Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing
The Rainier Writing Workshop (RWW) at Pacific Lutheran University is the premier low-residency Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing in the Pacific Northwest. Established for over 20 years, the program focuses on craft development, literary achievement, and publication success.
The PLU MFA provides a unique professional advantage by utilizing a three-year timeline that offers a sustainable, “leisurely pace” designed to prevent burnout for busy professionals. Its innovative pedagogy merges high academic rigor with a supportive, non-competitive atmosphere, ensuring that artistic growth happens within a collaborative community.
Unlike traditional two-year programs, the RWW’s three-year structure emphasizes mature, independent writing. It fosters a community where talented writers can allow their craft to flourish through sustained, long-term mentorship rather than rushed semester cycles.
Program Overview & Structure
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Format: Low-residency (Hybrid).
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Duration: 3-year program.
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Residency Requirement: 4 total residencies.
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Genres: Poetry, Fiction, and Creative Nonfiction.
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Mentorship Model: 1:1 individualized faculty mentorships lasting a full year.
Why choose the Rainier Writing Workshop at PLU?
Mentorships
Three year-long individualized mentorships with different MFA faculty members.
Faculty Excellence
PLU’s MFA has faculty with a variety of published work and accolades.
10-Day Summer Residency
Participate in 4 summer residencies on PLU’s campus in PNW.
Published Student Work
Publish in our online RWW Soundings magazine as a student in the program.
Low-Residency
PLU is a community centered on care, where you’ll receive tailored support from experienced faculty and staff even with coming to campus only once per year.
Outside Experience
The MFA embeds an independent project designed to enhance your studies and advance your writing goals.
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