1

Creative Writing Mfa Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Creative Writing Mfa information

See Tennessee salary details

$35.9K

$56.4K

$83K

How much do creative writing mfa jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing mfa in Tennessee is $56,440.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $77,100.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Creative Writing Mfa jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Creative Writing Mfa jobs in Tennessee are:

What job categories do people searching Creative Writing Mfa jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Creative Writing Mfa jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Creative Writing Mfa jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Creative Writing Mfa job openings:

Infographic showing various Creative Writing Mfa job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,440 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Instructor, English - 9/10 Month (Term)

The Tennessee Board of Regents

Nashville, TN • On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Title: Instructor, English - 9/10 Month (Term)
POSITION SUMMARY
This position is a full-time faculty position responsible for preparing and delivering quality instruction in English. This position will support instruction in Nashville high schools and other Nashville State instructional sites as needed.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Teach courses via on-ground in local high schools and/or online, hybrid or in web-enhanced delivery modes, as assigned. Teaching assignments are possible at any campus or site at which Nashville State instruction takes place. Within a minimum workweek of 37.5 hours, teach a minimum of 15 hours and hold office hours. Work with Course Leads, Department Chair, and Dean to ensure consistent student experiences. Utilizing the College's learning management system, provide accurate and updated course materials to students. Submit updated and accurate syllabi prior to the first day of class. Regularly check College email and departmental mailbox. Respond to emails/messages within 24 hours, except on weekends.
Complete all required reports, such as attendance, Early Alerts, progress reports and grade submissions. Administer and return questionnaires and student outcome assessments by the required deadlines. Submit final grades for each semester by the deadline established by the registrar. Provide academic advising to students with an emphasis on retention and success. Remain current in the teaching area(s) through appropriate professional development activities. Actively participate on committees within the Department of English and Reading, the School of Arts and Humanities and college-wide committees and engage in departmental institutional effectiveness activities. Collaborate in building and maintaining relationships within and beyond the institution. Comply with all college and TBR policies and guidelines.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Master's degree in English, English Composition, Writing or Literature; or
Master's degree in another discipline and at least 18 graduate semester hours in English, English Composition, Writing or Literature; or
MFA in Creative Writing
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Documented experience teaching at the college level.
Documented experience teaching at the high school level.
Demonstrated understanding of the community college mission and needs of the student population.
Documented experience teaching Composition I and II, Learning Support (developmental) Writing and Learning Support (developmental) Reading.
Documented experience teaching literature in an array of sub-disciplines as a generalist.
Documented experience teaching English courses in a variety of modalities including in-person, hybrid, virtual and asynchronously online.
Demonstrated experience incorporating current technologies into teaching.
Terminal degree in English, Composition or Creative Writing.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of and experience teaching using a variety of instructional delivery modes. Ability to communicate effectively and work cooperatively and collaboratively with a wide range of faculty, staff, and student population. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and relevant instructional technologies.
Open Until Filled: Yes
Rate of Pay: $39,722.00 - $49,652.00 depending on experience
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Official transcripts are required upon hire. Applicants may be subject to a background check.
Nashville State offers flexible work arrangements for positions that qualify.