Graduate Programs

Graduate Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing (MFA - Online)

Advance your writing and publishing skills in your chosen genre

  • 100%

    online MFA program

  • 0

    residency requirements

  • 7

    genres of writing to explore

About the Online Graduate Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing Program

Emerson College’s Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing MFA program is one of the first online and asynchronous programs of its kind that prepares students to write professional-level stories and novels. We welcome writers who create stories in the genres of fantasy, science fiction, romance, horror, mystery, thrillers, young adult—and any exciting combination thereof.

Housed in the Department of Writing, Literature and Publishing in the School of the Arts, our flexible graduate program allows you to work on your writing from anywhere in the world, with online workshops, literature seminars, and publishing courses that fit your schedule. Become a better writer, explore the history of your genre, and learn how to take the first steps toward publishing.

Program Highlights

  • 100% online and asynchronous MFA program to fit your schedule
  • Develop your writing skills and focus on creating plot and character-driven stories
  • Engage in an in-depth review of how books are published and marketed with trade publishing professionals
  • Craft a popular fiction novel with one-on-one support from your thesis advisor with the goal to submit to agents or self-publish
  • Networking opportunities with renowned writers, publishers, and academics
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • No GRE requirements to apply

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Events

Graduate Publishing and Writing Webinar

September 4, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT

Join us for a virtual Publishing and Writing (MA) Information Session! During this session, you'll get the opportunity to hear from our admissions staff and learn more about the Publishing and Writing program, the application process, life at Emerson, and more. We hope to see you there!

Destination Graduate School: Emerson College Overview

September 17, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT

Ready to take the next step in your academic journey at Emerson? Join us for a virtual Graduate Admission Overview! During this session, you'll get the opportunity to ask questions, hear from our admissions counselors, and learn more about Emerson College's diverse graduate programs, our vibrant community, our admissions process, and so much more. 

We can’t wait to see you there!

Graduate Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing Webinar

September 18, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT

Join us for a virtual Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing (MFA) Information Session! During this session, you'll get the opportunity to hear from our admissions staff and learn more about the Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing program, the application process, life at Emerson, and more. We hope to see you there!

Graduate Creative Writing Webinar

September 25, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT

Join us for a virtual Creative Writing (MFA) Information Session! During this session, you'll get the opportunity to hear from our admissions staff and learn more about the Creative Writing program, the application process, life at Emerson, our community and more.

Graduate Writing for Film and Television Webinar

October 1, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT

Join us for a virtual Writing for Film and Television (MFA) Information Session! During this session, you'll get the opportunity to hear from our admissions staff and learn more about the Writing for Film and Television program, the application process, life at Emerson, our community and more.