Masters of Professional Writing Program

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Master of Professional Writing Program Frequently Asked Questions

How does the MPW degree differ from an MFA or MA?

An MFA (Master of Fine Arts) degree is a two-year, 60-unit degree, emphasizing studio or performance work. An MFA is considered a "terminal" degree for fine and applied arts, meaning no higher level degree is available.

An MA (Master of Arts) degree is a liberal arts degree, typically offered in a one-year, 30-unit degree program which is part of and preparatory to a doctorate degree program. An MA is not a terminal degree, as the Ph.D. is considered the terminal degree. An MA does not require an intense level of studio or performance work.

The MPW degree is a 30-unit degree, which can be completed in two years, with the writing workshop as its core and the production of a major final project. Like an MFA, the MPW degree is a terminal degree, meaning no higher level degree is available (i.e., USC does not offer a doctorate in professional writing. USC does offer a Ph.D. in Literature and Creative Writing in the Department of English). The MPW is a professional degree, focused on developing a student's ability to become a working writer. The MPW degree differs from an MFA in that a dedicated student is able to assemble a diverse writing portfolio in 30 units instead of 60 units. Many MPW students complete the MPW degree while employed full-time, something very difficult, if not impossible, to do in an MFA program.

While no degree guarantees success in obtaining employment or admissions to further academic programs, MPW alumni hold teaching positions at institutions where an MFA is a required or acceptable degree, and alumni with MPW degrees also have successfully matriculated into doctoral programs.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline for Fall semester is July 1 and December 1 for Spring semester.

When can I start the program?

You may start fall, spring, or summer semester.

What are the minimum academic requirements to apply?

Applicants are expected to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GRE combined score of the verbal and quantitative sections of 1000.

Can I apply if I do not meet the minimum requirements?

Admission into the MPW Program is competitive. In all applications, we are looking for indicia of strong writing commitment and capability, particularly in the writing sample and personal statement of interest. A GRE score below 1000 will be considered as long as the cumulative undergraduate GPA is a 3.0 or above

What GRE code do I use?

The GRE code for USC is 4852. Leave the "department code" blank. Do NOT select the "Creative Writing" option.

Can I submit GRE scores that are more than five years old?

Exam scores are only valid for five years. We cannot accept GRE scores more than five years old.

Is it possible to request an interview?

Admissions interviews are by invitation only. Given the level of interest in the MPW Program, it is not possible to interview all applicants.

What is your policy on deferred admission?

An applicant may defer their application for up to one calendar year. After that, applicants must submit a new online application.

Who should write my letters of recommendation?

We strongly recommend that your letters of recommendation come from accomplished writers who know your writing personally and can speak to the development of your voice, writing work ethic, and your motivation and ability to incorporate direction into the improvement of your craft. Writers who know your work well could include professional colleagues, business superiors, or past faculty. Letters from past faculty are not required, especially for those applicants who have been out of school for some time and are no longer in contact with their faculty. Letters of recommendation from co-workers, someone you have supervised, or personal and family friends are inappropriate.

When are classes held?

Most classes are held Monday through Thursday starting at either 4:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. A few classes meet on weekends in an "executive education" style format, or on short-term intensive schedules. All classes are held on the main USC campus in Los Angeles.

How much are tuition and fees?

Please go to the Online Course Schedule (www.usc.edu/soc) for the current semester tuition and fees. Tuition for the 2008 – 2009 academic year is $1,249/graduate unit. Most MPW courses are 3 units and the MPW degree requires a minimum total of 30 units. Total program costs will range from approximately $37,000-$40,000.