United States

Columbia College Chicago

Nonfiction (MFA)

University degrees: Postgraduate

Course length: Three years (38 credits)

As a student in the Nonfiction MFA program at Columbia College Chicago, you’ll explore the world of nonfiction writing, from autobiographies and essays to memoirs and travel writing—and you’ll explore it on your own terms. This growing genre and its many styles and forms blur the line between the journalistic and the literary. With guidance and encouragement from faculty members who understand the nuances of creative nonfiction writing, you’ll experiment with different forms and styles.

By developing effective reading, writing, editing, and critical thinking strategies, you’ll make your own work even stronger and establish a foundation for creating original nonfiction.

In the Classroom

During your first year in the Nonfiction MFA program, you’ll immerse yourself in writing workshops with fellow students. You’ll have professional publishing and teaching opportunities, and you’ll take a hard look at writers who inspire you, studying their creative processes as you work on your craft in a structured environment.

While studying various forms of nonfiction, you’ll have opportunities for cross-genre collaboration, working with students and faculty members in both Fiction and Poetry.

As you finish your MFA program, you’ll build on your work from previous classes to create a substantial thesis with the help of a faculty member.

But there’s so much more:

  • Teach as a graduate student instructor or teaching assistant.
  • Increase your exposure to a variety of professional opportunities through an internship.
  • Participate in the student-run 33 Reading Series, which features readings by MFA students in Fiction, Nonfiction, and Poetry.
  • Create reading series, journals, or presses of your own.

Faculty

In Columbia College Chicago’s Nonfiction MFA program, you’ll foster close working relationships with our award-winning faculty members. These practicing, publishing writers serve as artistic role models who inspire you to take creative risks and guide you as you share your work with the broader literary community.

Opportunities for Graduate Students

Columbia College Chicago offers several opportunities for graduate students, including scholarships, assistantships, and instructing opportunities.

Programs, Courses, Workshops