UT offers a PhD in English with a creative dissertation, and both an MFA in Creative Writing and a BA with a creative writing concentration. The idea here is to blend creative work with literary studies for a degree that helps candidates realize their potential as writers and scholars, plus makes them more viable in the marketplace.

Our creative writing faculty is as deeply committed to the teaching of writing as to writing well. Our Reading Series has brought in a stunning list of writers—Dorothy Allison, Natalie Diaz, Tracy K. Smith, Terrance Hayes, Adam Johnson, Colum McCann, Jesmyn Ward, and Clare Vaye Watkins, just to name a few—many of whom not only gave readings, but also directed workshops and worked one-on-one with students.

There is no cost to apply to the MFA program. All of our PhD candidates and MFA students are fully funded, with generous opportunities for additional financial support.

Our graduate students take advantage of teaching opportunities in a thriving undergraduate program and hold key editorial positions on Grist: The Journal for Writers; a number of our alumni are already making a mark in the literary world.

The English department has an outstanding record for job placement for PhDs, and our MFAs and undergrads have gone on to further study at the top universities in the country.  We think that speaks highly, not only of the program and of the people here, this community of writers, but also of the place itself.

A great place to do your best work.

For more information about the Creative Writing Program, contact Chris Hebert at chebert3@utk.edu.