The Creative Writing Program funds all incoming MFA students with a teaching appointment. These positions are not teaching assistantships (TAs) in which students teach discussion sections of a course taught by regular faculty; students are the “instructors of record” for all of these courses. Previous teaching experience is not required for these appointments; training is provided by the Program. However, applicants will need to demonstrate their probable success as a first-time teacher through their application materials and letters of recommendation.

Student instructors (aka Graduate Employees (GEs)) receive tuition remission, monthly stipends (approximately $18,000 for the 2018-2019 academic year), some fees, and health coverage.

• First Year Funding: GEs in the Creative Writing Program teach either Introduction to Fiction, Introduction to Poetry, or a section of the Kidd Workshops.

• Second Year Funding: During the second year, MFA candidates typically receive an appointment teaching English composition. To qualify, students must successfully complete a training program offered by the Department of English during their first year.

Other Financial Aid
Information about additional financial aid, such as student loans, grants, and work study, is available through the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. Inquire early, as many national deadlines are in February.