Whitworth Begins a New Chapter in Literary Education
The MFA in Creative Writing is a 44-credit program that begins each January and July/August. Students will move through the program with a group of colleagues practicing their chosen genre as a cohort, taking each class together in sequence. This provides an additional support system as students complete the program and can help them establish a network of professional writing colleagues.
“Whitworth’s new MFA in Creative Writing invites writers to hone their craft in a vibrant, faith-informed community,” says John Pell, provost & executive vice president. “Our innovative low-residency program will blend rigorous mentorship with creative exploration, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to culture through prose and poetry. The MFA is a beautiful expression of Whitworth’s educational mission and makes clear that creative work contributes to our common good and the health of our communities. The MFA is yet another new and exciting offering in Whitworth’s growing graduate program portfolio.”
Whitworth is proud to welcome Mischa Willett as director of the program. Willett is an acclaimed poet and essayist best known for his work in poetic lament and for his scholarly revival of the Spasmodic poets.
“We’re creating a beloved community here, who care as much about one another as they do about launching successful writing careers,” Willett says. “We want to celebrate each other’s successes, while also perfecting our various crafts, mastering the traditions that nourish the arts, and offering all of our makings to the Creator of every good and perfect gift.”
This program is built on alternating tutorials and residencies. Tutorial semesters will allow writers to discover their voice and navigate literature within their chosen genre under the mentorship of a professional writer.
Students will attend a total of five residencies, 10 days each, over the course of two academic years. Residencies will take place in January and July/August. They will be comprised of in-person sessions, including workshops, speakers and classes that offer opportunities to connect with peers.
Students will be expected to submit reading lists along with new and revised creative works, as well as short critical papers, followed by an expanded critical paper and a creative thesis.
One of the program’s most distinctive and enriching features lies in the relationships students will cultivate, not only with their dedicated MFA mentors, but also with an inspiring lineup of guest speakers, including some of America’s most celebrated and influential literary voices.
“The English department at Whitworth is honored to be a steward of such a promising program,” says Jessica Clements, Ph.D., professor of English and department chair. “How exciting to offer writers of all walks of life the unique opportunity to concurrently nurture their faith (expansively understood) and their writing – to build skills that are deeply human and culturally vital. I can’t think of a more apropos place than Whitworth for this community to flourish!”
The structure of this program is intended to encourage continuous creation, thoughtful reflection and meaningful collaboration, fostering both artistic and intellectual growth. For more information on the Writers Workshop or contact mfa@whitworth.edu or 509.777.4581.
About Whitworth University:
Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of about 2,500 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Contacts:
Trisha Coder, associate director of media relations, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu.
