The M.F.A. in Children’s Literature is our creative writing track. Students learn from a diverse range of speakers each year, including a writer-in-residence available for two weeks. The degree can be accomplished in just two years or spread out according to the needs of individual students. Forty-eight credits are required for the degree, with two 4-credit advanced creative writing tutorials added on top of the M.A. curriculum. Advanced Writing Tutorials are limited to no more than eight students, in which you will begin work on your thesis manuscript. At least one section of 560 or 561 must be completed before advancing to a tutorial class. You are required to complete a minimum of four creative writing courses, which may include up to two independent studies. An internship course is available for students interested in gaining real-world experience. Additionally, four of your courses must be literature courses that include writing critical papers. You will also spend two magical weeks on campus at the end of each summer semester to participate in the Francelia Butler Conference (FBC), attend the Book Launch Event and Illustrators’ Showcase, enjoy the biennial Alumni Retreat or Literature Symposium, and experience the book characters placed around our green and rolling Appalachian campus.
This program is ideal for:
- students wishing to grow in their creative writing practice
- faculty already teaching at the college level who wish to add children’s literature to their specializations
- classroom teachers wanting specialized knowledge in their field along with a degree that can lead to career advancement
- students who seek a deeper understanding of the ways in which children’s books shape our path to adulthood and our understanding of the world
Reach out to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lisa Rowe Fraustino to go over the degree rubric and see how the M.F.A. program might best fit into your life. fraustinolr@hollins.edu
(Applications are due one month before each semester begins.)
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Costs
Tuition
$900 per credit hour for summer 2025.
Fees
- New student nonrefundable deposit: $400
- Returning student nonrefundable deposit: $200
- Housing: $1,400
- Technology fee: $165/summer
- Health services: $50
M.F.A. applicants must send 10-20 pages of their best creative work. You’ll need to provide two letters of recommendation. GRE scores aren’t required, but may be submitted. Undergraduate transcript must be submitted.
Non-degree seeking students
Some courses are available for students or alumni who would like to take an individual course without it applying to a degree.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Hollins offers scholarships and financial assistance. Review our offerings.
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The KidLit Bookstore
Discover the creative heart of Hollins University at our bookstore, where every book highlights the talent of our students, alumni, and faculty. From enchanting children’s stories to stunning illustrations, these works celebrate the vibrant imagination of our community!