Master of Arts in Writing

Our Master of Arts in Writing provides project-based learning supported by a publishing lab, an acclaimed literary journal, and opportunities to teach college composition classes.

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Degree Type

Master of Arts

College

Humanities

Focus Areas

Composition and Rhetoric

Creative Writing

Literature and Linguistics

Accreditations
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Contact Info

Kate Oestreich

Coordinator, Master of Arts in Writing

843-349-6602

koestrei@coastal.edu

Deadlines

Fall: January 31 (priority)

Spring: November 15

Why CCU for graduate studies in Writing?

The Master of Arts in Writing is a 33-credit-hour program that offers courses in creative writing, composition and rhetoric, editing and publishing, professional writing, literature, and linguistics.

If you want graduate-level training in the craft of writing—be it with an eye toward an MFA program in fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction; a PhD program in Composition and Rhetoric; or a writing-intensive job in a variety of fields, from the private sector to government to nonprofit positions. 

Our program is a proven bridge to the terminal degree. Our alums have gone on to MFA programs at University of Oregon, University of Alabama, George Mason University, UNC Greensboro, University of Central Florida, and Warren Wilson College, as well as Comp / Rhet and Professional / Technical Writing PhD programs at University of South Carolina, Clemson University, University of New Hampshire, Iowa State University, and Virginia Tech.

Program Highlights

Gain graduate-level training in the craft of writing, whether you are looking toward an MFA, PhD, or a writing-intensive career.

Average Completion Time
3-4 semesters
Degree Credit Hours
33

Coursework

Students in Coastal Carolina's M.A. in Writing program take: Two core courses selected from options in editing and publishing, forms of creative writing, and composition and rhetoric; Three workshops selected from options in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, professional and technical writing, and composition and rhetoric; Two courses in literature and/or linguistics; Three elective courses that may include additional workshops in creative writing; Three hours of portfolio research.

Course of Study

Professional Experience

The program offers a wide range of opportunities for students to gain experience in writing, editing, and teaching in professional contexts. An on-campus literary journal and available graduate assistantships in teaching and research make the MAW program a professional training arena for writers and scholars. Our graduate faculty work intensively with students on their writing and scholarship, successfully preparing students to publish and present their work in literary journals and conferences.

Tuition and Aid

The graduate programs at Coastal Carolina University are among the most affordable in the state. A limited number of graduate teaching assistantships are available that pay in excess of the full cost of tuition. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Graduate Financial Aid

Application Requirements

Alongside a graduate application, you will need to provide two letters of recommendation, a 20-page writing sample, and a two-page statement of interest. The priority application deadline for the Fall semester and graduate assistantships is January 31, and the Spring semester is November 15. Fall applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

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Two essential aspects of any graduate writing program are the skills you acquire and the relationships you build. Coastal exceeded all my expectations, and continues to support my work long after the completion of the program.

Lane Osborne , MAW alum