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Creative Writing Mfa Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do creative writing mfa jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing mfa in the United States is $62,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Creative Writing MFA?

A Creative Writing MFA job typically refers to careers pursued by graduates of a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in creative writing. Common roles include writing and publishing fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, as well as teaching creative writing at the college level. Graduates may also work in editing, content creation, copywriting, or communications. The degree provides strong storytelling and critical thinking skills, which can be applied to various professional fields.

What types of career paths are available to someone with an MFA in Creative Writing?

An MFA in Creative Writing can prepare you for a wide range of careers beyond traditional authorship, including roles in teaching at the college level, content creation, editing, publishing, or communications. Many MFA graduates work as freelance writers, editors, or in media positions where strong narrative and analytical skills are highly valued. In academia, opportunities may include teaching creative writing, leading workshops, or participating in literary research. Career advancement often depends on building a strong publication history, networking within the writing community, and staying current with industry trends. Creative Writing MFA holders often find fulfillment in roles that combine creativity with critical engagement, both independently and as part of collaborative teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Creative Writing MFA position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Writing MFA graduate, you need exceptional writing, storytelling, and critical analysis skills, typically demonstrated through a portfolio and an advanced degree (MFA) in Creative Writing. Mastery of creative software like Microsoft Word, Scrivener, and online publishing platforms, along with familiarity with editorial guidelines, is often necessary. Strong communication, openness to feedback, and time management are important soft skills that elevate success in writing collaborations and workshop environments. These skills enable individuals to produce original work, meet publication standards, and grow professionally in literary, academic, or media settings.

Can you become a creative writing professor with a creative writing MFA?

A creative writing MFA is often a minimum qualification for teaching at the college level as a professor, especially in adjunct or entry-level positions. However, many institutions prefer candidates with additional experience, publications, or a PhD for full-time, tenure-track roles. Strong writing skills, a portfolio, and teaching experience are also important for pursuing a career as a creative writing professor.

What can I do with a master's degree in creative writing?

A master's degree in creative writing prepares individuals for careers such as author, editor, content creator, or writing instructor. Graduates often work in publishing, media, education, or freelance writing, utilizing skills in storytelling, editing, and communication.

What jobs can I get with a creative writing MFA?

A Creative Writing MFA can qualify individuals for roles such as novelist, editor, content writer, copywriter, technical writer, or literary agent. These positions often require strong writing, editing, and communication skills, and may involve working in publishing, media, advertising, or education environments.
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Infographic showing various Creative Writing Mfa job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,185 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Assistant Professor in English - Creative Writing (Fiction)

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Creative Writing Program in the Department of English at Carnegie Mellon University seeks an Assistant Professor (tenure track) specializing in Creative Writing (Fiction), to begin Fall 2027. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong track record of publication as well as the ability to teach a variety of courses in fiction at the undergraduate level, including an introduction to form and technique in short fiction, beginning and advanced fiction workshops, and fiction seminars. A secondary specialization in creative nonfiction or another creative genre is especially desirable. The successful candidate will be engaged in helping to sustain, and to continue to develop, a top-ranked writing program, including mentoring students and helping to curate events. We are especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, and excellence of the academic community.
Qualifications
The qualified applicant will have a terminal degree in Creative Writing (MFA or PhD), and a substantial publication record, including at least one book, as well as demonstrated excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level.
This position is for the rank of assistant professor. The teaching load is 2/2. The successful candidate will teach fiction (and possibly creative nonfiction) courses and workshops at multiple levels, mentor students, curate events, and contribute to the department's collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
Application Instructions
Application Details:
Applications should be received by October 31, 2026, and should include the following:
--Academic C.V.
--Cover Letter detailing the candidate's qualifications and creative background
--Statement of Teaching Philosophy
--10-25 pages of creative work
The Search Committee may request additional material at a later date.

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