M.A. in Professional Writing
The Master of Arts in Professional Writing (MAPW) will prepare you for a writing career in television, film, education, publishing, business and the literary arts. Since the graduate program’s founding in 1995, its students and alumni have found success in numerous writing-intensive fields.
Program Snapshot
- Program Format
- Face-to-Face (online classes are limited)
- Program Cost
- Bursar's Office
- GRAs/GTAs receive a tuition waiver and stipend
- Credit Hours
- 36 hours
- Estimated Time to Complete Program
- 2-3 years
- Application Deadlines
- Fall: February 1 (priority), June 1 (final)
- Spring: October 1
- Virtual Info Session
- April (TBA) on Teams
Concentrations
Application Deadlines
Fall Semester
- February 1 (Priority)
- June 1 (Final)
Spring Semester
- October 1
Graduate Certificates
Connect with Our Community
The Headlight Review
A literary magazine produced by MAPW students and faculty.Georgia Writers
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit housed in KSU's Department of English.
Why is KSU’s MAPW the Best Writing Program in Georgia? Why is KSU the Best College for Writers?
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1. Expert Professors Foster Creative Excellence, Share Writing Expertise
Your professors are published authors and credited screen writers, who will share their expertise and mentor you. You’ll also benefit from their innovative research and professional connections.
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2. Supportive, Discussion-based Atmosphere
Most MAPW students are 25-35 years old and work full-time. The small classes, 20 students or less, and supportive atmosphere foster creativity and lively discussion. Author's readings, guest lectures, events, conferences, and internships complement course content.
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3. Convenient Schedule for Working People
You can choose to enroll full-time or part-time. Most classes meet one night per week, Monday through Thursday. Most courses are face to face, though a few are online or hybrid. Expect to spend 10-20 hours a week on assignments. Most students complete the program in 2-3 years.
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4. Teaching or Research Opportunities
If your goals include teaching or research, you can apply to be a Graduate Assistant and receive a tuition waiver and annual stipend. February 1 is the priority application deadline for those interested in Graduate Assistantships.
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5. Affordable Costs
KSU’s professional writing program costs are lower than many of its competitors. Be sure to explore tuition reimbursement, scholarship and financial aid opportunities, including a graduate assistantship.
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6. Proven Program with Decades of Successful Graduates
Since 1995, Atlanta writers, as well as writers from across the state, region, and beyond, have come to this master’s program for instruction, camaraderie and encouragement, and they have found success, both as students and alumni. The program has added courses to stay relevant in the ever-changing world of communications.
Latest MAPW News
- Ilya Kaminsky featured in Atlanta Journal & Constitution; Reads at KSU on Wednesday, April 4
- Two MAPW Students Win National Honors
- Food and Travel Writing to be Taught in Oaxaca, Mexico in Summer 22
- New Publications from MAPW!
- Alumni Spotlight: Val Jackson
- Reflections from Fiction I Writing Workshop
- Alumni Spotlight: Lisa M. Russell
- Congratulations, Fall '21 Grads!
- Spring 2021 MAPW Student Awards
- KSU alum named a top screenwriter to watch in 2021