The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fiction Writing is a natural extension of the Bachelor of Arts program, which may be seen as the foundation upon which the more rigorous BFA is constructed.

Students receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Fiction Writing should:

• be able to use a variety of narrative techniques, written forms, and revision strategies to create effective fiction and nonfiction;
• demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between effective oral communication and effective writing;
• demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between effective reading and effective writing;
• be able to read and respond critically and creatively to a wide diversity of texts, experiments, and techniques in prose forms;
• be informed and knowledgeable about the literary marketplace and processes crucial to publishing their writing;
• apply creative problem-solving, effective written and oral communications, and critical thinking to their preparation for graduate studies, writing-related careers, and other professions;
• assemble a Writer’s Portfolio which shows evidence of understanding of purpose, originality of conception, engaging subject matter, developed technique, and is of publishable quality, and professional in appearance; and
• exhibit a sound understanding of related theory and practice in a BFA thesis of publishable and professional quality.

The BFA program reflects the kind of work in which many of our students are already engaged, while retaining the crucial component of an enlightened liberal arts education that all writers must possess. A service learning or internship component is required, and students choose between two capstone courses that provide a culminating experience leading to products (a portfolio of creative work or a teaching journal/essay) with specific career outcomes. This degree prepares students who anticipate entering graduate school in creative writing and encourages even more vigorous development and application for those seeking employment in writing-related professions. Finally, through a variety of recommended courses in other departments, this program provides solid, focused pathways for students to extend their applications of training in fiction writing and to explore interdisciplinary possibilities.

Each successful BFA candidate will complete an approved prose thesis. The content and length of this work will be determined in consultation between the candidate and the designated thesis advisor. The thesis is expected to be of publishable quality, and will be part of the student’s portfolio.

Students who wish to pursue the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fiction Writing must apply for this program in the Fiction Writing Department. A minimum grade of “C” or better is required in all major coursework, as well as a 3.0 or better grade point average in the major.

Program Requirements  

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