your path to traditional publication.

Clarifying your “why” will help you decide whether an MFA is the best step forward or if another path might better suit your goals.

Do You Have the Time and Money for an MFA in Creative Writing?

MFA programs vary widely in cost and time commitment. Tuition for a master of fine arts program can cost tens of thousands of dollars in the United States, and that doesn’t include living expenses or opportunity costs.

Here are some things to consider:

• What is the total cost (tuition, fees, and living expenses)?
• Does the program offer funding, scholarships, or teaching assistantships? Fully funded programs can cover tuition and provide a stipend.
• How will you pay for it? Taking out loans can be a significant financial burden. Consider if the degree provides long-term financial benefits.
• How much time can you dedicate? Full-residency programs require 2-3 years of immersion, while low-residency or online programs offer greater flexibility.

If the cost feels prohibitive, don’t worry—there are alternative ways to improve as a writer without taking on debt.

Are There Alternatives to an MFA?

If an MFA isn’t feasible for you, there are still countless ways to develop your writing skills and pursue publication. Here are some accessible alternatives:

Writing Groups and Organizations

If you can’t afford a formal graduate program, join a group specific to your genre. If you write for children, consider joining the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, or SCBWI. If you write romance, join Romance Writers of America. There are the Mystery Writers of America, Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Historical Novel Society, Horror Writers Association, International Thrillers Writers, Sisters in Crime, and more. To find a group, simply do a Google search of your own genre to see what groups are out there.

Most groups offer memberships with an affordable annual membership fee and numerous perks, such as monthly newsletters, insider publication tips, podcasts, workshops, retreats, manuscript or query critiques, and more.

Workshops and Retreats

If you find a group that fits your genre, look at their calendar. Most writing groups offer workshops or retreats throughout the year that are well within a writer’s budget. You can network with other writers and professionals in the publishing industry, such as editors, agents, and publishers. You might even have the opportunity to have your query letter or manuscript critiqued by a literary agent or writing coach.

Affordable Online Courses

If you can’t afford an MFA in creative writing, there are many accessible learning options available. Our Writing Mastery Academy offers a comprehensive set of online courses and a supportive community of thousands of writers from all skill levels, all aimed at helping you develop your craft, make connections, and reach your writing goals. Beyond our academy, there are other platforms like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and many others that provide guidance for creative writing. Take some time to research what's available (make sure to search locally as well) and create a learning plan that works for you.

Podcasts and YouTube Channels

Podcasts are another amazing information source for writers. Many authors, agents, and insiders in the book world host podcasts in which they share insider tips and interview experts in the industry. You can listen to episodes featuring successfully published authors, learn about their path to publishing, and gain tips and insights on how you can succeed as an author as well. One example is author Marissa Meyers' podcast, The Happy Writer.

YouTube is another great source of education and information for budding writers. For example, John Cusick's YouTube channel, Agent Brain / Writer Brain, offers writers many invaluable learning opportunities from one of the best literary agents in the industry. Author Joanna Penn, a renowned independently published author, provides a YouTube channel to help writers with the business of writing, book marketing, and writing tips. The Manuscript Academy shares insights through its website, podcast, and YouTube channel, helping writers with agent tips and writing advice.

You can also research the websites of literary agents, publishing houses, and even your favorite authors to get more resources, tips, and insider information on the publishing industry.

Recommended Reading

Books like On Writing by Stephen King, Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott, and The Elements of Style by Strunk & White provide timeless guidance on the writing craft. Similarly, literary magazines like Writer’s Digest and Poets & Writers offer tips, resources, and updates on contests and publishing opportunities. By exploring these options, you can create your own personalized writing education without the cost or time commitment of an MFA.

How else can you gain knowledge and experience as a writer?

In his book Outliers: The Story of Success, Malcolm Gladwell popularized what is known as the 10,000-Hour Rule. The rule came from a study by psychologist Anders Ericsson. According to Ericsson, “The idea that excellence at performing a complex task requires a critical minimum level of practice surfaces again and again in studies of expertise. In fact, researchers have settled on what they believe is the magic number for true expertise: 10,000 hours." The key information here is that the 10,000 hours of practice must be focused and intentional.

No matter how you choose to educate yourself on the craft of writing, whether that be through a formal creative writing program or an informal education cobbled together by joining writing groups, reading recommended books, listening to podcasts, or subscribing to YouTube channels, you must set aside time every day to write. Without the practice of writing, you cannot master the art of writing.

Find time and space in your home and your schedule to devote to the practice of writing. Create a writing routine and make a plan to chip away at 10,000 hours of focused writing. No matter how much you educate yourself, you can’t drive a parked car: you have to write.

Will an MFA Help You Get Published?

If publication is your primary goal, it’s important to consider your genre:

• Literary Fiction, Poetry, or Narrative Nonfiction: An MFA can help you master the nuances of these genres and build connections in literary circles.
• Commercial or Genre Fiction (e.g., romance, sci-fi, fantasy): Writers in these genres often succeed without MFAs. Practical experience, critique groups, and craft-focused resources can be just as effective.

While an MFA can elevate your writing, it won’t guarantee that you sign with an agent or get a book deal—that comes from persistence, skill-building, and writing regularly.

Are You Ready for Criticism and Growth?

MFA programs are heavily workshop-based, meaning you’ll receive regular feedback on your writing. Ask yourself:

• Can you handle constructive criticism? It can be challenging, but honest feedback is key to growth.
• Are you open to revision and experimentation? Programs often challenge writers to step outside their comfort zones.
• Do you thrive in collaborative environments? Sharing your work with peers can strengthen your writing and critical eye.

If you’re not ready for this environment, consider building confidence first through critique groups or smaller workshops.

To get an MFA or not to get an MFA?

Deciding whether to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing comes down to your personal goals, financial situation, and learning preferences. An MFA can offer mentorship, time, and community, but it’s not the only way to become a better writer.

If you decide not to pursue an MFA, focus on building a consistent writing routine, exploring alternative resources, and seeking out feedback to improve your craft. After all, the most important factor in your success as a writer isn’t the degree you hold—it’s the dedication you bring to your writing practice.