How does an MFA benefit a writer?

Many writers question the benefits of a writing program. Here at Texas State, we feel that the greatest advantage in attending a program is being in a community of writers. For three years, your work will receive the most careful readings possible by your peers, a distinguished and widely published faculty, and by a noted adjunct faculty member who reads and responds to your finished thesis. In addition, students are made aware of publishing opportunities that might otherwise require extensive research, and they meet, in addition to permanent faculty, another 12-18 visiting writers during their three years in the program.

I've heard a lot about studio programs. What are these, and are they a better choice for young writers?

Studio programs allow students to take courses that are specific to their craft--fiction writing, poetry, playwriting, etc. Here at Texas State, students are required to take a certain amount of hours in literature as well. The philosophy is this: one of the best ways to write great literature is to read great literature. Students also choose the non-studio approach because they feel it increases their chances of getting college level teaching positions. The MFA at Texas State creates graduates who are competitive with literature Ph.D. students. Students who are awarded assistantships are given the opportunity to teach, and this broadens job prospects. The MFA is considered a terminal degree, which means that you can teach at the university level if you hold one. Our program prepares you to be both a better writer and, if you apply for and are awarded a teaching fellowship, a better and more qualified teacher of literature and writing as well.

What about the argument that writing programs create a generic style?

Creative diversity is alive and well at Texas State. The faculty members themselves vary both in their teaching styles in the kind of literature they enjoy and write. Just examine their work. Texas State MFA students hail from all over the country. They are of different ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds. Each student is unique; therefore, creative individuality is encouraged, not stifled.

I didn't major in English as an undergraduate. Does this put me at a disadvantage?

Certainly not. Our students have majors in anything from biology to speech therapy. Admission to the program is based exclusively on the quality of the portfolio. It is preferable that our teaching assistants have a strong background in literature-although an English major is not required. Students with extensive literature coursework on their transcripts may have an advantage in the assistantship application process.

What are you looking for in the portfolio?

Good writing. It's a good idea to be involved with a writing group, or at least have someone look at your submissions before you send them. There should be no typos or grammatical errors. And read, read, read. Books are the best teachers.

Is there a separate application procedure for the Rose Fellowship?

No. All applicants are considered for this award, as well as for other scholarships.

Can I take both fiction and poetry workshops?

While many studio programs offer the option of studying both genres, Texas State requires that students specialize in only one area. Students may take literature courses in either poetry or fiction, but workshop classes are limited to those studying that particular genre in order to maintain a high level of quality in both the work put up for discussion, and the discussion itself.

I write genre fiction. Is there a place for me at Texas State?

Most of the students are writing literary fiction, and what you'll be reading in the classroom is primarily literary fiction. However, "literary fiction" is a broad category, difficult to define. Who's to say that a mystery story can't be literary? When looking at your own work, ask yourself this question: does my work simply tell a story, or does it require the reader to question the world in some way. We like to teach students both the craft of good storytelling (i.e. plot, character, conflict, etc.) and the merits of tackling larger issues.

Is there a minimum number of classes I need to take each semester?

Students with assistantships must take a minimum of six hours each semester and a total of fifteen hours for each academic year. The average number of hours for first and second year students is nine per semester; however, some students take six hours in the fall and/or spring and then take additional hours in the summer. It is important to keep in mind that first year students who have instructional assistantships must complete eighteen hours in English classes in order to be promoted to TA in their second year.

I work in full-time in Austin. Is it possible to do the MFA part-time?

We have a handful of students who commute a few times a week to San Marcos for classes. Most of our classes are in the evenings, a convenient time slot for working students. It is required that students who decide to go part-time take no less than six hours each semester (two courses). This insures graduating in a timely fashion. Students may take longer than three years to graduate, but they must complete the MFA within five years. And students are not permitted to take workshops only. You must take at least 3 hours of literature coursework for each 3 hours of workshop. We only accept students who are determined to complete the MFA degree into the program.

I've heard about this study abroad program. Can I get credit toward my MFAby attending?

Yes. Texas State offers summer study in both Ireland and Britain. Students who choose to participate can get literature credit toward the FFA.

What best qualifies me for a teaching assistantship?

Applications for assistantships are very competitive. Please be as thorough as possible in providing all the material requested - transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores. Above all, strongly and clearly explain your desire to teach, your qualifications for teaching, and why you believe that you will be a good teacher at the college freshman and sophomore level in your personal statement. The committee looks at the personal statements closely.

Is it possible to live on the assistantship stipend?

Well, you won't be driving a Corvette or shopping at Prada, but yes, it is a livable amount. Living costs in San Marcos are reasonable--it is possible, for example, to get a one-bedroom apartment for under $400.00 a month. Many students work extra hours in the summer to pad their income. Others who wish to live more comfortably take out loans. But there are just as many students who live frugally on their monthly salary without going into debt. Also, the program and department try to provide as many summer jobs as possible. Not everyone receives one. But in 2003, for example, 17 of 20 applicants received either an Instructional Assistantship, or a Katherine Anne Porter Teaching Fellowship, each of which provided additional teaching experience, and stipends of $2500-2800.

Tuition?

In-state tuition rates for the 2007-08 academic year are approximately $2,500 for 9 semester hours. Out-of-state tuition rates are approximately $5,000 for 9 semester hours.