Stony Brook University United States

Creative Writing and Literature

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Literature at Stony Brook University is designed for aspiring writers who seek to deeply explore the craft of storytelling and its connection to the human experience. You will develop your unique voice and persuasive abilities through intensive writing workshops, learning to connect your ideas with a broad audience. This undergraduate degree provides a robust foundation in literary analysis, enabling you to read like a writer and contextualize your own creative output within a rich academic tradition. It is ideal for students passionate about literature and eager to hone their skills in fiction, poetry, or non-fiction. You will engage in a hands-on learning experience, participating in ten writing workshops and two literature courses specifically curated for writers, studying subjects like forms of fiction, poetry, and contemporary literature.

This full-time, on-campus program spans four years, culminating in a significant senior project or thesis, where you will independently manage a book-length manuscript from conception to completion. You will graduate from Stony Brook University with the self-reliance, creative vision, and polished writing skills essential for pursuing careers in publishing, journalism, screenwriting, or further academic study. You will work alongside experienced faculty, receiving critical feedback to refine your craft and build a professional portfolio. Your journey will involve exploring diverse literary forms and developing a sophisticated understanding of narrative structure and stylistic nuance.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of creative writing and literature, beginning with foundational courses in contemporary literature and various writing genres. Students will engage in ten writing workshops, delving into forms such as fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and creative non-fiction. The curriculum also includes literature courses tailored for writers, focusing on American, European, and World literary traditions, culminating in a capstone cluster of four courses designed to synthesize their learning and complete a senior project or thesis.

1 A. Introductory Courses Required of All Majors (9 credits)

Introduction to Contemporary Literature
Introduction to Creative Writing: Writing Everything
Join the Conversation

2 B. Ten Writing Workshops (30–31 credits)

Forms of Creative Non-Fiction
Forms of Fiction
Forms of Poetry
Forms of Scriptwriting
Forms of Interdisciplinary Arts
Forms of Science Writing
Forms of Fiction, Poetry, Scriptwriting, Creative Nonfiction, Professional and Scientific Writing (MFA faculty)

3 C. Two Literature Courses for Writers (6 credits)

Topics in European Literature for Writers
Topics in American Literature for Writers
Topics in World Literature for Writers

4 D. Four “Capstone Cluster” Courses (15 credits)

The Ethics of the Creative Imagination
Senior Project
Mind the Gap: Independent Reading
Thesis

5 E. Upper-Division Writing Requirement

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,874.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,874.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,874.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,874.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 115,496.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Stony Brook Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesSecondary & High School EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

NYC Public Schools

Suffolk County Community College

Why Study Creative Writing and Literature at Stony Brook University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Stony Brook University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Stony Brook University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Creative Writing and Literature at Stony Brook University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require separate permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Students must meet English proficiency requirements through tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores vary, but generally include high comprehension and writing skills.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers in publishing, journalism, screenwriting, or further academic study.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Literature focuses on storytelling and literary analysis. Students participate in ten writing workshops and two literature courses, studying topics like fiction forms and contemporary literature.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The program has an intake month in January, allowing new students to start their studies at the beginning of the year. You can prepare your application to join in this period.
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