The University of Maine at Farmington takes pride in offering the only Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program in the state, with courses in poetry, fiction, screenwriting and journalism. The curriculum includes an apprenticeship program which, like an internship, helps you gain gain job-ready hands-on skills such as editing a literary journal, teaching creative writing and even creating a TV show. For a full description, visit the UMF catalog (2023-2024).
How do I explore Creative Writing at UMF?
There are many ways to explore a major. You could:
- Review the webpage for this major.
- Talk to faculty members in the major. Ask about their career path.
- Choose a class of interest and contact the faculty member to ask about going to one of the classes.
- Talk with students in the major for insights into the courses you will take and professors who will instruct you.
- Enroll in one of the following courses: ENG 152 Creative Writing (for non-majors) or any English course.
- Get involved by joining a club or volunteer with an organization.
- Volunteer or intern with an organization that is aligned with this major.
- Talk with a Career Counselor.
What careers can I get with this major?
What jobs have UMF graduates acquired?
Novelist, Project Director for PBS, Public Radio Journalist, Newspaper Journalist, Communications Associate, Marketing Assistant, Social Media & Web Support, Poetry Editor, Editor in a Publishing House, Managing Editor at Alice James Books, College Professor, Lecturer, Digital and Calendar Editor at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Library Assistant, Freelance Videographer, Associate Dean of Academic Resources at Endicott College, Graphic Designer/Production Artist, Advancement Relations and Media Coordinator, Content Marketing Manager, and others.
Can I minor in Creative Writing? Are there related majors at UMF?
UMF has minors in Creative Writing, English, Editing and Publishing, Film Studies, Business Communications, and many other choices. A major related to Creative Writing is English. Read more about majors and minors.
How do I declare this major?
Contact Jeffrey Thomson at jeffrey.thomson@maine.edu or 207-778-7454 to discuss your interests.
Prepare an application to the BFA Program to include:
A cover sheet containing your phone number, address and current major.
A current UMF transcript (available from the Registrar).
A writing sample from two or more of the following genres: poetry, fiction, nonfiction (at least 10 pages of writing in total).
A one-paragraph assessment of yourself as a creative writer and why you want to declare Creative Writing as a major.
Please leave the application with Shari Witham, Humanities Department Administrative Assistant, in 209A Roberts. You may also send your application to her at Department of Humanities, 270 Main Street, Farmington, ME 04938. If you have questions please call her at 207-778-7425.