APU’s newest program is a Low-Residency Master’s of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. Designed for aspiring authors, the MFA provides one-on-one mentorship and guidance, as enrolled students dive into the works of Northern writers and hone their own poetry, fiction, or literary nonfiction.
“Low-residency allows students a lot of flexibility,” explained David Onofrychuk, MFA program director. The MFA degree takes just over two years to complete, with three summer residencies on campus in Anchorage. Students can complete the program from anywhere in the world, as long as they commit to two weeks on campus in late July each summer. For anyone who’s ever wanted to visit Alaska, the degree provides an incredible opportunity to travel to Anchorage and join a community of writers under the midnight sun. Likewise, it provides an avenue to meet and study Alaska authors; summer residencies include nightly readings in the Earl R. Brown Auditorium in Grant Hall that are open to the public.
Similar to APU’s MAP degree, the MFA is a 36-credit program built around one-on-one faculty mentorship. During the fall and spring semesters, students create a work plan with their advisor that meets their independent goals. The program provides structure and community during the writing process, which can sometimes feel like a lonely experience, Onofrychuk said. MFA mentors encourage and motivate students while helping to shape and develop their finished manuscript.
The program is ideal for mid-career professionals who are rooted in other locations, as well as fresh college graduates who want to continue their education. The first cohort starts online the week of May 9, 2022 and applications are accepted through May 1, 2022. Anyone inspired to write a novel, memoir, or collection of prose or poetry is encouraged to apply.
Will we see you on campus for the first residency this July?
Learn more at: alaskapacific.edu/mfa
