Popular Fiction at Stonecoast

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Stonecoast is unusual among Creative Writing MFA Programs in that it not only recognizes the value of the many genres included in Popular Fiction but also celebrates their rich literary potential.

Currently students in our program are writing and selling mystery, thriller, historical, horror, fantasy and science fiction, but we are open to students writing well in any genre (including romance), as well as those interested in writing across genre. We welcome those writing at all lengths, from the short story to the novel to the series.

While we recognize that genre writers must necessarily write to market in terms of content, we nonetheless encourage our students to shun formula and strive

for literary quality. Students at Stonecoast are expected to explore the history of their chosen genre and to familiarize themselves with the best work currently being published, both in and out of genre.

Because students and faculty at Stonecoast have specialized in the many genres of Popular Fiction, incoming students should expect a more rigorous and specific analysis of their strengths and weaknesses as writers than they would get in a more traditional Creative Writing MFA program.

At Stonecoast, we believe that writers write to be read, so we often discuss marketing and career paths. The Stonecoast Popular Fiction program can be intense, and yet we have found that out of that intensity arises a strong community spirit that continues beyond the two year course of study.

Please explore the Related Links in the righthand column to learn more about Popular Fiction at Stonecoast.