Top Poetry MFA Programs?

Hey there! I'm a junior in high school and a budding poet. I want to study poetry in-depth after college. Can you help me find some of the best poetry MFA programs in the U.S.? I'm looking for schools with renowned faculty, good workshops, and a supportive writing community.

Hello! It's terrific that you're passionate about poetry and planning ahead for an MFA program. There are quite a few prestigious poetry MFA programs in the U.S. that are known for their quality faculty, workshop offerings, and support for their writing communities. Here's a list of some top programs to consider:

1. Iowa Writers' Workshop (University of Iowa) — Located in Iowa City, Iowa, this program is renowned for its outstanding faculty and history of producing acclaimed authors. It provides a strong, rigorous, and diverse curriculum centered around workshops.

2. Michener Center for Writers (University of Texas at Austin) — This program offers interdisciplinary courses, allowing you to study not just poetry but also fiction and screenwriting. The Michener Center is known for its stipend support, offering students financial assistance while they work on their craft.

3. New York University — NYU's Creative Writing Program in New York City boasts a prominent faculty, a wide variety of workshops, and various opportunities to intern or work with literary publications. The urban setting provides endless inspiration for poets.

4. University of Virginia — The MFA program at UVA is situated in Charlottesville, Virginia, and is known for its selectivity and generous funding. They also provide an emphasis on community engagement, encouraging students to not only develop their craft but also contribute to the community through volunteering and outreach.

5. Warren Wilson College — This low-residency MFA program is highly regarded and emphasizes a mentorship model, as students work closely with faculty through correspondence and during intensive on-campus residencies. The program is designed for students who want to remain engaged in their careers or communities while pursuing their MFA.

6. Johns Hopkins University — Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the Writing Seminars program at Johns Hopkins offers an intense two-year course of study in poetry and fiction. The small class sizes and diverse faculty ensure individualized attention and plenty of opportunities for workshops and personalized feedback.

These are just a few examples of renowned poetry MFA programs, but there are many others out there. When researching and selecting schools, pay attention to program size, funding opportunities, faculty members, location, and the alumni network. It's essential to find a program that aligns with your creative needs and professional aspirations. Good luck in your search for the perfect MFA program!