Message from The Chair...

Binnie Kirshenbaum, Chair

The MFA program in creative writing at Columbia University's School of the Arts is driven by a rigorous approach to literary instruction, and a faculty of acclaimed writers who are, in equal measure, devoted and dedicated teachers. We do not foster any particular literary style; rather we encourage our students to pursue writing that resonates most deeply with their own artistic instincts, while at the same time pushing at the boundaries of their perceived inclinations.

At the core of our curriculum is the writing workshop. This intimate group elicits full artistic exploration, and a wide range of honest, substantive critical responses to student work with the explicit intent to improve the work and to reinvigorate the writer. In addition to our workshops, we offer well over twenty seminars, lectures, and Master Classes each year. These craft-oriented literature courses are designed specifically for writers, as distinct from strictly academic courses, to stimulate provocative discussions about literary craft and artistic choices.

We have two student reading series, and our literary magazine is edited and published by students. Our program hosts numerous extracurricular events: lectures, panel discussions, and talks with writers, critics, and the members of the New York publishing industry.

We are looking for students who seek to deepen their artistic practice, and who are excited to participate in a thriving, diverse community of writers. Please take a look around the site and learn more about our program and our faculty. Our courses page shows past and current offerings. If you have any questions at all about the program, please send us a note.