Camp Casey, once home to the SPU MFA-hopeful future home of Whitworth MFA

Seattle Pacific University MFA in Creative Writing: Now the Whitworth Writers' Workshop

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Seattle Pacific University MFA in Creative Writing: Now the Whitworth Writers' Workshop *

Important Update: The MFA in Creative Writing program formerly hosted by Seattle Pacific University has found its new home at Whitworth University as the Whitworth Writers' Workshop.

A New Chapter, Same Excellence

After 20 successful years at Seattle Pacific University, our beloved MFA in Creative Writing program has transitioned to Whitworth University, where it continues as the Whitworth Writers' Workshop MFA in Creative Writing. Under the continued leadership of Director Mischa Willett, the program maintains its commitment to faith-informed literary excellence while embracing new opportunities for growth.

For Prospective Students

  • Same Quality Education: The rigorous, faith-integrated curriculum that made the SPU MFA program distinctive continues unchanged

  • Same Leadership: Director Mischa Willett to lead the program with the same vision and excellence

  • Enhanced Resources: Access to Whitworth's beautiful campus and extensive library resources, including the Summit consortium

  • Low-Residency Format: The flexible structure that allows you to maintain your daily commitments remains intact

For SPU MFA Alumni

  • Your degree and achievements remain fully recognized and celebrated

  • The literary community and network you built continues to thrive at Whitworth

  • Alumni events and connections continue through the Whitworth Writers' Workshop (yes, you are invited)

Program Highlights at Whitworth

The Whitworth Writers' Workshop MFA preserves everything that made the Seattle Pacific program exceptional:

  • 44-credit, 2-year program with alternating tutorial and residency semesters

  • Small cohorts: 12 students per intake (January and July admissions)

  • One-on-one mentorship with published, genre-specific writers

  • Five residencies in inspiring locations (Bozarth Mansion in winter, Whitworth campus in summer)

  • Personalized curriculum with annotated reading lists tailored to your writing goals

  • Faith integration that honors both spiritual depth and literary excellence

  • Strong alumni network with over 100 published books from program graduates

Learn more

Application Information

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in any field

  • Writing sample demonstrating your creative potential

  • Commitment to faith-informed literary practice

Financial Information

  • Tuition: $750 per credit hour

  • Residency Fee: $1,500 per residency

  • Financial Aid: Full federal aid available, including loans and need-based assistance

Application Deadline

  • Accepted on a rolling basis

  • Join the next cohort after your offer

Apply Now

Connect With Us

Ready to continue your creative writing journey with us at Whitworth? Here's how to get started:

Anglican Poet Mischa Willett, Director of Whitworth MFA, in Oxford

A Personal Note from Director Mischa Willett

"The SPU MFA was a bright spot in the literary and spiritual landscape, not only of the Pacific Northwest, but of the Western world. Its reach was ridiculous given the size of the host institution, with scores of writers launching successful literary careers and even more, lifelong friendships, from this place. I’m grateful to Whitworth University for believing—and more than that: for investing—in the arts in this way. I only hope to continue the great good work of this special program under this fresh heading.”

FAQs

  • Yes, this is the continuation of the same MFA program, with the SPU poetry mentor as the new director, and the same philosophy, and commitment to excellence that characterized the SPU program for 20 years.

  • Not at all. Your Seattle Pacific University MFA degree remains fully valid and recognized. The program's strong reputation and alumni achievements continue to honor all graduates. At the same time, we hope you will come to alumni events at Whitworth as though this is a second home.

  • The low-residency structure remains unchanged, allowing working professionals, parents, and others with commitments to pursue their MFA without relocating.

  • Yes! We accept applications twice yearly for January and July starts. Visit our Whitworth page for current application deadlines and requirements.

  • Yes. Whitworth can accept up to 25% of the credits required for the MFA degree as transfer credits, so long as they were completed within the last 6 years.

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