MFA in Creative Writing - Poetry in Fairfax United States | George Mason University

The MFA program's poetry concentration offers a three-year, personalized mentorship in poetic craft within a vibrant writing community. We embrace diverse artistic approaches, innovative experimentation, and thoughtful engagement with poetry's rich heritage. The MFA Exam serves as a key milestone for poetry students, typically taken during the summer between their second and third year. This examination provides poets an opportunity to articulate their evolving ideas and showcase their understanding of the genre after extensive preparation, serving as a bridge to thesis work. Poetry candidates should review the Preparing for the MFA Exam guide and may consult sample exam questions during their preparation.

The MFA Thesis represents the program's capstone experience, enabling students to compile a full-length manuscript of poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction. Academically, the thesis evaluates a student's mastery of genre conventions and ability to produce original creative writing. While most theses benefit from further polishing, faculty encourage graduates to continue their creative pursuits, viewing the thesis as a springboard for sustained artistic development.