Suggestions for a 'writing' Masters program??

Hey folks: I'm poking around looking for a solid 'writing' Masters degree - hopefully a Master of Fine Arts (nonfiction concentration) or maybe even a good technical writing Masters program that allows a good level of personal flexibility.

I've wrangled my way through John's guide, but haven't really hit on a 'winner' yet. I've worked through the schools that are listed under "Writing" - most require a lot of residency (lots of time in the summer) and seem to be fairly traditional. I'm even willing to consider a grad-level certificate program.

Of course, I'll only consider RA programs.

Any suggestions? Anyone in such a program right now? If so, what's your experience been like?

Thanks!
Barry Foster

 

I looked into this some time ago. Things may have changed, but it looked promising then.
http://techcomm.usu.edu/

 

Goucher College www.goucher.edu has a program in 'Creative Non-fiction' that looks pretty good. Seton Hill College www.setonhill.edu has an interesting fiction-writing program as well.

 

I don't know if this helps.

If you live in Vancouver, BC, check out the Master of Publishing Program at Simon Fraser University.

 

Some ideas:

- Edith Cowan University offers a Ph.D. in writing that essentially follows a doctoral-level MFA format: instead of a dissertation, you produce a thesis and a creative work.

- Monash University offers an MFA that can be done off-campus, but it's not clear whether or not this MFA can be focused on writing.

- The University of Southern Queensland offers a correspondence-based Master of Editing and Publishing.

I hope other folks can suggest more options, but I'm afraid these are the only ones I can think of at the moment.

Good luck!


Peace,

------------------
Tom Head
www.tomhead.net

 

I understand, Barry. A little off topic here, but I came across the most recent edition of a publication calllled "Pulpit Helps," published in Chattanooga, TN. In the letters to the editor section a letter was published from one Barry Foster. Didn't know if this guy and you were one in the same.

Pulpit Helps also published a letter I had written to the editor, about two years ago, regarding the numerous less-than-wonderful schools/seminaries/Bible Colleges which advertise. It used to be that almost every school they listed lacked legitimate accreditation. I noticed in this edition they are listing some legitimate schools, however, probably 60-70% are still in the questionable category. One school in LA, Lake Charles Bible College, offers a D.Min. for $400.

Russell

 

Hi Russell,

Nope, not me. If I could be any other 'barry foster', I'd pick the retired Steelers running back.

Barry Foster

 

My thanks to everyone who responded! I appreciate the effort!

Barry Foster

 

After searching across the globe (thanks again to everyone!), I found a program right next door! The University of Washington (Seattle, WA) has a nice looking "Writer's Program" that has four concentrations - one of which is nonfiction. In case someone else is interested, here is the URL:
http://www.outreach.washington.edu/extinfo/certprog/wrp/wrp_main.asp

It's a certificate program (not a MFA), but I think it will fit the bill. It is one of those nice programs that gives students the option of either DL or classroom - for all courses. I'll give it a shot!

Barry Foster