The program encourages cross-genre study and offers a track in screenwriting in addition to tracks in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction.

Students have the opportunity to participate in annual and bi-annual programs and events such as Practical Criticism Midwest, the In Print Festival of First Books, the Visiting Writer’s Series, the online literary journal River Teeth, and Creative Writing in the Community. The program also emphasizes creative writing pedagogy, literary citizenship, literary editing and publishing, and creative writing administration opportunities.

Applicants wishing to apply for a graduate assistantship must complete their applications by January 31 to guarantee consideration. The application deadline for fall is July 10. The application deadline for spring is November 1.